Need Help Coping with Disaster Related Stress?

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Has the Kentucky flooding left you feeling depressed, uneasy, restless or sad? Disasters affect more than just buildings or landscape. They can have a serious impact on us, no matter our age or standing in the community. Help is available.

The Disaster Distress Helpline is only a phone call or text away at 800-985-5990.

The helpline is a national hotline—available in multiple languages--offering confidential one-on-one help from trained counselors. The helpline is here 24/7, 365 days a year, for people who are experiencing emotional distress following a disaster.

Helpline staff provide counseling and support before, during, and after disasters and refer people to local disaster-related resources for follow-up care and support.

These counselors provide:

• Crisis counseling for people in emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster
• Information on how to recognize distress and its effects on individuals and families
• Tips for healthy coping
• Referrals to local crisis call centers for additional follow-up care and support

The Disaster Distress Helpline is open to everyone. This includes survivors of disasters; loved ones of victims; first responders; rescue, recovery, and relief workers; clergy; and parents and caregivers. You may call for yourself or on behalf of someone else.

If the aftermath of the floods has left you not feeling like yourself, reach out for confidential help on how to cope.

For more information about flood recovery in Kentucky, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.   

 

sandra.habib Thu, 08/25/2022 - 17:31

Hours of operation to change at Disaster Recovery Centers in Muskogee and Seminole counties

OKLAHOMA CITY—The joint federal/state Disaster Recovery Centers in Muskogee and Seminole counties will be closed on Saturday, August 27 and reopen on Monday, August 29 with new hours of operation. The centers assist survivors affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 2-8.

Survivors from any of the seven designated counties can meet face to face with specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions about federal disaster assistance answered at the center.

The seven designated counties are Adair, Cherokee, Muskogee, Okmulgee, Pottawatomie, Seminole and Tulsa.

Survivors can get in-person help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and get questions answered about federal disaster at:

Muskogee County

Harris-Jobe School

2809 N. Country Club Road

Muskogee, OK 74403

11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday

Closed Saturday and Sunday

 

Seminole County

Seminole State College, David L. Boren Library

2701 Boren Blvd.

Seminole, OK 74868

11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday

Closed Saturday and Sunday

To locate the closest DRC to you, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA app or visit the DRC Locator. You can also text 43362 and type DRC (your ZIP Code); for example, DRC 12345.

Download the FEMA mobile app at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products for more information about DRCs.

Carmen.Castro Thu, 08/25/2022 - 16:36

FEMA Region 8 Recognizes Colorado Students selected to National Youth Preparedness Council

DENVER – FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council has announced its membership for the 2022-2023 school year. The council includes youth from across the country who are interested in supporting disaster preparedness and making a difference in their communities. Students complete disaster preparedness projects nationally and locally. FEMA Region 8, which includes Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming, currently has two representatives. They are Lauren Coval and Isaac Doll, both from Colorado.

A highlight for members is the FEMA Youth Preparedness Council Summit, which takes place in July, kicking off the year. The 2022 virtual summit included visits from the Second Gentlemen Doug Emhoff, former FEMA Deputy Administrator Richard Serino, and current FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. The council members also participated in panel discussions related to equity and climate change.

“FEMA Region 8 congratulates Lauren and Isaac for selection to the National Youth Preparedness Council,” said Regional Administrator Nancy Dragani. “Young people like them are the future of emergency management. They have a unique opportunity to help make our nation more prepared, and they are starting at the grassroots level.”

Lauren was inspired to join the council after seeing the devastation in several wildfires in Colorado, such as the Waldo Canyon Fire in 2012 and the Black Forest Fire in 2013. “After that, I really wanted to help my community. Seeing all the suffering and loss, I just wanted to help people.”

Lauren started her school’s first Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and even hosted a Wildfire Preparedness Day in her community with local law enforcement and firefighters. She aspires to encourage more formal emergency preparedness disaster curricula in schools. “I saw so many people moving to Colorado that it inspired me to educate others on our crazy weather and environment,” she said. “One of my biggest passions is education.”

