Federal Support for June Tornadoes Recovery: $3.8 Million and Counting, Renters and Homeowners May Still Apply

MADISON, Miss. – One month after the major disaster declaration for the June 14 -19 severe storms and tornadoes in Mississippi, $3.8 million and counting in federal support has been approved by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). FEMA expects the amount to increase as more people apply.

As of Sept. 12, more than $1.7 million in FEMA grants have been approved for renters and homeowners in Jackson and Jasper counties. This includes:

• More than $1.4 million in Housing Assistance that helps pay for uninsured home repairs, home replacement and rental assistance for short-term lodging. 
  • More than $788,000 in Repair Assistance -- grants to help with basic repairs to a disaster-damaged primary residence.
  • More than $361,000 in Rental Assistance -- grants to rent alternate housing while an applicant is displaced from their disaster-damaged primary residence.
• More than $290,000 in Other Needs Assistance -- grants to help pay for uninsured personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs.

The SBA has approved more than $2.1 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses. These flexible loans can help supplement insurance settlements and FEMA grants.

Added together, federal recovery support for households now totals more than $3.8 million.

Application Period Remains Open

Homeowners and renters in Jackson and Jasper counties whose homes and property were damaged by the storms can continue to apply for federal assistance:

• by going to disasterassistance.gov
• or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.

The FEMA helpline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with language translation services available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits. Applications will be taken through Oct. 11, 2023.

For the latest information on recovery from the June tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4727. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

sandra.habib Wed, 09/13/2023 - 11:44

Whole Community Joins Effort to Help Idalia Survivors

Lake Mary, Fla.  – They are serving meals, cutting trees, offering rides, staffing shelters, mucking out homes, assisting those with access and functional needs after the storm.  

They are legion, thousands of people helping other people after Hurricane Idalia struck the Big Bend in Florida.

It happens after every disaster: The whole community comes together and gets to work. It starts with neighbors. Quickly, voluntary organizations go into action. Houses of worship offer shelter and feeding. Local partners provide food, water, cleanup supplies, hygiene kits. Private sector provides services and logistical support. All of these efforts supplement the aid that is coming from the State of Florida, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Within one week of Idalia’s landfall, 80 organizations were coordinating with the State of Florida, FEMA’s Voluntary Agency Liaisons and Volunteer Florida. Many came from other states.

“The local communities provide emergency services and recovery resources along with the state and FEMA,” said Christopher Baker, FEMA’s Voluntary Agency Liaison for Idalia. “But the voluntary agencies bring so much more, meeting needs that can’t be met by government. All of these volunteers working in Florida right now are face to face with people who have had a terrible experience. They bring comfort and help.”

Florida has a strong network of volunteers, part of Florida Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters. The network was involved from the beginning when Idalia made landfall. The network will stay involved as long as it is needed, Baker said.

To apply for FEMA assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Application deadline is Oct. 30, 2023.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Tue, 09/12/2023 - 21:54

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Taylor, Citrus Counties

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Taylor and Citrus counties to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The centers will remain open until further notice.

Locations: 

• Taylor County:
  • Loughridge Park, W 15th St. in Perry, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
  • Steinhatchee Community Center, 1013 S Riverside Drive in Steinhatchee, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Citrus County: West Citrus Community Center, 8940 W Veterans Drive in Homosassa, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun

Currently open fixed sites:

• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19 in Cross City, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Hamilton County: Court House Annex/Chamber of Commerce, 1153 NW US Hwy 41 in Jasper, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir. in Mayo, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Levy County: Inglis Community Center, 137 Hwy 40 W in Inglis, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St. in Madison, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 
• Suwannee County: Agricultural Coliseum Exhibition Building 2, 1302 SW 11 St. in Live Oak, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun

There are also several Mobile Centers helping with applications. Other services are limited at these locations:

• Levy County: Cedar Key Fire Station parking lot, 489 1st St. in Cedar Key, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. to 
  5 p.m. Sat-Sun
• Pasco County: Hudson Library, 8012 Library Rd. in Hudson, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Tues, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wed-Thurs, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fri-Sat, closed Sun

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC, you don’t have to reside in that county. More centers will open soon. 

