AKWESASNE – Following the devastation caused by severe storms and flooding between August 8-10, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe welcomes the announcement of federal disaster assistance from FEMA, approved by President Joe Biden.

This  aid will provide much-needed support to the community during the long road to recovery.

“The flooding in August was a reminder of the challenges our community could face from natural disasters with future impacts of climate change,” said Nolan Jacobs, Director of the Office of Emergency Management and Safety. “This federal assistance will be a lifeline, helping us not only rebuild what was lost but also strengthen our infrastructure to better withstand future events. I also want to note that this declaration is for Public Assistance. Individual Assistance, which will get some direct assistance to homeowners is still pending approval. We are hoping to hear very soon on that, and if approved we will be organizing very quickly a process to get homeowners connected with FEMA representatives.”

Public assistance federal funding will be instrumental in rebuilding essential infrastructure and facilities damaged or destroyed by the floods. It also opens the Tribe up to mitigation funding that we could utilize to make infrastructure improvements, making us more resilient to flooding in the future.

“We are grateful for the swift action of the federal government in recognizing the severity of the situation and offering this assistance. The appointment of Catherine O. Fan as the Federal Coordinating Officer further demonstrates the commitment of FEMA and President Joe Biden in supporting our recovery efforts,” the Tribe said in a press release.