Isaac, who is in his second year with the council, was encouraged to apply for the council because of his passion for psychology. As a now experienced member, he hopes to explore how to prepare people for the psychological effects of disasters. Isaac is also an AmeriCorps member, a U.S. Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps member, and a psychology student at Montana State University. During his first year with the council, Isaac and his team created a website featuring preparedness information for young people -- www.youthprep4all.org.

“We really wanted to focus on underserved communities and people with disabilities,” Isaac said. “Coming from different backgrounds on the council, we worked together on that.” 

Lauren and Isaac will join fellow members from across the country to complete new projects related to preparedness. They also serve as ambassadors for other young people to get involved with preparedness in their own communities.

“Young people have a lot of great ideas,” said Isaac. “They could start a Teen CERT, or just sit down with their neighbors. You just need to start talking.”

“I’m excited for what my team is going to be doing this year for our project,” said Lauren. “I’m in the community engagement group and our focus is equity and inclusion.”

If you or a young person you know are interested in following in Lauren and Isaac’s footsteps, learn more at https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/individuals-communities/youth-preparedness-council.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 08/24/2022 - 23:36

$33 Million Approved for St. Louis Area Residents in First Month After Flooding

ST. LOUIS – One month after record flash flooding struck the St. Louis area in Missouri, more than $33 million has been approved to help survivors recover.

• FEMA has approved more than $20.4 million in Individual Assistance grants for renters and homeowners.
• More than 6,000 households have been approved for FEMA Individual Assistance.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid $8.6 million in claims for policyholders.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $4 million in disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses.

Three Disaster Recovery Centers Open 7 Days a Week for One-On-One Help ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042                                                              

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

ST. LOUIS CITY

Ranken Technical College

Mary Ann Lee Technology Center

1313 N. Newstead Ave.

St. Louis, MO 63113

(On the corner of Newstead and Page)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

ST. CHARLES COUNTY

Developmental Disabilities Resource Board – DDRB Building

1025 Country Club Road

St. Charles, MO 63303

(I-70 near Zumbehl Road Exit)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome.

Before visiting a center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).

For needs not covered by insurance or other sources, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you’ve had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food
• By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources

Homeowners and Renters: If you have been referred to SBA for a disaster loan, please submit the application. Submitting the SBA application makes it possible for you to be considered for additional grants. If you qualify for a loan, you will have that resource available if you choose to accept it.

Please Stay in Touch with FEMA

• If you were directly affected by the flooding – and have un-met needs – please stay in touch.
• Please tell FEMA about your specific needs.
• FEMA works with everyone – renters and homeowners – on a case-by-case basis.

Other Help Available by Calling 2-1-1

United Way 211 connects individuals with unmet needs to assistance programs through volunteer and faith-based organizations. Anyone impacted who needs additional help should call 2-1-1 for assistance or visit http://211helps.org.

The recovery.mo.gov website also additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri. 

 

FEMA Application Deadline is October 7, 2022

Renters and homeowners in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County who were affected by flash flooding July 25-28 may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app.

 

If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses and residents in Missouri following the July storms. To be considered for all disaster assistance, applicants must first register with FEMA. Then they may apply online at SBA’s secure website: https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/.

SBA representatives will help business owners and residents apply at disaster recovery centers. For a list of locations, or to receive additional disaster assistance information, visit SBA’s website at www.sba.gov/disaster.

Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The following SBA Business Recovery Center (BRC) opened Monday, August 15: 

Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, Inc.

1408 N. Kingshighway Blvd.

Second Floor, Room # 219

St. Louis, MO  63113

Hours and Days of Operation: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday--Friday

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/24/2022 - 19:58

FEMA Approves Another $10.1 Million for Utah COVID-19 Response

DENVER – FEMA has approved an additional $10.1 million to the Utah Department of Health for the COVID-19 response in Utah. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 4, 2020. FEMA has now provided more than $314 million for the Utah COVID-19 response.

