FEMA adds further assistance for Kentucky residents affected by May tornadoes, landslides

FEMA has updated its Individual Assistance program for those in western and central Kentucky affected by the May 21-27 tornadoes, severe storms and landslides.

Affected residents must apply by August 22 for what FEMA calls Serious Needs Assistance. It's a one-time payment per household to provide lifesaving and life-sustaining items like water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, medical supplies, hygiene items, and fuel.

You may be eligible for Serious Assistance if the home where you live most of the year has been declared a disaster area.

There are several ways to apply: visit a Disaster Recovery Center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app . 

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can also apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online at  sba.gov/disaster. More information can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

For an accessible video about Serious Needs Assistance, visit Serious Needs Assistance on Youtube.com .

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804  .