Graves Supports Request for Disaster Declaration
Letter
Graves Supports Request for Disaster Declaration
Governor Has Asked For Federal Assistance
U.S. Congressman Sam Graves sent a letter to the President yesterday, asking him to give due consideration to Missouri Governor Matt Blunt's request for federal disaster assistance for those counties affected by the recent storms and tornadoes.
"Many Missourians have had their lives turned upside down," said Graves."Now is the time for federal assistance to help them put their lives back on track."
Severe storms and tornadoes hit Missouri on May 2nd and damaged 1,900 homes. Forty homes were completely destroyed, and another 42 were severely damaged.
"When I toured the City of Gladstone, I saw first hand the damage from these storms," said Graves. "It is imperative that the disaster declaration is approved and expedited, to help those who lost everything get back on their feet."
Governor Blunt has requested Public and Individual Assistance for Clay, Douglas, and Jackson Counties to help with the recovery effort.
The text of the letter follows:
The President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. President:
I am writing on behalf of the State of Missouri to respectfully ask that you approve Governor Matt Blunt's request for a disaster declaration for the counties afflicted by widespread storms that swept through the state on May 2nd. I ask that you make FEMA services readily available to the thousands of people affected by the devastation.
Additionally, I ask that you make eligible for Public and Individual Assistance the counties specified in Governor Blunt's declaration. Preliminary assessments have indicated that there is much need for immediate assistance in disaster housing, debris removal, small business disaster loans, school and infrastructure repair and restoring public services. It is imperative that Governor Blunt's disaster declaration is approved and expedited.
It is my belief that due to the severity and scope of these storms, all available state and local resources have been fully committed and exhausted towards recovery efforts. Because of the substantial economic and financial impact of this disaster has had on the community, effective response and recovery is beyond Missouri's control. FEMA assistance is needed to help Missouri recover from this unfortunate incident.
I am confident that Missouri, with the help of FEMA, will quickly recover. I ask that you expedite the Governor's request for federal relief and make available all federal programs to assist Missouri with its recovery efforts.
Sincerely,
Sam Graves
Member of Congress
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