Today, Governor Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Wapello County in response to severe weather that occurred on April 2, 2026, and continuing. Governor Reynolds’ proclamation allows state resources to be utilized to respond to and recover from the effects of this severe weather and activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program. The proclamation is effective immediately and will remain in effect for 30 days unless terminated or extended.
The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program provides grants up to $7,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Grants are available for home or car repairs, replacement of personal property or food, and temporary housing expenses. Original receipts are required for those seeking reimbursement for actual expenses related to storm recovery.
The Disaster Case Advocacy Program addresses serious needs related to disaster-related hardship, injury, or adverse conditions. Disaster case advocates work with clients to create a disaster recovery plan and provide guidance, advice, and referrals to obtain a service or resource. There are no income eligibility requirements for this program; it closes 180 days from the date of the governor’s proclamation.
Share your damage story with us.
First, Take pictures! Second, Call your insurance. Third, report damage to Emergency Management via the link below.
Submitting a damage report is not an application for financial assistance. This is a data-collection tool Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management uses to conduct damage assessments.
Self-Report LinkNeed assistance or just someone to guide you through next steps?
Individual Disaster Assistance Programs
Disaster Case Advocacy (DCA)
DCA is a supportive program involving a partnership between a disaster-impacted household and a disaster case advocate. Disaster case advocates walk beside households through the disaster recovery process. They serve as a primary point of contact assisting households in coordinating necessary services and resources to address the household’s complex disaster recovery needs. In this partnership, advocates and households assess the family’s disaster-related unmet needs, build a recovery plan, and access available resources.
Disaster Case AdvocacyIowa Individual Disaster Assistance Grant Program (IIAGP)
–Annual household income is at or less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
–Household members are citizens or legally residing in the United States
–Household’s primary and occupied residence is in the county indicated in the disaster proclamation
–The household has disaster related needs not fully covered by insurance and not met by another assistance program
In-Person Assistance April 7 – April 10
Representatives will be in Ottumwa for in-person Case Advocacy Assitance at the REMAX Training Center located at 2431 Northgate from 11a to 7p, this week only.
If you cannot come in person, you can also apply online using the link below.
Choosing Contractors After the Storm
When choosing a contractor to help you with Recovery, choose wisely! Check the state resources to help you through the process.
Post Disaster Resources
10 tips for how to protect yourself and your assets following a disaster.
Post Disaster Claims GuideHow do I know if a contractor is legit?
Iowa Licensed Contractor SearchGuidance for Contractors and Public Adjusters
Guide for Contractors & Adjusters