Six Tips for A Flood Smart Spring

CHICAGO – With an above normal spring flood risk across much of Minnesota and western Wisconsin, waiting until the weather warms to prepare may end up costing you thousands of dollars in expensive repairs.  

“Your first priority in any emergency should always be the physical safety of you, your loved ones, and your pets,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “Take simple and even low- or no-cost steps now to ensure your household and property are as resilient as possible against the threat of flooding in the months ahead.”

Protect yourself and your loved ones:

1. Know where to go for the latest updates. Timely information on weather conditions like a flood can make a big difference. Sign up for local alerts & warnings and receive real-time weather and emergency alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide by downloading the FEMA app. Learn more about the different kinds of weather alerts you can get and how you can get them on our website: Emergency Alerts | Ready.gov.  
2. Know where your gas, water and electrical shutoffs are located. Electrical sparks could ignite natural gas if it is leaking, and they could also cause other flammable materials to catch fire. Shutting off gas before emergencies can also avoid leaks and explosions. Cracked water lines after a disaster could pollute your water supply, so you may need to shut that off too, until you know it’s safe to drink.  
3. Make an emergency communications plan. Ensure everyone knows where to go, what to do and how to reconnect after a disaster.

Protect your property:

4. Talk to your insurance agent about buying flood insurance. Flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters and business owners so you don’t have to be financially vulnerable to floods. Visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more about the coverages available and costs involved. A policy purchased today will take 30 days to take effect, so act now!
5. Waterproof your basement. Install a water alarm and maintain a working sump pump to protect your basement. Install a battery-operated backup pump in case of power failure.
6. Remember S.E.T. Store documents like passports, medical records, insurance information and birth certificates in a flood-safe place. Elevate items that you want to protect, like critical utilities or valuables. Toss out debris from gutters and drains to avoid an accumulation of water.

To learn more about preparing for floods, how to purchase a flood insurance policy and the benefits of protecting your home or property investment against flooding visit www.FloodSmart.gov or call 1-800-427-2419. Individuals can always find valuable preparedness information at www.Ready.gov/floods.

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

nicole.wilson Wed, 03/15/2023 - 15:25

Two Disaster Recovery Centers in Dallas County to Close March 16

PRATTVILLE, Ala. – The two FEMA-state Disaster Recovery Centers in Dallas County will close permanently March 16.

The centers are currently open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. They will close permanently at 6 p.m. Central Time, March 16, 2023.

WHERE:

Dallas County

Dr. Michael and Catherine Bullock Community Center

1428 Broad St.

Selma, AL 36701

 

Dallas County

Felix Heights Community Center

405 Medical Center Pkwy.

Selma, AL 36701

 

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance.

The centers provide one-on-one help to people affected by the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes.

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center.

Survivors may also apply for assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA app for smartphones or calling 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time 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 for assistance for all designated counties is March 16, 2023.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Tue, 03/14/2023 - 21:01

FEMA Offers Free Rebuilding Tips at Marvin’s in Selma

PRATTVILLE, Ala.– Repairing or rebuilding your home? Disaster survivors who are working on their homes after the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes can visit Marvin’s Hardware Store in Selma to speak with FEMA mitigation specialists about their damage and discuss how to best repair their homes.

Mitigation advisors will give tips about rebuilding and protecting homes from future disaster-related damage. Most of the information is geared toward do-it-yourself work and general contractors. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available between March 16 and March 21 at:

Marvin’s Hardware Store

1500 AL-Hwy 14 East

Selma, AL 36703

 

Hours:

7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, March 16

7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, March 17

7:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday, March 18

1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, March 19

7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday, March 20

7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday, March 21

 

Specialists are also available on the Mitigation Helpline, 833-336-2487 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, Central Time. You may leave a voicemail at any time. Or you may email FEMA-R4-HMHELP@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Tue, 03/14/2023 - 20:45

FEMA Urges California and Nevada Residents to Heed Flood Warnings

WASHINGTON -- Residents in parts of central California and western Nevada are urged to pay attention to local officials as additional heavy rains and flooding are predicted.

The National Weather Service predicts widespread rain, snow and strong winds with scattered thunderstorms bringing a risk of local flash flooding and hail this week. Mandatory evacuation orders remain for residents in 10 California counties and shelters are open. Minimal power outages may also occur throughout the affected area along with road closures.

President Biden issued an emergency declaration for California on Friday, authorizing FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts in Amador, Butte, El Dorado, Fresno, Humboldt, Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Lake, Los Angeles, Madera, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Francisco, San Mateo, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sierra, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne and Yuba counties.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell also spoke with California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday and with Hoopa Valley Tribal Chairman Joe Davis and Tule River Tribe Chairman Neil Peyron this past weekend to ensure federal coordination efforts.

