Hello everyone,

I hope everyone is safe and with their loved ones. In an effort to keep our community informed and updated on the tornado damage, our office has compiled updated information and resources.

PLEASE NOTE: This situation is changing as new information comes to light while cleanup efforts continue to be assessed. The information below provides an overview of the current situation and resources for residents. For additional updates, please monitor social media, as well as the city of Portage and Portage Public Safety’s pages

PLEASE STAY HOME!

The city of Portage is urging residents in affected areas to stay home on Wednesday, May 8. We expect many downed power lines, damage to many residential and commercial buildings and trees blocking roads. Staying off the roads allows our first responders to do their job and get to those who need help.

While ground teams work to assess and assist with damage, please use the information sheet FEMA provides about protecting yourself during a power outage: FEMA Power Outage Tips. You can also contact FEMA at (800) 621-FEMA (3362) or TTY users can call (800) 462-7585.

Do not call 9-1-1 unless you have a medical, police or fire emergency. The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to call (269) 488-8911 for non-emergency calls.

WHAT TO DO IF:

  • For those displaced or unable to access their homes, The First Assembly of God (5500 Oakland Drive) will remain open as a shelter.
  •  If you need assistance with sheltering or other human service needs, call 2-1-1. Gryphon Place 2-1-1 can also be reached directly at (269) 381-1510.
  • Anyone who needs assistance can call (800) 733-2767 for the RED CROSS or (800) 621-3362 for FEMA.
  • If you have questions about or need city services (brush pickup/clean-up assistance), call (269) 329-4444.

Storm Disaster Resources:

FEMA.gov

Insurance Policies and How to Claim What is Yours

Insurance Claims Tracking Sheet

DIFS Guide to Resolving Insurance Problems and Complaint Form

How to be “Claim Smart”

Homeownership vs Repair Cost Policies

Additional Disaster Preparedness Resources

Other Notices

  • City of Portage non-emergency offices are closed on Wednesday, May 8.
  • Mayor Patricia Randall has issued an emergency declaration to secure resources from the state and federal governments, which will allow access to federal assistance.
  • Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has issued a state of emergency for Kalamazoo County, St. Joseph County, Branch County and Cass County, which will allow access to federal assistance.
  • Consumers Energy estimates that most customers will not be restored until 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 8.

Thank you First Responders!
I want to thank all the first responders who worked diligently yesterday and through the night to assist residents and ensure the safety of our community. I would also like to thank our community members and local organizations who have stepped up during this dire situation and were ready to act. I am extremely proud of our community’s quick response and compassion toward each other. I have no doubt everyone will come together to quickly rebuild our community, Portage Proud!

Please feel free to reach out to our office if you have any questions or need to be connected with resources — my team and I are always here to help. My office can be reached at (517) 373-8670, or via email at ChristineMorse@house.mi.gov. 

Respectfully,

 

Christine Morse
State Representative