President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster as a result of last summer’s Oregon Road Fire. The declaration, welcomed by Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, brings federal assistance to supplement recovery efforts in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires.
The approval of the Major Disaster Declaration unlocks crucial financial resources for those who lost homes and property in the fires. Following the declaration, federal funding becomes available to assist affected individuals and businesses in Spokane County. This assistance encompasses a range of support measures, including grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, debris removal, and small business loans. Additionally, federal funding is allocated for emergency work and hazard mitigation measures on a cost-sharing basis.
In the aftermath of the wildfires, lawmakers have pursued legislative initiatives to enhance disaster response and recovery capabilities. Rep. McMorris Rodgers introduced the MALDEN Act to improve coordination among agencies and expedite resource allocation in the aftermath of wildfires.
Disaster Relief Application
Residents and business owners in the designated areas can initiate the application process for assistance through various channels, including the DisasterAssistance.gov website, Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA) hotline 800-621-FEMA (3362), or FEMA App. The availability of federal aid aims to expedite the recovery process and alleviate the burdens those impacted by the wildfires face.
You can download the FEMA app from: FEMA.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
Sources:
- Press Release “McMorris Rodgers, Cantwell Applaud Approval of Disaster Declaration for Spokane County Following Devastating Wildfires” February 20, 2024
