Disaster Recovery

We Are Here to Help

Disaster Recovery

Elkhart recently experienced a severe storm, with some areas affected by tornado activity, causing damage to complete destruction of homes. Lacasa’s HUD Certified Housing Counselors are offering assistance to those affected by the disaster. We understand that this process can be daunting, and our counselors are ready and eager to guide you through this stressful time.

Are you overwhelmed and unsure of where to start?  Below is a Disaster Recovery Checklist that can help you get organized.  If you would like to print or download a copy of this checklist, click the link below.

Download or Print Checklist

If you would like an appointment with a HUD Certified Housing Counselor, contact our office at (574) 533-4450, extension 76, or complete the contact form at the link below.

Contact Form (In English and Spanish)

If you are able to help provide financial relief to those affected, donations are being accepted through United Way by clicking  the “COAD Donation” button.  Funds will go directly to support the Elkhart County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) and local relief efforts, providing essential resources and assistance to those affected. 

COAD Donations

Disaster Recovery Checklist

File Insurance Claims

  • Call your insurance provider to let them know what happened.
  • Secure your property.
  • Document the process.
  • Make only emergency repairs until hearing back from the insurance company.

Mortgage

  • Call your mortgage lender to let them know what happened.
  • Discuss your options if you have/may have trouble making payments.
  • Document the process.

Employer

  • Contact your employer to let them know what happened.
  • Explore insurance and aid offered.
  • Talk about time off & pay advance/loan if possible to cover expenses.
  • Identify alternative sources of income if needed.

Creditors

  • Call credit card companies to let them know what happened and make a note on your account.
  • Request replacement cards if needed.
  • Negotiate alternate payment terms if needed.
  • Contact credit reporting agencies for a copy of your credit report.

Credit Rating

  • Contact credit reporting agencies if you got behind on payments due to a disaster.
  • Manage your bills and communicate with utility companies so that you aren’t accumulating charges for services you aren’t using.
  • Protect your accounts.

Disaster Assistance

  • Find federal and local sources.
  • Visit www.disasterassistance.gov
  • Access assistance programs, call 2-1-1.
  • Keep records. Document what you are spending as you recover and save receipts. You may be able to seek reimbursement.

Avoid Scams

  • Stay informed.
  • Check media and websites for scam awareness.
  • Check references and the BBB for company/agency reputation.
  • If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Rebuilding

  • Get multiple bids from contractors and don’t commit without a contract.
  • Hire a qualified contractor.
  • Rebuild a healthy and safe home, consider additional repairs to address health and safety.
  • Secure your property.

Taking Care of You

  • Be aware of your mental health.
  • Recognize signs of stress and trauma.
  • Address mental & physical health concerns.
  • Call 2-1-1 for help finding affordable health care.

Friends and Family

  • Notify your friends and family of what happened.
  • Seek emotional and financial support if necessary.
  • Ask for necessary recommendations and support.

Next Steps

  • Take stock of what you wish you had done before this happened and make a plan.
  • Budget for the recovery.
  • Create a realistic household budget.
  • Contact a Housing Counselor or Financial Coach to help you plan for the future.