Marion County residents impacted by historic flooding of the White River can access available resources on a city website.
The City of Indianapolis resource hub includes information about shelters, U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance, and property damage and community resources.
It also includes several information sources, including from the National Weather Service, travel advisories from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, a flood hazard map of Marion County, and links to social media for Marion County Emergency Services Agency and the Department of Public Works.
The city strongly recommends that residents with property damage document all affected property by taking photos, videos and serial numbers. Residents can also report damage to the city.
Residents can continue to request support through the Mayor’s Action Center. For people in unaffected areas with issues not related to flooding like street repair or trash pickup, those requests should be made through Request Indy.
“If impacted residents know that their home is clear of water- they are welcome to return. However, emergency officials recommend that residents do not put themselves in harm’s way by entering homes that are still within the floodwaters,” Emily Kaufmann, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office, said in an email.
For city text updates on flood response, subscribe by texting INDYFLOOD26 to 67283.
Wet homes and water testing
The Marion County Health Department is warning private wells flooded with river water should be tested and disinfected before use. Free well and testing and disinfection guidance is available by 317-221-2266.
Floodwater carries risks beyond drinking water, health officials said, including downed power lines, hazardous waste and germs and contaminants that can cause illness. Standing water and wet materials can also become a breeding ground for mold, viruses and bacteria. More information about floodwater safety and returning to a flooded home is available at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Animal resources
People with pets may be able to get assistance for pet food, supplies, veterinary care, temporary foster care, temporary boarding and other emergency needs at several organizations. Those include Indianapolis Animal Care Services, FIDO Indy, the S.O.A.R. Initiative, IndyHumane and Puppy Playground.
State resources
The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority is offering temporary housing grants to aid transition from emergency shelters into hotels and other temporary accommodations. To learn more, visit their website or call 211.
For those in need, the Indiana State Disaster Relief Fund will provide up to $5,000 in emergency aid grants to cover basics such as clothes and food. Call 211 for details.
Gov. Mike Braun has also made available emergency SNAP benefit replacements for eligible recipients who lost food from storms or power outages. Individuals must submit an affidavit within 10 days of the event and the loss must be verified. This document can be uploaded to the FSSA benefits portal, faxed to 888-436-9199 or submitted in person to any Division of Family Resources office.
Federal assistance
The city strongly recommends documenting all steps of the recovery process. This includes taking photos and videos of damaged property and items and tracking serial numbers.
After floodwaters recede, staff will begin conducting local damage assessments. To report damage to the city, visit this form.
When those assessments find a property that has sustained damage, properties may be eligible for a Substantial Damage Evaluation by the FEMA floodplain administrator if the community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program.
The form is not an application for any form of assistance, but if assistance is available that fits a resident’s specific need based on the information provided, the city says the resident will be contacted. Reports will be shared with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, FEMA and others.
The city directs residents to consult the city’s Department of Business and Neighborhood Services before starting repairs.
Donations and community resources
Impacted residents can find donated materials at the shelter at the Washington Township Adult Center. If you are looking to donate materials to help, they can also be accepted there. The city’s website includes a list of requested items.
The Indianapolis Foundation, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and others are collecting donations to support the most impacted residents. The Town of Rocky Ripple and some impacted residents have created GoFundMe pages as well.
Residents can also call Indiana 2-1-1 or 1-800-Red-Cross for help.
Shelters
City officials continue to direct affected residents to the Washington Township Adult Education Center at 8401 Westfield Boulevard, door #20. The Red Cross is on site and the location cannot accommodate pets. People with pets should use the Noble Center on 2406 North Tibbs Avenue.
Contact WFYI reporter Zak Cassel at zcassel@wfyi.org
