Legislators encourage residents impacted by storms & flooding to seek assistance

Local lawmakers are encouraging Hamilton County residents affected by historic flooding in central Indiana to seek assistance by applying for state emergency resources or utilizing the Hamilton County assistance hub for local support.

Hamilton County has set up an emergency assistance hub for local residents affected by flooding. Anyone in need of help should call (317) 645-3261. Room A of the Exhibition Hall at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant St., Noblesville, is serving as the central assistance hub.

“I’m so grateful for all the state and local officials and amazing volunteers helping flood victims in Hamilton County. Seeing the impact firsthand has been heartbreaking,” Speaker Todd Huston said. “If you or someone you know has been impacted by the floods, call (317) 645-3261 to connect with a one-stop resource.”

Huston said the state is also deploying additional resources for storm victims. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is authorized to provide up to $5,000 in emergency aid grants to eligible Hoosiers in need of assistance. The grants will enable families to get the basics like clothing and food while they are displaced from their homes. To apply, call 2-1-1 or visit on.in.gov/August2026Disaster.

The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority is also providing temporary housing grants to help eligible displaced Hoosiers transition from emergency shelters into hotels, apartments, and other temporary accommodations. Hoosiers in need can call 2-1-1 or visit IN211.communityos.org.

Additionally, Indiana has activated emergency SNAP benefit replacements for eligible SNAP recipients who lost food due to the storm or power outages. Affected Hoosiers can submit an affidavit for replacement benefits within 10 days of the event at fssabenefits.in.gov.

Hamilton County legislators are working closely with local officials across the county to coordinate available resources, and to help our neighbors and communities recover.

“We know this flooding has been difficult for families, businesses and communities across Hamilton County,” State Rep. Chris Jeter said. “Our priority now is making sure Hoosiers have access to the resources they need as we recover. I’m grateful to the first responders, emergency personnel and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to keep our communities safe and help those affected.”

Additional resources

Residents who need assistance or need to report flood related issues can utilize the following resources, in addition to the central assistance hub:

• Emergency assistance: Call 911 if you are experiencing an immediate emergency or life-threatening situation.
• Report storm damage: Homeowners who suffered storm damage are encouraged to call 2-1-1 or visit the Indiana 211 website to report damages and get help with assessments.
• Flood safety: Residents should avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Even when water appears shallow, floodwaters can conceal hazards and rapidly changing conditions. Hamilton County Road Closures can be found here.
• Insurance: Hoosiers can contact the Indiana Department of Insurance Consumer Services whose team is available to talk to residents and provide guidance on insurance issues, navigating claims and next steps for uninsured losses. The Commissioner of Insurance has issued a bulletin calling on insurance companies to protect Hoosiers from unforeseen drops in coverage.
• Avoid scams: Residents should remain vigilant and aware of disaster-related scams. Consumer complaints can be filed with the Attorney General’s Office at com. Find tips and guidance here.

“Hoosiers are resilient, and this is a time for us to look out for one another,” State Rep. Danny Lopez said. “Please stay safe, stay aware of changing conditions and follow guidance from local emergency officials. As the water recedes, I encourage those who are able to safely lend a hand to their neighbors and help our communities begin the cleanup and recovery process.”

State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler said residents are also encouraged to visit on.in.gov/August2026Disaster to see all state and federal resources.

“During a flooding event, knowing where to turn for accurate information and assistance can make a difficult situation a little easier,” Rep. Shonkwiler said. “We want residents to have access to the resources they need, whether that means finding shelter, reporting damage, getting assistance or simply knowing what steps to take next.”

Community members looking to lend a hand and support their neighbors in need can consider the below volunteer and donation opportunities:

• Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank and the Hamilton County Trustee Association are collecting cleaning supplies for individuals and families impacted by floodwaters. You can drop cleaning supplies off at township offices throughout the county. Learn more here.
• Donate to the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank Emergency Relief Fund to help put food on the table for neighbors who have been suddenly displaced.
• Donate to the Hamilton County Relief Fund here.
• Sign up to get notified about volunteer opportunities at the Hamilton County assistance hub at the fairgrounds, which is being coordinated by SERVE Village.

For additional information and assistance, residents should continue to monitor updates from local emergency management officials, their city government, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, and FEMA.