The State of Tennessee Requests Federal Assistance for August Storm Impacts

The State of Tennessee has requested federal disaster assistance through FEMA’s Individual Assistance and Public Assistance programs for Shelby County following the severe storms in August. 

The request follows continued coordination with local, state, federal, and nonprofit partners to assess damages, document impacts, and identify unmet needs following the storms. 

Individual Assistance, if approved, may provide direct support to eligible survivors and households for disaster-related needs. Public Assistance, if approved, may help eligible local governments and certain nonprofit organizations recover costs related to emergency protective measures, debris removal, and repairs to eligible public infrastructure. 

A request for federal assistance does not guarantee approval. If the request is approved, assistance is not automatic and eligibility requirements will still apply. FEMA will review the state’s request and determine whether the event meets the federal requirements for one or both programs. 

“We know many Tennesseans are still dealing with the impacts of these storms, and we want to be clear about where we are in the process,” said TEMA Commissioner Patrick C. Sheehan. “Tennessee has requested federal assistance, but that request must still be reviewed by FEMA andapproved by President Trump. In the meantime, we encourage residents to continue working with local officials and community organizations for available support.” 

Residents should continue to document storm-related damages with photographs and videos, save receipts for disaster-related expenses, and report damage through local emergency management or any local damage assessment process made available in their community. 

While the federal request is under review, Tennesseans who need help with food, basic needs, cleanup, or other recovery resources are encouraged to connect with the following organizations and services: 

Community Compass

Community Compass is Tennessee’s statewide navigation tool that helps residents identify available resources for food, housing, transportation, health care, financial assistance, and other needs. Residents can search for local resources athttps://www.tn.gov/tenncare/community-compass.html.

United Way 2-1-1

Residents may dial 2-1-1 to be connected with local nonprofit services and community resources. If 2-1-1 does not connect through a mobile provider, residents may contact their local United Way or visit https://www.211.org/.

American Red Cross of Tennessee

The American Red Cross of Tennessee may be able to help individuals and families impacted by disasters connect with recovery resources. Residents can visit https://www.redcross.org/local/tennessee.html or call 1-800-RED-CROSS for more information. 

Local Emergency Management and Community Organizations

Residents should continue following information from their county emergency management agency, local government, and trusted community organizations for updates on available assistance, shelters, donation sites, volunteer opportunities, and recovery resources. 

TEMA will provide updates as the federal review process continues.