In addition, two FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are on the ground supporting the California Emergency Operations Center and managing an incident support base for staging supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is delivering sandbags, while Urban Search and Rescue teams remain on standby to support if needed.

A FEMA liaison officer is already in place working with Nevada Division of Emergency Management and an Incident Management Assistance Team is deploying to assist the state.

Safety Messaging

Residents in the affected areas should pay attention to local authorities for information and instructions. If told to evacuate, do so.  Other important safety tips for flash and localized flooding include:

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
• Avoid driving except in cases of emergencies. Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
• Make sure you can receive emergency alerts. You can download the FEMA App to receive real-time weather alerts, send notifications to loved ones, locate emergency shelters in your area and more.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.

For information on preparing for severe storms, flooding and power outages, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 03/13/2023 - 18:48

FEMA Awards Nearly $6 Million to Plymouth State University for COVID Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $6 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Plymouth State University for the cost of providing testing for students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $5,956,630 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the public university will reimburse it for the cost of providing 214,372  polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and 36,240 antigen testing kits between December 2020 and March 2022.

In addition to the cost of the tests, the grant will also cover the expenses associated with administering them such as signs, waste containers and wristbands, as well as the cost of repairing the floor of the gym used as a testing facility due to damage caused by high foot traffic.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Plymouth State University with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $203 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 03/13/2023 - 18:40

FEMA Awards Rhode Island Almost $13.5 Million for COVID Staffing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $13.5 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state’s health agency for the costs of contracting for public health and epidemiology staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $13,478,747 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the Rhode Island Department of Health for the cost of contracting to provide staffing for case investigation, outbreak control and other emergency protective measures statewide between July 2021 and March 2022.

The staffing included personnel such as physician consultants, nursing consultants, COVID-19 call center interpreters, emergency management, program management, professional services, and temporary staff including nurses, case investigators, and epidemiologists.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Rhode Island Department of Health with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic fight is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

This grant brings the total awarded by FEMA to the State of Rhode Island to almost $632 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 03/13/2023 - 18:33

FEMA Awards Over $1.5 Million to City of Boston for COVID-19 School Cleaning

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.5 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the City of Boston for the cost of overtime to clean and disinfect public schools during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,539,097 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the City of Boston for the cost of paying 535 staff some 90,771 hours of overtime to clean and disinfect 130 school buildings during the 2020-2021 school year so that they could be safely opened and operated.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the City of Boston with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 03/13/2023 - 18:32

FEMA Awards Almost $2.4 Million to Tufts University for COVID-19 Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $2.4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Tufts University for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,397,133 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private university in Medford for the cost of contracting to administer 107,354 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests at its four campuses in the greater Boston area between August 2021 and June 2022.

The grant also covers the costs of purchasing and distributing some 18,212 home test kits and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N95 masks to students and faculty, as well as contracting for a delivery service to transport PCR test specimens to a testing facility.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Tufts University with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 03/13/2023 - 18:27

Avoid and Report Disaster Fraud

LAKE MARY, Fla. – A survivor recently reported getting a text that their “federal government check in the amount of $2800 has been disbursed”. The text instructed the survivor to visit a link and provide personal information for FEMA to verify. This is a scam. Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person. FEMA is not providing any financial assistance in the amount of $2,800.00. If you have applied for disaster assistance, FEMA will notify you of its decision. The agency may also contact you if it needs additional information to process your application. This may come in the form of a letter. In some instances, you may receive a phone call. Review your FEMA letters carefully.

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov to create an online account with FEMA. Be extremely careful when clicking any links.

Here is a list of other possible scams that may target Hurricane Ian survivors:

Identity Theft

• Disaster survivors should be aware con artists and criminals may try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.
• If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you have not filed a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge. Tell the inspector you did not apply for FEMA assistance.
• If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call our Helpline at 800-621-3362 any day between 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.

If you believe you are the victim of a contracting scam, price gouging or other fraudulent activity, contact local law enforcement and report it to the Office of the Attorney General by calling 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226) or visit myfloridalegal.com. To file a fraud complaint, go online to Scam Report (myfloridalegal.com). or contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ftc.gov/complaint.

Telephone calls

• FEMA will only reach out if you have already applied for assistance. If you are contacted by someone asking you to apply for FEMA assistance or if you question someone’s intent, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA

• Be cautious if somebody asks for your nine-digit application number. A FEMA inspector will not ask for this. They already have it in their records and may provide it to you to confirm they are interacting with the correct person.
• FEMA inspectors never ask for or confirm banking information.
• Ask the inspector to show you their identification badge. Federal and contracted employees always wear an official government badge to identify themselves.

