Register now: Montgomery County approved for disaster declaration

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas -- Less than 24 hours after visiting Corpus Christi and Austin, President Donald Trump has approved Montgomery County's request for a disaster declaration.

A disaster declaration clears the way for residents to immediately register and apply for federal aid, said U.S Congressman Kevin Brady (R-TX 8th District).

"This is important, because now families will be able to apply to FEMA, whether they flooded completely or not, whether they have insurance or not," Brady said.

Brady encourages residents to register as soon as possible, either online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3363.

"Even if you don't know if you qualify, register anyway," Brady said. "If you do not qualify, they will refer you to other programs you may qualify for through the SBA (Small Business Administration) or HUD (Housing and Urban Development)."

Brady visited with President Trump, Texas Governor Gregg Abbott and FEMA Administrator Brock Long when the president visited Austin Aug. 29.

With collaboration from Montgomery County Judge Craig Doyal, Montgomery County Precinct 3 Commissioner James Noack and The Woodlands Township Chairman Gordy Bunch, the disaster declaration request was approved less than 24 hours later.

As for President Trump's decision not to tour the Houston area, Brady was in agreement.

"It was a compassionate decision," Brady said. "He knew our resources were dedicated to rescue and evacuation, as they should be."

Brady said he is incredibly proud of Montgomery County and Texas.

"Our emergency responders have been so inspirational," he said. "They have been working day and night, even if they didn't have their own homes to go to. They worked alongside our volunteers, saving lives, getting people to shelters. I cannot say enough about our first responders and volunteers.

"We have to be proud of Texas. We are sending a message across the country about how neighbors help neighbors."