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DES MOINES, IOWA -- The following is a press release from the Office of the Governor, Governor Chet Culver:

Governor Chet Culver today issued a disaster emergency proclamation for Des Moines County in response to severe thunderstorms that hit the area on May 12.

The proclamation allows state resources to be utilized to deal with damage from flash flooding caused by the storms.

The disaster proclamation authorizes the implementation of the State Individual Assistance Grant Program to assist eligible residents of Des Moines County.

The state’s Individual Assistance Program provides up to $5,000 in reimbursements for damages incurred for those whose income is up to 200% above the poverty level.

For more information on the state’s Individual Assistance Program, visit the Department of Human Services’ website (www.dhs.state.ia.us) and click on Storm Help, or call 877-937-3663.