FEMA Provides $15.3M to University Hospitals for COVID-19 Response Costs

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) announced today that $15,375,666 in federal funding has been made available to University Hospitals Health Systems for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 31, 2020.

This funding will reimburse University Hospitals for costs to provide overtime labor, facility disinfection, personal protective equipment, COVID-19 testing and therapeutics, medical equipment, supplies and security.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits to cover eligible COVID-19 expenses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant has helped ensure necessary medical services and equipment are available to fight this virus and protect the lives of Ohioans.” 

“I would like to thank FEMA Region 5 for its continued funding support to not only University Hospitals Health Systems in Cleveland, but to the entire state of Ohio,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “FEMA’s ongoing support ensures that Ohio hospitals can continue to operate in this COVID environment, and provide medical services to Ohioans, efficiently and effectively.”

FEMA provides a 100% federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

 

# # #

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

troy.christensen Tue, 01/11/2022 - 19:22

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Missouri to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes on Dec. 10, 2021.

Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes in Bollinger, Dunklin, Iron, Madison, Pemiscot, Reynolds and Wayne counties.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

DuWayne Tewes has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 01/11/2022 - 18:30

FEMA Publishes More Data on New Flood Insurance Rating Methodology

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is releasing additional data on the agency’s new equitable flood insurance rate pricing methods.

Site visitors can view data that compares rate changes from the new rating methodology -- also called Risk Rating 2.0: Equity in Action -- to the legacy rating system in place since the 1970s. FEMA created Risk Rating 2.0 so flood insurance rates are actuarily sound, equitable, easier to understand and better reflect an individual property’s flood risk.

To view the comparison data, visit www.fema.gov/flood-insurance/risk-rating/profiles.

"The comparison data debunks a huge myth held by many critics of the new methodology that under the old system, flood insurance rates were not subject to regular annual increases," said David Maurstad, senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “The truth is rates have gone up every year for all policyholders and would continue to do so if no action is taken."

"The side-by-side comparisons show some policyholders now will experience decreases under year one of Risk Rating 2.0 while a majority of remaining policyholders will see premium increases mostly on par with what they already pay."

The new methodology now considers the cost to rebuild, a foundational aspect that ensures rates are equitable for all policyholders. Under the old system, policyholders with lower to moderate value homes with less flood risk subsidized the premiums of policyholders with higher valued homes and higher risk. Adding the cost to rebuild levels the playing field as all premiums now equitably reflect a single property’s unique flood risk. 

Another key change implemented with the new methodology is the fact that once a premium reaches its full risk rate, increases stop. Under the old system, increases would continue indefinitely year after year for all policyholders.

FEMA has taken a phased approach to the implementation of the NFIP’s new pricing plan. Phase 1 was initiated on Oct. 1, 2021 with existing policyholders allowed to take advantage of decreases on their policy renewal date and with the selling of new policies.

For phase 2, all remaining policies renewing on April 1 and continuing through March 31, 2023 will be subject to the new rating methodology.  

To date, the NFIP has sold approximately 75,296 new contracts and policies since Risk Rating 2.0 was implemented on Oct. 1.

Potential and existing policy holders can learn their specific rates with a call to their insurance company or agent.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 01/11/2022 - 18:30

FEMA Provides $44.9M to Michigan for COVID-19 Response

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division announced today that $44,934,145 in federal funding has been made available to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 27, 2020.

This funding will reimburse MDHHS for eligible reimbursable costs related to providing COVID-19 testing and reporting statewide from July 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021. Approximately $8.1 million of the grant covered COVID-19 testing and reporting for residents at the MDHHS long-term care facilities, and $36.8 million covered COVID-19 testing and reporting for inmates, prison staff and visitors at the Michigan Department of Corrections facilities.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits to cover eligible COVID-19 expenses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “The state’s actions protected the health and safety of Michigan residents and helped reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.”

