State Rep. Patterson encourages residents impacted by storms, flooding to seek assistance

State Rep. Patterson encourages residents impacted by storms, flooding to seek assistance

Posted by: Amanda Schreiber  | Thursday, August 20, 2026

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 20, 2026) – State Rep. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) is encouraging residents in Fayette and Franklin counties affected by historic flooding in central Indiana to seek assistance by applying for state emergency resources.

Patterson said the state is deploying resources for storm victims. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is authorized to provide up to $5,000 in emergency aid grants to eligible Hoosiers in need of assistance. The grants will enable families to get the basics like clothing and food while they are displaced from their homes. To apply, call 2-1-1 or visit on.in.gov/August2026Disaster.

"I hope residents across our communities get the help they need as they work through assessing the damage," Patterson said. "Please continue to follow guidance from local officials and know that support is available for those who need it.”

Patterson said the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority is also providing temporary housing grants to help eligible displaced Hoosiers transition from emergency shelters into hotels, apartments and other temporary accommodations. Hoosiers in need can call 2-1-1 or visit IN211.communityos.org.

Additionally, Indiana has activated emergency SNAP benefit replacements for eligible SNAP recipients who lost food due to the storm or power outages. Affected Hoosiers can submit an affidavit for replacement benefits within 10 days of the event at fssabenefits.in.gov.

Legislators in Fayette and Franklin counties are working closely with local officials across the county to coordinate available resources, and to help our neighbors and communities recover.

Additional Resources for residents in Fayette and Franklin counties:

Residents who need assistance or need to report flood related issues can utilize the following resources:

 

• Emergency assistance: Call 911 if you are experiencing an immediate emergency or life-threatening situation.

• Report storm damage: Homeowners who suffered storm damage are encouraged to call 2-1-1 or visit the Indiana 211 website to report damages and get help with assessments.

• Flood safety: Residents should avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Even when water appears shallow, floodwaters can conceal hazards and rapidly changing conditions. 

• Insurance: Hoosiers can contact the Indiana Department of Insurance Consumer Services whose team is available to talk to residents and provide guidance on insurance issues, navigating claims and next steps for uninsured losses. The Commissioner of Insurance has issued a bulletin calling on insurance companies to protect Hoosiers from unforeseen drops in coverage.

• Avoid scams: Residents should remain vigilant and aware of disaster-related scams. Consumer complaints can be filed with the Attorney General’s Office at indianaconsumer.com. Find tips and guidance here.

Residents are also encouraged to visit on.in.gov/august2026disaster to see all state and federal resources.

Community members looking to lend a hand and support their neighbors in need can consider the below volunteer and donation opportunities:

  • Donate to the Fayette Community Foundation for local flood relief.
  • Donate to the United Way of Franklin County flood relief fund to support flood relief efforts in Franklin County.
  • Volunteer with Masters of Disaster to help cleanup in Franklin County.

For additional information and assistance, residents should continue to monitor updates from local emergency management officials, their city government, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and FEMA.

-30-

State Rep. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) represents House District 55, which includes 
all of Fayette, Franklin and Union counties, and portions of Decatur, Ripley and Rush counties.
Click
here to download a high-resolution photo.