December 2025 has certainly been a wild month! The recent storms with strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding have affected many communities across Washington state. Disaster assistance programs are now available to help people recover. The information below lists general disaster resources from The American Legion, federal, state, county, and city agencies, along with where to go for help and next steps to take.
American Legion Resources
National Emergency Fund (NEF) & Auxiliary Emergency Fund (AEF)
- The NEF and AEF provide direct financial grants to eligible Legion family members who suffer personal hardship due to a declared natural disaster.
- Grants are typically used for immediate needs such as housing, food, utilities, or basic repairs.
- Applications are submitted through the Department (state) American Legion or Auxiliary office.
Source: American Legion National Headquarters, National Emergency Fund, Auxiliary Emergency Fund
https://www.legion.org/nef
https://www.legion-aux.org/aef
Department and Local American Legion Posts
Department and Post leaders may assist with:
- Referrals to federal, state, and county programs
- Help completing disaster assistance applications
- Coordinating volunteers or relief efforts
- Some Posts and Districts may have an emergency assistance fund for veterans in need
Members should contact their local Post or the Department office for guidance.
Source: The American Legion, Disaster & Emergency Services
https://www.legion.org/disaster
Federal Disaster Assistance
FEMA – Federal Emergency Management Agency
Following a federal disaster or emergency declaration, FEMA may provide:
- Individual Assistance (temporary housing, repairs, basic needs)
- Public Assistance (support for local governments and nonprofits)
Individuals can apply for assistance online or by phone.
Source: FEMA – Washington State Disaster Assistance
https://www.fema.gov/locations/washington
Apply for FEMA Assistance
- Website: https://www.disasterassistance.gov
- Phone: 1-800-621-3362
Source: FEMA
https://www.disasterassistance.gov
Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans
- Low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property.
- SBA disaster loans are often available after FEMA declarations.
Source: U.S. Small Business Administration
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance
Washington State Resources
Washington State Emergency Management Division (EMD)
- Coordinates disaster response and recovery with FEMA and counties.
- Provides information on statewide disaster programs and recovery steps.
Source: Washington Military Department – Disaster Assistance
https://mil.wa.gov/disaster-assistance
Washington Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)
May offer:
- Disaster Cash Assistance
- Replacement food benefits (SNAP) for eligible households
Applications are handled through local Community Services Offices.
Source: Washington DSHS – Disaster Assistance
https://www.dshs.wa.gov
Governor’s Emergency Proclamations and State Funding
- Emergency proclamations activate state resources and funding for disaster response and recovery.
Source: Office of the Governor of Washington
https://governor.wa.gov
County-Level Resources (Generalized)
County Emergency Management Offices
Every county has an emergency management office that may provide:
- Damage reporting forms
- Local recovery information
- Debris disposal guidance
- Shelter and evacuation updates
Reporting damage helps the state and FEMA determine what aid is available.
Source: Washington State Emergency Management Division
https://mil.wa.gov
County Veterans Programs
Every Washington county operates a Veterans Assistance or Veterans Services Program. These offices may help veterans and their families with:
- Emergency financial assistance
- Housing or utility referrals
- Navigation of FEMA, state, or nonprofit aid
Veterans should contact their county veterans office directly for available help.
Source: Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
https://www.dva.wa.gov/veterans-their-families/veterans-services
City and Local Resources
City Emergency Management and Public Works
Cities may provide:
- Emergency alerts and safety updates
- Temporary shelters or warming centers
- Road closure and debris cleanup information
- Residents should monitor their city’s official website, facebook or alert system.
Source: Ready.gov – Local Emergency Management
https://www.ready.gov
Other Helpful Organizations
American Red Cross
Emergency shelter, food, and immediate disaster relief services.
Source: American Red Cross
https://www.redcross.org
Ready.gov
Federal preparedness and recovery guidance for families and communities.
Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security
https://www.ready.gov
Quick Steps for Affected Individuals
- Make sure everyone is safe.
- Take photos and document damage.
- Contact your insurance company to file a claim.
- Report damage to your county emergency management office.
- Apply for FEMA assistance if available.
- Contact your local American Legion Post or Department for NEF guidance.
- Veterans should also contact their county veterans program.