INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indiana Department of Homeland Security announced Thursday that they have opened applications to the State Disaster Relief Fund for residents who incurred damage to their property during the March 10 severe storms and tornadoes in Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties. The State Disaster Relief Fund is intended to help with immediate need. Funds are available for eligible applicants up to $25,000. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security says that there are more than 100 homes that are either damaged or destroyed. Additional homeowners or jurisdictions may qualify later for financial assistance based on damage assessment data. The State Disaster Relief Fund applies only to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. State funding cannot replace insurance coverage, which is the primary and best source of protection from storm damage.  The fund only addresses the costs of repairing, replacing or restoring property that is the primary residence of the applicant, and cannot be used to help pay insurance deductibles.  ...read more read less