CHAVES COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) — Residents and businesses in Chaves County who lost work due to recent flooding can now receive financial help from the federal government. Third times a charm? State lawmaker pushing to increase penalties for auto theft, again President Biden has approved federal disaster aid for the state, making disaster unemployment assistance available to anyone whose employment was ended or interrupted by the severe weather events. The state's Department of Workforce Solutions is now accepting applications for disaster unemployment assistance. The assistance is available for those who do not qualify for regular unemployment benefits, can no longer work due to injury sustained in the disaster, due to flood damages at their place of employment and more. The deadline to apply is December 31. Applications can be completed in-person at the Department of Workforce Solutions or by phone. For more information on the assistance and application process, click here.