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Oct. 30, 2023.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Tue, 09/12/2023 - 21:00

FEMA, TSA Share Public Service Announcement Encouraging Travelers to Make a Plan and be Disaster-Ready

WASHINGTON -- Ahead of what is projected to be another busy holiday travel period, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and TSA Administrator David Pekoske joined together and distributed a new public service announcement (PSA) today, asking travelers to make a plan and be prepared before traveling. 

The PSA was distributed at federalized airports nationwide to air on airport security checkpoint monitors. To further emphasize travel preparedness, TSA and FEMA also hosted a press conference at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, where they officially unveiled the PSA.

In the PSA, Secretary Mayorkas, and Administrators Criswell and Pekoske, encourage travelers to make preparations before embarking on their travels, which include checking with their airport and airline, packing items they might need during an emergency and ensuring their family’s safety while on vacation or traveling for work.

 

POOL FOOTAGE AVAILABLE: For pool footage from the press conference, please contact fema-new-desk@fema.DHS.gov

“The Department of Homeland Security works day-in and day-out to keep the American people safe, but we cannot do it alone,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “Everyone has a role to play when it comes to staying safe, especially when traveling. Natural disasters and emergencies could happen at any time, so it is important to be prepared.” 

“We want people to be safe when they travel and be prepared for emergencies,” Administrator Criswell remarked. “I encourage you to visit Ready.gov to learn about how you can prepare yourself and your family. And remember to download the free FEMA app and get alerts and warnings for up to five locations in the United States. I also encourage you to share this important PSA with your family and friends.”

Preparedness is important for TSA as well. The agency screened 264 million passengers during the summer travel season, which was a record number of travelers for the period. At the same time, extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and severity nationwide.  

“Transportation security might not immediately come to mind when you think of disaster preparedness, but travel readiness is an important part of being prepared,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “Our hope is that passengers who make their way through security screening see this PSA on an airport monitor, and are reminded about the importance of being prepared for their travel that day and future travel by ensuring they do not have any prohibited items in their carry-on bag. We also encourage travelers enroll in TSA PreCheck® and arrive early for what we are projecting to be another busy holiday travel season.”

The PSA specifically outlines three easy steps everyone can take to be prepared before they travel:

1. Assess your needs. Whether needing to keep your medications cool or getting help with an assistive device, it’s important to understand what you’ll need in an emergency.
2. Engage your support network. Enlist a trusted friend or neighbor to watch your home while you’re away. 
3. Make a plan. From planning your travel route to understanding the risks you might face in the places you visit, it’s important to understand what you’ll need and what you’ll do when a disaster or emergency happens when you travel. 

When travelers are packing their bags and any items they may need in their emergency kit, it is important they check the TSA.gov “What Can I Bring” tool.  For other questions on items to bring, they may also reach out to AskTSA by texting TRAVEL or 275-872, tweeting @AskTSA on X or sending a Facebook message to AskTSA. 

This PSA is just one of the many initiatives FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are taking this National Preparedness Month to ensure people across the country are ready when disasters, man-made and natural, strike. 

To learn more about National Preparedness Month and steps you and your family can take to prepare, please visit: https://www.ready.gov/september. 

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/12/2023 - 18:20

Biden-Harris Administration Announces First Recipients Selected to Administer Innovative Climate Resilience Loan Fund

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA is announcing that seven states and the District of Columbia will receive a combined $50 million in capitalization grants to help communities reduce vulnerability to natural hazards and disasters.

These capitalization grants, provided through the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program, and made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will enable states, territories, tribes and the District of Columbia to administer revolving loan funds that will help local governments carry out hazard mitigation projects that build community climate resilience. 

“The Biden-Harris Administration, with bipartisan support in Congress, has made billions of dollars available to help build resilience nationwide, but economically disadvantaged communities can still face barriers when it comes to financing their own mitigation projects,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This innovative, new program, made possible by the President’s Investing in America Agenda, will allow states to provide low-interest loans to help communities secure the additional capital needed to fund these projects.” 