“COVID-19 has not only taken a physical and mental toll on Michiganders, it has cost the state millions of dollars as we work to ensure everyone’s health and safety,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “This federal assistance is a big step toward helping our state agencies recoup some of those costs. I am grateful to our federal partners for this assistance and will continue to look for opportunities to support our state’s response.”

“We are grateful to our federal partners for this funding which will help the State of Michigan address the cost of this pandemic and the efforts of MDHHS to keep Michiganders safe and healthy,” said Col. Joe Gasper, state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and director of the Michigan State Police. “Our state agencies have worked around the clock to protect the well-being of all Michigan residents, and their work is not done yet. We will continue to support them in those efforts and thank them for their dedication.”

FEMA provides a 100% federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for these two projects, one totaling $8,150,845 and the other for $36,783,300.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

 

# # #

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

troy.christensen Tue, 01/11/2022 - 14:20

Repair and Rebuilding Advice Available to Kentucky Survivors

FRANKFORT, Ky – Disaster survivors from Graves and Spencer counties who are rebuilding and repairing their homes after the Dec. 10 tornadoes and severe storms, can visit Lowe’s or Home Depot stores to get free hazard mitigation advice from FEMA mitigation representatives.

FEMA Mitigation Specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips along with proven methods to prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also offer tips and techniques on rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. 

The Mitigation Specialists will be available at the following locations and times:

Lowe's 1208C Paris Road Mayfield, KY 42066

Home Depot # 2318 2233 Gary Farms Blvd Bowling Green, KY 42104

Lowe's                                                                  150 American Lane                                                                     Bowling Green, KY 42104

All locations will be open on Tuesday, Jan. 11 through Saturday, Jan. 29 from 7 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. (Saturday to Sunday). Closed on Wednesdays.

For information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Tue, 01/11/2022 - 13:45

Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Recovery Center to Delay Opening to 9 a.m. CST Jan. 10

FRANKFORT, Ky – Disaster Recovery Centers and the Mobile Registration Center will delay their opening Jan. 10 to 9:00 a.m. CST due to inclement weather.

Find locations for open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) online at www.fema.gov/drc or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. On your smart phone, open the FEMA App, click on “Talk to FEMA in person.”

 

The following recovery centers will open at 9 a.m. CST.:

WARREN COUNTY DRC

Former Sears location at Greenwood Mall, 2625 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104

 

CALDWELL COUNTY DRC

Butler Gymnasium, 600 W. Main St., Princeton, KY 42445

 

MUHLENBERG COUNTY DRC

Neal’s Chapel General Baptist Church, State Route 81, Sacramento, KY 42372

 

GRAVES COUNTY DRC

Graves County Public Library, 601 N. 17th St., Mayfield, KY 42066

 

TAYLOR COUNTY DRC

Old Firehouse, 1563 Greenburg Road, Campbellsville, KY 42718

 

MARION COUNTY DRC (9 a.m. EST)

223 N. Spalding Ave., Lebanon, KY 40033

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC

Community Center, 108 W. Keigan St., Dawson Springs, KY 42408

 

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC

Mike’s Old Pharmacy, 104 S. Lee Trover Todd Jr. Hwy., Earlington, KY 42410

 

The following registration center will reopen at 9 a.m. Jan. 10:

Marshall County MRIC

Old Marshall County Library, 1003 Poplar St., Benton, KY 42025

 

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Mon, 01/10/2022 - 03:34

FEMA Cost Share Adjustment Grants More Flexibility for Kentucky Emergency Work and Debris Removal

WASHINGTON-- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. amended federal emergency aid available for emergency work and debris removal for the Commonwealth as a result of severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding and tornadoes from Dec. 10-11, 2021.

Under the major disaster declaration issued for Kentucky, President Biden previously authorized a 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, for a period of 30 days from the start of the incident period.

