Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps for Portion of Coal County, Oklahoma Within the Chickasaw Nation

DENTON, Texas – Revised preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review for portions of Coal County, Oklahoma located within the Chickasaw Nation. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with Tribal, local, state and FEMA officials. Community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Sept. 28, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Dec. 27, 2022 for:

• Portion of Coal County located within the Chickasaw Nation.

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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

 

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 09/28/2022 - 23:44

How To Apply for Federal and State Individual Assistance

ANCHORAGE, Alaska– Residents of the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon who suffered property damage or loss from September’s severe storm, flooding and landslides are now eligible to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of Alaska. Available aid includes temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs, or other essential disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance.

The State of Alaska and FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) programs are separate, and each have their own application process. However, it is important that survivors apply for both FEMA and Alaska’s IA programs. If a survivor is found ineligible for federal assistance, they may qualify for assistance through the State of Alaska, but applications must be submitted for both.

State of Alaska Individual Assistance

The state’s IA program has two elements that may help with disaster-related expenses. The Individuals and Family Grant program can provide grant funding to survivors with damage to their homes, personal property, transportation, or medical/dental expenses. The Temporary Housing program can provide rental assistance to those with unlivable homes damaged by September’s severe storm.

The deadline to apply for Alaska’s IA program is Nov. 17, 2022. Survivors can apply for state assistance online at ready.alaska.gov/IA, or by calling the Disaster Assistance Hotline at 1-844-445-7131.

What is the FEMA Individuals and Households Program?

FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides financial and direct services to eligible survivors who have disaster-related uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and immediate needs. IHP is not a substitute for insurance and assistance is intended to meet the basic needs of the household, not to restore the home and contents to a pre-disaster condition. IHP can be divided into two categories: Housing Assistance (HA) and Other Needs Assistance (ONA).

Housing Assistance covers repairs to structural parts of a home including windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system, utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems), and entrance and exit ways from the home.

FEMA may also pay up to the actual cost of the receipt or estimate for furnaces, wells and septic systems. If survivors have already repaired or replaced these systems, they may be able to submit valid receipts or estimates to see if they qualify for FEMA assistance.

Other Needs Assistance provides grants to survivors for uninsured, disaster-related expenses and needs. This assistance can include medical and dental expenses; funeral and burial costs; clothing; household items; specialized tools; subsistence equipment and supplies, educational materials; vehicles; and moving, storage or other necessary expenses related to the disaster.

The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 22, 2022. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. When calling, Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. AKDT seven days a week.  

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

Small Business Administration

Some applicants may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to apply for a disaster loan. Long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other sources.

Homeowners and renters should submit an SBA disaster loan application even if they are not sure they will need or want a loan. If SBA cannot approve the application, in most cases SBA will refer survivors to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance. If the application is approved, individuals are not obligated to accept an SBA loan but failure to return the application may disqualify them from other possible FEMA assistance.

Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.govfor more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

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For more information about FEMA’s support to Alaska’s severe storms, flooding and landslide recovery, visit the FEMA Disaster Site. Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

 

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

mary.j.edmon Wed, 09/28/2022 - 22:48

Disaster Recovery Center in South St. Louis City to Close One Day Early, on Friday, September 30

A Disaster Recovery Center in south St. Louis City will close on Friday, September 30 at 5 p.m., one day sooner due to a scheduled event at the location.  

Salvation Army Temple Center

2740 Arsenal St.

St. Louis, MO 63118

(Near the corner of Arsenal and California)

The recovery center will re-open on Monday, October 3, as a U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC). Hours will be 9 a.m.—6 p.m., Monday—Friday.

At a DLOC, SBA customer service representatives are available to meet with businesses and residents from St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County, who were affected by the flooding and severe storms that occurred July 25–July 28, 2022. SBA representatives will answer questions, explain SBA’s disaster loan program and close customers’ approved disaster loans on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary.

