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For Many an SBA Disaster Loan is the Key to Recovery
NASHVILLE, Tenn.– Those affected by the severe storms and flooding that took place on Aug. 21 may need more financial assistance for long-term recovery than FEMA can provide. Most disaster survivors do.
However, many residents and business owners in the designated counties of Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys may be reluctant to take out a low interest disaster loan which the U.S. Small Business Administration offers. Before rejecting the idea of applying, survivors should consider the following:
- There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan, or to accept the loan if approved.
- However, if FEMA refers you to SBA, you must apply before you can be considered for certain kinds of FEMA grant money. If you are not approved for a loan, FEMA may be able to provide grants to cover expenses for personal property replacement, disaster-caused vehicle repair and/or moving and storage fees.
- You do not need to own a business to apply for an SBA low interest disaster loan. If your primary residence was located in the designated area and experienced disaster damage, you are eligible to apply.
- Your insurance may not cover all the replacement, repair and rebuilding costs needed. A disaster loan could help cover the difference, including the policy deductible.
- Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.
- Businesses and nonprofit organizations may be eligible to borrow up to $2 million for repair costs and disaster related working capital needs.
- Currently, interest rates for physical loss loans are as low as 1.563% for homeowners and renters in Middle Tennessee, 2.855% for businesses and 2% for nonprofits. Loans can be stretched out over 30 years to help make them affordable. Loan payments do not begin until 18 months from date on the SBA Note provided at closing. Ask your loan officer for more information.
- In addition, you may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of the physical damage to make your home or business safer. Eligible work could include building retaining walls, elevating or retrofitting the flood prone structure or relocating utilities to protect against future damage.
For information on the loan application process, or for help completing the SBA application:
- Visit SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov
- You may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.
To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:
- Call 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or VRS) or 800-462-7585 (TTY) anytime from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
- You may also register via the FEMA app by downloading it to a smartphone or tablet, or at www.disasterassistance.gov.
For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.
bree-constance… Wed, 09/15/2021 - 17:12What to Expect When Applying with FEMA
Trenton, NJ – FEMA assistance is not a replacement for insurance but can assist with basic needs to help start your recovery. This includes assistance to make essential home repairs, find a temporary place to stay and repair or replace certain household items.
Home Repairs- Survivors whose homes suffered Hurricane Ida-related damage and are uninsured or underinsured may be eligible for help from FEMA to restore their homes to a livable condition.
- Federal assistance from FEMA provides only the basic needs for a home – including toilets, a roof, critical utilities, windows and doors. Examples of ineligible items may include non-essential cabinets and garage doors.
- A home inspection is required to calculate and verify the loss.
- Livable homes meet the following conditions:
- The exterior is structurally sound, including the doors, roof and windows.
- The electricity, gas, heat, plumbing, and sewer and septic systems work properly.
- The interior areas are structurally sound, including ceiling and floors.
- The home is capable of being used for its intended purpose.
- Appliances: FEMA may assist in the replacement or repair of disaster-damaged hot-water heaters and furnaces. Non-essential items like dishwashers and home entertainment equipment will not be considered.
- Ceiling and Roof Damage: FEMA may assist to repair disaster-caused leaks in a roof that damaged ceilings and electrical components like overhead lights. The cost to fix minor stains from roof leaks is not reimbursable.
- Floors: FEMA may assist to repair subfloors in occupied parts of the home that were damaged due to the disaster.
- Windows: FEMA may assist with disaster-related broken windows, but not blinds and drapes.
- FEMA calculations to verify loss vary because every applicant’s situation is different, so awards vary among survivors.
Homeowners or renters may receive temporary financial help for another place to live if a home is unlivable because of Hurricane Ida and a survivor has no insurance coverage for temporary housing.
Other Kinds of HelpFinancial assistance is available for necessary expenses and serious needs directly caused by the disaster, including:
- Child-care expenses
- Medical and dental expenses
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Damage to essential household items:
- Room furnishings
- Appliances
- Clothing
- Specialized tools, and protective clothing and equipment required for a job
- Necessary educational materials like computers, schoolbooks and supplies
- Damage to an essential vehicle (must have liability insurance to be considered for repair/replacement assistance)
- Moving and storage expenses caused by the disaster
- Miscellaneous items purchased as a result of the disaster such as a generator, chainsaw or dehumidifier.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.
amir.nijem Wed, 09/15/2021 - 15:57Additional Preliminary Damage Assessments to Take Place in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency has requested that joint state and FEMA Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) for Public Assistance (PA) be completed to evaluate damages related to Tropical Storm Ida that occurred in Pennsylvania.
