ST. LOUIS – From devastation to determination. Federal disaster relief teams are in St. Louis, touring tornado-wracked neighborhoods and assessing thee damage left behind, all part of the first steps toward long-term recovery after the May 16 deadly tornadoes.
“I’m so grateful they have been in town helping us look at the needs,” St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer said.
The mayor said FEMA’s presence marks a key step in the city’s long road to recovery.
Thus far, the May 16 tornadoes that swept across Missouri haven’t been officially included in the current federal disaster declaration. That’s why these on-site inspections by FEMA matter.
“For those that don’t have insurance, if there’s a major disaster declaration that is approved, then FEMA can come in and provide some additional assistance along with a host of other voluntary organizations, state partners, other federal partners,” Ryan Lowry-Lee, FEMA spokesman, said.
Lowry-Lee urges residents to gather the following items before filing paperwork for federal assistance: proof of address, insurance info, photos of damage, and a list of lost or damaged items.
“FEMA, we try and work individually with, with each, individual or household, because their needs are going to be very different,” Lowry-Lee said.
Once approved, FEMA aid could include temporary housing, home repairs, and help replacing essential items. Until then, officials ask that people stay informed and document everything.
Meanwhile, local leaders are hopeful that FEMA support will expand in the coming days and weeks, bringing much-needed relief to the residents who need it most.
If you’ve been affected by the tornado and need more information in seeking assistance, call 211 for resources.