Under the President's order, federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, is 100% of the total eligible costs for a 30-day period of the commonwealth’s choosing within the first 120 days of the declaration.

amy.ashbridge Sun, 01/09/2022 - 01:18

Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Recovery Centers Reopen

FRANKFORT, Ky – The Commonwealth of Kentucky and FEMA have deemed it safe to reopen some Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Registration Centers after two days of severe weather.

Find locations for open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) online at www.fema.gov/drc or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. On your smart phone, open the FEMA App, click on “Talk to FEMA in person.”

The following recovery centers will open at noon, Saturday, Jan. 8:

WARREN COUNTY DRC

Former Sears location at Greenwood Mall, 2625 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104

 

CALDWELL COUNTY DRC

Butler Gymnasium, 600 W. Main St., Princeton, KY 42445

 

GRAVES COUNTY DRC

Graves County Public Library, 601 N. 17th St., Mayfield, KY 42066

 

LOGAN COUNTY DRC

Logan County Extension Services, 255 John Paul Road, Russellville, KY 42276

 

BARREN COUNTY DRC

Cave City Police Department, 103 Duke St., Cave City, KY 42127

 

MARION COUNTY DRC

223 N. Spalding Ave., Lebanon, KY 40033

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC

Community Center, 108 W. Keigan St., Dawson Springs, KY 42408

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC

Mike’s Old Pharmacy, 104 S. Lee Trover Todd Jr. Hwy., Earlington, KY 42410

 

The following Mobile Registration Center will reopen at noon, Saturday, Jan. 8:

Marshall County MRIC

Old Marshall County Library, 1003 Poplar St., Benton, KY 42025

 

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Sat, 01/08/2022 - 03:50

Federal Support in New York Continues Four Months After Ida

NEW YORK – It has been four months since the remnants of Hurricane Ida impacted homes, businesses and infrastructure across New York state. To date, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the National Flood Insurance Program has disbursed nearly half a billion dollars to help New Yorkers recover and rebuild.

“We stand alongside our state, local, community and other federal partners to continue a robust recovery effort,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Lai Sun Yee. “In addition to funding, FEMA mobilized more than 40 disaster recovery centers, visited nearly 99,000 homes and interacted with at least 42,000 survivors through its Disaster Survivor Assistance teams.”

Nearly 40,000 New Yorkers from the Bronx, Brooklyn (Kings County), Queens, Staten Island (Richmond County), Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties have been approved for FEMA disaster assistance since the Sept. 5 major disaster declaration. Orange County was added to the declaration on Dec. 1.

As of Jan. 5. FEMA approved $191.1 million for housing and other essential storm-related needs under the Individual Assistance program. This amount includes $171.9 million approved for temporary housing, rental assistance, home repair and replacement for eligible survivors  and $19.2 million approved for other needs assistance which can help eligible survivors pay for medical and dental expenses, childcare, and other disaster-related necessary expenses.

The Small Business Administration has approved 4,010 home and business loans for a total of more than $196.5 million to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from remnants of Hurricane Ida. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. These low-interest loans are not just for businesses. Homeowners, renters and certain nonprofits impacted by Ida may also apply. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $110.1 million to New York policyholders and closed 3,032 claims for flood damage caused by the storm.

Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it is part of the solution, as disaster recovery is a whole community effort. Many entities are involved including local and state agencies, nonprofits, voluntary and faith-based organizations, and the private sector. FEMA continues to work closely with its whole-of-community partners to ensure disaster survivors have access to the resources they need from all eligible programs available.

Residents of Orange County who suffered damage or losses from remnants of Hurricane Ida, have until Monday, Jan. 31 to apply for disaster assistance with FEMA.

The application period for residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn (Kings County), Queens, Staten Island (Richmond County), Dutchess, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties ended on Jan. 4. However, individuals from these nine counties have a 60-day grace period to submit a late application. For a late application, the applicant must submit a letter to FEMA that explains the extenuating circumstances that prevented them from applying within the application period.

To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

Applying for an SBA loan assures that all available disaster assistance options remain open to you. If you are not eligible for an SBA loan, this may open the door to additional assistance from FEMA.