The joint PA assessments began Tuesday, Sept. 14, in Chester and Delaware counties. They will take place over the next several days in Bedford, Bucks, Cambria, Chester, Dauphin, Delaware, Fulton, Huntingdon, Luzerne, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia and York counties.
In addition, joint PDAs for Individual Assistance (IA) will take place Wednesday in Northampton County and Thursday in Luzerne County.
These joint assessments will be done in person, with close cooperation among state, local and federal agencies as always.
These damage assessments are the first step in helping the governor determine whether the scope of the damages is beyond what the state is capable of handling and if additional federal assistance is needed.
Additional assessments may be requested in other counties as damage information is received from local officials.
The PDA is an information-gathering process. It does not guarantee federal assistance.
Once the information is gathered, the state uses it to determine whether to make an official request for federal assistance.
For your information, please find attached a comprehensive Stafford Act Declaration Process Fact Sheet.
Currently, Individual Assistance for individuals and households needing emergency work and repair or replacement of homes damaged by Ida’s remnants is available to qualified residents of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia, and York Counties.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 TTY for the hearing and speech impaired. Operators can also answer questions about applications already submitted. FEMA has Disaster Survivor Assistance teams deployed to those communities supporting residents with hands-on assistance in registering.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts are available at fema.gov/medialibrary and youtube.com/fema. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3.
amanda.hancher Wed, 09/15/2021 - 13:10DRCs to Open in Bergen, Hunterdon and Mercer Counties
Trenton, NJ – Disaster Recovery Centers will open in Bergen, Hunterdon and Mercer counties to help residents in New Jersey affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida. The DRCs in Bergen and Mercer counties opened today. The Hunterdon County DRC will open Wednesday, Sept. 15. Locations and hours are below.
Representatives from FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration, New Jersey State Office of Emergency Management and other state agencies are available at these centers to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
Residents who previously registered for assistance do not need to visit the DRC, but can ask questions or seek further information in person at the DRC in addition to online or by phone. Survivors can visit any of the DRC locations and find their closest location through the FEMA App. To download the FEMA App please visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store
The centers are in the following locations: Bergen County (Open Tuesday, Sept. 14)Ciarco Learning Center, 355 Main St., Hackensack, NJ 07652
Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Saturday
Closed Sundays
Mercer County (Open Tuesday, Sept. 14)
Hollowbrook Community Center, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Trenton, NJ 08638
Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hunterdon County (Opens Wednesday, Sept. 15)
Union Fire Company #1, 230 N. Main St., Lambertville, NJ 08530
Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Middlesex County
Middlesex Fire Academy, 1001 Fire Academy Drive, Cafeteria B, Sayreville, NJ 08872
Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Passaic County
Civic Center. 19 Warren Street, Little Falls, NJ 07424
Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Gloucester County
Mullica Hill Library, 389 Wolfert Station Road, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
FEMA and NJOEM are committed to opening DRCs in each of the designated counties. These additional centers will be opening soon to support survivors.
If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/ or by downloading the FEMA App on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. If you use a Relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service.
When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your Social Security number, if available
- A general list of damage and losses
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.
amir.nijem Tue, 09/14/2021 - 20:20How FEMA Can Help: File Insurance Claim Early
Trenton, NJ – New Jersey residents affected by Hurricane Ida are advised to contact their insurance company and file a claim for disaster-caused damage. Survivors in counties designated for Individual Assistance who have uninsured or underinsured losses may be eligible for FEMA assistance to make their homes livable.
What Losses FEMA May CoverFEMA assistance differs from insurance in that it only provides the basic needs to make a home safe, sanitary and functional. FEMA assistance does not make you whole again, but it can give you a helping hand to recover. FEMA disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate you for your entire loss.
Home damage must be related to Hurricane Ida. FEMA inspectors may contact survivors who apply to arrange for an inspection appointment.
Examples of Safe, Sanitary and Functional Repairs to Make a Home Fit to Live in:- Property: FEMA may assist with the replacement or repair of disaster-damaged heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems as well as refrigerators and stoves. Other possible repairs that may be covered are utilities such as electrical, plumbing and gas systems. Non-essential items like dishwashers and home entertainment equipment are not covered.
- Ceiling and Roof Damage: FEMA grants may help to repair disaster-related leaks in a roof that caused damage to ceilings and threaten electrical components, like overhead lights, but will not pay for simple stains from roof leaks.
- Floors: FEMA assistance may be used to repair a disaster-damaged subfloor in occupied parts of the home, but not floor covering like tile or carpet.