“Together with our partners, the Biden Administration is funding a powerful new, on-the-ground capability that allows communities to leverage federal capital to build resilient infrastructure.  We must harness this sort of innovative partnership to tackle increasingly frequent and severe climate-fueled disasters,” said Ali Zaidi, White House National Climate Advisor.

Local governments may use capitalization grant funding to make structures more resilient to natural hazards. This includes improving flood control, implementing changes in zoning and land-use planning needed to adapt to a changing climate, and enforcing adoption of resilient building codes. Local governments may also apply the funding to satisfy their cost-share requirement for FEMA hazard mitigation assistance grants, lessening their financial burden to implement climate resilience activities. As these loans are paid back to the states, the funding can be used to finance additional mitigation projects, providing a sustainable local source of financing for protecting communities.

The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program complements FEMA’s hazard mitigation grant portfolio to support mitigation projects at the local government level and increase the nation’s resilience to natural hazards and climate change. 

FEMA encourages applicants to develop revolving loan funds that target low-income geographic areas and underserved communities. Entities selected for awards will use funding based on their unique needs and priorities to become more resilient to natural hazards.

Today’s funding announcements were made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides $500 million to fund the Safeguarding Tomorrow program through 2026.

FEMA selected the following eight applications for the first year of funding:

• District of Columbia: $6.1 million
• Louisiana: $6.9 million
• Maryland: $6.5 million
• Michigan: $5.1 million
• New Jersey: $6.4 million
• New York: $6.2 million
• South Carolina: $6.4 million
• Virginia: $6.1 million
• FEMA will offer technical assistance through webinars, office hours, website updates and program support materials to help existing and future participants and make use of this innovative program. 
• This first year of the program will inform future funding opportunities and ensure long-term viability and success of the program at all levels. The agency anticipates releasing the next funding opportunity later this fall.   

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/12/2023 - 15:56

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Emergency preparedness exercise scheduled for the Limerick Generating Station

PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise at the Limerick Generating Station. The exercise will occur during the week of September 25, 2023, to assess the ability of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”

Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions. The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise. 

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 4:00 p.m. on September 28, 2023. The meeting will be conducted in-person at the Marriott Courtyard Philadelphia Valley Forge/Collegeville, 600 Campus Drive, Collegeville, PA 19426. Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC.

At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:

MaryAnn Tierney

Regional Administrator

FEMA Region 3

615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106

 

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program. 

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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

charles.elison Tue, 09/12/2023 - 14:24

Two Months Later, Recovery from July Storms Well Underway

Two months after the federal disaster declaration for the state of Vermont following July’s severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, more than $54.7 million in federal assistance has been provided by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) directly to Vermonters to aid in their recovery. 

The funds include grants from FEMA, payouts from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the SBA.

Individual Assistance

Residents of nine Vermont counties are eligible to apply for Individual Assistance: Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor. Homeowners and renters whose homes and property were damaged by the storms have until October 12, 2023, to apply.

As of September 11, Vermont’s recovery assistance includes:

• More than $17.7 million in FEMA’s Individual and Households Program grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in the nine designated Vermont counties. These grants help residents pay for uninsured and underinsured storm-related losses, including:
  • More than $16.2 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
  • More than $1.5 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, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid $18.3 million in claims for policyholders.
• SBA has approved more than $18.6 million in 394 long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and cover economic injury. The deadline to apply for an SBA loan for physical damage is October 12, 2023. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 15, 2024.
• Of the 13 Disaster Recovery Centers operated by the state and FEMA to provide one-on-one assistance to survivors, four centers currently remain open in Washington, Orleans and Windham counties. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday. Locations are:
  • Waterbury Armory, 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676
  • Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
  • Barton Memorial Building, 17 Village Square, Barton, VT 05822
  • Wardsboro Town Hall, 99 Main St., Wardsboro, VT 05355
• To date, there have been 2,922 survivor visits to Disaster Recovery Centers. 

Recovery specialists from the state, FEMA, and SBA provide information on available services, explain assistance programs, and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance. No appointment is necessary to visit – walk-ins are welcome. 