Apply to FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. Or you can visit a disaster recovery center for help. To find a DRC nearby, visit https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

tiana.suber Wed, 09/28/2022 - 20:37

FEMA Continues Supporting Hurricane Ian Response

WASHINGTON --  FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell urges anyone in the path of Hurricane Ian to heed the warning of local officials as this storm begins to make landfall. Ian is predicted to bring life-threatening storm surge and widespread flooding. Criswell said FEMA established a search and rescue coordination group in Miami that includes Urban Search and Rescue teams, Coast Guard, Department of Defense, Department of the Interior and local Florida rescue teams. These teams are prepared to coordinate search and rescue efforts by sea, air and land.

On Tuesday, Administrator Criswell briefed President Biden about federal response efforts. Together, President Biden and Administrator Criswell called mayors in Florida to check on evacuations and their local preparations ahead of Ian. President Biden also called Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Tuesday to discuss state and federal coordination efforts ahead of landfall.

The National Hurricane Center issued hurricane and tropical storm warnings for much of Florida’s coastline. Hurricane Ian is expected to cause life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic winds and flooding in the Florida peninsula. Catastrophic storm surge inundation is expected somewhere along the southwest Florida coastline from Englewood to Bonita Beach, including Charlotte Harbor.

Florida officials issued mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders in 18 counties ahead of Ian. If you are not in an evacuation zone, consider sheltering in place but know your home and its ability to withstand strong winds.

Safety Considerations for Residents

• Manufactured homes are extremely vulnerable. If you live in a manufactured home, determine where you will go before the storm hits, as these types of structures may not withstand hurricane wind or surge damage.  

• Download the FEMA App. Use this free app to receive local weather alerts and warnings.

• Prepare for power outages. Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out. Have enough nonperishable food and water.  

State, Federal Actions

• On Saturday, President Joseph R. Biden approved Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ request for an emergency declaration. The declaration authorizes FEMA to support the state’s response efforts ahead of Ian. More than 5,000 Florida National Guard members from Florida and Tennessee are postured to support the response. 
• FEMA is prepositioning supplies and personnel to strategic locations in Georgia, Florida and Alabama. This will allow us to get help where it needs to be as soon as possible. This includes commodities at Maxwell Airforce Base in Alabama to include water, meals, infant/toddler kits, cots and other emergency supplies.
• FEMA has 3.7 million meals and 3.5 million liters of water staged in Alabama. Florida officials prepared 360 trailers with more than two million meals and more than one million gallons of water for distribution to affected areas.
• The U.S. Coast Guard staged 17 helicopters, 14 fixed wing aircraft and 18 small boats for immediate search & rescue response with an additional 15 aircraft and 20 small boats on standby.
• There are more than 1,300 federal response workers on the ground in Florida to support emergency operations. Nearly 840 FEMA personnel are supporting the response from Florida, and our other offices and field locations. The agency has nearly 3,500 reservist personnel available to deploy to support. Additionally, more than 7,500 Surge Capacity Force members are rostered to deploy if needed. The agency is establishing a personnel mobilization center to expedite forward movement when needed.
• Incident Management Teams are at the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee, in Miami and Atlanta. Mobile Emergency Response Support teams are also in Tallahassee and Atlanta to support any state coordination needs.
• Four Mobile Communications Operation Vehicles are staged at Maxwell Air Force Base with and additional unit in Orlando. 
• Several hundred generators and pumps, in addition to debris removal equipment, have been staged for response and recovery efforts.
• A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers power restoration team is at Craig Field in Alabama ahead of the storm, additional personnel are en route to Broward County. FEMA also pre-staged 169 generators and 110,000 gallons of fuel and 18,000 pounds of propane.
• Approximately 30,000 power restoration mutual assistance individuals are prepositioned. Additional personnel are available to provide support post-landfall.
• FEMA activated a medical support contract for ambulances and paratransit seats. Federal and state resources have provided more than 300 ambulances for evacuations and response efforts.

• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency. They deployed a 38-person disaster medical assistance team to Miami, and two teams are deployed to Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. HHS also deployed health and medical task force teams and four pharmacists to Atlanta.

• The state of Florida has completed 124 onsite visits to nursing homes and assisted living facilities that were previously identified as out of compliance with generator requirements. All operating long-term care facilities have a generator on-site.
• FEMA and Department of Energy are conducting ongoing analysis of impacts due to the potential damage or loss of 58 fuel racks in the Tampa area along with broader energy system analysis across Florida and adjacent systems in Georgia.

Resources for Evacuees and Survivors

• Volunteer agencies are preparing to perform feeding operations including the American Red Cross, Florida Baptist, Salvation Army, Feeding Florida, Farm Share, Midwest Food Bank, Operation BBQ Relief, Mercy Chefs and World Central Kitchen. FEMA and its partners have capacity to serve tens of thousands of meals per day.
• The USDA Food and Nutrition Service has approved Florida’s request to issue October Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits on Sept. 28.
• More than 90 shelters are open. The American Red Cross is prepared to open 60 post-disaster which can accommodate 30,000 individuals. Additional shelter supplies are on hand, including cots & blankets, to provide to non-Red Cross shelters to support an additional 30,000 people.
• For a list of open general and special needs shelters in the state of Florida, visit Shelter Information. Residents may also find assistance by calling 800-342-3557.The state of Florida is deploying several hundred shelter support staff to address staffing needs.
• Download the FEMA App for real-time weather alerts from the National Weather Service and directions to open shelters. The app also includes a customizable checklist of emergency supplies and disaster survival tips.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 09/28/2022 - 16:06

Brighter Outlook Emerges to Harden Power Grid Across U.S. Virgin Islands

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands –Substantial progress has been made to create more resilient power grids throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands since hurricanes Irma and Maria left thousands of homes, businesses and critical facilities such as hospitals without power five years ago.

When disaster strikes, lifesaving and life-sustaining operations require a dependable power source required for critical facilities to provide survivors with food, water, shelter and medical treatment.

The partnership between FEMA and the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) over the past five years has played a significant role advancing the work needed to strengthen the power grids to better withstand future storms and to increase year-round reliability. There are several projects taking place throughout the territory to support the construction efforts, such as the repair of electrical substations, burying of electrical lines and installation of wind resistant composite power poles to replace older wooden ones.

Through FEMA’s Public Assistance program, nearly $721.7 million has been approved for permanent repairs to electrical distribution systems and substations on St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix and Water Island. This funding includes $506 million in hazard mitigation measures to strengthen both grids’ resilience to end the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction.

"Projects for wind farms and microgrids are in the planning stages and it’s been shown that these systems deliver affordable, clean and efficient energy,” said FEMA USVI Recovery Director Kristen Hodge. “Additionally, President Biden's commitment to climate resilience through federal funding represents an investment that will ensure communities are better prepared for disasters before they strike.”

Microgrid projects align with FEMA’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan Goal 2: Lead Whole of Community in Climate Resilience. An innovative microgrid would maintain power generation by disconnecting from the traditional framework and operate on its own using local energy generation in case of an emergency or disaster.

WAPA also plans to install 8,584 composite poles across the territory that are made to better withstand hurricane-force winds; 6,310 poles have been erected to date and the project is 74 percent completed.

Burying of electrical lines from Cruz Bay to the Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center on St. John has been completed. Four electrical underground projects for Golden Grove, Midland, the Wilfred "Bomba" Allick Port and Transshipment Center in Frederiksted are underway on St. Croix.

FEMA and the territory will continue to their partnership to energize a legacy for renewable energy sources. In the western area of St. Croix, engineering and design work on a microgrid project will begin as WAPA has received a grant of $4.5 million through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). The estimated project cost is $129.7 million.

WAPA was also the sub-recipient of $4.3 million for engineering and design work on the Bovoni wind farm and microgrid project on St. Thomas. The estimated project cost is $59.3 million.