Someone comes to your home without a FEMA photo ID

• Do not let someone into your home who claims to be a FEMA employee but does not have a FEMA photo ID. All FEMA representatives carry a laminated photo ID.

Fake offers of local or federal aid

• Don’t trust someone who asks for money. Federal and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and staff from the Small Business Administration never charge for inspections or help in filling out a disaster assistance application.
• Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant and asks for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.

Charitable giving

• A list of reputable charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s “Wise Giving Alliance” can be found at www.give.org.

Rental listings

• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has information on how rental scams work. For instance, scammers know finding the right apartment or vacation rental can be hard work, and a seemingly good deal is hard to pass up when you need a place to stay. Learn more at www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0079-rental-listing-scams.

bree-constance… Mon, 03/13/2023 - 17:24

Christian County Receives Nearly $1.2 Million in Federal Funding to Repair and Strengthen Electric Grid

FRANKFORT, Ky.– FEMA has approved nearly $1.2 million in total funding to reimburse the Pennyrile Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation (PRECC) for repairs to its power distribution system. This damage was due to severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and tornadoes that occurred Dec. 10-11, 2021.

During this storm, power lines and trees were downed, damaging the PRECC electric grid in Christian County. FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations including rural electric cooperatives, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters.

FEMA approved $1,176,260 to reimburse the PRECC for repair efforts. The electrical co-op used contract workers and PRECC crews, equipment and vehicles to assist with the repairs. They removed/replaced 200 wood poles, 53 transformers along with conductor wire, insulators, guy wires, crossarms and associated hardware. The project restored the power distribution system back to its pre-disaster design, function, and capacity within the existing footprint.

Because of the damage from this storm, President Biden authorized a cost share adjustment to 90% federal funding for this project. All work and costs were between Dec. 11, 2021, and May 20, 2022. This means FEMA reimburses applicants at 90% of eligible costs with the remaining 10% covered by the commonwealth. The federal share is paid directly to the commonwealth to disburse to the PRECC.  Following the commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they reimburse the PRECC.

A hazard mitigation proposal was included in this project to reduce the likelihood of similar damage from a future event. To increase the wind resistance and overall resilience of the power distribution system the PRECC reinforced specific poles with extra guy wires and anchors.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 03/13/2023 - 16:54

Be Prepared for Future Disasters

PRATTVILLE, Ala.– Tornadoes may end up causing massive destruction to homes, property, and infrastructure. Typically, tornadoes cause the greatest damage to structures of light construction, including residential dwellings and particularly manufactured homes.

Mitigation measures are available to improve personal safety and reduce or eliminate the risk of future damage to structures and personal property. FEMA building specialists can give information on how to repair, retrofit, or rebuild to be safer and stronger before the next disaster.

Roof failures are a common cause of major damage to buildings and their contents from high winds. There are mitigation measures that can be taken to reduce potential roof damage.

These mitigation measures include:

• Designing wind-resistant roofs
• Reinforcing gable roof ends
• Securing sheathing properly
• Installing shingles properly

Exterior doors and windows are the weakest parts of a structure’s outer shell. If they are broken or blown in, high winds can enter a structure and create internal pressures which act on the roof and walls, resulting in serious damage. Once the structure is breached, wind, debris, and rain can damage the interior of the structure or injure any person inside.

Breach point mitigation measures include:

• Reinforcing garage doors
• Securing double-entry doors
• Installing impact-resistant glass

Always check with local building official before beginning any repairs or rebuilding .

• Building codes, permits, inspection requirements, and zoning ordinances may be involved.
• A floodplain ordinance will affect rebuilding when the structure has sustained substantial damage and is situated in a floodplain.

Building officials will reinforce the point that only licensed professionals are qualified to perform structural repair or structural mitigation work.

FEMA mitigation specialist are available to talk to survivors about their damage and discuss how to best repair their homes on the Mitigation Helpline. Survivors can call 833-336-2487 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Central Time. Survivors may leave a voicemail at any time or email FEMA-R4-HMHELP@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Mon, 03/13/2023 - 16:10

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for California

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of California to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning March 9, 2023, and continuing. 

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of catastrophe in the counties of Amador, Butte, El Dorado, Fresno, Humboldt, Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Lake, Los Angeles, Madera, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Francisco, San Mateo, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sierra, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne and Yuba.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program will be provided at 75% federal funding. 

