On September 20, 2024, President Biden signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Illinois, granting access to FEMA's Individual Assistance program for residents affected by severe weather and flooding that occurred from July 13 to July 16. This declaration specifically benefits seven counties, including Cook County and the City of Chicago, allowing residents and business owners to apply for essential recovery resources. The assistance may include grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and low-cost loans to cover uninsured losses. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is collaborating closely with FEMA and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency to provide timely information and services to those impacted. Residents can apply for disaster assistance through FEMA's website, mobile app, or helpline, ensuring that multilingual support is available.

Disaster Recovery Centers will soon open in the affected counties, offering in-person assistance for the application process. The declaration emphasizes the federal government's dedication to supporting vulnerable communities during natural disasters. It also ensures that disaster recovery services are accessible to all individuals, regardless of background or status.