The funding was provided for three projects:

• $4 million for providing COVID-19 vaccinations to Utah residents at 197 locations throughout the state. The grant covered the cost of operating vaccine sites, storing and administering vaccines, appointment scheduling, and communicating information about vaccine site locations. More than 31,000 COVID-19 vaccinations were administered between June 2, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
• $2.9 million for an additional 18,000 COVID-19 vaccinations at 112 locations between December 1, 2021, and February 21, 2022.
• $3.2 million to provide COVID-19 diagnostic testing supplies to the public, including more than 600,000 COVID-19 rapid antibody tests between January 1, 2022, and May 3, 2022.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow state and local governments to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, tribal and local officials work to assist their communities during this response.  

To fully support this essential work, the President authorized provision of FEMA Public Assistance at 100 percent federal funding through July 1, 2022.   Beginning July 2, 2022, the federal cost share for COVID-19 projects is 90 percent of the eligible cost.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

minh.phan Wed, 08/24/2022 - 19:19

FEMA Cost-Share Adjustment Grants New Mexico More Funds for Disaster Recovery

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available for the state of New Mexico.

The President authorized an increase in the level of federal funding for public assistance projects undertaken as result of wildfires, straight-line winds, flooding, mudflows and debris flows during the period of April 5 to July 23, 2022. The state of New Mexico received a major disaster declaration on May 4.

On June 27, 2022, the President amended his declaration of May 4, 2022, and authorized federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, at 100% of the total eligible costs for a 90-day period from the date of declaration.

Under the President's order, the time period for 100% federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, has been extended for an additional 90-day period from Aug. 3, 2022 through Nov. 1, 2022 for Mora and San Miguel counties.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/24/2022 - 18:55

FEMA Seeks Public Comments on Updates to the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Guidance

WASHINGTON -- FEMA published a notice in the Federal Register today seeking public comment on updates to its “Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program and Policy Guide.”

The agency remains focused on reducing barriers so communities who need resilience funding the most can access its grant programs more easily. As part of August being Disaster Resilience Month, the guide has been updated to be more equitable, reduce complexity and address climate resilience.

“One of our commitments in the new strategic plan is to put people first, and the updated guide will help catalyze community partnerships and promote more equitable investments to reduce risk,” said FEMA's Acting Deputy Administrator for Resilience Victoria Salinas. “By simplifying programs, we can focus on better delivering our hazard mitigation grant programs to communities across the nation dealing with the worsening effects of climate change. This will help to make sure the assistance gets into the right hands for the most impactful resilience building projects.”

The updated guide provides helpful information for state, local, tribal and territorial governments seeking to successfully navigate the application and grant lifecycle processes. FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs provide funding for actions that address risks to and reduce disaster suffering from events like wildfires, drought, extreme heat, hurricanes, earthquakes and flooding.

The update consolidates policy guidance released since the 2015 edition, including addendums. It provides new and expanded content on changes to Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs mandated by the Disaster Recovery Reform Act, including the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Post Fire. The additional programs covered by the guidance include the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and the Flood Mitigation Assistance Program.

FEMA posted the updated guide to the Federal Register under docket number FEMA-2022-0023. The public comment period will run through Sept. 23.

Comments can be submitted at regulations.gov and will become publicly available. Please follow the instructions on the page for submitting comments and contact the Regulations.gov help desk if you have any issues.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/24/2022 - 16:11

Disaster Recovery Centers in Cherokee and Adair Counties to Close

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma residents have just a few more days to visit the joint federal/state Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Cherokee and Adair counties. The Cherokee County DRC will close Aug. 24 and the Adair County DRC will close Aug. 25. The DRCs were opened to help survivors affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 2-8.

Oklahoma residents can still visit the DRCs in Muskogee or Seminole counties for assistance. To locate the closest DRC to you, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA app or visit the DRC Locator. You can also text 43362 and type DRC (your ZIP Code); for example, DRC 12345.

CHEROKEE COUNTY

The center is closing permanently at 7 p.m., Aug. 24:

Cherokee Community Building

908 S. College Avenue

Tahlequah, OK 74464

Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Wednesday.

