Aid available for homes affected by severe weather

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – The income eligibility for a state housing fund has been expanded to assist those affected by the June natural disasters in Jerauld, Lincoln and Union counties.  The South Dakota Housing Development Authority says money from the Housing Opportunity Fund previously was provided to households at or below 80 percent of the area median income determined by the federal government. The agency says that requirement has been changed for those three counties to include households at or below 115 percent of the area median income.  Households in those counties in need of assistance may apply for a grant of up to $5,000. The funds can be used for debris removal, mold remediation, payment of rental and utility security deposits for displaced households.  The storms produced at least 12 tornadoes and flooding.