Andrew F. Grant has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 03/10/2023 - 20:46

FEMA Awards Over $2 Million to City of Boston for COVID-19 Supplies

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the City of Boston for the cost of purchasing emergency supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,006,134 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the cost of personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies distributed to both its staff and community partners to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

The PPE and supplies purchased between March and December 2020 included masks, gloves, safety glasses, face shields, N95 masks, disinfecting wipes and sanitizer.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Boston Public Health Commission with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 03/10/2023 - 20:11

FEMA Awards Nearly $1.4 Million to Massachusetts for COVID-19 Supplies

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse it for the cost of purchasing emergency supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,377,794 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for the cost of personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies purchased to address COVID-19.

The PPE and supplies purchased between June 2020 and June 2021 included gloves, masks, gowns, face shields, storage carts and containers, respirator supplies, syringes, bandages, breathing tubes, thermometers and sanitizing supplies.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Massachusetts Department of Public Health with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 03/10/2023 - 17:02

One Week Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

ATLANTA – There are two dates coming up on the calendar that disaster survivors from Butts, Henry, Jasper, Meriwether, Newton, Pike, Spalding and Troup counties should be aware of.

Monday, March 20, is the last day to apply for FEMA assistance if you had uninsured or underinsured damage to your property after the January storms and tornadoes. The last day to apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration is three days earlier, Friday, March 17.

Homeowners who had damage should apply for FEMA disaster assistance because your insurance may not cover all of your damage. Renters who had losses caused by tornadoes are also encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Your losses may include damage to personal property such as furniture, appliances and vehicles.

After a disaster, you may find that a FEMA grant and your insurance settlement do not give you all the funds you need to restore your home to its pre-disaster condition. SBA’s disaster loans can help with the recovery of homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses of all sizes.

Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property including vehicles. Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or working capital.

Homeowners and renters are encouraged to submit an SBA disaster loan application even if you’re not sure you will need or want a loan. There is no obligation to take all or part of an approved loan. If SBA cannot approve the application, SBA will refer you to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance.

If your SBA application is approved, you are not obligated to accept the loan. However, if you fail to return the application, that decision may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance and other grants or services. All disaster loans approved through Sept. 30, 2023, will be granted 12 months of no payments at zero percent interest.

Here are the ways to apply for FEMA disaster assistance by Monday, March 20:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6

To apply for an SBA disaster loan for property damage by Friday, March 17, or to download applications, go to https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/. You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov to have a loan application mailed to you.

For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services. You may also apply or leave your loan application with an SBA representative at one of their five Business Recovery Centers. For the locations of the centers, click https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/sfc/servlet.shepherd/version/download/068t000000izy1BAAQ.

You may mail completed SBA paper loan applications to:

U.S. Small Business Administration,

Processing and Disbursement Center

14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4685. You may also follow @GeorgiaEMAHS/Twitter, Facebook.com/GeorgiaEMAHS, @FEMARegion4/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

felicia.jordan Fri, 03/10/2023 - 14:41

ICYMI: Biden-Harris Administration, Black Resilience Network Highlight Importance of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships at Climate Resilience Roundtable

WASHINGTON -- Last week, FEMA joined the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, the Black Resilience Network and others to discuss efforts to reinforce climate resilience.

The roundtable discussion brought together Black faith-based and community organizations and partners from private and philanthropic sectors, sharing tools and resources to strengthen a whole-of-community approach to climate resilience.

“FEMA cannot address the climate emergency alone. It requires a whole-of-government approach and whole-of-community involvement,” said DHS Center Director Marcus Coleman. “Preparing our communities for a changing world also requires a coalition-driven approach to building climate resilience across the nation, and it will take all of us to do so now.”

The roundtable event included a facilitated discussion led by the Black Resilience Network, a membership community that offers learning and networking experiences focused on racial justice, crisis leadership, and resilience.

“The Black Resilience Network is excited for future opportunities for collaboration that will come out of this convening,” Executive Director of Next Leadership Development Dr. Atyia Martin. “Our members showed great expertise and passion as they shared our priorities and extended several opportunities for collaboration on climate and disaster resilience with black towns, communities and organizations. We are grateful to be a part of such a historic moment.”

Attendees shared their stories of resilience and ways to increase collaboration to strengthen our nation’s preparedness and resilience.  

“I was awestruck by the breadth of work being done across the nation,” said FEMA’s Assistant Administrator of Grants Program Directorate Pam Williams. “The creative and impactful ways these remarkable community leaders have found to build resilience is to be applauded.”