Applicants may apply online using SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call 800-877-8339. For more information, email DisasterCustomerService@SBA.gov.

zella.campbell Fri, 01/07/2022 - 22:58

Disaster Recovery Progress in Jefferson and Shelby Counties

CLANTON, Ala. – On Dec. 21, 2021 President Biden issued a federal disaster declaration for Jefferson and Shelby Counties following the severe storms and flooding that occurred Oct. 6-7, 2021. Since then, local, state, and federal partners have been hard at work making sure disaster survivors get the assistance they need.

Since the federal disaster declaration for Oct. 6-7 severe storms and flooding, Jefferson and Shelby County residents have received more than $9,736,248 in federal funds as of Jan. 7, 2022.

Individual Assistance in Jefferson and Shelby Counties:

213 homeowners and renters have been approved for $1,124,514.42 in federal grants through FEMA’s Individual and Households Program. This includes:

• $1,035,582.79 in Housing Assistance grants for home repair, home replacement, and or rental/assistance.
• $88,931.63 in Other Needs Assistance grants to replace essential household items and for other critical disaster-related costs.
• 85 homeowners and renters have been approved for rental assistance.
• 417 home inspections issued; 355 completed.

Flood Insurance Program:

• NFIP has paid $8,167,334 to policyholders who filed claims in Jefferson and Shelby Counties.
• 10 households have been approved for $24,000 for a Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP) where FEMA pays the cost of the GFIP directly to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

U.S. Small Business Administration:

• 10 residents have been approved for $420,400 in low-interest loans through the SBA disaster home loan program.
• SBA is operating a Business Recovery Center (BRC) at the Hoover Recreation Center:

• Address: 600 Municipal Drive, Hoover, AL 35216.
• Hours of operation: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. CST, closed Saturday and Sunday.

• The BRC can assist businesses of all sizes, non-profits, and homeowners or renters with their SBA application.

There's Still Time to Apply

Residents of Jefferson and Shelby counties in Alabama who were affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred Oct. 6-7, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The deadline to register is Feb. 21, 2022.

Residents in the designated counties can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 – 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time, 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. When you apply, you will need to provide:

• 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.

For more information about Alabama disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4632. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapman Fri, 01/07/2022 - 22:05

Time is Running Out to Register for FEMA Assistance

HARRISBURG, Pa. – There are just a few days left for homeowners and renters to apply for disaster assistance. Those who sustained uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from the remnants of Hurricane Ida living in Bedford, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, and York counties are encouraged to apply.

The deadline to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is Monday, Jan. 10. There are several ways to register:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), also available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Assistance from FEMA may include:

• Funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs
• Funds to support the repair or replacement of owner-occupied homes that serve as the household’s primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges
• Funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following information prior to registration:

• Social Security number
• Address of the damaged primary residence
• Insurance coverage information
• Current telephone number and mailing address
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

Survivors should update their contact information as soon as possible because FEMA may need to reach them to perform a home inspection or get additional information. FEMA encourages survivors to request direct deposits of disaster assistance to their financial institution. Survivors should let FEMA know as soon as possible of any changes to their mailing or banking information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

For updates on the Pennsylvania response and recovery, follow the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency on Twitter twitter.com/PEMAHQ and Facebook https://m.facebook.com/PEMAHQ/. Additional information is available at fema.gov/disaster/4618.

valerie.amato Fri, 01/07/2022 - 17:26

Two Disaster Recovery Centers to Change Saturday Hours of Operation

BATON ROUGE, La. – The disaster recovery centers in Luling and Montegut will change their Saturday hours of operation to 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., beginning Jan. 8.

Survivors can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions about federal disaster assistance answered at the centers.