 

ADAIR COUNTY

The center is closing permanently at 7 p.m., Aug. 25:

Adair County EMS

4 E. Walnut St.

Stilwell, OK 74960

Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

Download the FEMA mobile app at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products for more information about DRCs.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:26

FEMA repasa los cinco años de María con histórica Cumbre de Alcaldes

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico - Las lecciones aprendidas, el trabajo completado y el que está en camino fueron los objetivos principales de la Cumbre de Alcaldes que lideró la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, en inglés). El evento, que tuvo lugar en el Centro Cultural Yolanda Guerrero en Guaynabo, contó con la participación del gobernador Pedro R. Pierluisi, alcaldes y miembros de apoyo municipal.  

Entre los temas que se abordaron, los funcionarios discutieron la diversidad de fondos disponibles bajo la Ley federal Stafford y las asignaciones aprobadas al día de hoy. También se destacaron proyectos de envergadura —unos con fondos obligados, otros ya en proceso de reconstrucción— que se han traducido en asignaciones que tienen efectos directos en las comunidades y en la economía local.

Entre las asignaciones significativas, se subrayaron las asignaciones mediante la Estrategia de Obligación Acelerada de FEMA (FAASt, por sus siglas en inglés) y cómo la aprobación en bloque de estos fondos permitirá una reconstrucción acelerada para las instalaciones de la Autoridad de Energía Eléctrica, la Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados, el Departamento de Educación; y para estructuras de vivienda pública bajo el Departamento de la Vivienda.

En la actividad también hubo participación del personal de la agencia para contestar preguntas y atender las inquietudes de los alcaldes sobre los proyectos municipales en curso.

El coordinador federal de Recuperación por Desastre, José G. Baquero, dijo que la agencia continuará trabajando de la mano con COR3, el gobierno local y los demás subrrecipientes, a fin de seguir apoyando el proceso de reconstrucción que, aunque tomará tiempo, se mantiene a paso firme y seguro. Resaltó, además, que la meta del 2022 es completar la mayor parte de las asignaciones que están pendientes, además de apoyar la transición de los proyectos a la fase de construcción.

Mientras, el gobernador Hon. Pedro R. Pierluisi indicó que su compromiso es hacer realidad todos los proyectos que se han esperado ya que el 75 por ciento de la reconstrucción está en los municipios. “Mi meta es que cada pueblo de nuestra Isla pueda constatar ese cambio, que cada puertorriqueño se sientan más seguros y confiados sobre nuestro futuro. Para eso, nuestros alcaldes pueden contar con que mi administración continuará arreciando sus esfuerzos para asistirles en todo lo que tenga que ver con la recuperación del huracán María y con todos los proyectos que sean para construir el Puerto Rico que todos queremos”, expresó el mandatario.

De los sobre 10,000 proyectos aprobados por FEMA hasta la fecha, sobre 6,000 son para los ayuntamientos lo que representa unos $3,300 millones en fondos para obra permanente correspondiente a proyectos municipales.

Por su parte, la alcaldesa del municipio de Loíza, Julia Nazario Fuentes, indicó que un 79 por ciento de las carreteras del municipio ya están pavimentadas y destacó los parques y áreas recreativas restauradas como proyectos de reconstrucción de gran beneficio para las comunidades. Explicó, además, que sus proyectos pequeños están cerca de concluir y que ya están en proceso de diseño para los proyectos grandes. “Después de María, la gente quedó con el ánimo bien deteriorado. Pero ver las calles pavimentadas y la infraestructura renovada levanta el ánimo. Loíza está muy bonito. Nos falta, pero estamos encaminados”, precisó la alcaldesa.

Igualmente, el alcalde del municipio de Orocovis, Hon. Jesús Colón Berlingeri, mencionó que ya han completado cerca de 90 proyectos en diferentes comunidades y que ahora se enfocarán en los proyectos grandes, tales como el Centro de Envejecientes, el Centro de Bellas Artes y uno de los puentes que conecta a comunidades en Ciales con otra comunidad de Orocovis. Sostuvo que la paciencia y la preparación son dos de las lecciones que ha recibido durante el proceso de reconstrucción.

En la actividad también se discutieron los próximos pasos respecto a la reconstrucción del país y el compromiso de FEMA. De cara al futuro, la agencia busca continuar su apoyo en proyectos de mitigación de riesgos y a definir los proyectos alternos para una recuperación más eficiente.

