FEMA Federal Disaster Assistance Now Available

Following the October 7 federal disaster declaration, residents affected by the July 27 tornado and severe storms can now apply for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

FEMA Individual Assistance is available to eligible residents of Winnebago and Outagamie counties. Assistance may help cover temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance.

How to apply:

Online: www.DisasterAssistance.gov

By phone: 1-800-621-3362

FEMA App: Apply using the FEMA mobile app.

Even if you have already received assistance from People of Progression, LEAVEN, or another local organization, you are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance. Eligibility and the amount of assistance available will be determined through FEMA's application process.

FEMA assistance is not guaranteed, but it may provide another source of help as families continue recovering from the tornado.

Wisconsin Disaster Unemployment Assistance Now Available

Have you lost work as a result of the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred July 27, 2026?

If you are not eligible for regular Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

DUA is a federally funded program under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Act. The program provides unemployment benefits to those affected by a federally declared disaster as long as the individual does not qualify for regular state unemployment insurance and the individual is unemployed or partially unemployed as a direct result of the disaster.

Unlike regular unemployment, the DUA program also covers those who are self-employed and become unemployed because of the disaster. Note: Monetary loss due to property damage or crop damage does not automatically entitle an individual to DUA benefits.

How to apply:

Online: my.unemployment.wisconsin.gov

The applicable deadline for the DUA program is December 7, 2026. DUA is available for eligible workers in: Outagamie & Winnebago Counties