The two centers are located at: Edward Dufresne Community Center (Parking lot)

274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway Luling, LA 70070

Hours of operation Mon. – Fri.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed Sunday

Montegut Recreation Center (Gravel next to baseball field)

106 Dolphin St. (Southwest corner of Cross St. and Dolphin St.) Montegut, LA 70377

Hours of operation Mon. – Fri.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed Sunday

For a list of all DRCs currently open in Louisiana and other details, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Or check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person). All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 01/07/2022 - 16:39

UPDATE: All Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Registration Centers to remain Closed Friday Jan. 7 Due to Severe Weather

FRANKFORT, Ky – Due to the severe winter weather threat in the region, the Commonwealth of Kentucky and FEMA have determined that all Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed Thursday, Jan. 6, and Friday, Jan. 7, 2022.

The weather threat is expected to affect the area until Friday, Jan. 7.

The Recovery Centers will be reopened when it is safe to do so.

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Fri, 01/07/2022 - 13:23

FEMA, Territorial Partnership Paves Path to Rebuild Arthur Richards School

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Hurricane Maria’s winds and rains left Arthur Richards Junior High School in ruins in September 2017. FEMA and the Territory made it a priority to assess damage to the school’s six buildings and grounds, collaborate to build out temporary modular classrooms for students and ultimately replace the school.

FEMA approved replacement of Arthur Richards in 2020 and demolition of the Frederiksted school began in 2020 as well. Plans to replace Arthur Richards have hit another milestone in the new year with FEMA’s approval of a $242.5 million project to rebuild the school.

The federal and territorial partnership to replace Arthur Richards spotlights FEMA’s mission to support the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education’s plans to repair and rebuild public schools damaged from hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017.

“Collaboration and diligence between FEMA and the Territory has laid the foundation for a new Arthur Richards Junior High School. We stand firm in our commitment to help the U.S. Virgin Islands repair and rebuild schools that will provide a safe and modern environment for the Territory’s children. Building schools smarter and stronger will ensure children return to classrooms quicker after future storms,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Recovery Director Kristen Hodge.    

FEMA has awarded $209.2 million through its Public Assistance program toward the Territory’s plan to rebuild Arthur Richards. Insurance proceeds will cover $10 million and a non-federal cost share of 10% will cover remaining costs for the project to replace Arthur Richards. The replacement of Arthur Richards is authorized as a Public Assistance Alternative Procedures project and clears a path for the Territory to rebuild the school at the site of the Evelyn Williams School in Mount Pleasant on St. Croix.

“The Office of Disaster Recovery thanks FEMA for this obligation which will set the standard for new school construction in the Territory in accordance with the Department of Education’s Facilities Master Plan. This was a monumental joint effort which has provided funding for the first new school reconstruction as we work to modernize schools across the Territory,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery Director Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien.

As of January 5, 2022, FEMA has obligated a combined $444 million for emergency and permanent repairs to U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education facilities damaged during the 2017 Category 5 hurricanes.

The Territory began the demolition of Arthur Richards Junior High School on St. Croix in 2020. FEMA has approved a $242.5 million project to replace the school, which was damaged during Hurricane Maria in September 2017. Photo Courtesy of the U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery.

gina.callaghan Fri, 01/07/2022 - 12:50

FEMA Announces Reinsurance Program to Manage Future Flood Risk in 2022

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has announced its 2022 traditional reinsurance placement for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), continuing its risk management practice against catastrophic flood losses. 

The agency has transferred an additional $1.064 billion of the NFIP’s financial risk to the private reinsurance market. This annual reinsurance agreement is effective throughout the calendar year with 28 private reinsurance companies. 

The 2022 reinsurance placement covers portions of NFIP losses above $4 billion arising from a single flooding event. FEMA paid a total premium of $171.9 million for the coverage. 

The agreement is structured to cover:  

• 4.163% of losses between $4 billion and $6 billion.  
• 26.565% of losses between $6 billion and $8 billion.  
• 22.453% of losses between $8 billion and $10 billion. 

“FEMA remains committed to reinsurance as a risk transfer measure to ensure the NFIP has the capacity to pay claims, especially now with the growing intensity and frequency of weather patterns brought on by climate change,” said David Maurstad, FEMA’s senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “Our No. 1 job is to provide policyholders peace of mind in knowing that the NFIP will be there when they need it most.”