Mientras, el director ejecutivo de la Oficina de Recuperación, Reconstrucción y Resiliencia (COR3, en inglés), Manuel Laboy, repasó varios puntos clave del proceso de reconstrucción y destacó que son los municipios quienes lideran las métricas. Además, identificó que la visión de la oficina se mantiene enfocada en transformar la infraestructura y las comunidades, desarrollar la resiliencia al cambio climático y alcanzar el desarrollo económico de Puerto Rico. 

“Yo me siento sumamente satisfecho con la relación que hemos establecido con los municipios. Hemos demostrado que ustedes son muy importantes para la reconstrucción. Estamos sumamente agradecidos con el apoyo de FEMA, y con la relación y el apoyo que tenemos con ustedes los alcaldes. No vamos a bajar la guardia. Queremos seguir siendo un agente de apoyo para canalizar sus proyectos de reconstrucción”, añadió el ingeniero.

manuel.deleon Tue, 08/23/2022 - 21:59

FEMA Reviews the Five Years after María with Historic Mayors' Summit

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico - Lessons learned, work completed and work in progress were the main objectives of the Mayors' Summit led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The event, which took place at the Yolanda Guerrero Cultural Center in Guaynabo, was attended by Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi, mayors and municipal support staff.   

Among the topics addressed, officials discussed the diversity of funds available under the federal Stafford Act and the allocations approved to date. They also highlighted major projects - some with obligated funds, others already under construction - that have resulted in allocations that have a direct impact on communities and the local economy.

Among the significant allocations, those awarded through the FEMA Accelerated Awards Strategy (FAASt) were highlighted and how the bulk approval of these funds will allow for a faster reconstruction of the facilities of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, the Department of Education and for public housing structures under the Department of Housing.

Agency staff also participated in the event to answer questions and address inquiries from the mayors about ongoing municipal projects.

The Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero said the agency will continue to work alongside COR3, the local government and the other subrecipients to continue supporting the reconstruction process, which, although it will take time, remains at an ongoing steady pace. He also emphasized that the goal for 2022 is to complete most of the pending allocations, in addition to supporting the transition of projects to the construction phase.

Meanwhile, Governor Hon. Pedro R. Pierluisi stated that his commitment is to make all the expected projects a reality since 75 percent of the reconstruction is corresponds to municipalities. “My goal is that every town on our island can see that change, that every Puerto Rican can feel reassured and confident about our future. To that end, our mayors can count on the fact that my administration will continue to step up its efforts to assist them in everything that has to do with Hurricane María's recovery and with all the projects to build the Puerto Rico that we all want,” the governor said.

Of the over 10,000 projects approved by FEMA to date, over 6,000 are for municipalities, representing around $3.3 billion in funds for permanent work corresponding to municipal projects.

For her part, the Mayor of the Municipality of Loíza, Julia Nazario Fuentes, stated that 79 percent of the municipality's roads are already paved and highlighted the restored parks and recreational areas as reconstruction projects of great benefit to the communities. She also explained that her small projects are nearing completion and that they are already in the design process for the large projects. “After María, people's spirits were greatly affected. But seeing the streets paved and the infrastructure renovated lifts their spirits. Loíza is very beautiful. We still have a long way to go, but we’re on the right track,” the mayor added.

Likewise, the Mayor of the Municipality of Orocovis, Hon. Jesús Colón Berlingeri, stated that they've already completed close to 90 projects in different communities and that they'll now focus on large projects, such as the Elderly Center, the Fine Arts Center and one of the bridges that connects communities in Ciales with another community in Orocovis. He stated that patience and preparation are two of the lessons he has learned during the reconstruction process.

At the event, the next steps regarding the reconstruction for the Island were also discussed as well as FEMA's commitment. Going forward, the Agency seeks to continue its support for hazard mitigation projects and to define alternative projects for a more efficient recovery.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel Laboy, reviewed several key points of the reconstruction process and highlighted that it's the municipalities who are leading the metrics. He also identified that the office's vision remains focused on transforming infrastructure and communities, building resilience to climate change, and achieving economic development in Puerto Rico. 

