Kentucky residents are still dealing with the fallout from February floods in addition to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, but a new deadline for federal assistance may help.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced this week that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has extended the deadline to apply for assistance to July 23.
“We are grateful that FEMA granted this extension because it will allow more Kentuckians to receive much-needed assistance following historic flooding in the commonwealth,” Beshear said in an emailed press release. “All eligible Kentuckians should take advantage of this service as soon as possible before the new July 23 deadline.”
As CityBeat previously reported, federal disaster aid is available to homeowners and renters in 31 of Kentucky's counties that were hit hardest by the severe floods. Those with property damage or loss due to flooding that occurred Feb. 27-March 14 may be eligible.
Kentucky residents can apply for aid at disasterassistance.gov or by calling FEMA at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).
The deadline to apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration has passed.
Beshear declared a state of emergency on Feb. 28 after rains ravaged the state and sent groundwater gushing into creeks and rivers, ultimately affecting homes, businesses and property. All 120 of Kentucky's counties had issued a flood warning or flood watch at the time.
U.S. President Joe Biden issued a major disaster declaration and federal assistance for Kentucky on April 23, followed by additional assistance on May 28. In June, FEMA increased staff levels at Kentucky's support centers to process additional aid applications. The state also extended D-SNAP food benefits.
Beshear said in a release that the current aid package is the largest award for displaced individuals from damage to homes since 2010.
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