STATEHOUSE (Aug. 27, 2026) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) is encouraging those affected by historic flooding and severe storms statewide to apply for local, state and federal emergency resources.
Smaltz said the state is deploying additional 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.
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 at fssabenefits.in.gov.
"Severe weather can impact communities in an instant, and our prayers are with Hoosiers dealing with flooding, storm damage and other challenges," Smaltz said. "Indiana is at its best when we come together, support our neighbors and make sure those affected across the state have the resources they need to recover."
The president has approved a major disaster declaration for Indiana, unlocking federal aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Additional Resources:
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Residents who need assistance or need to report flood-related issues or storm damage 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. Hoosiers can now text IN211HELP to 898-211 to get started with assistance. The 24/7 service will prompt users to select the type of assistance they need and will provide a list of disaster-specific resources based on their entered zip code. Residents are also encouraged to visit on.in.gov/august2026disaster to see all state and federal resources.
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. |
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State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) represents House District 52,
which includes all of DeKalb County, and portions of Noble and Steuben counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
