OKC To Give Away Storm Shelters To Qualified Homeowners

The City of Oklahoma City is giving away about 235 storm shelters to Oklahoma City homeowners who qualify based on their household income.

“This program is a blessing to homeowners who want an in-ground or above ground shelter but found the cost to be out of reach,” said program coordinator Bob Dailey. “A storm shelter is a family's best defense against a tornado.”

According to city officials, to qualify, a single person can earn up to $34,400, a family of two can earn up to $39,300; a family of three can earn up to $44,200, a family of four can earn up to $49,100, a family of five can earn up to $53,050 and a family of six can earn up to $57,000.

The storm shelters are available on a first come, first served basis to Oklahoma City residents who were affected in some way by the May 19-20 or 31, 2013 storms. Damage as insignificant as downed branches qualifies.

Residents can log on to www.okc.gov or call 297-2846 to pre-qualify for a storm shelter. The applicant must own and live in the home to qualify. Rental property is not eligible for a shelter.

Funding for the shelters is provided through U.S. Department of Housing Development (HUD).