WASHINGTON - U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced HUD will speed federal disaster assistance to counties in Minnesota and provide support to homeowners and low-income renters forced from their homes following severe storms, flooding and tornadoes last month.

Today, President Obama issued a disaster declaration for Faribault, Freeborn, Olmsted, Otter Tail, Polk, Steele, and Wadena Counties. The President’s declaration allows HUD to offer foreclosure relief and other assistance to certain families living in this county.