ST. PAUL — Gov. Tim Walz issued an executive order on Tuesday, July 8, authorizing financial assistance for veterans and their families to recover from the recent severe storm in Beltrami County.
The order amends a previous one issued by the governor to declare a peacetime emergency as a result of the storm, which was extended on June 30. It comes just over two weeks after the derecho brought hurricane-strength winds and caused widespread damage in Bemidji and surrounding areas.
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs may now activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program's Disaster Relief Program.
“Beltrami County has faced incredible hardship in the wake of these storms, and we continue to stand alongside Minnesotans impacted — including our veterans and their families,” Walz stated in a news release. “This order ensures veterans have access to the support they’ve earned as recovery continues across the region.”
The state veterans department can provide direct financial relief to veterans and their families facing unexpected hardships due to natural disasters. Assistance may include help with housing, utilities, and other essential needs, as determined by the department.
Damage assessments in the region are ongoing, and more counties and types of assistance may be added as needed.
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Andrew Dziengel/KAXEWith the recent storm in Bemidji, there can be an emotional impact from losing well-loved nature. University of Minnesota Extension forester Angela Gupta joined the “KAXE Morning Show” to talk more about it. -
Contributed/MidcoThe internet and cable provider said the Bemidji derecho caused damage in hundreds of locations, and crews worked long hours to restore service. -
Plus: Second Harvest food bank shutters Grand Rapids warehouse but maintains food shelf will remain open. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEAlso Greater Bemidji, partnering with other economic development groups, is launching a rapid-response no-interest loan program to assist storm-damaged small businesses.
