Disaster support hotline available for those recovering from March tornadoes
Through a $400,000 Community Development Block Grant administered by Cass County, the three-county region including Cass, Branch, and St. Joseph counties, has partnered with After the Storm to provide long-term disaster recovery support. The program will deliver comprehensive, client-centered disaster case management services to individuals and families recovering from the storm.
Cass County is leading a regional partnership to support residents in Cass, Branch, and St. Joseph counties impacted by tornadoes that struck the area March 6.
Through a $400,000 Community Development Block Grant administered by Cass County, the three-county region has partnered with After the Storm to provide long-term disaster recovery support. The program will deliver comprehensive, client-centered disaster case management services to individuals and families recovering from the storm.
Services are designed to help residents navigate the recovery process and connect with needed resources. Assistance includes outreach and intake, needs assessments, individualized recovery planning and ongoing case management.
Program services include:
- Identification and outreach to affected residents across all three counties
- Intake and comprehensive needs assessments
- Development of individualized recovery plans
- Referrals for housing, employment, health care, child care and other essential services
- Assistance navigating insurance, FEMA and other benefit systems
- Coordination with local, regional and state partners, including VOAD, long-term recovery groups, MDHHS and community organizations
- Support accessing financial assistance and unmet-needs funding
Cass County will administer the grant and oversee implementation, ensuring services are delivered equitably across all three counties. The one-year initiative prioritizes vulnerable populations and low- to moderate-income households.
“This effort reflects the strength of collaboration in times of need,” said Cass County Administrator Jennifer Rentfrow. “Cass County is proud to lead this partnership and ensure resources are coordinated effectively so residents across all three counties can access the support they need to recover and rebuild.”
This coordinated, multi-county approach is designed to maximize available resources, reduce duplication of services and strengthen long-term recovery efforts throughout the region. The program aims to stabilize households, prevent displacement and support sustainable recovery for those affected.
All services are administrative and supportive in nature and qualify as exempt activities under 24 CFR 58.34, as they do not result in physical changes to the environment.
Residents in need of assistance can call After the Storm’s Disaster Support Hotline at 313-380-1350. More information is available at afterthestormmi.org.
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