“I’m extremely satisfied with the relationship we've established with the municipalities. We’ve shown that you're very important for the reconstruction. We're extremely grateful for FEMA's support and with the relationship and support we have with you, the mayors. We're not going to let our guard down. We want to continue to be an agent of support to channel your reconstruction projects,” added the engineer.

manuel.deleon Tue, 08/23/2022 - 21:08

First Responders First in Line on Fridays

FRANKFORT, Ky – First responders – police officers, firemen, medical personnel, and all those who rush to the scene of a disaster to help however they can – are going to be first in another situation. Beginning Friday, August 26, and every Friday after that, from 7 to 8 a.m., first responders can move to the front of the line at every disaster help center and mobile registration center in eastern Kentucky. By showing their identification badges, they will not have to wait in line to talk with center staff about their own applications for help, following the July 26 floods.

While first responders will move to the head of the line early on Fridays, other survivors are welcome to visit the disaster centers whenever they can. Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are staffed by representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth to assist survivors with their applications for federal assistance and in accessing information on other flood resources.  Posters reminding visitors of First Responder Fridays will be posted in each of the following disaster centers:

• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex, 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765 Leburn, KY 41831
• Clay County: Clay Community Center, 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962
• Perry County: Hazard Community College, First Federal Center, 1 Community College Dr., Hazard, KY 41701
• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library, 1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center, 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Pike County: Dorton Community Center, 112 Dorton Hill Rd., Pikeville, KY 41501

These centers are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4663  and follow FEMA on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at www.governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

sandra.habib Tue, 08/23/2022 - 19:13

LaSalle Parish, Louisiana, Flood Maps Become Final

New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Feb. 23, 2023, for LaSalle Parish, Louisiana. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps.

Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.

• To use the live chat service, visit https://www.floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

daniel.green2 Tue, 08/23/2022 - 18:31

FEMA Helps Kentucky Flood Survivors with Immediate Needs

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA may provide financial assistance to applicants who have immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life- saving and life-sustaining items including, but not limited to water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, supplies for cleaning and sanitizing your home, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.

Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) is awarded under the Other Needs Assistance (ONA) provision of the Individuals and Households Program (IHP). CNA is a one-time $500 payment per household.

Kentucky survivors may be eligible for CNA if they:

• Complete a FEMA registration;
• Pass identity verification;
• At registration, let FEMA know you have critical needs and request financial assistance for those needs and expenses; and
• Have a pre-disaster primary residence located in an area designated for assistance: Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike or Whitley counties.

Kentucky flood survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

For more information about flood recovery in Kentucky, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.   

 

sandra.habib Tue, 08/23/2022 - 18:11

Lee, Lincoln and Powell Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in Lee, Lincoln and Powell counties are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent work to repair public facilities that were damaged by the Eastern Kentucky flooding that began on July 26.

These counties join Breathitt, Clay, Cumberland, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Whitley and Wolfe counties which were all previously approved for FEMA Public Assistance.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.

sandra.habib Tue, 08/23/2022 - 15:41

FEMA/Commonwealth Supports Disaster Survivors with Temporary Sheltering and Housing Solutions

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA and the Commonwealth of Kentucky are working hard to ensure that disaster survivors whose homes and property were damaged by Eastern Kentucky flooding have safe places to stay temporarily while they take steps to recover.  

To help with the shortage of sheltering and housing options, the Commonwealth established the Commonwealth Sheltering Program. This non-congregate sheltering program offers temporary solutions, including state parks and travel trailers. Non-congregate shelters are locations where an individual or family can live safely with some level of privacy. Survivors seeking short term shelter can go online to the Governor's Flood Resources webpage and click on Eastern Kentucky Sheltering Program or call 502-234-1225.

FEMA has approved direct temporary housing assistance in four counties: Breathitt, Knott, Letcher and Perry. This program makes available several additional short-term housing solutions to disaster survivors. However, it takes time to transport, permit, install and inspect these units, before they are available. This is why the state’s more immediate temporary sheltering program is such a critical bridge to recovery.

