SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has opened applications to the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for residents who suffered damage to their homes or property in qualifying jurisdictions during specific storms, including recent tornados in Michiana.

IDHS officials say applications to help with immediate needs will be capped at $2000 initially, although eligible homeowners could receive additional assistance after a complete damage assessment is finished.

Victims of the following disaster events are eligible for funds:

• March 1, 2025: Mine Collapse
• March 15, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 19, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 30 – April 2, 2025: Severe Storms/Flooding

“Hoosiers across Indiana experienced widespread damage from storms earlier this month. Today, we will be opening the State Disaster Relief Fund for individual use to get help to those in need as quickly as possible as IDHS continues to assess damages,” said Secretary of Public Safety and IDHS Executive Director Jennifer-Ruth Green.

State officials say the SDRF applies only to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured.

"State funding cannot replace insurance coverage, which is the primary and best source of protection from storm damage," IDHS said.

"The maximum payout from the SDRF for an individual is $25,000. The fund only addresses the costs of repairing, replacing or restoring property that is the primary residence of the applicant."

IDHS officials say more than 500 homes are noted as having major damage or are destroyed.

"However, high flood waters have delayed the comprehensive assessment in some counties. Additional homeowners or jurisdictions may qualify later for financial assistance based on damage assessment data," IDHS said. 

"Once the total scope of the damage is determined, Indiana may request a presidential disaster declaration, which could open federal funding for those impacted during the incident period, both individuals and government entities."