Rental assistance available to Tennesseans displaced by December tornadoes

Molly Davis, Nashville Tennessean
·1 min read

Tennesseans who received FEMA rental assistance following the December tornadoes and still can't return to their storm-damaged homes are eligible for additional support, the Tennessee Department of Military announced.

Tornado survivors in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson counties received initial FEMA temporary housing assistance following the major disaster declaration signed Jan. 14.

Those in need of ongoing support must display their storm-related financial need and show they are developing a permanent housing plan.

Here’s what applicants need to send to FEMA:

  • A signed and completed application for continued temporary housing assistance

  • A signed and dated copy of current lease

  • Receipts showing the initial FEMA rental assistance grant was used for housing

  • Current and pre-disaster household income

  • Any household financial obligations

Access the application online or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 for assistance.

A total of 16 tornadoes touched down in Middle Tennessee as storms swept through the region on Dec. 11 and 12, including three EF-2s, the National Weather Service said.

The tornadoes destroyed homes, downed thousands of tree, snapped power poles and injured seven people in Middle Tennessee. Straight line winds across the region also caused widespread damage and power outages.

In West Tennessee, five people were confirmed dead and 10 were hurt after several tornadoes barreled through.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: FEMA announces continued housing support for tornado victims