Good News For Storm Victims, Kentucky Cooperatives From Governor Andy Beshear

For Kentuckians still trying to rebuild their lives after severe spring storms ravaged the Commonwealth, good news needs to keep coming. On Friday, June 6th, it did.

Disaster Assistance Extension

Governor Andy Beshear has announced that those applying for federal assistance related to storm damage have been given an extension. What that means is that for eligible folks to receive some of the more than $1 million disbursed by FEMA following mid-May severe weather and tornadoes, they'll need to apply by July 23, 2025.

D-SNAP Benefits

Citizens of Union, Trigg, Russell, Pulaski, Laurel, and Caldwell counties have already begun applying for Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) benefits and may do so through Thursday, June 12th.

Financial Awards for Kentucky Electric Cooperatives and Power Grids

The strain on utility co-ops across the Commonwealth is expected to be eased considerably after Governor Beshear announced financial awards of more than $6 million, which will be distributed throughout the state to enhance power grid stability.

Here's how the funds will be dispersed during phase one of the Kentucky Grid Resilience Grant Program...

Princeton Electric Plant Board - $1,752,207

Hopkinsville Electric System - $1,451,443

Phase two will include windfalls for these cooperatives...

Owensboro Municipal Utilities - $1,668,750

Williamstown Utility Commission - $1,143,588

Also in phase two, more than 4,000 GPS-enabled smart meters and real-time alert systems will be installed.

All in all, the Kentucky Grid Resilience Grant Program hopes to ensure that vital equipment and infrastructure will be in peak condition the next time a high-level severe weather event occurs.

April Flooding Relief

More than $20 million in Individual and Households Assistance has been distributed to victims of April's catastrophic flooding. The application deadline for these monies has been extended to July 25, 2025.