Gov. Tate Reeves on Monday announced his request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the federal government has been approved. The declaration makes available additional federal assets and resources to aid Mississippi’s COVID-19 response.
Reeves sent a letter to President Trump on April 1 requesting the disaster declaration.
“I’m truly grateful for President Trump approving Mississippi’s request to support our people and ease the burden of COVID-19. These resources will reinforce our ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of the virus and help us emerge stronger than ever. Our continued partnership and collaboration with the Trump Administration will be critical as we deploy every resource available to protect the health and well-being of all Mississippians,” said Reeves.
Public assistance is now available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance, for all areas across Mississippi impacted by COVID-19 beginning on Jan. 20.
The disaster declaration will provide Mississippians access to expanded mental healthcare, supplement the efforts of tribal healthcare workers, provide grants to reduce the risk of loss of life or property during future emergencies, make available legal assistance to low-income Mississippians, expand food assistance and other services to low-income households impacted by COVID-19, and more.
