NAPPANEE -- Four months after a tornado ripped through the town of Nappanee destroying dozens of homes and businesses, the fight continues for help from the federal government. U.S. Representatives Joe Donnelly and Mark Souder are both pressing FEMA for answers.

FEMA has denied funding to the town of Nappanee twice. Congressman Donnelly met with them a few weeks ago and he says their reason for denying assistance just wasn't good enough

The cold hard facts. That's what Congressman Joe Donnelly is demanding from FEMA.

“What were their reports? What did their reports include? What did they say? And where were the decisions made?” Donnelly asked.

Gov. Mitch Daniels first asked for federal funding in November, but that request was denied. So he appealed the decision. But in November, the governor received a letter from FEMA notifying him that he had been denied again.

"This is extraordinarily upsetting because Gov. Daniels has worked on this, Congressman Souder has worked on this and I have. And there's not been a political word said. And all we're trying to do is help the people of Nappanee,” said Donnelly.

And the people of Nappanee couldn't agree more.

"I think they should have helped because there's a lot of people who weren't insured that didn't have a place to live after it was destroyed," Nappanee resident Mary Ford.

"I just think they should get help. Every other place gets help when they need it why shouldn't we? I mean we're a small town, but they need it too,” said Nappanee resident Bill Kinney.

In the meantime, Nappanee hasn't waited for help to come to them. They banded together days after the tornado hit to begin cleaning up the damage.

Many, including Congressman Donnelly, believe this may have played a role in FEMA's decision.

"You shouldn't be punished for doing a good job. And I think that's what FEMA did here," said Donnelly.

No matter the outcome, Mayor Larry Thompson hopes this fight will leave a lasting impression.

"If we can play a role in helping the next small town Nappanee anywhere in this country, why were more than willing to do whatever it takes,” Thompson said.

Last month, the state gave Nappanee nearly $200,000 to help with damage. They also received more than $500,000 through donations from the community.