In Milwaukee County, a significant step toward flood recovery has been taken as FEMA completed its Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) last Friday, positioning Wisconsin to potentially receive much-needed federal support. County Executive David Crowley noted the resiliency of locals in the aftermath of the disaster, ensuring continued support throughout the federal aid determination process. "The completion of FEMA’s Preliminary Damage Assessment is an important milestone, but it’s just one step in the process toward federal assistance," Crowley said to Milwaukee County, acknowledging the vital collaboration among local, state, and federal officials. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has already sent out a formal request for a presidential disaster declaration to President Donald Trump.
FEMA, alongside local emergency management teams, responded promptly starting last Thursday, verifying damage in hundreds of homes, inclusive of 547 properties that had not been assessed prior. Their efforts, complemented by comprehensive local damage reports, culminated in an efficient PDA process. While the PDA outlines an area's overall damage, it is not the sole determinant for individual assistance eligibility. An announcement by FEMA regarding aid, while anticipated, is not insured until the President approves it.
Local response efforts include the transition of the emergency shelter from Milwaukee Marshall High School to the Milwaukee Environmental Sciences Academy, as school year approaches and current shelter arrangements face a necessary upheaval. The American Red Cross has been actively engaged, offering financial assistance to those whose homes suffered serious structural damage or were completely destroyed. Residents can reach out to the Red Cross either through their website or by calling a designated number to assess their eligibility for this assistance, as well as potential FEMA support thereafter.
The county is also facilitating property damage cleanup through the Crisis Cleanup initiative, encouraging residents to document their needs which will then be addressed by volunteers. Residents will receive a text from 786-751-3128 with a case number and a link to upload details about their damages. Local organizations eager to lend a hand can sign up with Crisis Cleanup to connect with community members in need. Additionally, Samaritan's Purse International Relief is currently seeking volunteers for debris removal and other recovery efforts until September 27, available details can be found in their online flyer.
For updates and additional resources concerning flood recovery in Milwaukee County, individuals can refer to the county's dedicated webpage. Up-to-the-minute information on assistance programs, volunteer opportunities and shelter relocations remain readily accessible for all those impacted by the floods.
