Pottawattamie County opens needs assessment survey for disaster victims [Video]

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (WOWT) – Officials in Pottawattamie County are sending out a needs assessment survey for recent disaster victims.

In a release Tuesday, county officials reported that the severe weather and tornadoes in April and May caused significant long-term impacts to public infrastructure. The survey will allow officials to assess the status and future needs of victims and they hope it will help fill the “gap” for disaster survivors.

“It’s critical we hear directly from those impacted by disaster,” said Doug Reed, Emergency Management Director for Pottawattamie County.

Data collected will help connect residents with assistance programs that are currently available, as well as identify current and future gaps in aid.

“Learning about ongoing or future challenges our residents are facing provides the information needed to activate additional assistance programs and facilitates efforts to create innovative solutions to meet the needs of those suffering,” Reed said.

Pottawattamie County officials are also planning to deploy …