Reinsurance is a financial risk management tool used by private insurance companies and public entities to protect themselves from large financial losses. If a qualifying catastrophic flood event occurs, reinsurance companies cover a portion of the NFIP’s losses to enhance FEMA’s ability to pay flood insurance claims without borrowing from the U.S. Treasury. 

Combined with the three capital markets reinsurance placements in 2019-21, FEMA has transferred $2.3 billion of the NFIP’s flood risk to the private sector.  

If a named storm flood event is large enough to trigger all reinsurance agreements, FEMA will receive qualifying payments. For named storms resulting in NFIP claims exceeding $10 billion, FEMA will receive the full $2.3 billion of reinsurance coverage from the private markets. 

FEMA contracted with Guy Carpenter and Company, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, to provide broker services to assist in securing the reinsurance placement.

FEMA received authority to secure reinsurance through the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 and the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014.  FEMA’s 2022 reinsurance placement builds upon its previous reinsurance placements as further development toward a stronger financial framework. 

For more information, visit the NFIP Reinsurance Program webpage on FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 01/06/2022 - 21:44

FEMA Deadline has Passed but Help is Still Available; Federal Funding Tops $711.7 Million

TRENTON, N.J. – FEMA encourages applicants to keep in touch to track their case. Residents who believe the assistance they received for repairs is not enough are encouraged to contact FEMA to submit an appeal. Survivors may be asked to submit repair estimates, receipts or other documentation that explains their case. Survivors should also notify the agency of additional damage discovered to their home since their inspection. They should also update mailing or email addresses or phone numbers and the status of their insurance settlements.

Applicants in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union or Warren counties can contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585 or go online at DisasterAssistance.gov to keep FEMA updated or for follow-up questions.

The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.

Federal Funding Tops $711.7 Million

Four months since President Joe Biden declared a major disaster in New Jersey, more than $711.7 million in federal funds have been provided to New Jersey residents to aid in their recovery. The breakdown of funds is as follows:

• More than $215.6 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing. 
• More than $230.1 million in U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans approved for homeowners, renters and business owners.
• Nearly $266 million paid to National Flood Insurance Program policyholders statewide.

Homeowners, renters and businesses who have applied for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration can follow-up with questions at SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or email disastercustomerservice@SBA.gov.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

amir.nijem Thu, 01/06/2022 - 18:12

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Washington

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Washington to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding and mudslides from Nov. 13-15, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties and the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe and Quileute Tribe. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Toney Raines has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

Residents 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- 3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 01/06/2022 - 15:16

FEMA Ensures Equity for the Whole Community in Delivering Disaster Recovery Services

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA continues to stress equity in every part of the agency while assisting Kentucky residents in their recovery from the recent tornadoes.

FEMA may provide or fund programs to support the public before, during, and after a disaster. These programs must comply with Federal civil rights laws and nondiscrimination requirements in the Stafford Act. FEMA does not treat people differently because of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

FEMA provides free aids and services to people to help them communicate with us and understand FEMA programs:

▪ Information available in Braille, large print, or audio ▪ Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website

▪ Qualified sign language interpreters

▪ Qualified multilingual interpreters ▪ Information written in other languages If you need assistance to access a FEMA    program or service or a program or service funded by FEMA, please contact FEMA at (833) 285-7448 [ Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the Language Line] or FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

If you have a complaint, you must report it within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act. To report a concern or complaint of discrimination, please

▪ call FEMA External Civil Rights Division at (833) 285-7448 [ Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the Language Line]

▪ send an email to FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov; or

▪ send a letter explaining the issue to: FEMA OFFICE OF EQUAL RIGHTS External Civil Rights Division 500 C Street, SW Room 4SW-0915 Washington, DC 20472.

