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SE Wisconsin doesn't qualify for FEMA assistance after July floods

Posted at 5:11 PM, Aug 16, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-16 19:24:54-04

Southeast Wisconsin families won’t be receiving FEMA assistance because they did not meet the threshold requirements.

Hundreds of homes sustained major damage, and some are completely unlivable. Some families are without flood insurance and are stuck in a tough situation.

Since last month’s floods, it’s been a big challenge for Eric Mitchell to get his house back in order.

“It’s been a little rough,” Mitchell said.

But he still has to keep going, relying on himself for repairs.

Earlier this month when federal and state officials surveyed the damage Mitchell hoped to receive some federal assistance, but that money won’t be coming.

“It’s a little upsetting because you’d like to see people get back on their feet as soon as possible,” he said.

So there’s the big question of where do families go from here?

Wisconsin Emergency Management officials said Wisconsin needed 580 homes to be heavily damaged or destroyed. Walworth, Racine and Kenosha counties had 109 homes with major damage. Three were destroyed.

Local business owner Dave Stauffacher said he understands the process and knows the city will remain strong with or without the FEMA money.

“We’re on our way to recovery and pray to the Lord that we saw the 100-year flood and we won’t see it again in our lifetime,” Stauffacher said.

The initial assessment indicated Wisconsin would be eligible for a U.S. Business Administration low-interest loan. You don’t have to be a business owner to receive assistance.