Thursday, July 20, 2006
Contact: Spence Jackson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Pledges Assistance to Storm Battered St. Louis
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt directed all state agencies under his control to provide assistance to citizens in need, local governments and first responders on the heels of a powerful storm that moved through the area last night.
"This unexpected storm has caused hardship for many St. Louis area residents and I want them to know the state is prepared to help them recover," Blunt said. "Missourians have always responded with boundless compassion when their fellow citizens have faced trouble. The response to this storm will be no different. Missourians should know that their government stands ready to help with relief efforts throughout the region."
Early this morning Blunt directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to activate the Emergency Operations Center to facilitate the state's response. Blunt's office has also contacted the Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Missouri National Guard to provide assistance.
Blunt's office has also contacted the offices of St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley to convey this offer of assistance.
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