FEMA and the territory will continue to work together to strengthen the power grid, build back better to increase the resiliency of critical services and improve the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders.

gina.callaghan Wed, 09/28/2022 - 15:24

City of Laurel Saves Residents Money on Flood Insurance Premiums amanda.hancher Wed, 09/28/2022 - 14:02

Seminole County Disaster Recovery Center to Close September 27

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma residents have just one more day to visit the joint federal/state Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Seminole County. The center will close permanently at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 27. The DRC was opened to help survivors affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 2-8.

 

SEMINOLE COUNTY

Seminole State College

David L. Boren Library Room 105

2701 Boren Blvd.

Seminole, OK 74868

Hours Monday-Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Closes permanently at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 27.

 

Survivors can also call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 if they have questions about their FEMA application or have additional needs. The final day to apply for federal assistance is Wednesday, Sept. 28.

For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4657. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 09/27/2022 - 23:14

Wednesday, Sept. 28, is the Last Day to Apply with FEMA

OKLAHOMA CITY—Oklahoma residents affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 2-8 are running out of time to apply for federal assistance. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, Sept. 28.

Federal assistance may help eligible survivors pay for rent, home repair or replacement and many other disaster-related needs, including vehicle repair or replacement, funeral expenses, medical or dental expenses and other costs associated with recovery from a disaster.

If you have not applied for federal assistance:

• Log onto DisasterAssistance.gov to submit your application for disaster assistance. The website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT.

For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4657. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 09/27/2022 - 23:09

FEMA Continues Supporting Hurricane Ian Response

WASHINGTON -- Florida officials waived toll collections to facilitate evacuations as local officials issued mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders in anticipation of Hurricane Ian. Anyone ordered to evacuate should do so as soon as possible.  If you are not in an evacuation zone, consider sheltering in place, but know your home and its ability to withstand strong winds. Evacuation orders can be found at www.floridadisaster.org/evacuation-orders. 

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will brief media today from the White House press briefing room for an update on federal actions ahead of Ian. The administrator visited the National Hurricane Center in Miami on Monday to meet with forecasters and local officials.

The NHC issued hurricane and tropical storm warnings for portions of Florida’s west coast. Hurricane Ian is expected to bring life-threatening storm surge along much of the state’s west coast, with the highest risk from Fort Myers to the Tampa Bay region.  Considerable flooding is expected across portions of Florida and into southern Georgia and South Carolina.

Anyone in Florida should closely monitor local media for forecast updates, directions provided by local officials and to heed local evacuation orders. It is critical that anyone ordered to evacuate, does so immediately. Make sure you plan for your pets as not all evacuation shelters accept pets.

Safety Issues for Residents

• Manufactured homes are extremely vulnerable. If you live in a manufactured home, determine where you will go before the storm hits, as these types of structures may not withstand hurricane wind or surge damage.  

• Download the FEMA App. Use this free app to receive local weather alerts and warnings.
• Have an emergency supply kit. Your kit should include supplies you and your family would need for several days, including medications and any needed pet supplies. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days.
• Check on neighbors. As you prepare your family and loved ones for a disaster, check on neighbors and folks in your community to see if they are doing the same or help them get started.
  • Determine if you need any special assistance before or after the storm. If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify back-up service providers.  
• Flood Insurance. Your National Flood Insurance Program policy will cover and reimburse certain actions you take to minimize damage to your home and belongings before a flood.
• Prepare for Power Outages. Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out. Have enough nonperishable food and water. Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines.