FEMA sent Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams to storm-affected neighborhoods in every designated county. These teams traveled door-to-door, visiting homes, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to help residents apply, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies for additional support. DSA personnel interacted with more than 12,500 residents and visited more than 19,400 households and 1,070 businesses to help survivors apply for assistance. The teams have also assisted survivors at county fairs, farmers markets and other events.

FEMA is working to remove barriers to assistance, ensuring all survivors have equal access to disaster aid and resources. FEMA offers help in many languages through our Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Public Assistance

FEMA’s Public Assistance program reimburses counties, the state and certain nonprofits for eligible costs of disaster-related debris removal, emergency protective measures and repair and replacement of disaster-damaged facilities such as roads, bridges, public utilities, including water treatment and electrical plants, government buildings and parks. 

All Vermont counties have been designated for some form of Public Assistance:

• All counties have been designated for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.
• Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor counties have been approved for debris removal, emergency protective measures – including direct federal assistance – and restoration of disaster-damaged facilities.

Vermont Emergency Management hosted five applicant briefings across the state to provide information on the Request for Public Assistance process with support from FEMA Public Assistance from July 31 to August 4. More than 200 people attended the five briefings.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

FEMA often refers disaster survivors to SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan. 

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster-recovery funds for survivors. SBA offers long-term, low-interest disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters to help them build back better, stronger and more resilient.

Disaster loans can be used to make building upgrades or property improvements that eliminate future damage and can save lives.

SBA established three Business Recovery Centers for residents to meet with SBA representatives and find out how a low-interest disaster loan can help them recover. One remains open at the Engel & Völkers Okemo Building, 126 Main St., Ludlow, VT 05149. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (closed Sunday).

To apply, visit the SBA’s website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov or call 800-659-2955.

FEMA’s Commitment

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 09/12/2023 - 14:20

Couldn’t Apply with FEMA? Late Applications Must be Received by Sept. 26

The deadline for Guam residents to apply for federal assistance due typhoon Mawar was July 28, 2023. But what if you were hospitalized, or off island and unable to apply? In rare cases survivors may be eligible to submit a late application to FEMA. The deadline to submit a late application, is Sept. 26, 2023

 

Eligibility

FEMA accepts late applications if extraordinary circumstances kept you from applying before the original deadline. Interested residents who have not applied due to extenuating circumstances can still apply. FEMA will require a signed letter explaining the reason for the late application, including supporting documents that clearly state why you could not apply during the application period.

This may include:

• Record of hospitalization, illness, or disability of the applicant or an immediate family member;
• Death of an immediate family member;
• Proof of personal or business travel that kept the applicant out of the area for the full application period; or
• Evidence of unique disaster-specific circumstances.

 

Late Application Process

Guam residents have until Sept. 26 to complete a late application for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. There are several ways to submit a late application for disaster assistance:

• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Download and use the FEMA mobile app; or
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

 

After Applying, Mail, Fax or Upload Supporting Documents

Valid documentation explaining the reason for a late application must be submitted within 60 days from the date the late application was completed. All supporting documents must be signed and dated and include the applicant’s nine-digit FEMA application number along with the disaster number (DR-4715-GU). 

Documents can be mailed to: 

FEMA National Processing Service Center,

P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

Or faxed to: 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA

To upload documents online: To set up an online account or upload documents, go to DisasterAssistance.gov and click on “Check Your Application and Log In” then follow the directions. 

For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, please visit our website. 

Follow FEMA on Twitter and Facebook.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

robert.barker Tue, 09/12/2023 - 14:00

FEMA Approves Additional Georgia Counties for Public Assistance

ATLANTA – FEMA has added 25 counties in Georgia to last week’s presidential disaster declaration for assistance, under FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program. In his major disaster declaration of Sept. 7, President Biden declared Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties eligible for federal Individual Assistance as well as Public Assistance funding for debris removal and emergency services. These three counties are also included in the PA amendment. 