- Windows: FEMA payments may assist with disaster-related broken windows, but not blinds or drapes.
Other FEMA help may include temporary expenses to pay for lodging if a survivor’s home is unlivable, or assistance for replacing essential household items.
As every survivor’s situation is different, FEMA calculations on what it may cover vary. Expenses for repairs that exceed the conditions to make a home safe, sanitary and functional are ineligible.
Spend Grants WiselyDisaster grants should not be used for travel, entertainment, regular living expenses or any discretionary expenses not related to the disaster. Survivors should keep receipts for three years to show how they spent FEMA grants.
If grant money is not used as outlined in the letter you receive, you may have to repay FEMA and you could lose eligibility for further federal assistance that could become available later for your disaster recovery.
How to Apply for FEMA AssistanceIf you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/ or by downloading the FEMA App on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. If you use a Relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service.
Assistance is Not Enough to Repair your Home to its Original Condition:After you apply for disaster assistance, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA may contact you to offer a low-interest disaster loan. Homeowners and renters who are referred to the SBA should complete the loan application even if they decide not to take it in order to remain eligible for additional FEMA programs. SBA loans may include:
- For businesses of any size and most nonprofits: up to $2 million for property damage.
- For small businesses, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most nonprofits: up to $2 million for working capital needs even if they had no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
- For homeowners: up to $200,000 to repair or replace their primary residence.
- For homeowners and renters: up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles.
Businesses and residents can apply online at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help each survivor recover from the disaster damage.
amir.nijem Tue, 09/14/2021 - 19:22FEMA Awards $1.6M for Resilient Infrastructure Project on Southern Shoreline of Wisc.
CHICAGO – Through the Pre-Disaster Mitigation grant program (PDM), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released $1,626,338 to the village of Fox Point, Wisconsin for a resilient infrastructure project to protect the Lake Michigan shoreline from erosion. This erosion control project includes construction of a rock revetment designed to protect the vulnerable shorelines by counteracting wave action of Lake Michigan. Installation of the revetment will protect the village’s sanitary and storm sewer infrastructure and utilities from damage caused by erosion. The project will also increase protective measures to the shoreline roadway, Beach Drive, which provides access to 48 residential homes. Upon completion, this project will enhance the resiliency of the community by minimizing erosion in the area.
“Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs enable communities to implement critical mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate the risk of loss of life and property,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This project will provide protective measures to critical infrastructure in Fox Point and increase resilience along the Lake Michigan shoreline.”
“Projects such as this are an essential step in helping to guard infrastructure against further damage and ensuring residents have safe access to their homes,” said Greg Engle, Wisconsin Emergency Management acting administrator. “We are grateful to FEMA for their assistance with helping this valuable project move forward.”
For this project, FEMA will pay 75 percent of the $2,168,538 eligible project cost. The remaining 25 percent of the funds will be provided by the Village of Fox Point. The PDM grant program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures. This is one of the last projects funded by the PDM grant program, since the PDM program was replaced by the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program in 2020. To learn more about BRIC and FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Tue, 09/14/2021 - 18:00What to Expect After You Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – If you live in Buncombe, Haywood or Transylvania County and were affected by Tropical Storm Fred, FEMA may be able to help with temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs or other essential disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance.
There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA app for smartphones. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.
FEMA will ask for:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted.
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
- Your Social Security number.
- A general list of damage and losses.
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
Home inspections
If you report that you cannot or may not be able to safely live in your home, FEMA may need to perform an inspection of the damaged dwelling. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the inspection may be conducted remotely, or it may be an exterior inspection. FEMA will contact you to let you know how the inspection will take place.
For remote inspections, FEMA inspectors will contact applicants by phone to answer questions about the type and extent of damage sustained. Survivors with minimal damage who can live in their homes will not automatically be scheduled for a home inspection. However, they may request an inspection if they later find significant disaster-caused damage.
If a physical inspection is required, the inspector will arrange to meet you outside the damaged residence.
Remote inspections have no impact on the types of Other Needs Assistance available that do not require an inspection. This includes childcare, transportation, medical and dental, funeral expenses, moving and storage, and Group Flood Insurance Policy Assistance.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has activated its Disaster Distress helpline. This toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service is available 24/7 via telephone at 800-985-5990 for disaster survivors who are experiencing emotional distress. ASL users can contact the helpline through videophone at 800-985-5990, or by selecting the “ASL Now” option on the DDH website at disasterdistress.samhsa.gov.
For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.
