Deadline to seek federal disaster assistance nears

Less than two weeks remain for those tornado victims who haven't yet applied for state and federal disaster assistance to make an application.

The deadline to apply is July 7.

"What we're finding is people are waiting to hear back from their insurance before they apply," said FEMA spokesperson Zach Kittrie. "I'd hate for people to find out on July 8 that the deadline has passed. Applications can always be updated, but they need to be in the system by July 7."

So far, 6,332 Missourians have registered with FEMA for assistance in the aftermath of the early May tornadoes. All told, more than $28.8 million in disaster assistance has been approved.

Of that amount, $3.4 million has gone for housing assistance grants for minimal home repairs, direct housing and temporary rental assistance not covered by insurance.

Another $3.5 million in grants has been approved for other necessary expenses like medical, dental, funeral, personal property, transportation, moving and storage expenses.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $21.8 million in low-interest loans to 634 Missourians affected by the storms.

To apply for assistance, victims should call (800) 621-3362.