Federal Actions Ahead of Ian

• On Saturday, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s request for an emergency declaration. The declaration authorizes FEMA to support the state’s response efforts ahead of Ian. More than 4,000 Florida National Guard members are now supporting the response. 
• FEMA is prepositioning supplies and personnel to strategic locations in Georgia, Florida and Alabama. This will allow us to get help where it needs to be as soon as possible. Ordered supplies for staging at Maxwell Airforce Base in Alabama include 3.5 million liters of water, 3.7 million meals and 6,380 cots.
• The agency has nearly 3,500 reservist personnel available to deploy to support. Additionally, more than 7,500 Surge Capacity Force members are rostered to deploy if needed. The agency is establishing a personnel mobilization center to expedite forward movement when needed.
• One Incident Management Team is deployed to Atlanta and two others are at the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee. A Mobile Emergency Response Support team is also in Tallahassee to support any state coordination needs.  
• Three Mobile Communications Operation Vehicles are en route to Maxwell Air Force Base. Two Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles are in Florida.
• All requested Urban Search and Rescue resources have arrived at their staging areas. Two task forces and an incident support team are in Miami and another task force is in Montgomery, Alabama.
• A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers power restoration team is deploying to Craig Field in Alabama ahead of the storm. FEMA also pre-staged 117 generators and 128,000 gallons of fuel.
• FEMA activated a medical support contract for 52 ambulances and 100 paratransit seats. These resources are staged at Orange County in Florida. Additional ambulances and medical air transport were ordered.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services activated the National Disaster Medical System and deployed Incident Management Team personnel to Florida and Georgia. Two health and medical task forces are staging in Atlanta.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 09/27/2022 - 22:03

FEMA Awards Nearly $1.7 Million to Northeastern University for COVID-19 Prevention Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.7 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Northeastern University for the cost of steps taken to protect the health students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,648,768 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private research university in Boston for the cost of contracting and using its own staff to perform emergency protective measures between January and September 2020.

Among the steps taken were providing additional on-site security; provisioning emergency meals and water; purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) and disinfection and decontamination supplies; and completing disinfection and decontamination within the Northeastern campus.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Northeastern 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 nearly $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 19:09

FEMA Awards Almost $2.5 Million to Southcoast Hospitals Group for COVID-19 Supply Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $2.5 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Southcoast Hospitals Group, Inc. for the costs of purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID pandemic.

The $2,479,654 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the non-profit, community-based health system that operates three hospitals in southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island for purchasing PPE between January and October 2021.

The group purchased surgical masks, N95 respirators, medical gloves, medical gowns, bouffant head coverings, face shields, eye protection, and shoe covers for St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, and Tobey Hospital in Wareham.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Southcoast Hospitals Group, Inc. 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 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 nearly $1.3 billion in Public

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 19:04

FEMA Awards Nearly $1.4 Million to City of Revere for COVID-19 Public Health Measures

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the City of Revere for the costs of steps taken to protect the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,388,235 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the city for a variety of public health protection initiatives it undertook between May 2020 and September 2021.

Those included leasing an office trailer for a COVID-19 testing site and purchasing tests;  purchasing a cargo trailer to stockpile a 60-day supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) for emergency personnel; purchasing and delivering meals to seniors and quarantined residents unable to leave their homes; disseminating information through signage, newspaper ads, educational booklets, pins, posters, banners, and electronic messages; and using an interpreter to disseminate information to Spanish-speaking residents.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the City of Revere 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 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 nearly $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 19:02

FEMA Awards Nearly $1.5 Million to Simmons University for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.5 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Simmons University for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,451,040 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private university in Boston for the cost of administering 68,788 tests between July 2020 and April 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Simmons 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 nearly $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 19:00

Parks, Public Libraries Get on Path to Recovery Across U.S. Virgin Islands

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Parks and public libraries serve communities throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands by providing a source for recreation, community, education and historical and cultural environments. An interruption in operations at these facilities can disrupt many routines and a closure of public libraries can limit and often times prevent a student’s ability to perform their schoolwork without a dedicated, structured environment.  

FEMA's whole-community approach to recovery includes collaborating with the territory on projects for parks and public libraries to recover from the damage caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. Parks, recreational facilities and libraries play important roles in a community’s well-being, providing an opportunity to stay active. As well, libraries encourage learning, exposure to arts and crafts, opens them to the world through books and are historical and cultural landmarks across the territory.

