Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Obama Signs Texas Disaster Declaration by VOA News U.S. President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster area exists in Texas and has ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding that began late last month and continues. The disaster declaration makes federal funding available for affected individuals in several Texas counties (Austin, Brazoria, Brazos, Fort Bend, Grimes, Hidalgo, Hood, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Travis, Waller and Washington). The assistance includes grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Federal funding was also made available to the state, eligible local governments and some non-profit organizations. Late last month Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency in 24 counties following record heavy rains and flooding. __________________________________________________________________ [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/obama-signs-texas-disaster-declaratio n/3372466.html References 1. http://www.voanews.com/content/obama-signs-texas-disaster-declaration/3372466.html