Under the amendment, Public Assistance funding is now available, on a cost-sharing basis, to eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, in these additional counties affected by Hurricane Idalia on Aug. 30: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bulloch, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Echols, Emanuel, Jeff Davis, Jenkins, Lanier, Pierce, Screven, Tattnall, Thomas, Tift, Ware and Wayne. 

PA provides help to communities impacted by Idalia to cover a full range of measures, including debris removal, life-saving emergency protective services and restoration of public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, dams and public parks and recreation facilities.

neily.chapman Tue, 09/12/2023 - 12:24

How to File Flood Insurance Claims After Hurricane Idalia

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Florida homeowners with insurance policies covered by the National Flood Insurance Program are urged to file claims as soon as possible. Advance payments may be available for some policyholders.

Policy holders should call their insurance agent or provider and initiate the claim even if they do not have all necessary documentation because they had to leave the property after the storm.

Homeowners with damage from both wind and flood will need to file two separate claims: a homeowner’s insurance claim and a flood insurance claim. They should let adjusters for each policy know of the claim filed with the other policy.

If filing a flood claim, ask about advance payments. You may be eligible for an advance payment of up to $5,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster. Your insurer will need to confirm covered flood damage to your property and may request additional documentation to support the amount of the advance. 

Policy holders may also be eligible for an advance payment of up to $20,000 if they have photos and/or videos depicting damage and receipts validating out-of-pocket expenses related to the flood loss, or a contractor’s itemized estimate.

If the flood insurance policy recently expired, ask your agent if you are still within a renewal grace period. You may be able to pay in full to renew and be covered for a loss during that time. 

The Standard Flood Insurance Policy does not cover expenses for code compliance unless the loss qualifies for Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage. Speak to your adjuster or insurer for more information.

The NFIP has additional information on floodsmart.gov/how-do-i-start-my-flood-claim for documenting your damage, re-entering safely, and rebuilding stronger, and where to go if you need additional assistance.  

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Tue, 09/12/2023 - 11:37

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Wyoming to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding on June 15, 2023.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, 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 flooding in Natrona County.

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

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

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/11/2023 - 23:43

Additional Counties Approved for Individual and Public Assistance

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Florida homeowners with insurance policies covered by the National Flood Insurance Program are urged to file claims as soon as possible. Advance payments may be available for some policyholders.

Policy holders should call their insurance agent or provider and initiate the claim even if they do not have all necessary documentation because they had to leave the property after the storm.

Homeowners with damage from both wind and flood will need to file two separate claims: a homeowner’s insurance claim and a flood insurance claim. They should let adjusters for each policy know of the claim filed with the other policy.

If filing a flood claim, ask about advance payments. You may be eligible for an advance payment of up to $5,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster. Your insurer will need to confirm covered flood damage to your property and may request additional documentation to support the amount of the advance. 

Policy holders may also be eligible for an advance payment of up to $20,000 if they have photos and/or videos depicting damage and receipts validating out-of-pocket expenses related to the flood loss, or a contractor’s itemized estimate.

If the flood insurance policy recently expired, ask your agent if you are still within a renewal grace period. You may be able to pay in full to renew and be covered for a loss during that time. 

The Standard Flood Insurance Policy does not cover expenses for code compliance unless the loss qualifies for Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage. Speak to your adjuster or insurer for more information.

The NFIP has additional information on floodsmart.gov/how-do-i-start-my-flood-claim for documenting your damage, re-entering safely, and rebuilding stronger, and where to go if you need additional assistance.  

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Mon, 09/11/2023 - 21:45

FEMA Cost Share Adjustment Grants More Funds for Hawaii

WASHINGTON ­-- On Sept. 8, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Hawaii by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for Public Assistance projects undertaken in the state, as a result of wildfires beginning on Aug. 8, 2023, and continuing.

Under the President's order, the federal share for Public Assistance has been increased to 90% of total eligible costs, except assistance previously approved at 100%.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 09/11/2023 - 19:36

FEMA Teams in Field to Help Hurricane Idalia Survivors

ATLANTA – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are working in communities impacted by Hurricane Idalia to help residents of Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties apply for FEMA assistance and provide referrals to other disaster resources.

DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. FEMA personnel never ask for money. 

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual lines are open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

FEMA home inspectors will be in communities to meet with applicants to verify losses. FEMA will contact the homeowner to arrange a time for the inspection. These inspectors carry photo identification badges and will have the applicant’s application number. 

FEMA personnel never ask for money for services. There are no fees involved in applying to FEMA.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, go to Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

neily.chapman Mon, 09/11/2023 - 14:38

Over $100M into the Hands of Cook County Residents: Federal Assistance by the Numbers

CHICAGO - As of Monday, Sept. 11, FEMA assistance to residents of Cook County affected by the June 29 – July 2 flooding and storms topped $109 million.

This grant funding, combined with $16.5 million in affordable, low-interest, long-term disaster loans provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), adds up to more than $125 million in total federal assistance to individuals in Cook County.

“In just over three weeks since President Biden announced the federal disaster declaration for Illinois, we’ve seen the whole community come together to advance long-term recovery across the City of Chicago and Cook County,” said FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer Andrew Friend. “This $100 million in assistance to survivors is an important milestone, but we know there’s still work to be done. We’ll be here as long as it takes to ensure our programs are available, accessible and beneficial to survivors across the impacted areas as they repair and rebuild from this disaster.”

FEMA Assistance Snapshot

• Over 28,000 households have been approved for FEMA grant funding totaling $109 million, including:
  • $93.7 million in housing grants, including short-term rental assistance and home repair costs.
  • Nearly $15.3 million approved for other essential disaster-related needs, such as expenses related to medical, dental, and lost personal possessions.
• Nearly 39,000 home inspections have been completed.
• To date, 3,400 survivors have been helped at 6 FEMA recovery centers located throughout Cook County.
• FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance teams have visited more than 35,500 homes and nearly 200 businesses; they have interacted with 9,000 survivors and have registered more than 900 households.

For more information about Cook County’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is October 16, 2023.        

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nicole.wilson Mon, 09/11/2023 - 14:28

Unemployed Due to June Tornadoes? Application Deadline for Disaster Unemployment Approaching

MADISON, Miss. Residents of Jackson and Jasper counties who couldn’t work as a direct result of the June 14-19 severe storms and tornadoes may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). The deadline to apply is quickly approaching -- it’s this Friday, Sept. 15.

Individuals can apply with the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES), online 24 hours a day at www.mdes.ms.gov (https//www.mdes.ms.gov) or by calling 601-493-9428 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Individuals may be eligible for many reasons, including:

• They cannot work because of an injury from the storms.
• They could not work, or they lost work, because of damage or destruction of a business.
• They were scheduled to begin employment, but the disaster prevented them from doing so.
• They were unable to reach their jobs because the disaster prevented their travel.
• They were unable to work because their place of employment was inaccessible.

Self-employed individuals who were living or working in Jackson or Jasper counties may be eligible. Each claim will be reviewed to determine eligibility.

The federal government funds Disaster Unemployment Assistance, but the Mississippi Department of Employment Security administers the program.

For the latest information on recovery from the June tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4727. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

sandra.habib Mon, 09/11/2023 - 12:50

The Peak of Hurricane Season is Here: Be Ready Today

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The peak of this hurricane season starts tomorrow, and with two tropical cyclones powerfully churning in the Atlantic Ocean that will not affect the Caribbean directly, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials encourage Puerto Rico residents to get their families and property ready, today. If all inhabitants take timely preparedness measures, it will enhance the emergency response and recovery process.

“Along with the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau and the National Weather Service in San Juan, we keep reminding our communities that taking all necessary steps and having emergency plans in place is the right thing to do now,” said Orlando Olivera, FEMA's Caribbean Area Office Coordinator in Puerto Rico. “Talk with your family about your emergency plans. Include your neighbors, especially the elderly ones that may need your support, discuss how you can help each other before and after a disaster. Joining preparedness efforts can ease the recovery process.”

