Blunt seeks federal assistance for storm recovery

Blunt spoke Tuesday with President Bush to request an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration for both individual and public assistance.

If approved, individual assistance would provide disaster grants or low-interest loans to people and businesses to help recover uninsured personal property and economic losses. Public assistance would help local governments repair storm-damaged public property.

“I am pleased that President Bush is aware of the seriousness of this issue and is working to ensure that Missouri has the resources we need to continue the recovery efforts,” Blunt said in a news release. “The president expressed his concerns for victims impacted by the recent severe weather.”

U.S. Sens. Jim Talent and Kit Bond also submitted requests to Bush Tuesday, noting that the storm damage could result in millions of dollars in needed assistance.

Meanwhile, efforts continue in Christian County to aid displaced residents and repair affected homes. According to a report issued this morning by the State Emergency Management Agency, 127 homes in the county were destroyed, 138 were damaged and 57 additional homes were affected.

The American Red Cross Greater Ozarks Chapter and partner agencies will open a service center Thursday in Nixa at The Bridge church, 308 W. Mt Vernon. Hours will be 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and caseworkers will address disaster-caused needs and provide emotional support and community resources.

The Red Cross also will begin sending teams of caseworkers to help those unable to reach the service center. To schedule an appointment with a caseworker, call (417) 832-9500.

Volunteers can stop by the service center to sign up to help with recovery efforts.

Red Cross feeding shelters remain open in Christian County at Clever First Baptist, 105 Kennedy, and in Webster County at Marshfield First Baptist, 1001 S. White Oak.

Overnight shelters in Clever and Nixa are closing today, but command centers will continue to operate on a daily basis. Centers are located at Ozark Electric on Highway AA in Nixa, First Baptist Church in Clever and the Billings Fire Department building in Billings.

Volunteers are still needed for Christian County’s emergency management for an indefinite period. The volunteer reception center hotline will be in operation Thursday and can be reached at (417) 725-2753. Volunteers also may visit the center 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily at The Bridge church.[[In-content Ad]]