FEMA has committed $26.4 million for repairs to 56 sports, parks and recreational facilities across the territory.

“The Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation is grateful to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for providing the funds that allow us to repair and, in some cases, reconstruct the territory’s recreational facilities. The grants awarded by FEMA’s Public Assistance Program support our efforts to provide high-quality recreational spaces and activities to our community,” said Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Calvert White.

Projects on St. Croix include repairs to Pedro Cruz Ballpark in Kingshill, Isaac Boynes Ballpark in Frederiksted and Cramer’s Park Pavilion.

Other repair and restoration projects are planned for St. John and St. Thomas. On St. John, the Winston Wells Ballpark, the Orville Brown basketball court and the Cruz Bay tennis court will undergo improvements. The Emile Griffith Ballpark, Lionel Roberts Stadium and completed Joseph Aubain Ballpark on St. Thomas will also benefit from restoration efforts.

While the revitalization of the territory's parks and recreational facilities can benefit the entire community, so can the restoration of libraries. “Libraries create a conducive environment to learning and lay the groundwork toward the development of strong communities,” said FEMA U.S. Virgin Islands Recovery Director Kristen A. Hodge. “Working with the V.I. Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation and the V.I. Department of Planning and Natural Resources to rebuild these important community institutions will leave a legacy for future generations," said Recovery Director Hodge.

FEMA is obligating $5.8 million to five public libraries in the U.S. Virgin Islands for hurricane repairs. Library repairs will include $669,400 in hazard mitigation measures to infrastructure damaged by the 2017 storms.

FEMA's $1.8 million obligation to the Florence A. Williams and Athalie M. Petersen libraries' repairs on St. Croix includes $608,200 in hazard mitigation measures, such as the installation of ceramic flooring to replace carpet and vinyl flooring and door dams to stop further flooding at the Williams site.

The Charles W. Turnbull Regional Public Library on St. Thomas will receive $2.9 million toward renovations.

The restoration of Charlotte Amalie's Enid M. Baa Library and Archives highlights the importance of historic preservation in disaster recovery. Enid Baa, born in 1911 on St. Thomas, was a librarian, educator and historian. She was a leading advocate for the establishment and administration of libraries in the territory.

After repairing the site, VI DPNR intends to use the Baa Library building as a community gathering space and visitor welcome center. FEMA has obligated $706,000 for Baa Library repairs. Stainless-steel doors, wire caging to protect air conditioners from flying debris and strengthening windows with hardware to withstand storm-force winds are among the $61,100 approved hazard mitigation measures for the library.

FEMA obligated $271,200 for hurricane repairs to the Elaine I. Sprauve Library and Museum in Cruz Bay on St. John. This project will include American Disability Act-compliant push buttons on exterior and interior doors.

FEMA will continue to collaborate with the territorial departments of Sports, Parks and Recreation and Planning and Natural Resources to ensure FEMA Public Assistance projects to repair recreational facilities and public libraries will benefit the entire community equitably.

gina.callaghan Tue, 09/27/2022 - 18:38

FEMA Awards State of Rhode Island Nearly $1.7 Million for COVID Temporary Hospitals

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.7 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state for the costs of setting up and operating three temporary hospital sites during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,651,970 FEMA Public Assistance grant will go to the Rhode Island Department of Administration for establishing and operating three alternative hospital sites (AHS) that added 1,385 hospital beds to treat COVID patients between October 2021 and February 2022.

The costs included general repairs such as fire alarm services, waste drain repairs, duct work repairs and filter cleaning; facility cleaning and relocating barriers; as well as project management, cell service, a police detail, waste & recycling pickup, and facility management services.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Rhode Island 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 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.