In addition to speakers from FEMA, presenters included representatives from nonprofit, philanthropy, private sector and federal agencies, including the Small Business Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, Health and Human Services, Department of Agriculture and Department of Commerce Offices of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“Convenings such as the Climate Resilience Roundtable provide an opportunity for networking, learning and sharing across organizations and sectors,” said President & CEO of National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) April Wood. “At NVOAD, we recognize the importance of volunteerism and the 4C’s: cooperation, communication, coordination and collaboration, and this event was instrumental in connecting organizations and programs to promote a holistic approach to supporting climate resilience.”

Attendees also learned about initiatives to increase climate resilience at a community level such as Community Disaster Resilience Zones, USDA Climate Hubs, participation in the Resilient Nation Partnership Network and other federal initiatives that advance the FEMA Strategic Goal to lead whole of community climate resilience and other climate-related priorities that promote proactive community engagement with historically underserved populations.

“It’s encouraging to see the federal government engaging with community-based organizations and the private sector to provide resources, tools and technical assistance to vulnerable populations,” said Executive Director of Build Strong Coalition Natalie Enclade.  “Providing aid to these communities is a core part of the Build Strong Coalition’s mission, and we’re looking forward to continuing to work with our federal partners and the like-minded organizations that participated in this event to build a stronger and more resilient America.”

The event inspired by the 2022 National Women Leaders In Public Health, Emergency Management & Environmental/Climate Justice, also supports FEMA’s Strategic Plan and the DHS Secretary’s priority to ready the nation to respond to and recover from disasters and adapt and respond to the climate crisis.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 03/09/2023 - 20:41

One Week Left for Jan. 12 Alabama Storm Survivors to Apply for Federal Assistance

PRATTVILLE, Ala.– Alabama homeowners and renters who sustained damage to their primary property due to the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes have one week left to apply for federal assistance.

The deadline is March 16, 2023, for survivors to apply for federal assistance in Autauga, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Greene, Hale, Mobile, Morgan, Sumter, and Tallapoosa counties.

Homeowners and renters in the designated counties can apply for assistance the following ways:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time 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.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov 
• Download the free FEMA mobile app for smartphones

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw

When applying, homeowners and renters will need:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security Number
• A general list of damage and losses
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

If you are unable to locate important documents, FEMA will help you to identify other ways to verify your 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 information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Thu, 03/09/2023 - 20:06

Federal Disaster Assistance to Eastern Kentucky Flood Survivors Tops $159 million, FEMA aid reaches $101 million

FRANKFORT, Ky.— As Eastern Kentuckians continue to recover from last year’s disastrous flooding, more than $158 million in low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration and direct disaster assistance through FEMA have flowed into communities to help jumpstart the recovery process. Of that amount, FEMA has provided more than $101 million in direct awards to survivors.

Small Business Administration

To date, the U.S. Small Business Administration has approved nearly $58 million in low-interest disaster loans. The SBA is the number one source of federal disaster recovery funding. Through low-interest disaster loans the SBA provides recovery loans to businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters.

For homeowners and renters, the SBA has approved 724 disaster loans totaling more than $52 million dollars. These loans can be used to repair or replace a survivor’s disaster damaged home and personal property. Additionally, 49 businesses and private non-profits have been approved for loans totaling more than $5.7 million. These funds will help these businesses and organizations recover by replacing real estate, machinery and equipment, and inventory and business assets.

Individuals and Households Program as of March 7, 2023

When it comes to FEMA assistance, nearly 8,700 homeowners and renters have been approved for more than $101 million in federal awards through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Unlike SBA loans, this money does not have to be paid back. This includes:

• More than $74.6 million in repair assistance to help survivors make basic repairs to make their home safe, sanitary and functional.
  • As part of this amount, more than 1,900 Kentuckians received additional funds to help repair or rebuild their homes safer and stronger. These funds may be awarded to elevate a furnace, elevate a water heater or elevate or move an electrical panel to help the homeowner mitigate and minimize damage from future disasters.
• More than $6.4 million in replacement assistance was approved to help survivors replace disaster destroyed homes. Replacement assistance may provide funds to owners whose primary residences were destroyed due to a Presidentially declared disaster. Replacement Assistance may be applied toward purchasing a new permanent residence even if the new residence's cost is greater than the IHP maximum amount of assistance.
• Nearly $7.2 million in rental assistance was provided to more than 5,000 applicants. FEMA rental assistance is an award to help survivors pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their disaster damaged home. FEMA awards eligible applicants an initial Rental Assistance payment based on the Fair Market Rent established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the county or where their pre-disaster residence is located and the number of bedrooms the household requires.
• FEMA Individual Assistance went the extra mile by conducting phone calls directly to FEMA applicants. Because of this outreach more than $32.8 million in recovery funds were approved for applicants.

