Gov. Gretchen Whitmer submitted a request to President Trump to ask him for a major disaster declaration, which would allow the state to aid its residents in a variety of ways.
If granted in full, the declaration would allow the state to provide meals for families in need, rental assistance and temporary housing, as well as funding for field hospitals and mental health support.
“We’ve seen an incredible amount of strength and courage of Michiganders during this time of uncertainty, whether it’s from communities donating food, money, and resources to those that need it or from teachers finding new and creative ways to reach out to their students,” Whitmer said in a statement. “While the people and businesses of the great State of Michigan have shown incredible resilience and cooperation throughout this difficult time, we cannot weather this storm alone. I am hopeful that the president will grant my request for a major disaster declaration in full and within a matter of days so we can provide more services to Michiganders who need them.”
The declaration allows a variety of programs to aid Michigan residents, including Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Disaster Crisis Counseling, Disaster Case Management, Individuals and Households Program, Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Disaster Survivor Assistance, Disaster Legal Services and Voluntary Agency Coordination.
Whitmer also requested assistance from programs like Debris Removal, Emergency Protective Measures, Roads and Bridges, Water Control Facilities, Buildings and Equipment, Utilities, and Parks, Recreation, and Other Facilities. Whitmer’s office said that the assistance is required because the “strain on Michigan’s infrastructure during the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic has been great.”
The governor also asked for help from Hazard Mitigation to aid in long-term recovery.
As of Thursday evening, Michigan has nearly 3,000 confirmed positive cases of the coronavirus, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The Michigan death toll is currently at 60 deaths.
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Jordyn Pair is a reporter with Battleground State News and The Michigan Star. Follow her on Twitter at @JordynPair. Email her at [email protected].