Once a complaint is filed, it will be reviewed by FEMA’s Office of Equal Rights, the complaint will be investigated, and attempts will be made to resolve any violations informally. If an informal resolution fails to resolve the complaint, enforcement proceedings may be instituted.

For questions about disaster assistance, please call FEMA's Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). FEMA’s Helpline is available to all disaster survivors, including those whose primary language is not English. Press 2 for Spanish or stay on the line for more language options. 

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Thu, 01/06/2022 - 14:15

Don’t Agree with Your FEMA Decision? Filing an Appeal May Unlock Further Disaster Assistance

Hartford, Conn.– If you applied with FEMA for damage and losses caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida, you will receive a letter in the mail explaining your application current status or eligibility for disaster assistance. Read this letter carefully and follow up with any requests for additional information or provide the documentation requested.

If you received a determination letter, and do not agree with the amount of assistance offered or determination provided, filing an appeal may be the key to unlocking additional disaster assistance. You must file an appeal within 60 days of the date on your FEMA eligibility letter.

In Connecticut, FEMA staff are working with homeowners and renters to resolve issues and help applicants work through the appeals process for additional eligible funding. To date, FEMA has completed 1,980 case reviews. These reviews have resulted in an additional $1.1 million disbursed in disaster assistance to impacted survivors.  

To date FEMA has approved more than $7 million dollars in grants to Connecticut survivors impacted by Hurricane Ida.

Step One: Read Your Determination Letter

It is important that you read your determination letter carefully. This letter contains information to help you understand why FEMA decided the application was “ineligible.” Many times, it could be something as simple as providing missing documents or information.

If you need help understanding your determination letter call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.

Step Two: Gather Documents to Prove Your Eligibility

Often, applicants need only to submit extra documents for FEMA to process their application. FEMA may find an applicant ineligible if the following documents are missing:

• Insurance documents: Provide documents from your insurance company that show your policy coverage and/or settlement is not enough to make essential home repairs, provide a place to stay, or replace certain contents. FEMA cannot duplicate homeowner or renter insurance benefits.
• Proof of occupancy: Provide documents that prove the damaged home or rental was your primary residence by supplying a copy of utility bills, driver’s license or lease.
• Proof of ownership: Provide mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts or a deed. If you don’t have a deed handy, contact your local or county officials about obtaining a copy.
• Lost documents: Visit the following website for information on replacing lost documents: https://www.usa.gov/replace-vital-documents

All appeals must be in writing. The appeal letter should explain why you believe FEMA’s decision is not correct. When filing an appeal, the submission should also include the following information: applicant’s full name, applicant’s FEMA Application Number and Disaster Number, address of the applicant’s pre-disaster primary residence, and the applicant’s current phone number and address.  It is important to include any documentation FEMA requests and/or that supports the appeal claim. Also, if the person writing the appeal letter is not the applicant or a member of the household, you must submit a signed statement that the writer is authorized to act on your behalf.

Step Three: Submit Your Appeal

IMPORTANT: When submitting an appeal, be sure to include the cover letter you received from FEMA.

• Mail documents and your appeal letter within 60 days of receiving your determination letter to: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055 
• Fax them to 800-827-8112.
• To set up a FEMA online account or to upload documents online, visit disasterassistance.gov and click on “Check Your Application and Log In” and follow the directions.

You will receive a decision letter within 90 days of FEMA's receipt of your appeal.

The deadline for applying for federal assistance is January 28, 2022.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 01/05/2022 - 18:50

Disaster Recovery Center at Montegut Recreation Center Remains Open

BATON ROUGE, La. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Montegut remains open to help survivors affected by Hurricane Ida. Survivors can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions about federal disaster assistance answered at the centers.

All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

The center is located at:

Montegut Recreation Center (Southwest corner of Cross and Dolphin St) 106 Dolphin St. Montegut, LA 70377

For other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA.gov/DRC for a complete list of DRCs currently open in Louisiana. 

rebecca.watson Wed, 01/05/2022 - 16:32