Direct Temporary Housing Assistance

• Due to a lack of rental resources in flood affected communities, the Commonwealth requested Direct Temporary Housing Assistance. FEMA provides Direct Temporary Housing Assistance for up to 18 months from the date of the declaration when adequate, alternate housing is unavailable. Direct Temporary Housing is available in six counties (Breathitt, Floyd, Knott, Letcher Perry and Pike) that the Commonwealth identified as having a lack of rental resources.
  • Currently there are 85 households in temporary housing units in 5 counties.
  • To date, 17 families have moved out of Direct Temporary Housing and located permanent housing.

Other Needs Assistance

Other Needs Assistance provides financial assistance for disaster-related necessary expenses and serious needs that are not covered by insurance or provided by any other source. More than $13.3 million in ONA has been awarded to Kentucky survivors. This includes:

• More than $1.6 million in Critical Needs Assistance to more than 3,300 applicants who had immediate or critical needs because they were displaced from their primary residence or to applicants who need assistance to leave their pre-disaster primary residence for temporarily shelter elsewhere. Immediate or critical needs are lifesaving and life-sustaining items including, but not limited to water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, personal hygiene items, and fuel for transportation.
• More than $710,000 in Transportation Assistance was provided to 106 applicants. This assistance may be provided to individuals and households with disaster-caused vehicle repair or replacement expenses.
• More than $10.6 million in Personal Property Assistance was provided to more than 2,400 applicants. FEMA may provide financial assistance to repair or replace personal property damaged or destroyed due to a disaster. Items eligible for personal property assistance include appliances, clothing, room furnishings and essential tools and equipment required by an employer.
• More than $11,000 in moving and storage assistance was provided to 26 applicants for expenses incurred on or after the incident period start date to avoid additional disaster damage.
• Nearly $49,000 for disaster related medical expenses was provided to 14 applicants for medical or dental expenses caused by a disaster.
• More than $135,000 for Clean and Sanitize Assistance was awarded to 452 applicants. Clean and Sanitize Assistance is intended to ensure contamination from floodwaters is addressed in a timely manner to prevent additional losses and potential health and safety concerns.
• More than $61,000 in assistance for miscellaneous items. Eligible miscellaneous items are items purchased or rented after the incident to assist with the applicant’s disaster recovery, such as gaining access to the property or assisting with cleaning efforts.
• Through ONA, more than 1,100 homeowners have been enrolled in Group Flood Insurance Policies. GFIP helps to reduce future expenses from floods. FEMA directly purchases three years of flood insurance coverage at a cost of $2400 for each policy.

Though the application period for FEMA assistance ended in October of last year, The agency has continued to work with disaster survivors to help them receive assistance. Since October, an additional more than $19 million has been approved for eligible Kentuckians.

Kentuckians with questions about a pending application or appeal are encouraged to contact the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

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

ricardo.zuniga Thu, 03/09/2023 - 16:32

La asistencia federal por desastre para los sobrevivientes de las inundaciones en Kentucky sobrepasa $159 millones y la ayuda de FEMA alcanza $101 millones

FRANKFORT, Kentucky — Mientras los habitantes del este de Kentucky siguen recuperándose de las desastrosas inundaciones del año pasado, más de $159 millones en préstamos por desastres a bajo interés de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) y la asistencia directa por desastre a través de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) han llegado a las comunidades para ayudar a imp0ulsar el proceso de recuperación. De esa cantidad, FEMA ha proporcionado más de $101 millones en otorgamientos directos a los sobrevivientes.

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. Federal de Pequeños Negocios

Hasta la fecha, la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios ha aprobado casi $58 millones en préstamos por desastre a bajo interés. SBA es la fuente principal de fondos federales para la recuperación de desastres. A través de préstamos por desastre a bajo interés, SBA proporciona préstamos de recuperación a negocios de todos los tamaños, organizaciones privadas sin fines de lucro, propietarios de vivienda e inquilinos.

Para propietarios de vivienda e inquilinos, SBA ha aprobado 724 préstamos por desastre, para un total de más de $52 millones. Estos préstamos se pueden utilizar para reparar o remplazar la vivienda y propiedad personal del sobreviviente, dañados por el desastre. Además, 49 negocios y organizaciones privadas sin fines de lucro por un total de más de $5.7 millones. Estos fondos ayudarán a estos negocios y organizaciones a recuperarse mediante el reemplazo de bienes raíces, maquinaria y equipo, inventario y activos comerciales.