For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
brianasummer.fenton Tue, 09/14/2021 - 17:09Asistencia por desastre disponible para residentes elegibles de Pennsylvania y FEMA despliega equipos de DSA en cuatro de sus condados
PHILADELPHIA – La Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) anunció que la asistencia federal por desastre está disponible para el estado de Pennsylvania para complementar los esfuerzos de recuperación estatales y locales en las zonas afectadas por los fuertes vientos e inundaciones causados por los remanentes del huracán Ida, del 31 de agosto al 5 de septiembre de 2021. También hay disponible asistencia individual (IA, por sus siglas en inglés) para personas y familias para trabajos de emergencia y la reparación o sustitución de las viviendas dañadas por los remanentes de Ida en todo el sureste de Pennsylvania para los residentes elegibles en los condados Bucks, Chester Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia y York.
Los individuos y propietarios de negocios que hayan sufrido pérdidas en las áreas designadas pueden solicitar asistencia por desastre visitando www.DisasterAssistance.gov/es, o llamando al 1-800-621-3362 o TTY al 1-800-462-7585 para las personas con discapacidades de audición y del habla. Los operadores también pueden responder a preguntas sobre solicitudes que ya se hayan presentado.
“La asistencia de FEMA puede ayudar a las personas y familias afectadas por un desastre a hacerse cargo de gastos y necesidades graves que no pueden cubrirse por medio de los seguros u otras formas de asistencia”, dijo MaryAnn Tierney, administradora regional de la Región 3 de FEMA. “Los equipos de asistencia a sobrevivientes del desastre (DSA, por sus siglas en inglés) de FEMA ya se encuentran presentes en las comunidades de esos condados para brindar asistencia adicional en el acceso y la solicitud de asistencia por desastre. Estos equipos están trabajando estrechamente con funcionarios del gobierno local, así como con organizaciones comunitarias y religiosas, para concienciar sobre la disponibilidad de la ayuda de asistencia individual de FEMA”, agregó.
DSA de FEMA puede ayudar con lo siguiente:
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- Presentar solicitudes de asistencia federal.
- Verificar el estado de una solicitud que ya está en el sistema o realizar pequeños cambios en las solicitudes.
- Proporcionar información sobre derechos civiles e integración de las personas con discapacidades para garantizar la igualdad de acceso a los programas de FEMA.
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“Los equipos de DSA están aquí para ofrecer ayuda adicional de manera práctica y personal”, añadió Tierney. “Demasiados sobrevivientes de desastres encuentran barreras para acceder a los programas de asistencia y los recursos que apoyan su recuperación. FEMA ayuda a las personas durante sus peores días, y eso empieza por reconocer los efectos desproporcionados que los desastres tienen en las comunidades marginadas y desatendidas. Por medio de nuestros equipos de DSA, FEMA ayuda a encontrar a los sobrevivientes de desastres donde están, en las comunidades más afectadas, y apoyar a las personas que puedan necesitar más asistencia para poder recuperarse”.
Los residentes deben saber que el personal de DSA de FEMA vestirá ropa con el logo de FEMA y tendrá la identificación federal correspondiente. Las personas que hayan presentado informes de daños a su municipio o condado por medio de herramientas de evaluación en línea, aún así tendrán que iniciar un caso nuevo y enviarle la información a FEMA.
Además, la asistencia del Programa de Subvención para la Mitigación de Riesgos, medidas implementadas para para evitar o reducir el riesgo que los peligros naturales representan a largo plazo para la vida y propiedad, está disponible para todas las áreas de Pennsylvania, bajo el concepto de costos compartidos.
Craig Levy ha sido designado Coordinador Federal para las operaciones federales de recuperación en las zonas afectadas. Levy declaró que podrían hacerse otras designaciones más adelante, si el estado lo solicita y queda evidenciado por los resultados de evaluaciones adicionales.
La asistencia para la recuperación de desastres está disponible sin discriminación basada en raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o situación económica.
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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres. La jurisdicción de la Región 3 de FEMA abarca Delaware, Distrito de Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia y West Virginia.
Síganos en Twitter en twitter.com/femaregion3 y en LinkedIn en linkedin.com/company/femaregion3 (enlaces en inglés).
amanda.hancher Tue, 09/14/2021 - 15:1460 Days into Recovery, Federal Aid Nears $205 Million
CHICAGO – In the two months since President Joe Biden declared a major disaster in Washtenaw and Wayne counties following the June 25-26 tornadoes, severe storms and flooding, the federal government has approved nearly $205 million to help Michiganders with disaster-related needs.
