Flooding Resources

Dear Neighbor,

I know many of us are still reeling from the flood last month. Included in this e-newsletter are district resources to help you during this difficult time and preventive tips you can use to reduce flood damage to personal property in the future. If there is anything my office and I can do for you, please do not hesitate to reach out by emailing tenishayancey@house.mi.gov or by calling (517) 373-0154.

Sincerely,

Tenisha Yancey

State Representative, 1st House District

FEMA Assistance

President Joe Biden approved a disaster declaration last week that provides individual assistance for Wayne County as a result of the heavy rainfall and flooding that occurred on June 25 and June 26.

Those affected by the floods can apply for FEMA assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov, calling (800) 621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. or through the FEMA mobile app. Remember to take photographs of the damage and keep receipts from cleaning or repairs.

State and Local Emergency Flood Resources

State of Michigan:

• If you have questions regarding your insurance, the Department of Insurance and Financial Services is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (877) 999-6442.
• The Michigan State Housing Development Authority can help provide disaster relief housing counseling.
  • To find a counselor in your area, visit michigan.gov/housingeducationlocator.
• The United Way for Southeastern Michigan can also help answer questions and aid as you’re dealing with the flooding aftermath. The 2-1-1 helpline is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. If you have issues dialing 2-1-1, you can call (800) 552-1183. You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211.
  • The free service connects residents with help and answers about emergencies and local resources.
• The Red Cross has a Wayne County disaster assistance program for flooding victims that provides financial assistance for immediate needs, can help with damage assessment and referrals, and offers physical health assistance like obtaining lost prescriptions, mental health counseling and tips for cleaning and clearing flood-damaged homes. For assistance, dial (800) 774-6066 or (800) Red-Cross.

To keep track of local updates on resources and information, please follow the links below:

• Detroit
• Harper Woods
• Grosse Pointe Woods
• Grosse Pointe Shores

Preventative Tips & Guides:

• The Center of Food Security & Public Health provides flood preparedness factsheets to outline steps that can be taken to prevent or minimize the damage that occurs during floods. To find the factsheets, visit this link.
• Some ways to reduce damage before flooding include:
  • Making an emergency plan that outlines emergency supplies.
  • Unclogging gutters and drains.
  • Installing a flood alert or check valve system.
  • Limiting the flow of running water during heavy rainfalls.
  • Using sandbags to block any gaps that may lead to flooding.
  • Elevating valuable items and memorabilia or moving them to a higher floor of the home.