January 15, 2025

FEMA deadline, disaster proclamation extended into November

Jasper County residents still needing assistance from the derecho still have time to apply

By Pam Pratt

A tree rests on a house in Newton following the derecho that blew through central Iowa Aug. 10. The deadline to file for federal assistance has been extended to Nov. 2. Those still needing to fill out the proper paperwork can do so before the new deadline. (Pam Pratt)

On Oct. 9, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the extension of the disaster proclamation for the counties impacted in the August derecho, which includes Jasper. The proclamation is now until Nov. 8.

Additionally, the deadline for storm survivors to apply for federal assistance was extended to Nov. 2. FEMA has approved more than $8.5 million in Individual Assistance grants for 2,278 households. The Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $14 million in disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and small businesses.

For Jasper County residents, this allows those who have not yet filed for federal or state assistance more time to do so. Those who were impacted by the storm have more time to learn more about what is available and fill out the appropriate paperwork.

City of Newton Community Marketing Manager Danielle Rogers encourages people to reach out to IMPACT Community Action at 641-792-3008 to find out more.

“Residents can also get online and visit disasterrecovery.iowa.gov to find all of the appropriate information and resources for other assistance that is available. There are many community partners who are still assisting with the derecho,” Rogers said.

The storm rolled through Central Iowa more than two months ago, but it is clear people are still dealing with the aftermath. Rogers attributes that to being like any other disaster where the effects linger for some time.

“I know people are still working with insurance agents, contractors and agencies to get their homes repaired and property cleaned up. But Jasper County residents are resilient – and have really come together to help their neighbors. That was very evident in the immediate aftermath of the storm and is still evident today,” Rogers said.

Homeowners have the option to be approved for grants through FEMA that can help with repairs to their primary home. Rental assistance is available to help pay for temporary housing for those displaced by the storm. Lodging expense reimbursement may be available to eligible households who may have stayed in a hotel for a short period of time.

The SBA offers federal low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.

Reynolds proclamation also temporarily suspends regulatory provisions pertaining to weight limits and hours of service for disaster repair crews and drivers delivering goods and services and the movement of loads related to responding to the severe storm system throughout the state of Iowa.

The city’s webpage with storm updates remains active and lists any resources available to help Jasper County residents, newtongov.org/auguststormupdates.

Contact Pam Pratt at 641-792-3121 ext. 6530 or pampratt@newtondailynews.com