FEMA’s 2023 Preparedness campaign theme, “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” encourages everyone, especially older adults, to become more prepared in three simple steps: 

• Assess your needs. Everyone has unique needs. There are several factors that can affect the steps you need to take to prepare yourself and those you care for. Whether you care for pets, have children, have a medical condition or have a disability, it is important to know what your family will need to stay safe. 
• Make a plan. Once you’ve assessed your needs, you can plan for what you’d do, where you’d go and what to bring if a disaster strikes. Your emergency supply kit should include items that meet your individual needs. 
• Engage your support network. Get to know your neighbors because they, along with your family and friends, can be a support network before, during and after a disaster by providing emotional and practical support. 

Additional information is available at www.ready.gov/hurricanes and www.fema.gov which offer tools and resources to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergency events. 

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Follow us on Facebook Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico and FEMA, and on Twitter @femaregion2 and @FEMA

yuisa.rios Sat, 09/09/2023 - 22:07

A Month after the Devastating Wildfires, Maui ʻOhana Are Rebuilding Together

A Month after the Devastating Wildfires, Maui ʻOhana Are Rebuilding Together

LĀHAINĀ, Hawaiʻi – Now that the flames are out and thousands of people are safely housed and fed, now that neighbors and friends have taken the first step of their recovery by helping each other, this devastated community is working hard to recover from the worst disaster to strike Maui in a lifetime.

It has been a month since the Aug. 8 wind-fueled wildfires roared through Lāhainā, indiscriminately taking lives that were nurtured here. Communities are mourning their loss, grieving alongside their loved ones and coming to a deeper understanding that healing will take time.

The same fires destroyed or severely damaged thousands of structures in Lāhainā and knocked out the water supply for Upcountry communities around Kula. The flames turned the colorful, historic town of Lāhainā into a shadow of its former self. Burnt-out cars became melted hulks on Front Street. Singed leaves dangled from the trees that still stood. The King Kamehameha III Elementary School fell, and the children of Lāhainā lost their toys, their teddy bears, their bikes and their games.

Thousands of residents lost their homes and their livelihoods. But what remains of Lāhainā is a tightknit community that shares a collective loss and a commitment to the future. Neighbors are helping neighbors.

Maui arborists, landscapers and volunteers worked to save the town’s famed 150-year-old banyan tree. Community groups stepped in to lend a hand. They collected water, food, clothing and blankets, and took care of each other. Nā ‘Aikāne o Maui Lāhainā Cultural Center set up an orange tent near the Kāʻanapali resorts and filled it with a department store’s worth of donated goods. That’s where two little girls found shiny, new bikes and reason to giggle as they rode around Kāʻanapali this week. Right after the fires, staff from the center temporarily set up at the Lāhainā Post Office before moving to the tent to serve the community.

Disaster response is a shared kuleana. It is a collaborative effort that springs from crisis, led by communities with the support of all levels of government, nonprofits and private companies. From the start, the State of Hawaiʻi and Maui County teamed up with the American Red Cross, supported by FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and other federal and local partners, to manage the response and recovery effort. The federal presence has been significant, with more than 1,500 personnel in Maui and Oʻahu. Working together as one ʻohana is healing.

Local, state and federal agencies are also working with trusted local community leaders and faith-based organizations that understand, deeply, the history and culture of Maui. Their guidance is enabling recovery teams to address the challenges on the ground and connect with survivors in a way that resonates with the community. For example, FEMA has modified its “one application per residence” requirement and will allow multiple people, who often live under one family roof in Lāhainā, to apply individually for FEMA assistance. Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners conduct blessing ceremonies for the opening of each disaster recovery center.

The Red Cross has served more than 198,000 meals and hosted nearly 98,500 overnight stays in the first month of the disaster. The state has tapped the humanitarian group to coordinate emergency housing with Maui County for disaster survivors, an effort funded by FEMA. Through the Red Cross, Maui County and FEMA, more than 6,500 survivors are now staying in hotels and timeshare properties where they can develop plans to return to their homes or other more permanent residences. The robust Red Cross effort is ongoing, with families and individuals receiving meals, casework and emotional support. That is how the people of Hawaiʻi care for and support the Maui ʻohana.