The Direct Housing program provides three primary options:

• Multi-Family Lease and Repair, where FEMA enters into a lease agreement with the owner of multi-family rental properties (i.e., three or more units) and makes repairs to provide temporary housing for applicants.
• Temporary Housing Units such as a travel trailer or manufactured home; and
• Direct Lease, which is leasing existing ready-for-occupancy housing.

Direct temporary housing takes significant time to implement and is not an immediate solution for a survivor's interim and longer-term housing needs. Additionally, not everyone impacted by the disaster will be eligible for direct housing. Therefore, it is important that partners at all levels – local, Commonwealth, other federal, nonprofit and private sector – work together to fill any gaps.

Survivors who have applied with FEMA for assistance do not need to reapply to be eligible for Direct Housing. If a survivor has not yet applied with FEMA, they can do so by going to DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or downloading the FEMA mobile app.

FEMA aid may include rental assistance, which is money for eligible survivors to temporarily rent another place to live, such as a house, apartment, hotel or motel room, or travel trailer while repairs are being made to their primary residences. Many people may also be referred to one of our partner agencies such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Survivors need to stay in touch with FEMA as their plans and contact information change. When phone numbers or mailing addresses change, FEMA can’t reach you. So, after you apply for disaster assistance, you need to let FEMA know each time your information changes. Individuals and households may be eligible for different programs as they move forward with their recovery.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/22/2022 - 19:57

Free Legal Assistance for Kentucky Disaster Survivors

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Free legal assistance is available to survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties who were affected by Eastern Kentucky flooding.

Survivors facing disaster-related issues who cannot afford an attorney may call the KBA Young Lawyers Section Disaster Legal Relief Committee hotline toll free at 844-478-0099. The number will be routed to a voicemail box. Calls are checked Monday through Friday between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST.

This service is overseen by KBA Young Lawyers Section Disaster Legal Relief Committee in partnership with various organizations and volunteer attorneys.  

Legal Aid may be able to help survivors in the following ways:

• Clarify home ownership/heir property
• Assist with benefits applications and appeals processes
• Support victims of fraudulent contractors or assist with landlord disputes
• Provide insurance policy assistance
• Assist community groups that support long-term recovery

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/22/2022 - 18:41

Experts Here to Help Kentuckians Save Family Treasures

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Survivors of the Eastern Kentucky flooding can learn how to save disaster damaged household treasures from Heritage Emergency National Task Force experts visiting local Disaster Recovery Centers.

Among the heirlooms that might be saved are photos, artwork, quilts, important documents and other keepsakes. The experts will discuss how to handle, dry and clean these items, as well as personal safety during the cleaning process, setting priorities and treatment options.

Experts from Heritage Emergency National Task Force are visiting these locations:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt County Library –1024 College Avenue, Jackson, KY 41339
  • Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 22 to Aug. 25
• Clay County: Clay County Community Center– 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962
  • Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 23 to Aug. 25
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd, Whitesburg, KY 41858
  • Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 23 to Aug. 25

Recovery center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Co-sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Smithsonian Institution, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force is a partnership of 60 national service organizations and federal agencies. It was created to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies. For more information on the task force, email HENTF@si.edu.

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can apply for assistance or check the status of their application online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/22/2022 - 12:30

Recovery Continues in Middle Tennessee One Year after Devastating Flood

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The flooding in August 2021 was unlike what most people in Middle Tennessee had ever seen. In 12 hours on Aug. 21, between 10 and 15 inches of rain fell on four counties, as much as one-quarter of the total annual rainfall for the area.

Waverly and Humphreys County experienced the worst damage. Twenty lives lost, hundreds of homes and businesses were flooded, and schools and public facilities damaged.

One year after the Aug. 23, 2021, federal major disaster declaration, recovery is continuing, led by local communities, managed by the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and supported with funding from FEMA and other federal agencies.

“We know the challenges and heartache these communities have felt following the devastating flooding of August 2021. In the past year, we have witnessed incredible resilience and progress towards recovery,” said Gov. Lee. “We continue to support Waverly and the flood impacted counties as they rebuild and heal from the disaster.”

FEMA has provided $8 million to 955 households in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, destroyed home replacements and other disaster-related expenses. FEMA and State of Tennessee provided 188 households with flood insurance policies for three years. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has provided more than $16.1 million in low-interest disaster loans to 158 homeowners and businesses. The National Flood Insurance Program has paid $15.9 million in claims.

“Partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies have been critical for providing support and resources to flood survivors and the jurisdictions,” TEMA Director Patrick Sheehan said. “We thank FEMA for their help in providing financial relief and expertise to the impacted counties throughout the past year.”

By the end of 2022, with a grant from FEMA’s Public Assistance, approximately 1,000 students and faculty members who have been dispersed to different schools throughout the county, will attend classes in a renovated factory, once one of the town’s largest employers, the ACME Boot Company. Other public infrastructure projects are being processed for potential funding. To date, FEMA has obligated $27.7 million in PA funding.

Immediately after the flooding, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams canvassed the four counties visiting more than 1,300 homes, businesses and other locations, providing information, referrals and application help to more than 1,100 individuals. More than 45 voluntary organizations, schools and houses of worship provided aid to fellow residents.

“Recovery in Tennessee involves so many partners,” said Gracia B. Szczech, FEMA Region 4 Administrator. “The governor, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, local jurisdictions, the faith community, voluntary organizations, the private sector, FEMA, other federal agencies, and of course all the individual Tennesseans who are making things happen. This is how disaster recovery works.”

The August 2021 flooding was one of five federally declared disasters in Tennessee between April 2021 and March 2022. TEMA and FEMA continue working on all five recovery efforts.

Follow FEMA on facebook.com/fema and Twitter@FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Fri, 08/19/2022 - 22:34

Mobile Recovery Center is Coming to Whitley County

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is opening Aug. 21, 2022 in Whitley County to assist Kentucky flood survivors who experienced loss from the Eastern Kentucky flooding.

Mobile Center location:

• Whitley County:  Whitley County Home Health Agency - 368 Penny Ln Williamsburg KY 40769

This mobile center will be open Aug. 21 - Aug. 23 and will be back at these location Sept. 2 – Sept. 4.

Fixed centers are also available at these locations:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library–1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Clay County: Clay County Community Center–311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY  40962
• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex –450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn, KY 41831
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Perry County: Hazard Community College –1 Community College Dr, Hazard, KY 41701
• Pike County: Dorton Community Center –112 Hill Rd., Pikeville, KY 41501

Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go to any center to get help applying for FEMA assistance.

FEMA representatives will be at the centers to help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a disaster recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Fri, 08/19/2022 - 21:02

Hazard Mitigation Grant Funds Resiliency for Wastewater Treatment Plant in Leominster

On Monday, August 1, FEMA announced the FY 2022 funding level for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) annual grant program will more than double to nearly $2.3 billion while the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) funding level will see a five-fold increase to $800 million.  The funding will help communities increase resilience to heat waves, drought, wildfires, flood, and hurricanes by preparing before disaster strikes. Funding for these two programs combined has increased from $700 million in FY20 and $1.16 billion in FY21. This funding will significantly increase the ability of state and local government to enhance community resiliency and to mitigate potential issues. 

There are also a number of FEMA programs which continually fund mitigation and resiliency projects, one of these ongoing Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) projects is in Leominster, MA.  FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding after a presidentially declared disaster to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces future disaster losses.  Homeowners and businesses cannot directly apply for a Hazard Mitigation grant. However, a local community may apply for funding on their behalf. 

The Leominster resiliency project is designed to protect the infrastructure of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.  The location of the project is between the treatment plant and the Leominster Connector, in the vicinity of Nashua Street. The primary purpose is to protect the infrastructure of the plant from potential failure since the banks of the Nashua River have eroded. The funding for this project is just under $900,000.

The proposed activities provide the greatest support to those with the greatest need. The project provides 100-year-level flood protection to infrastructure that serves a large portion of the community.

For communities interested in accessing these Mitigation programs should contact your State’s Hazard Mitigation Officer. You can locate your States Hazard Mitigation Officer at the following link:  State Hazard Mitigation Officers | FEMA.gov   For BRIC information follow this link: Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC). For FMA information, follow this link: Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA).

adrien.urbani Fri, 08/19/2022 - 20:29