Over the weekend, President Biden partially approved Texas' request for a Major Disaster Declaration. Residents and business owners in 77 counties, including Caldwell county, may apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA. That means, if you are uninsured or underinsured and your house or business had significant damage due to last week’s winter storm, you are qualified to receive federal help. 

That may include:

• Funds for temporary housing
• A temporary housing unit
• Funds to repair or replace your primary residence
• Funds for other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, including:
• Repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles
• Funds for moving and storage
• Medical, dental, and child care
• Funeral expenses
• Other miscellaneous items approved by state government

Click here to apply: Individual Assistance | FEMA.gov

 If you are insured and you had damage from the winter storm event, you can still get help. Contact your insurance provider to see what damages will be covered then seek government support. Visit the Texas Department of Insurance for additional tips when filing a claim.

Federal assistance is also available through the Small Business Administration in the form of low-interest disaster loans for businesses, homeowners, and renters. Call the SBA at 1-800-659-2955 or sign up here.