1. 1. 1. 1. 16. de Individuos y Familias de FEMA
                8. el 7 de marzo de 2023

En lo que respecta a la asistencia de FEMA, cerca de 8,700 propietarios de vivienda e inquilinos han sido aprobados para recibir más de $101 millones en otorgamientos federales a través del Programa de Individuos y Familias (IHP, por sus siglas en inglés). A diferencia de los préstamos de SBA, este dinero no tiene que devolverse. Esto incluye:

• Más de $74.6 millones en ayudas de reparación para ayudar a los sobrevivientes a realizar las reparaciones básicas para que su vivienda sea segura, limpia y funcional.
  • Como parte de esta cantidad, más de 1,900 habitantes de Kentucky recibieron fondos adicionales para ayudar a reparar o reconstruir sus viviendas de una forma más segura y sólida. Estos fondos pueden otorgarse para elevar una caldera, calentador de agua, elevar o trasladar un panel eléctrico para ayudar al propietario a mitigar y minimizar daños por futuros desastres.
• Se aprobaron más de $6.4 millones en asistencia de remplazo para ayudar a los sobrevivientes a remplazar las viviendas destruidas por el desastre. La asistencia de remplazo puede proporcionar fondos a los propietarios cuyas residencias principales fueron destruidas por un desastre declarado por el presidente. La asistencia de remplazo puede aplicarse a la compra de una nueva residencia permanente, aunque el costo de la nueva residencia sea superior al máximo de la ayuda de IHP.
• Se proporcionaron casi $7.2 millones en asistencia de alquiler a más de 5,000 solicitantes. La asistencia de alquiler de FEMA se otorga para ayudar a los sobrevivientes a pagar un lugar donde vivir mientras reparan o reconstruyen su vivienda dañada por el desastre. FEMA otorga a los solicitantes elegibles un pago inicial de asistencia de alquiler basado en el alquiler de mercado justo, establecido por el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de EE. UU. (HUD) para el condado o donde se encuentra su residencia antes del desastre y la cantidad de habitaciones que requiere la familia.
• La Asistencia Individual de FEMA hizo un esfuerzo adicional al realizar llamadas telefónicas directamente a los solicitantes de FEMA. Debido a este alcance, se aprobaron más de $32.8 millones en fondos de recuperación para los solicitantes.
  1. 1. 1. 2. de Vivienda Provisional Directa de FEMA
• Debido a la falta de recursos de alquiler en las comunidades afectadas por las inundaciones, el estado solicitó Asistencia de Vivienda Provisional Directa. FEMA proporciona Asistencia de Vivienda Provisional Directa por hasta 18 meses a partir de la fecha de la declaración cuando no haya disponibilidad de una vivienda alternativa adecuada. La vivienda provisional directa está disponible en seis condados (Breathitt, Floyd, Knott, Letcher Perry y Pike) que el estado identificó como carentes de recursos de alquiler.
  • Actualmente hay 85 familias en unidades de vivienda provisional en 5 condados.
  • Hasta la fecha, 17 familias se han mudado de la vivienda provisional directa y se han ubicado en una vivienda permanente.
    1. 1. 2. para Otras Necesidades de FEMA

La Asistencia para Otras Necesidades de FEMA brinda asistencia financiera para los gastos necesarios relacionados con el desastre y las necesidades graves que no están cubiertas por el seguro ni son provistas por ninguna otra fuente. Se han otorgado más de $13.3 millones en ONA a los sobrevivientes en Kentucky. Esto incluye:

• Más de $1.6 millones en Asistencia para Necesidades Críticas para más de 3,300 solicitantes que tenían necesidades inmediatas o críticas porque fueron desplazados de su residencia principal o para solicitantes que necesitan asistencia para dejar su residencia principal previa al desastre para refugiarse temporalmente en otro lugar. Las necesidades inmediatas o críticas son aquellos artículos de socorro y de subsistencia que incluyen, entre otros: agua, alimentos, primeros auxilios, medicamentos, fórmulas para bebé, pañales, artículos de higiene personal y combustible para transporte.
• Se proporcionaron más de $710,000 en Asistencia de Transporte a 106 solicitantes. Esta asistencia se puede brindar a individuos y familias con gastos de reparación o reemplazo de vehículos causados por desastres.
• Se proporcionaron más de $10.6 millones en asistencia para propiedad personal a más de 2,400 solicitantes. FEMA puede brindar asistencia financiera para reparar o reemplazar propiedad personal dañada o destruida debido a un desastre. Los artículos elegibles para asistencia de propiedad personal incluyen electrodomésticos, ropa, muebles de habitación y herramientas y equipos esenciales requeridos por un empleador.
• Se proporcionaron más de $11,000 en ayudas para mudanza y almacenamiento a 26 solicitantes para gastos incurridos en la fecha de inicio del periodo del incidente o después, con el fin de evitar daños adicionales por el desastre.
• Se proporcionaron cerca de $49,000 a 14 solicitantes para cubrir gastos médicos o dentales ocasionados por un desastre.
• Se otorgaron más de $135,000 para asistencia de limpieza y desinfección a 452 solicitantes. La asistencia de limpieza y desinfección tiene como objetivo garantizar que la contaminación de las inundaciones se aborde de manera oportuna para evitar pérdidas adicionales y posibles problemas de salud y seguridad.
• Más de $61,000 en asistencia para artículos misceláneos. Los artículos misceláneos elegibles son artículos comprados o alquilados después del incidente para ayudar con la recuperación del desastre del solicitante, como obtener acceso a la propiedad o ayudar con las tareas de limpieza.
• A través de ONA, más de 1,100 propietarios de vivienda se han inscrito en Pólizas Grupales del Seguro de Inundación (GFIP, por sus siglas en inglés). Las GFIP ayudan a reducir los gastos futuros por inundaciones. FEMA compra directamente tres años de cobertura del seguro de inundación a un costo de $2,400 por cada póliza.

