Michigan governor asks President Trump for major disaster declaration
![](/images/abclogo_gray.png?x)
-
2:30
Mishawaka ‘Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area’ along riverwalk...
-
0:50
Saint Mary’s College breaks ground on Heritage and Research...
-
6:13
Rep. Rudy Yakym discusses Netanyahu’s address to Congress and...
-
3:41
Three civil rights lawsuits filed against Elkhart Police
-
1:03
The humidity returns, Sunday
-
1:57
Why the dew point is the best way to represent humidity
-
4:18
What is Project 2025 and why does it matter?
-
0:45
The South Bend Police Department hosts inaugural community track...
-
1:10
’A Rosie Place’ in South Bend welcomes new equine friend
-
1:42
Thanks to the weather, Michiana corn seeing rapid growth
-
4:10
Developing Downtowns: South Bend
-
2:25
After closure in 2020, YMCA reopens in downtown
LANSING, Mich.— Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday announced that she has asked President Donald Trump for a major disaster declaration because of COVID-19.
Whitmer made the announcement during a press conference in Lansing.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services as of Thursday morning reported 2,294 cases of coronavirus and 43 deaths in the state.
The declaration would enable the state to use resources to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
If the declaration is granted in full, it would help the state provide meals to families in need and rental assistance and temporary housing to families.
Whitmer said that the state was looking into the possibility of setting up other facilities and field hospitals to treat coronavirus patients but nothing had been decided as of Thursday morning.
Under a major disaster declaration, funds could be used to set up those facilities.
Whitmer also pleaded with the community for help securing supplies the state is currently in need of including personal protective gear like masks, gloves, and hospital gowns.
Residents can call 211 for more information about coronavirus in Michigan and for donation information.
Trump has already declared a major disaster in multiple states including New Jersey, Florida, Texas, Iowa, and more in response to COVID-19.