President Joe Biden has approved a disaster declaration for California, providing federal funding to help those affected by the severe winter storms, flooding and landslides that have hit the state since mid-February. The aid is intended to supplement recovery efforts in Kern, Mariposa, Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, Tulare and Tuolumne counties due to winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on February 21st of this year.
In addition to temporary housing and home repair grants, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other disaster recovery programs will be made available. Furthermore,state tribal local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations in Calaveras Los Angelesand Monterey will receive funding from the declared disaster.
Winter storm damage assessments are still ongoing statewide which means additional counties may qualify for assistance as well.
The declaration follows a request sent by Governor Gavin Newsom last month urging for increased support from the federal government amidst continued storms affecting various parts of California. This marks the second time that a disaster declaration has been issued in California since the start of this year with the first being after severe winter storms in December last year.
"The president's approval of this aid is an important step towards helping Californians recover from these devastating events," said FEMA Regional Administrator Robert Fenton Jr. "We remain committed to working closely with our partners at all levels of government to ensure that impacted communities get back on their feet as quickly as possible."
The assistance can provide not only physical relief but also emotional support such as counseling services along with medical care and legal services.
With multiple counties being affected throughout California,the allocation of federal funds comes at a crucial time especially during these trying times wherein people need help more than ever before.