“FEMA and our federal and state partners are committed to the recovery in southeast Michigan,” said Scott Burgess, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer for the Michigan disaster recovery operation. “We will remain on the ground until the job is finished. We’ve been on it, and we’re staying on it,” he said.
Here’s a breakdown, by the numbers, for the first 60 days of recovery:
- More than $122.3 million in Individual Assistance (IA) program grants awarded to nearly 42,000 homeowners and renters in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. These grants help pay for uninsured and underinsured losses and storm-related damage, including:
- Nearly $99 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
- More than $23.3 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs—such as moving and storage fees and medical and dental expenses.
- The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved 2,813 long-term, low-interest disaster loans for a running total of $82.6 million for Michigan homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and to cover economic injury from the June 25-26 storms and flooding.
- In addition, nearly $1.1 million in claims have been paid to homeowners insured by the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA mitigation experts have counseled more than 7,600 individuals on flood mitigation and insurance through FEMA’s outreach activities at local hardware store events and Disaster Recovery Centers.
- The state of Michigan and FEMA have staffed and operated five Disaster Recovery Centers plus three FEMA Document Drop-off Centers, which provide one-on-one assistance to survivors. The centers have tallied nearly 19,500 visits by survivors.
- FEMA has sent Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams to storm-impacted neighborhoods in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. These teams visit homes, businesses and nonprofit organizations to help residents register for assistance, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state, and voluntary agencies for additional support.
- To date, DSA personnel have visited more than 24,000 homes and about 380 businesses; they have interacted with nearly 9,300 survivors and have registered more than 1,430 households for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.
The last day survivors in Washtenaw and Wayne counties can register with FEMA for federal assistance is Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2021. For even more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Tue, 09/14/2021 - 15:12President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Louisiana
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Louisiana to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts to the emergency conditions in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Nicholas, beginning on Sept. 12, 2021 and continuing.
The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts, which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title 5 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. This assistance is for all 64 Louisiana parishes.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to provide emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support under the Public Assistance program at 75 % federal funding.
John E. Long has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.
amy.ashbridge Tue, 09/14/2021 - 14:10Disaster Assistance Available to Qualified Pennsylvanians; FEMA Deploys DSA Teams to Six PA Counties
PHILADELPHIA –FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Pennsylvania to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe wind and flooding due to the remnants of Hurricane Ida from August 31 - September 5, 2021. Individual Assistance (IA), to individuals and households for emergency work and the repair or replacement of homes damaged by Ida’s remnants throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania is available to qualified residents of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia, and York Counties.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 TTY for the hearing and speech impaired. Operators can also answer questions about applications already submitted.
“Assistance from FEMA can help individuals and households affected by a disaster take care of necessary expenses and serious needs that cannot be met through insurance or other forms of assistance,” said MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region 3’s Regional Administrator. “FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) Teams are currently deployed to communities throughout those counties to provide additional assistance in accessing and applying for disaster assistance. Working closely with local government officials as well as community and faith-based organizations, these teams are raising awareness about the availability of FEMA’s Individual Assistance support.”
FEMA DSA can help with:
- Submitting applications for federal assistance.
- Check the status of an application already in the system or make minor changes to applications.
- Provide civil rights and disability integration information to ensure equal access to FEMA programs.
“DSA Teams are here to lend additional, hands-on and personal help,” added Tierney. “Too many disaster survivors face barriers in accessing assistance programs and resources to support their recovery. FEMA helps people during their worst days, and that starts with recognizing the disproportionate effects disasters have on marginalized and underserved communities. Through our DSA Teams, FEMA helps meet disaster survivors where they are, in the communities most impacted, and in support of individuals who may need the most assistance in recovering.”
Residents should be aware that FEMA DSA staff will be wearing FEMA attire and will have appropriate federal identification. Individuals who have submitted damage reports with their municipality or county through online assessment tools, will still need to begin a new case and file information with FEMA.
Additionally, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program assistance, for actions taken to prevent or reduce long term life and property from natural hazards, is available on a cost-sharing basis, to all areas in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Craig Levy has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Levy stated that additional designations may be made at a later date, if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
FEMA’s disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
amanda.hancher Tue, 09/14/2021 - 13:35
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Chester
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), jointly operated by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will open in Chester on Tuesday, Sept. 13. The DRC will offer information on available resources to homeowners, renters and business owners who sustained damage to their property from the Dixie Fire.
The Chester DRC will be located at:
Almanor Recreation Center, 101 Meadowbrook Loop, Chester, CA 96020
Open 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., seven days a week
Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. In addition to visiting the DRC, the easiest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT, seven days a week. Multi-lingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service.
Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following information prior to registration:
- Social Security number
- Address of the damaged primary residence
- Description of the damage
- Information about insurance coverage
- A current contact telephone number and address where they can receive mail
- Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds
For more information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4610 and Cal OES’ wildfirerecovery.caloes.ca.gov. The registration deadline is Oct. 25, 2021.
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All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD).
FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during and after disasters.
robert.barker Tue, 09/14/2021 - 00:01President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Arizona
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Arizona to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from July 22-24, 2021.
Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities in Apache, Coconino and Navajo counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Benigno Bern Ruiz has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.
zella.campbell Mon, 09/13/2021 - 23:30Hurricane Ida Survivors: Take Precautions Ahead of Tropical Storm Nicholas
BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA wants to remind Louisiana residents and survivors of Hurricane Ida to take precautions ahead of Tropical Storm Nicholas.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm may bring heavy rains and flash flooding, in addition to strong wind gusts and storm surge. Keep in mind that storm track, size, intensity and direction can change. Areas far from the storm’s center can experience effects such as flooding, intense rainfall and heavy winds.
Stay alert to weather warnings, monitor your local news for updates and listen to your local officials. Please be safe and watch for emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications on evacuations.
Visit getagameplan.org, Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family and your pets safe. Download the free FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources. The app is available for Apple and Android devices.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 09/13/2021 - 20:29Beware of Scammers Pretending to be Disaster Workers
ATLANTA – Survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud, scams or identity theft. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.
Survivors should keep the following information in mind while FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials are on the ground.
- Don’t trust anyone who asks for money. Federal and local disaster workers do not ask for or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
- Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for a large cash deposit or other payments in full.
- Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. The person might ask for your Social Security number and income or banking information. FEMA representatives will have a laminated badge and your FEMA application number.
- Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/application number. Legitimate FEMA housing inspectors will NOT ask for this information.
- Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.
Fraudulent building contractors
- Use licensed or verified local contractors with reliable references.
- To find licensed, certified North Carolina contractors, check the state’s licensing board at nclbgc.org/license-search/.
- Don’t pay more than half the costs of repairs in advance.
- Demand that contractors detail the job you expect them to do and ask them to give you a written estimate.
Report the Scam. Reporting helps protect others. Based on the type of scam you may see, contact the appropriate agency.
- If you believe you or a loved one are the victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the North Carolina Department of Justice online at ncdoj.gov/file-a-complaint/ or toll-free by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM .
- If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at: Email: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, Fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005 Washington, DC 20472-3005
- If someone is using your personal information to open new accounts, make a purchase or get a tax refund, report it at IdentityTheft.gov.
- You can file a complaint with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors if you have been scammed or have a dispute with a business regarding a transaction.
- Reporting to the Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker can help others become aware of scams in your local area.
For more information on North Carolina’s disaster recovery, visit www.ncdps.gov/ and www.fema.gov/disaster/4617. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
brianasummer.fenton Mon, 09/13/2021 - 20:16FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown
WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $1.089 billion to more than 165,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.
Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.
“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.
Please find state-specific information below:
State/Territory
Applications
Amount Approved
Number of Awards
ALABAMA
6,380
$25,481,088
3,681
ALASKA
150
$425,535
75
AMERICAN SAMOA
Less than 10
$9,000
Less than 10
ARIZONA
4,682
$14,224,568
2,756
ARKANSAS
2,914
$10,858,180
1,702
CALIFORNIA
27,948
$108,268,237
16,593
COLORADO
2,148
$7,352,857
1,301
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS
Less than 10
$4,344
Less than 10
CONNECTICUT
3,211
$15,150,629
2,176
DELAWARE
828
$2,972,062
469
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
522
$1,881,198
276
FLORIDA
