COLUMBUS (July 30, 2003) - Governor Bob Taft today announced that disaster assistance is available through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services for victims of the recent floods and severe weather in Columbiana County, one of 14 counties now eligible to provide such funds.

"We continue to work hard to help affected Ohioans," Taft said. "This funding is available immediately to help families recover."

Flood victims residing in Columbiana County may apply for one of two types of disaster assistance: families may qualify for up to $1,500 in disaster assistance, and qualified elderly and disabled individuals may qualify for up to $750 in disaster assistance.

In order to be eligible for up to $1,500 in TANF disaster assistance money, families must include a minor child, or pregnant woman, and have evidence of economic need. Elderly and disabled individuals in these counties who are not eligible for TANF assistance may be eligible for one-time cash assistance of up to $750. Persons at least 55 years old and childless or receiving certain disability benefits who can provide evidence of economic need created by the impact of the storm are eligible for this assistance, but only one payment may be made per dwelling.

Each year, ODJFS reserves $5 million in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funding for disaster victims in counties declared in a state of emergency. Applications will be accepted at the Columbiana County Department of Job and Family Services, 110 Nelson Avenue, Lisbon, 44432, (330) 424-1471.

Throughout July, Taft has announced that disaster assistance is available for victims of severe weather in Auglaize, Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Darke, Logan, Mahoning, Medina, Mercer, Portage, Shelby, Stark, Summit, Trumbull and Van Wert counties.

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