MEMA gives update on Individual Assistance for Mississippi residents related to Ice Storm

Mississippi residents affected by the severe ice storm that struck the state earlier this year are still awaiting a decision on federal Individual Assistance as federal officials continue reviewing Mississippi’s request for aid.

According to an update from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Individual Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has not yet been approved. FEMA is still evaluating the state’s application submitted following the winter storm that caused widespread power outages, infrastructure damage and hazardous travel conditions across large portions of Mississippi.

Individual Assistance, if approved, would provide direct help to residents impacted by the storm. The program can offer financial assistance for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related needs for individuals and families.

While that portion of federal aid remains under review, MEMA said Public Assistance has already been approved for 38 counties across Mississippi. The Public Assistance program is designed to help local governments, municipalities, and certain nonprofit organizations recover from disaster-related damage.

Through Public Assistance, federal funding can help cover costs associated with debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repairs to damaged public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, utilities, and public buildings.

State officials continue working with FEMA as the review process moves forward. Approval of Individual Assistance would require a separate federal determination based on damage assessments and other factors.

MEMA encourages residents and local officials seeking more information about available recovery programs and updates related to the disaster declaration to visit the agency’s website at msema.org.