Governor Tomblin Announces $5 Million FEMA Grant for Flood-Related Case Management

Press Release

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin today announced West Virginia has been awarded a $5 million Disaster Case Management Program grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These funds will allow for case managers to be placed in each county affected by the June flooding who will help survivors with remaining unmet needs.

"I am grateful that FEMA has approved our request for this much-needed funding to support West Virginians affected by the devastating June floods," Gov. Tomblin said. "Dedicated case management work will play a significant role moving forward as individuals in our communities continue to heal, rebuild and recover. The federal government continues working hand-in-hand with the state in our long-term recovery process. And the state will continue working hand-in-hand with local communities to ensure all remaining needs are met."

The case managers will develop and carry out individualized disaster recovery plans with timely goals for resources and services. Unmet needs may include basic immediate emergency needs such as food, clothing, shelter or first aid, as well as long-term needs such as financial, physical or emotional well-being. The Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities at the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) will oversee the grant, in collaboration with the state's Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

"The individualized nature of this case management program will enable us to offer the exact support still needed by West Virginians impacted by this flooding," said Karen L. Bowling, Cabinet Secretary for DHHR.

The casework process will include an assessment of the survivor's verified disaster-caused unmet needs; development of a goal-oriented plan that outlines the steps necessary to achieve recovery; organization and coordination of information on available resources that match the disaster-caused need; and monitoring of progress toward reaching the recovery plan goals.

"We have been working diligently with FEMA, DHHR and West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) to bring this program to our state," said Jimmy Gianato, Director of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. "Through this grant, we will work to ensure our citizens receive the help they need and there is no duplication of benefits, which will maximize these funds even further."

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