OHIO COUNTY, W.Va. – West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey held a press conference Thursday at the City-County Building in Wheeling where he detailed the rollout of $11.7 million in federal disaster assistance approved Tuesday by President Donald Trump.
Officials say aid applicants should complete a FEMA application plus a Small Business Administration (SBA) application to access federal disaster aid.
The aid comes in response to the June 14 flash flooding in Ohio and Marion counties. Nine people lost their lives in Ohio County due to the disaster.
The funds, authorized under a major disaster declaration, will support a wide range of relief and recovery services for residents, including financial aid for homeowners, renters, and those who lost personal property or vehicles.
Officials announced that three FEMA centers are expected to open next week in Ohio County. Two Disaster Survivor Assistance Centers — for residents dealing with minor property damage — will be located at the Valley Grove Community Center and the Army Reserve Center in Clator. A full Disaster Relief and Recovery Center for those with major losses will be set up at the Triadelphia Community Center.
The centers will provide in-person help with FEMA applications, insurance guidance, and referrals to additional aid services.
Residents applying for assistance are urged to have key documents on hand, including their Social Security number, address of the affected property, a description of the damage, insurance policy information, and annual income.
Officials emphasized that all residents —not just business owners — should also complete an application with the Small Business Administration, as it may unlock additional funding and loan opportunities.
Morrisey praised first responders for their work during and after the floods.
For those seeking help:
- FEMA Helpline: 1-800-621-3362
- Apply for FEMA aid: www.disasterassistance.gov
- Apply through the Small Business Administration: www.sba.gov/disaster
