Hamilton County legislators encourage residents impacted by storms, flooding to seek assistance
STATEHOUSE (Aug. 18, 2026) – 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. Expo Hall, Room A, at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds (2003 Pleasant Street in 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," 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," said State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers). "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 for Hamilton County Residents:
|
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 indianaconsumer.com. Find tips and guidance here. “Hoosiers are resilient, and this is a time for us to look out for one another," said State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel). "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 (R-Noblesville) 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," 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." State Rep. Hunter Smith (R-Zionsville) said community members looking to lend a hand and support their neighbors in need can consider the below volunteer and donation opportunities:
"Our priority is making sure the people and families affected by these floods know they are not facing this alone," Smith said. "By sharing reliable resources and connecting residents with the help available to them, we can make sure support reaches those who need it most as our communities begin the recovery process." 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. |
-30-
House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) represents
House District 37, which includes a portion of Hamilton County.
Click here to download high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Hamilton, Hancock, Madison and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel) represents House District 39,
which includes a portion of Hamilton County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler (R-Noblesville) represents House District 29,
which includes a portion of Hamilton County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Hunter Smith (R-Zionsville) represents House District 24,
which includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