17,560
$51,839,867
9,132
GEORGIA
10,524
$43,014,906
6,189
GUAM
14
$51,162
Less than 10
HAWAII
281
$854,056
144
IDAHO
602
$1,848,074
322
ILLINOIS
11,318
$49,139,206
7,165
INDIANA
4,774
$21,377,122
3,039
IOWA
2,343
$11,119,664
1,548
KANSAS
2,289
$9,623,864
1,465
KENTUCKY
3,701
$16,730,137
2,329
LOUISIANA
5,173
$21,138,494
3,069
MAINE
366
$1,115,274
203
MARYLAND
5,281
$22,080,896
3,269
MASSACHUSETTS
5,387
$24,484,735
3,509
MICHIGAN
9,094
$35,935,084
5,873
MINNESOTA
2,625
$12,496,288
1,804
MISSISSIPPI
4,481
$17,388,500
2,564
MISSOURI
5,221
$20,224,789
3,195
MONTANA
497
$1,284,458
246
NEBRASKA
1,176
$5,453,680
764
NEVADA
2,421
$7,057,964
1,275
NEW HAMPSHIRE
641
$2,486,479
412
NEW JERSEY
11,245
$49,062,867
7,049
NEW MEXICO
1,510
$3,957,403
767
NEW YORK
24,508
$99,961,662
14,385
NORTH CAROLINA
8,265
$33,662,408
5,043
NORTH DAKOTA
643
$2,797,135
374
OHIO
9,189
$39,935,037
6,163
OKLAHOMA
3,896
$15,887,386
2,466
OREGON
874
$2,531,224
477
PENNSYLVANIA
12,128
$53,414,515
8,087
PUERTO RICO
1,232
$2,187,025
601
RHODE ISLAND
1,097
$4,252,117
615
SOUTH CAROLINA
5,710
$24,571,831
3,529
SOUTH DAKOTA
683
$3,109,737
422
TENNESSEE
6,847
$29,941,562
4,330
TEXAS
25,000
$99,918,374
15,227
U, S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
29
$85,194
14
UTAH
1,082
$4,760,734
676
VERMONT
132
$546,315
91
VIRGINIA
5,897
$25,120,738
3,747
WASHINGTON
1,878
$5,765,902
1,041
WEST VIRGINIA
1,441
$5,369,036
790
WISCONSIN
4,218
$18,509,117
2,816
WYOMING
271
$982,138
170
* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 13, 2021.
Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.
Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.
amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/13/2021 - 18:28Survivors Beware! Fraud, Scams Flourish After Disasters
BROOKLYN, N.Y. — After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often attempt to take advantage of disaster survivors. Federal and state emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity.
When a disaster strikes, unscrupulous people may try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster-aid workers or even as relatives trying to help survivors complete their applications.
Common post-disaster fraud practices include:
Fake offers of state or federal aid: Federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in completing applications.
Phony housing inspectors: When a disaster occurs, applicants may be vulnerable to phony housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA to inspect damage. Ask to see the inspector’s identification badge. All FEMA personnel and contractors will have official laminated photo identification. Housing inspectors have each applicant’s nine-digit registration number. Field inspectors may use different types of communication methods to contact applicants. Inspectors may be calling from issued phones or personal cell phones, so applicants may receive calls from different area codes. Inspectors do not request money to complete an inspection. They can use phone calls, text messages, and emails. Inspectors can and will use any contact information the applicant provided in their application.
There may be occasions when a FEMA representative must contact you to verify personal data. You should request a FEMA identification number (or FEMA registration number) from the caller. If you are unsure of the caller’s identification or you are suspicious of someone who says they’re a housing inspector sent by FEMA, call the FEMA Hotline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Central Time.
Phony government workers: You may be contacted by scam artists posing as disaster workers who are seeking money for services. Federal, state, and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. Nor will federal disaster employees promise a disaster grant.
Fraudulent charitable solicitations: A list of reputable charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance is available at Give.Org. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions.
The Alliance advises, “do not respond to unsolicited emails, watch out for pushy telemarketers and look out for fake charities that sound real by using similar names.” For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website.
Rental listing scams: The Federal Trade Commission has information on how rental-listing scams work. For instance, scammers know that finding the right apartment or vacation rental can be hard work, and a seemingly good deal is hard to pass up. Learn more
Beware of unlicensed/uninsured contractors/phony contractors: Often after a disaster, individuals will represent themselves as legitimate contractors. Ask for references, be cautious about advanced payments, make sure they are licensed and obtain the proper permits.
If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, or abuse, you can report these tips - 24 hours a day, seven days a week - to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or email disaster@leo.gov.
If you believe you or a loved one has become a victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the office of the New York Attorney General:
- Consumer Protection Hotline, 800-697-1220
- Division of Consumer Protection
- File a Consumer Complaint
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
For referrals to agencies that support community specific need, contact your nearest 211 counts center at https://www.211nys.org/contact-us. In NYC call 311 for outlying area, call 211.
For official information on the recovery effort following the hurricane, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/fema.
zella.campbell Mon, 09/13/2021 - 17:11
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for California
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of California to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from Aug. 14 and continuing.
Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities in El Dorado County.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Andrew Grant has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.
amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/13/2021 - 14:37FEMA Hosts Twitter Spaces National Preparedness Month Chat
PHILADELPHIA – September is National Preparedness Month and FEMA is bringing individuals and community partners together via Twitter Spaces to talk about how to prepare to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your communities.
On Monday September 13, 2021 at 3:00pm ET, individuals, community stakeholders and government agency partners are invited to join FEMA’s Region 3, Region 4, Region 8, and Region 10 subject matter experts in individual and community preparedness, disability integration, tribal affairs, mitigation, and flood insurance. FEMA emergency managers and preparedness professionals will be discussing and answering important questions related to emergencies and how to prepare. Participants can interact, and tweet questions for our experts using the hashtag #ASpaceToPrepare.
Every day, FEMA and our State, Local, Tribal and Territorial partners take steps to help people and communities to be more prepared by developing the capabilities needed to prevent, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against all threats and hazards. Whether we face risks related to earthquakes, cyberattacks or chemical spills, our goal is shared: safety and resilience.
“Experience tells us that when the whole community comes together to tackle a challenge, and everyone plays a role, the end result is more effective,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “Everyone, not just the government, can be involved in preparedness efforts and contribute to building more ready and resilient communities.”
Tierney emphasized the proactive steps necessary to ensure preparedness for those with access and functional needs, “We know that disasters disproportionally impact those with disabilities, older adults, families with young children and those with limited English proficiency. FEMA’s lessons learned and best practices can be invaluable resources for anyone with access and functional needs, their family, and support team members.”
Follow @FEMARegion3, @FEMARegion4, @FEMARegion8, and @FEMARegion10 to be notified when the Space is live. Or follow the link below to access the chat. This event is accessible to those who are hard of hearing with live captioning.
Link to Chat: https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1OdJrVDWkaAJX
National Preparedness Month is observed each September to raise awareness about steps individuals, families and communities can take to be ready for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is Prepare to Protect and highlights how preparing for disaster helps protect everyone you love.
Each week in September, the campaign focuses on a different aspect of preparedness for individuals, families, and communities.
FEMA’s Weekly themes of National Preparedness Month include:
Week 2: Sept. 5-11 Build A Kit
Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.
Week 3: Sept. 12-18 Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness
Natural disasters don’t wait for a convenient time. Preparing for them shouldn’t wait either. Start today by signing up for alerts, safe-guarding important documents, and taking other low cost and no cost preparedness actions to lessen the impact of disasters and emergencies for you and your family.
Week 4: Sept. 19-25 Teach Youth About Preparedness
Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.
Tierney added, “Preparing for disasters simply makes sense, they can happen anywhere and at any time. Here at FEMA, we see this reality unfold often and we understand what is at stake. An all too common remark from disaster survivors is wishing they had done more to prepare. That doesn’t have to be you. I encourage everyone, from individuals simply curious about what they can do, to representatives of community organizations and faith based organizations, to local first responders, and other preparedness stakeholders to participate in conversations like these to contribute to our family’s, our community’s and our nation’s readiness and resilience.”
For more information about this event and a Twitter Spaces FAQ visit: #ASpaceToPrepare National Preparedness Month Twitter Spaces Chat | FEMA.gov
Ready.gov/September has information and resources online, including social media content in multiple languages, for public use. Help spread the word of how to be prepared for disasters and emergencies before they happen. For more information, visit Ready.gov and Listo.gov.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
amanda.hancher Mon, 09/13/2021 - 14:23Spend Your FEMA Grant Wisely and Only on Disaster-Related Expenses
FEMA helps survivors keep their spending on track by sending a determination letter stating what the funds are for and listing the ways the money can be used. Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses.
Some examples of approved expenses include:
- Home repairs (e.g., structure, water, septic and sewage systems)
- Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit
- Repair or replacement of an essential vehicle
- Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster
- Necessary educational materials (e.g., computers, schoolbooks, supplies)
- Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster
- Replacement of essential personal property such as appliances or bed from an occupied bedroom
- Increased childcare expenses
It’s important to read the determination letter carefully. Receipts for all expenses should be kept for at least three years, as disaster funding may be subject to audit. If you have spent the payment on anything other than its intended purpose, you may be denied disaster assistance in the future. In some cases, FEMA will ask that the money be returned.
In addition, it’s important for applicants to make sure that FEMA has their most up-to-date contact information, including addresses, phone numbers and bank accounts. If FEMA does not have the correct contact information, survivors may miss letters or phone calls about their application for assistance or payment status.
For any questions, call the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362. TTY users can call 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 09/13/2021 - 13:55Pages
