Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin appeals FEMA for more federal funding after wildfires

Gov. Mary Fallin formally appealed FEMA for more funding Thursday in the wake of the devastating wildfires that spread through much of Oklahoma earlier this summer.

Fallin called for the agency to grant relief to victims in Cleveland, Oklahoma and Payne counties, a complaint the governor voiced since FEMA's announcement of $3 million in Creek County donations in August.

"Regardless of the county, those with wildfire damage to their homes or businesses should reach out to FEMA and report their losses," Fallin said after receiving the news. "Doing so will help to support the case for additional federal assistance for the many Oklahoma families in need."

Between July 28 and August 14, 14 wildfires damaged nearly 300 homes in Cleveland, Oklahoma and Payne counties, 270 of which were destroyed.

An estimated 85 percent of the affected homes were uninsured.

SEE FULL FALLIN LETTER

An individual assistance declaration would make Cleveland, Oklahoma and Payne County home and business owners eligible for assistance with housing repairs or temporary housing and disaster unemployment assistance.

It would also provide for U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses and grants for serious needs and necessary disaster expenses not met by other programs.