Storm Recovery Continues: Where storm victims are three months after August disaster

LA PORTE, Ind. -- Victims of the August derecho are picking up the pieces and even picking up their lives to relocate after the disaster. Even while adjusting to this new normal, survivors are grateful for federal aid and resources.

Daniel Caldwell lost power in his La Porte apartment for three days and lost all his food. After not hearing from FEMA after first applying, he felt forgotten about. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security recently released a statement explaining that there could be payment processing delays due to the “historic volume of applications.”

While delays were anticipated, Caldwell advocated for himself and called FEMA again. Amid filtering through a sea of applications, he applauded the quick response. “They actually got in touch with me fairly quickly,” he said. “It happened almost overnight compared to the first time that I tried to do it myself."

Keagan Browder, forced from his home because of water damage, is now settling into his new home, funded by FEMA. While the move was quicker and more challenging than he anticipated, it was made easier by funding.

Browder says he received initial reimbursement for relocating and food. He’s now eligible for rent, utilities, and other rental fees. He stresses the importance of having documents and receipts on hand to receive reimbursement payments.

“They’re actually really, really on top of it… I don't know who's running FEMA, but those people are on the ball,” Browder said.