Sw Louisiana News

Congressman Clay Higgins has announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide an additional $8,820,402.92 in federal grants to support hurricane recovery efforts in Southwest Louisiana. This funding is part of the major disaster declaration for Hurricane Laura, known as DR-4559-LA, which Congressman Higgins supported.

The financial assistance includes several key reimbursements:

- The Society of the Roman Catholic Church of the Diocese of Lake Charles will receive $4,844,146.76 for repairs to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Buildings. This reimbursement is made at a 90% federal cost-share and is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

- The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is set to receive $2,715,104.07 for emergency protective measures related to non-congregate sheltering. This reimbursement also follows a 90% federal cost-share and falls under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

- Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative Inc. will be reimbursed $1,261,152.09 for temporary generators used in emergency protective measures. Like the others, this funding comes with a 90% federal cost-share and is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

Higgins highlighted that much work on these recovery projects happens behind closed doors with FEMA and various stakeholders over many months before formal announcements are made regarding finalized funding. He emphasized that all funds will be sent to the State of Louisiana, which will then distribute them to each sub-recipient accordingly.

In his statement regarding these efforts, Congressman Higgins said: “South Louisiana stands strong through every storm. To date, my office has worked tirelessly to deliver over $5 billion in disaster recovery relief." He added that his office remains committed to prioritizing hurricane recovery and collaborating with local, state, and federal partners "to ensure that much needed resources are delivered for strong economic growth and prosperity.”