These grants brings the total awarded by FEMA to the State of Rhode Island to more than $560 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:45

FEMA Awards More Than $1.5 Million to Maine General Medical Center for COVID Staffing Expenses

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.5 million to the State of Maine to reimburse Maine General Medical Center for the cost of paying overtime for staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,523,580 Public Assistance grant will go to the non-profit health system headquartered in Augusta to cover the cost of having part-time and float staff work additional shifts above and beyond their regular schedule to provide emergency medical care services in departments with high volumes of COVID-19 patients between December 2021 and April 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Maine General Medical Center 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 our success as a nation.”

So far, FEMA has provided almost $158 million in Public Assistance grants to Maine to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

 

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:26

FEMA Awards Almost $3.6 Million to UMass Memorial Health Care for COVID-19 Temporary Hospital Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $3.6 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. for the costs of operating a temporary hospital to handle patient loads during the COVID pandemic.

The $3,597,687 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the health care system in Central Massachusetts – headquartered in Worcester and affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School – for setting up and operating an alternate care site at the DCU Convention Center in Worcester between January and September 2020. Those costs included medical equipment for the facility as well as air filtration equipment, security equipment and cameras, and personal protective equipment (PPE). UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. also contracted for medical personnel, disinfection and food services for the temporary hospital.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. 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 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 nearly $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:22

FEMA Awards Nearly $3 Million to Keene State College for COVID Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $3 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Keene State College for the cost of providing testing for students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,955,360 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the public liberal arts college in Keene will reimburse it for contracting to provide 27,099 COVID-19 tests between July and October 2020.

The college also paid an additional $20 test setup administration fee for 12,273 individuals to cover the costs of registration, set ups, testing coordination, and the system to provide test results.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Keene State College 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 $161 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

 

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:16

FEMA Extends Deadline to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – At the request of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, homeowners and renters who suffered damage to their property from the July floods have another month to apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA has extended the application deadline to Oct. 28 for survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, and Whitley counties.

FEMA assistance for individuals affected by the July floods can cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

Kentuckians can apply for federal disaster assistance several ways:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for other languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service.
• Visit a FEMA disaster recovery center to apply. Find the nearest recovery center by visiting www.fema.gov/drc or by calling the FEMA Helpline.
• apply online by visiting.  DisasterAssistance.gov; or
• use the FEMA mobile app. Survivors can also use their smart phone, open the FEMA App and select “Talk to FEMA in person.”

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

If you have insurance, you are encouraged to file a claim for damage to your home, personal property and vehicles before you apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA cannot duplicate other sources of assistance you may have received.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663.Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Tue, 09/27/2022 - 11:42

Additional Municipalities Can Now Apply for FEMA Assistance due to Hurricane Fiona

San Juan, Puerto Rico – On Sept. 24 at the request of Governor Pedro Pierluisi, four additional municipalities were approved in a new amendment to the Major Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Fiona and San Germán was added on Sept. 25.

Homeowners, renters, and business owners in the municipalities of Camuy, Guánica, Lajas, Sabana Grande and San Germán are now eligible to apply for federal help in response to damage or losses suffered as a direct result of Hurricane Fiona.

Hurricane Fiona disaster survivors in the 68 disaster declared municipalities are encouraged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Survivors may register for assistance even if they applied for assistance for Hurricane María, the earthquakes and any other presidentially declared disaster in Puerto Rico.

Those who have already registered with FEMA for assistance related to Hurricane Fiona need not register again.

The amendment also authorizes help under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, which provides supplemental grants to state, territorial and local governments and some types of nonprofits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters like this one.

Three Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Operators are available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. local time.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are also canvassing affected communities to help people apply in person.

You should have the following information available when you apply:

• Name and SSN of the primary applicant.
• Name and SSN of secondary/co-applicant (encouraged but not required).
• Current and pre-disaster address.
• Names of all occupants of the pre-disaster household.
• Current contact information.
• Types of insurance held by the household.
• Household pre-disaster annual gross income.
• Losses caused by the disaster.
• Banking information for direct deposit of financial assistance, if requested.

                                                                                         

 

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 09/26/2022 - 21:56