Aunque el período de solicitud de asistencia de FEMA finalizó en octubre del año pasado, la agencia ha seguido trabajando con los sobrevivientes del desastre para ayudarlos a recibir asistencia. Desde octubre, se han aprobado más de $19 millones adicionales para los residentes elegibles en Kentucky.

Se recomienda a los residentes de Kentucky que tengan preguntas sobre una solicitud o apelación pendiente, que se comuniquen con la línea de ayuda de asistencia por desastre al 800-621-3362. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otro servicio, brinde a FEMA el número de ese servicio.

Para obtener la información más reciente sobre la recuperación tras las inundaciones en Kentucky, visite femagov/es/disaster/4663 y siga a FEMA en Twitter en twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visite el sitio web del Gobernador en governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

ricardo.zuniga Thu, 03/09/2023 - 16:21

FEMA Supports Economic Development in Waterfronts and Boardwalks

FEMA allocated over $5.7 million to repair these structures in several of the island’s municipalities

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico - Fernando Rodríguez Gil owns one of the nine restaurants on the Costero del Sur boardwalk located in the Capitanejo neighborhood of Juana Díaz. For eight years, his business has enriched the culinary offer at the boardwalk.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved over $5.7 million for this and other waterfronts (known as malecón in Spanish) and boardwalks to repair structures damaged by Hurricane María.

“Aside from their importance in mitigating coastal erosion in these areas, waterfronts serve as spaces for family entertainment and economic development. These funds will contribute to the repairs of 13 projects throughout nine municipalities on the island, which we trust will revitalize these spaces,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

For this project, which is in the permitting stage, FEMA obligated nearly $2.9 million to the municipality of Juana Díaz. The project includes a support system for decks and piers to strengthen them against storm surges and flooding, among other natural events, in order to reduce coastal erosion by allowing the natural movement of sand and other sediments.

For Rodríguez Gil, when these repairs are completed, economic activity is expected to increase for about ten fishermen in the area that sell lobster and a variety of local fish. “Tourism will increase since it will look better and [this will] impact the people who visit it which is positive for everyone,” said Rodríguez Gil.

The mayor of the City of Kings, Ramón A. Hernández, explained that the development and maintenance of the boardwalk helps to maintain formal and supervised activity in the area.

“It is a highly attractive space due to the coastal landscape and the variety of seafood and Puerto Rican Creole cuisine; this tends to bear positive results such as avoiding the deterioration of a community that has an area of great positive social and economic exchange for all,” Hernández added.

Revitalization beyond the coastal zone

Meanwhile, residents of the Jagual neighborhood in Patillas will benefit from improvements to the boardwalk located on Lake Patillas. Mayor Maritza Sánchez explained that the site receives hundreds of visitors weekly.

“The structure highlights the beauty of the lake, where activities such as fishing, kayaking and other events take place,” according to Sánchez.

As part of the work following the agency’s nearly $482,000 allocation, the atrium, benches, gazebo and sidewalk will be replaced or repaired. Also, utility poles will be replaced with hurricane-resistant aluminum poles as part of the project’s mitigation measures, which add up to nearly $10,000.

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, executive director for the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), said that the repairs to be made will stabilize the operations of businesses during a time when Puerto Ricans are looking for different ways to bond with their families and return to normalcy after two years of the pandemic. “In COR3, we will continue supporting throughout the process so that these permanent repairs come to fruition,” said Laboy Rivera.  

To date, FEMA has obligated over $29 billion under its Public Assistance program to help Puerto Rico recover from Hurricane María. 

For more information on Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 03/09/2023 - 12:43