A proclamation of disaster emergency was issued for Clinton County following a night of tornadic storms that did heavy damage to the area.
Iowa Governor Terry Branstad declared Clinton County a state of disaster emergency on Thursday, March 17, 2016. On Tuesday, March 15, a pair of tornadoes hit the county, causing damage to property, power outages, injuries, and evacuations.
Royal Pines Village Mobile Home Park was hit especially hard by the storms. Five mobile homes were destroyed and 24 others were damaged.
"There's a lot of trailers out here that really had a lot more damage that could really use the help. And a lot of people didn't have insurance," said Lorraine Rosenboom.
The disaster proclamation allows Clinton County to tap into state resources for help. On top of that, it opens the door for residents to apply for grants that could be used to help with home or car repairs, clothing, food, or temporary housing. Three-member households that bring in no more than $40,320 could be eligible for up to $5,000 in assistance.
Royal Pines residents like Jean Wasion were happy to learn about the potential for state assistance.
"We feel lucky because, like a dummy, we didn't get insurance, but boy, we're checking into it now," said Wasion. "A lot of neighbors are upset, but they're holding it in. And I just thank God nobody was killed."
Applicants have 45 days to submit a claim for reimbursement.