Financial support has also flowed. To date, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration have approved more than $65 million in federal assistance for Maui survivors. That total includes $21 million in FEMA assistance approved for individuals and households. Of the $21 million, $10 million was approved for housing assistance and $10.8 million more approved for essentials like clothing, furniture, appliances and cars. SBA disaster loans total nearly $45 million for Maui homeowners, renters and businesses. SBA loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. 

FEMA specialists who were part of the initial wave of responders arriving on the island have helped residents apply for FEMA assistance. So far, more than 5,000 survivors have been approved for FEMA Individual Assistance. That number will keep growing.

Three disaster recovery centers are open in Lāhainā, Makawao and Kahului to help all who lost something essential in the fires. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement also opened a disaster relief center at Maui Mall for survivors who prefer to receive help from other Native Hawaiians.

At disaster recovery centers and the Family Assistance Center, on bulletin boards around the island and across the media, residents can get information critical to their recovery – information that some say is as important as food and water after a major disaster. It helps survivors take those first steps to getting their lives back in order.

On another front, power and water are being restored to Lāhainā and the Upcountry region of Maui. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which supplied temporary power to fire-ravaged areas, has even begun redeploying its generators. It is a clear sign of measurable progress as power is restored. The U.S Environmental Protection Agency has begun identifying and removing hazardous materials from properties struck by the flames. Maui County officials are working closely with the state and the Corps of Engineers to manage the safe and careful removal of debris, a necessary step toward recovery.

Amid the ashen landscape, a flash of light: two little girls on shiny new bikes pedaling faster and faster. In their laughter, you can hear it: ʻOhana is family.

martyce.allenjr Sat, 09/09/2023 - 18:40

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

TALLAHASSEE – Survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA after Hurricane Idalia will receive an eligibility letter from FEMA in the mail or via email. 

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds. 

Applicants who were initially found ineligible or disagree with the amount of assistance approved can appeal FEMA’s determination. Applicants may only need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue processing the application. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.

If you have questions about the letter, call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs. 

FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance. FEMA assistance only provides funds for temporary lodging, basic home repairs or other disaster-related expenses.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

Applicants who disagree with FEMA’s decision, or the amount of assistance, may submit an appeal letter and documents supporting their claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs, or missing documents as described in the determination letter.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. However, those who are underinsured may receive further assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled.

The appeal must be in writing. In a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should include: 

• Applicant’s full name 
• Disaster number (DR-4734 for Hurricane Idalia)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence 
• Applicant’s current phone number and address 
• The FEMA application number on all documents

If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal letter on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party. Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.  

Appeal letters must be postmarked within 60 days of the date of the eligibility letter. Letters and supporting documents may be submitted to FEMA by fax, mail or via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions. 

By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055

By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA 

You may also visit your nearest Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) and submit your appeal. For information on open DRCs, and DRC hours you can visit our DRC Locator page at: DRC Locator (fema.gov) Search by state and select Florida.

For an accessible video on the FEMA eligibility letter go to, FEMA Accessible: Understanding Your Letter - YouTube.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Sat, 09/09/2023 - 18:07

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Florida

TALLAHASSEE – A public notice has been posted to the FEMA website describing available FEMA assistance and proposed FEMA-funded actions, including activities that may affect historic properties, threatened and endangered species, critical habitat, or wetlands and floodplains in Florida.  

FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the agency’s Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grants programs.  

The public notice addresses FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged by Hurricane Idalia in designated counties.  

The public notice is posted on FEMA’s disaster web page at: DR-4734-FL Public Notice 001 | FEMA.gov and on the Florida Division of Emergency Management web page at floridadisaster.org/news-media/news/20230906-dr-4734-fl-disaster-wide-public-notice2/.

Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific project by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region 4, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30341-4112, or by email at FEMA-R4EHP-FLORIDA@fema.dhs.gov. Please include in the subject line of the email, “DR 4734-FL EHAD”. Comments should be sent in writing to the above address within 30 days of the date of this notice.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Fri, 09/08/2023 - 20:48