Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jason Smith (Mo.) announced that Glen Allen homeowners are eligible for a 100% property buyout through the U.S Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA NRCS) Emergency Watershed Protection Program, which provides federal funding to help residents relocate out of flood prone areas. USDA NRCS is also providing up to $5,000 to help tenants move.

The announcement follows Smith’s hard-fought effort to secure federal support for the community, which has been hit with two major natural disasters just this year.

“This announcement is welcome news for a community that has gone through such unimaginable hardship,” said Smith. “While nothing will ever bring back the lives that were lost and homes that were destroyed, I’m glad that Glen Allen families who wish to relocate will have the option to take advantage of this voluntarily buyout. I appreciate the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service for listening to community members and acting quickly to help this small town that has been through incredibly difficult times. I will continue working closely with the community to secure additional federal aid for families whose lives were forever changed by the devastating natural disasters.”

Smith has worked closely with local, state, and federal officials to secure disaster aid for Glen Allen families impacted by the major flash flood in August and the tornado in April that killed 5 people.

On August 29, Smith brought USDA NRCS officials to Glen Allen to meet with community members and provide an update on recovery efforts following the August flash flood. According to preliminary data, 27-35 homes are considered major or total losses.

Following the deadly tornado, Smith visited the community to survey damage and meet with families and local officials. According to the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency, the tornado destroyed 21 homes and caused major damage to 25.

Smith is fighting to secure additional disaster funding from the federal government, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency.