Experts Here to Help Kentuckians Restore Family Treasures

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Survivors of the Eastern Kentucky flooding can learn how to save household treasures damaged by the flooding from the Heritage Emergency National Task Force experts visiting Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Registration Intake Centers.

Among the heirlooms that might be save are photos, artwork, quilts, important documents and other keepsakes. The experts will discuss how to handle, dry and clean these items, as well as personal safety during the restoration process, setting priorities and treatment options.

Part of the Heritage Emergency National Task Force experts are visiting these locations:

• Clay County: Clay County Community Center – 311 Highway 638, Manchester KY 40962
  • Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 19 to Aug. 20; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 21,

Registration center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

• Knott County: Knott County Sportsplex – 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn KY 41831
  • Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 16 to Aug. 20; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 21.
• Perry County: Hazard Community College First Federal Center –1 Community Drive, Hazard KY 41701
  • Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 17 to Aug. 20; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 21.

Recovery center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Co-sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Smithsonian Institution, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force is a partnership of 60 national service organizations and federal agencies. It was created to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies. For more information on the task force, email HENTF@si.edu.

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can apply for assistance or check the status of their application online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/15/2022 - 19:44

Experts Here to Help Kentuckians Restore Family Treasures

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Survivors of the Eastern Kentucky flooding can learn how to save household treasures damaged by the flooding from the Heritage Emergency National Task Force experts visiting Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Registration Intake Centers.

Among the heirlooms that might be save are photos, artwork, quilts, important documents and other keepsakes. The experts will discuss how to handle, dry and clean these items, as well as personal safety during the restoration process, setting priorities and treatment options.

Part of the Heritage Emergency National Task Force experts are visiting these locations:

• Clay County: Clay County Community Center – 311 Highway 638, Manchester KY 40962
  • Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 19 to Aug. 20; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 21,

Registration center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

• Knott County: Knott County Sportsplex – 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn KY 41831
  • Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 16 to Aug. 20; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 21.
• Perry County: Hazard Community College First Federal Center –1 Community Drive, Hazard KY 41701
  • Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 16 to Aug. 20; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 21.

Recovery center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Co-sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Smithsonian Institution, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force is a partnership of 60 national service organizations and federal agencies. It was created to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies. For more information on the task force, email HENTF@si.edu.

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can apply for assistance or check the status of their application online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/15/2022 - 19:06

FEMA Announces Sherman Gillums, Jr. to Lead FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that Sherman Gillums, Jr. will serve as director of the agency’s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination. 

The office serves to ensure the agency’s commitment to equity and inclusion of people with disabilities before, during and after disasters. In his role, Gillums will provide program and policy guidance to the administrator, while leading the workforce in supporting equitable access to programs and services for people with disabilities.

“People with disabilities are disproportionately impacted by natural disasters. That is why FEMA takes our people-first approach seriously, and will continue to make available adequate and tailored resources for communities with unique needs,” said Administrator Criswell. “By having Mr. Gillums join the FEMA workforce and leading our disability integration team, we have an expert, well known disabilities advocate ready to strengthen and advance the way we help people with disabilities before, during and after disasters.”

Gillums most recently served as chief strategy and operations officer with the National Alliance on Mental Illness. He oversaw the organization’s efforts to provide timely access to mental healthcare for underserved communities and foster an understanding of mental illness. Gillums also served in leadership positions with the Paralyzed Veterans and AMVETS, two of the nation's largest congressionally charted veteran's service organizations. 

“I consider federal service to be the most important role I have taken on since serving our country in uniform,” said Gillums. “I spent the past two decades working to ensure people with disabilities, including veterans who sacrificed for our country, have equitable access to healthcare and employment. The stakes rise even higher in times of natural disaster, and I am honored to join the dedicated FEMA teams who answer the call.”

Gillums attended the University of San Diego School of Business and completed his executive education at Harvard Business School. He served as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps for 12 years.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 08/15/2022 - 19:04

Don't Forget This Important Back-to-School Step

CHICAGO – As kids start returning to school, preparing for emergencies should be a part of that process. FEMA Region 5 encourages all families to take the time now to talk about potential disaster risks and steps to stay safe if the unexpected occurs.

“While emergencies can be scary, kids can cope better if they know what to expect,” said Tom Sivak, regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Children and youth are empowered through understanding risks and knowing how to protect themselves. Empowered youth can help involve their families, peers, and communities in disaster preparedness.”

• Learn the risks that may threaten your family at home, school or work. Find more information at www.Ready.gov. Make sure everyone understands the types of emergency alerts they may receive and how to receive them.  
• Have a family plan. If a disaster happens, knowing who to call and where to meet is an important part of emergency planning for you and your family.
  • Pick one main contact locally and one contact out of town who may be easier to reach during a disaster.
  • Decide on safe, familiar, accessible places where your family can go for protection or to reunite. If you have pets or service animals, think about animal-friendly locations. Consider places in your house, in your neighborhood, and outside of your city or town so you’re prepared for any situation.
  • Make sure your family members know to use texting during a disaster to free up phone lines for first responders.
  • Practice makes perfect. Practice your plan. Put pen to paper and make sure everyone in your family has copies of your plan. Hold regular meetings as a family to review your plan.  
• Build a kit. Keep enough emergency supplies on hand - water, nonperishable food, first aid, prescriptions, flashlight, and battery-powered radio - for everyone in your household. For a list of items to consider including, visit www.ready.gov/kit.   

FEMA offers multiple resources to help make disaster preparedness fun and informative for the whole family.

• Find interactive games to learn disaster: www.ready.gov/kids/games   
• Access the Prepare with Pedro activity blook: www.ready.gov/kids/prepare-with-pedro
• Start building your family communications plan: https://www.ready.gov/kids/family-emergency-planning/make-a-plan.
• Serve your community and help take care of your school and home through the Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and Campus CERT programs. For more information, click here: www.ready.gov/teen-cert.

For detailed information about how to be ready for the emergencies, visit www.Ready.gov or our Spanish site at www.Listo.gov. You can also download the free FEMA app, available for your Android or Apple device.

 

# # #

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

troy.christensen Mon, 08/15/2022 - 18:49

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Joy Lake Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) regional administrator authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of Nevada in combatting the Joy Lake Fire burning in Washoe County.

On Aug. 14, the state of Nevada submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 2,000 homes in and around Galena Creek. The fire also threatened a high school, elementary school, geothermal plant, power transmission lines, communications infrastructure and Highway 580.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become a greater incident.

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Mon, 08/15/2022 - 12:15

Centro de Recuperación por Desastre abre en Hazelwood para ayudar a los sobrevivientes de las inundaciones

ST. LOUIS – Un Centro de Recuperación por Desastre (DRC, por sus siglas en inglés) de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA) abrirá durante cinco días el lunes 15 de agosto a las 2 p.m., en Hazelwood (condado de St. Louis) para brindar asistencia personal a las personas directamente afectadas por las inundaciones y tormentas severas del 25 al 28 de julio.

Especialistas en recuperación de FEMA y de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios de EE. UU.(SBA) brindarán información sobre los servicios disponibles, explicarán los programas de asistencia y ayudarán a los sobrevivientes a completar o verificar el estado de sus solicitudes.

El centro de recuperación por desastre en la siguiente ubicación estará abierto durante cinco días:

Hazelwood Civic Center East

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042

 

Abre:   lunes, 15 de agosto, 2 p.m.–7 p.m.

martes a viernes, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

 

Luego se trasladará a otra instalación y se anunciará la nueva ubicación en breve.

Las personas directamente afectadas por las inundaciones en la ciudad de St. Louis, el condado de St. Louis, y el condado de St. Charles pueden visitar el centro de recuperación. Antes de ir al centro, solicite con FEMA en línea, en disasterassistance.gov/es o llame al 800-621-FEMA (3362).

Para necesidades directamente relacionadas a las inundaciones del 25 al 28 de julio, FEMA puede proporcionar dinero de la subvención de Asistencia Individual que no tiene ser reembolsado, para:

• Asistencia de alquiler si necesita reubicarse debido a daños por inundación
• Propiedad personal que fue dañada o destruida por inundación
• Reembolso de gastos de alojamiento si ha tenido que alojarse en un hotel temporalmente
• Reparaciones básicas del hogar para propietarios cuya residencia principal fue dañada por inundación
• Otras necesidades graves causadas por inundaciones recientes

Además de la asistencia enumerada, tenga en cuenta lo siguiente:

• Solo se permite una solicitud por hogar
• FEMA no paga por alimentos perdidos o dañados

Por ley, FEMA no puede duplicar los pagos del seguro o la asistencia proporcionada por otras fuentes.

Se espera que pronto se anuncien otros centros de recuperación por desastre en el área de St. Louis.

Para actualizaciones, síganos en Twitter @MOSEMA y @FEMAregion7 (enlaces en inglés). Obtenga la información más reciente en Recovery.MO.gov (enlace en inglés) y fema.gov/es/disaster/4665.

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o estatus económico.

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

John.Mills Sun, 08/14/2022 - 21:31

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Hazelwood to Assist Flood Survivors

ST. LOUIS – A FEMA disaster recovery center will open – for five days only – on Monday, August 15, in Hazelwood (St. Louis County) to provide one-on-one assistance to people directly affected by the July 25—28 flooding and severe storms.

The recovery center will then relocate. A new announcement will be made soon.

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

The disaster recovery center location is:

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042

 

Open Five Days Only: Monday, August 15, 2 p.m.–7 p.m.

Then: Tuesday—Friday, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

 

People directly affected by flooding in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County may visit the recovery center. Before visiting the center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).

For needs directly related to the July 25—28 flooding, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food

By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.

Other St. Louis-area disaster recovery centers are expected to be announced soon.

For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

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FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during, and after disasters.

John.Mills Sun, 08/14/2022 - 21:20

Mobile Recovery Center are Coming to Magoffin and Owsley Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are opening Aug. 14, 2022 in Magoffin and Owsley County to assist Kentucky flood survivors who experienced loss from the Eastern Kentucky flooding.

Mobile Center Location:

• Magoffin County: Magoffin County Health Dept.–119 E. Mountain Parkway Salyersville, KY  41465
• Owsley County: Owsley Rec Center–99 County Barn Road Booneville, KY 41314

These mobile centers will be open 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 15-16 and will be back at these locations 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 21, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 22-23.

Fixed centers are also available at these locations:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library–1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Clay County: Clay County Community Center–311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY  40962
• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex –450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn KY 41831
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Perry County: Hazard Community College –1 Community College Dr, Hazard KY 41701
• Pike County: Dorton Community Center –112 Dorton Hill Rd., Jenkins KY 41722

Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go to any center to get help applying for FEMA assistance.

FEMA representatives will be at the centers to help with applications for federal assistance, to help survivors with their existing application and documentation, and provide information about other disaster recovery resources.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a disaster recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Sat, 08/13/2022 - 22:32

AVISO DE FEMA SOBRE LOS DERECHOS CIVILES PARA EL PÚBLICO EN GENERAL

FEMA podrá proporcionar o financiar programas destinados a apoyar al público en general antes, durante, y después de un desastre.  Estos programas deberán cumplir con las Leyes Federales sobre derechos civiles y los requisitos relacionados y con el propósito de no discriminación de la Ley Stafford. 

FEMA no atiende a las personas de manera diferente debido a su raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, orientación sexual, religión, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o situación económica.

FEMA proporciona ayudas y servicios gratuitos a las personas para ayudarles a comunicarse con nosotros y con el fin de entender los programas de FEMA:

• Información disponible en braille, letra grande, o audio
• Información disponible en formatos electrónicos accesibles en la página web de FEMA
• Intérpretes calificados de lenguaje de señas
• Intérpretes multilingües calificados
• Información escrita en otros idiomas

Si usted necesita asistencia para acceder a un programa o servicio de FEMA o un programa o servicio financiado por FEMA, comuníquese con FEMA llamando al 800-621-3362 o (833) 285-7448 [marque 1 para inglés, 2 para español, 3 para la línea de intérpretes en otros idiomas], o envíe un correo electrónico a: FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

Si usted tiene alguna queja, deberá denunciarla dentro de los 180 días posteriores al presunto acto discriminatorio. Para informar sobre una inquietud o hacer una denuncia por discriminación

• llame a la División Externa de Derechos Civiles de FEMA al (833) 285-7448 [marque 1 para inglés, 2 para español, 3 para la línea de intérpretes en otros idiomas];
• envíe un correo electrónico a: FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov ; o
• envíe una carta con una explicación de la situación a la siguiente dirección:

 

OFICINA DE IGUALDAD DE DERECHOS DE FEMA

División Externa de Derechos Civiles

500 C Street, SW

Room 4SW-0915

Washington, DC 20472

Para preguntas relacionadas a la asistencia por desastre, llame a la línea de ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362. Si usted utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otro servicio, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. La línea de ayuda de FEMA está disponible para todos los sobrevivientes de desastre, incluidas las personas cuyo idioma materno no sea el inglés. Marque 2 para español o permanezca en la línea para más opciones de idiomas.

John.Mills Sat, 08/13/2022 - 15:20

FEMA CIVIL RIGHTS NOTICE FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC

FEMA may provide or fund programs to support the public before, during, and after a disaster.  These programs must comply with Federal civil rights laws and nondiscrimination requirements in the Stafford Act. 

FEMA does not treat people differently because of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

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

• Information available in Braille, large print, or audio
• Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website
• Qualified sign language interpreters
• Qualified multilingual interpreters
• Information written in other languages

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

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

• call FEMA External Civil Rights Division at (833) 285-7448 [ Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the Language Line]
• send an email to FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov ; or
• send a letter explaining the issue to:

 

FEMA OFFICE OF EQUAL RIGHTS

External Civil Rights Division

500 C Street, SW

Room 4SW-0915

Washington, DC 20472

For questions about disaster assistance, please call FEMA's Helpline at 800-621-3362. FEMA’s Helpline is available to all disaster survivors, including those whose primary language is not English. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

John.Mills Sat, 08/13/2022 - 15:11

FEMA, State Emergency Management and Local Leaders Announce Historic Investments in Climate and Disaster Resilience

BOTHELL, Wash.  -  Today, FEMA Region 10 Administrator Wille G. Nunn joined Washington Emergency Management Division Director Robert Ezelle and local leaders in Aberdeen, WA, to announce Washington projects selected as part of President Biden’s historic $1.16 billion climate and disaster resilience investment and the availability of an additional $3.095 billion in funding opportunities for communities in Fiscal Year 2022. The event took place near the location of the planned $50 million North Shore Levee project which was selected and would provide critical flood protection for residents and businesses across Aberdeen and Hoquiam.

“As we speak, we are seeing the impacts of climate change as fires rage across the country, and unprecedented floods have claimed dozens of lives. Here in Region 10, we also can’t forget that every day is earthquake season with a deadly earthquake able to strike without warning,” said Regional Administrator Nunn. “The projects selected as well as the additional funding being made available empower local communities to develop innovative solutions that address the unique risks their communities face and promote a more secure, resilient and prosperous future for their residents. We’re proud to work side-by-side with our local leaders to help them take advantage of these funding opportunities.” A full video of today’s press conference can be found here.

Funding for projects selected in Washington state form part of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program. BRIC provides communities with the opportunity to proactively invest in hazard mitigation projects to reduce the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards and avoid future disaster costs. Projects in Washington range from infrastructure investments that better ensure access to clean water and emergency communications in the event of an earthquake to initiatives to better prepare growing communities and economic hubs from flooding or seismic risks.

The following projects were selected in Washington:

• City of Shoreline, North 175th Street Soil Stabilization Project - $8,869,500.00  
• King County Water District 90, 2021 Relocate Wells & WTP, Complete intertie for Emergency Water - $2,166,295.50  
• City of Aberdeen, North Shore Levee - $50,000,000.00  
• City of Auburn, City of Auburn Reservoir 2 Seismic Control Valve project - $1,087,500.00  
• Seattle Police Department, City of Seattle Good Shepherd Center South Annex Seismic Retrofit - $380,517.58  

Last year, President Biden announced an increase in BRIC funding from $500 million to $1 billion with Fiscal Year 2022 funding set to double again to more than $2 billion. Today, the administration announced that a total of $3.095 billion in new funding opportunities would be available for communities as part of the BRIC program and the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program, which provides funding to states, local communities, federally recognized tribes, and territories to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured by the National Flood Insurance program. Funding was also included for technical assistance for local communities to build capacity and capability to be able to undertake these projects.

The current round of applications received far more applicants than funding available, representing the intense demand for climate resilience and disaster mitigation funding. Projects selected will undergo further review before receiving funds. Summaries and additional information on subapplicants can be found on FEMA.gov.

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

mary.j.edmon Sat, 08/13/2022 - 00:11

Biden-Harris Administration Announces More than $3 Billion in Funding for Two FEMA Programs to Increase Climate Resilience Nationwide Announcement Builds on President Biden’s Leadership to Secure Unprecedented Funding for Resilient Communities, Boosted by Significant Investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

WASHINGTON -- Today, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and White House Infrastructure Coordinator and Senior Advisor to the President Mitch Landrieu, announced that FEMA is making funding available for two resilience grant programs for more than $3 billion to help communities become more resilient to climate change and associated extreme weather events and other hazards. 

The funding level for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) annual grant program, which funds projects that protect people and infrastructure from natural hazards and the effects of climate change, will more than double to nearly $2.3 billion. The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program, which funds projects that mitigate flood risks facing homes and communities, is seeing a five-fold increase to $800 million. These levels are bolstered by nearly $900 million through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: $200 million for BRIC and $700 million for FMA.

In a recent speech in Massachusetts, President Biden announced new, historic funding for the BRIC program, as part of the Administration’s ongoing commitment to protect Americans impacted by the clear and present danger of climate change. This historic funding for BRIC enables states, local communities, tribes and territories to proactively reduce their vulnerability to flood, hurricanes, drought, wildfires, extreme heat and other hazards.

Since taking office, President Biden has continued to provide additional funding to FEMA’s annual resilience grant programs, increasing them from $700 million to $1.16 billion during his first year in office and more than doubling last year’s funding to more than $3 billion for FY 22. 

“Climate change is an existential threat to our nation and our national security, as extreme weather events increasingly are disrupting our lives and our economy,” said Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “With historic levels of funding for the BRIC and FMA programs being announced today, we are investing in our nation’s resilience and building individual and community preparedness across the country.”

“Climate change is the crisis of our generation, and the actions we take today, will impact generations to come. Thanks to President Biden’s leadership, FEMA and the entire Administration is taking a whole-of-government approach to tackle this issue head on by ensuring communities have the tools they need to prepare for a climate resilient future,” said Administrator Criswell. “Chronic lack of investment in climate resilience has only made matters worse for America’s crumbling infrastructure. Unfortunately, these issues are magnified in historically underserved communities. Through this funding and the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we seek to correct this injustice and ensure that every community is better able to prepare before disasters strike.”  

“Millions of Americans in communities big and small feel the effects of climate change each year from droughts, extreme heat, wildfires and floods,” said Mitch Landrieu, Senior Adviser to the President and White House Infrastructure Coordinator. “The President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides the largest investment in the resilience of physical and natural systems in American history. These resilience programs are a lifeline for many communities as they build a better and stronger America.”

The Flood Mitigation Assistance and BRIC programs provide funds to states, local communities, tribes and territories for eligible resilience activities to build a culture of preparedness and strengthen the nation’s readiness for extreme weather and other hazards. These pre-disaster programs fund projects that invest in a more resilient nation, reduce disaster suffering and avoid future disaster costs, particularly in disadvantaged communities in the face of extreme heat and more severe floods, wildfires and hurricanes.  

The application period for the BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance grants will be available on Grants.gov. 

Eligible applicants must apply for funding using FEMA Grants Outcomes, the agency’s grants management system. Submit applications in FEMA Grants Outcome Portal no later than 3 p.m. EDT on Jan. 27, 2023. Applications received by FEMA after this deadline will not be considered for funding. 

Interested applicants should contact their hazard mitigation officer for more information. For more information visit FEMA.gov. 

Ensuring Equitable Access to Funding and Capacity-Building

Aligning with the Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, the Flood Mitigation Assistance and BRIC programs aim to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of climate, clean energy, affordable and sustainable housing, clean water and other investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, overburdened and underserved.

Using money from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA is increasing the federal cost share to 90% for socially vulnerable communities to lower the financial burden on certain resilience activities. The agency plans to assist federally recognized tribal governments and disadvantaged communities with conducting the Benefit-Cost Analysis for resilience projects to meet eligibility requirements.

FEMA is also expanding investment in the BRIC’s non-financial Direct Technical Assistance to at least 40 communities in the next grant cycle to help build capacity and capability at the local level.  

“Disasters themselves don’t discriminate, but their impacts are often felt hardest by our most vulnerable communities, which can make it even harder to get help to the people who need it most,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks. “This is why FEMA is expanding opportunities for better access to disaster resilience grants by making Direct Technical Assistance more available for communities who seek this critical funding.”

Direct Technical Assistance reduces barriers a community may face that could prevent them from accessing the BRIC program. FEMA is transforming the initiative to a more flexible, customer-focused format to support more communities with building and sustaining successful resilience programs, submitting high-quality applications and implementing new and innovative projects that reduce risk and increase resilience. 

FEMA will share additional information on BRIC’s Direct Technical Assistance with stakeholders. Interested applicants may also visit the BRIC Direct Technical Assistance webpage to find information and detailed instructions on how to submit an application once available. 

The agency anticipates opening the submission period no later than Sept. 30, 2022. Communities interested in participating have until Jan. 27, 2023 to submit an application.

Visit fema.gov for more information about Hazard Mitigation Assistance.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 08/12/2022 - 17:41

FEMA recorrerá los vecindarios del área de St. Louis para ayudar a los sobrevivientes de las inundaciones

ST. LOUIS – La Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) comenzará a visitar las comunidades del área de St. Louis afectadas por las recientes inundaciones a partir del miércoles 10 de agosto.

Los equipos de Asistencia a Sobrevivientes del Desastre (DSA) estarán trabajando en la ciudad de St. Louis, el condado de St. Louis y el condado de St. Charles.

El personal de DSA trabaja en comunidades designadas como áreas de desastre federal para ayudar a los inquilinos y propietarios de viviendas a solicitar con FEMA, e identificar y abordar rápidamente las necesidades inmediatas y emergentes. También pueden proporcionar actualizaciones de solicitudes y referencias a recursos comunitarios adicionales para las necesidades restantes.

El 8 de agosto, el presidente Joseph R. Biden, Jr. aprobó la Asistencia Individual de FEMA para la ciudad de St. Louis, y los condados de St. Louis y St. Charles, que se vieron afectados por las inundaciones que ocurrieron del 25 de julio al 28 de julio.

Esta asistencia puede incluir ayuda para realizar reparaciones temporales a viviendas dañadas por el desastre, pagar por otro lugar para vivir a corto plazo mientras se realizan reparaciones permanentes, y ayudar con las necesidades graves relacionadas con el desastre que no están cubiertas por otros programas.

El personal DSA de FEMA puede ser fácilmente identificado por su tarjeta de identificación federal con foto y ropa de FEMA. Se recuerda a los residentes de Missouri que pidan ver una identificación oficial con foto antes de proporcionar información personal.

Los inspectores de vivienda contratados por FEMA también trabajarán en áreas designadas por desastre, inspeccionando los daños sufridos por los sobrevivientes que ya han solicitado con FEMA. Cuando los inspectores contratados por FEMA lleguen a una casa, ellos mostrarán una identificación oficial con foto. Si la identificación con foto no está visible, puede pedir verla. Esto ayuda a prevenir el fraude.

Muchos representantes legítimos de asistencia por desastre podrían también visitar su propiedad, tal como agentes de seguros, inspectores de daños, personal de FEMA y de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios de EE. UU. (SBA).

Los empleados de FEMA no solicitan ni aceptan dinero de sobrevivientes de desastres. El personal de FEMA nunca cobra a los solicitantes por la asistencia por desastre, inspecciones o ayuda con la inscripción.

Estos son algunos consejos para protegerse contra el fraude:

Pida ver las tarjetas de identificación. Todos los representantes de FEMA usan una identificación federal con foto. Una camisa o chaqueta de FEMA no es una prueba absoluta de identidad. Si no está seguro o se siente incómodo con alguien que encuentre, comuníquese con la policía local.

Tenga cuidado con las personas que van de puerta en puerta y dicen ser contratistas. Las personas que tocan las puertas de casas dañadas o que llaman a los propietarios afirmando ser contratistas podrían ser estafadores, especialmente si piden información personal o solicitan dinero. Asegúrese de verificar las tarjetas de identificación federal del personal de asistencia por desastre que pueda visitar su casa.

FEMA no tiene contratistas "aprobados". Tenga cuidado con los contratistas que dicen que están afiliados con FEMA. No firme nada que no entienda, ni contratos con espacios en blanco.

Si usted tiene conocimiento de fraude, desperdicio, abuso o acusaciones de mala administración que involucran operaciones de asistencia por desastre, llame a la Línea Directa de Fraude por Desastre de FEMA al 866-720-5721.

Siempre use contratistas licenciados y asegurados, y pida las credenciales.  Nunca pague antes de que se realice el trabajo.

Los sobrevivientes que sufrieron daños o pérdidas causados por las inundaciones y/o los vientos directos pueden inscribirse con FEMA de las siguientes maneras:

• En línea, en disasterassistance.gov/es.
• Por teléfono, utilizando la línea gratuita de inscripción de FEMA, llamando al         800-621-FEMA (3362). La solicitud por teléfono está disponible de 6:00 a.m. a 10:00 p.m. (Hora Central), siete días a la semana hasta nuevo aviso. 

 

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o estado económico.

                                                             ###

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

John.Mills Thu, 08/11/2022 - 23:24

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Pike County

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Disaster Recovery Center is open in Pike County to assist Kentucky flood survivors who experienced loss from the Eastern Kentucky flooding.

Center location:

• Pike County: Dorton Community Center –112 Dorton Hill Rd., Jenkins KY 41722

Already Open:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library – 1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Clay County: Clay County Community Center–311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY  40962
• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex - 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn KY 41831
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Perry County: Hazard Community College –1 Community College Dr, Hazard KY 41701

Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go to any center to get help applying for FEMA assistance.

FEMA representatives will be at the centers to help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a disaster recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Thu, 08/11/2022 - 19:07

Personas con daños por inundación en Missouri pueden solicitar ayuda de FEMA

ST. LOUIS – Los inquilinos y propietarios de viviendas en el condado de St. Louis, la ciudad de St. Louis y el condado de St. Charles, que se vieron afectados por las inundaciones repentinas del 25 al 28 de julio, pueden solicitar asistencia por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés).

Solicite en línea, en disasterassistance.gov/es, llamando al 800-621-3362 o utilizando la aplicación móvil de FEMA.

Si usted utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otro servicio, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio.

Para necesidades no cubiertas por el seguro u otras fuentes, FEMA puede proporcionar dinero de la subvención de Asistencia Individual que no tiene que ser reembolsado, para:

• Asistencia de alquiler si necesita reubicarse debido a daños por inundación
• Propiedad personal que fue dañada o destruida por inundación
• Reembolso de gastos de alojamiento si ha tenido que alojarse en un hotel temporalmente
• Reparaciones básicas del hogar para propietarios cuya residencia principal fue dañada por inundación
• Otras necesidades graves causadas por inundaciones recientes
• Solo una solicitud por hogar

FEMA no paga por la pérdida de alimentos.

Cuando solicite con FEMA, tenga la siguiente información disponible:

• Número de teléfono actual
• Dirección de la propiedad donde ocurrieron los daños por inundación
• Dirección donde se aloja actualmente
• Número de Seguro Social de un miembro del hogar
• Lista básica de daños y pérdidas
• Información bancaria, si elige depósito directo para recibir dinero de FEMA
• Información del seguro, si está asegurado, incluyendo el número de póliza

Si tiene seguro de propietario, inquilino o seguro de inundación, debe presentar una reclamación lo antes posible. FEMA no puede duplicar los beneficios por pérdidas cubiertas por el seguro. Si su póliza no cubre todos sus gastos por los daños, usted puede ser elegible para asistencia federal.

Tome fotos para documentar los daños, y comience la limpieza y las reparaciones para evitar más daños. Recuerde mantener los recibos de todas las compras relacionadas con la limpieza y reparación.

Para ver un video accesible sobre cómo solicitar asistencia, visite

youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw. (enlace en inglés)

Para actualizaciones de FEMA sobre el desastre, siga a @FEMAregion7 en Twitter (enlace en inglés), y active las notificaciones móviles. Visite la página web del desastre en fema.gov/es/disaster/4665

Para actualizaciones de la Agencia Estatal para el Manejo de Emergencias (SEMA) sobre el desastre, siga a @MOSEMA en Twitter (enlace en inglés), y active las notificaciones móviles. Recovery.MO.gov (enlace en inglés) continúa siendo una fuente única para ayudar a los habitantes de Missouri a encontrar fácilmente información y recursos relacionados con desastres.

                                                          ###

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

John.Mills Wed, 08/10/2022 - 23:16

Pottawatomie County Disaster Recovery Center to Close Aug. 11

OKLAHOMA CITY – The final day for Oklahoma residents to visit the joint federal/state Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Pottawatomie County is Thursday, Aug. 11. The DRC was opened to help survivors affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 2-8.

Oklahoma residents can still visit other DRCs for assistance. To locate the closest DRC to you, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA app or visit the DRC Locator. You can also text 43362 and type DRC (your ZIP Code); for example, DRC 12345.

The center is closing permanently at 7 p.m., Aug. 11:

Pottawatomie County

Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center

1700 W. Independence St.

Shawnee, OK 74804

Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday

 

Carmen.Castro Wed, 08/10/2022 - 19:36

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Breathitt, Letcher Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Breathitt and Letcher counties to assist Eastern Kentucky flood survivors.

Center locations:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library – 1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858

Already Open:

• Perry County: Hazard Community College –1 Community College Dr., Hazard KY 41701
• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex - 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765 Leburn, KY 41831
• Clay County: Oneida Elementary School - 435 Newfound Rd., Oneida KY 40972 (closes 4 p.m. Aug.  15)

Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go to any center to get help with applications for federal assistance. They also can help update applications with additional information that FEMA requires and they can help with appeals of FEMA decisions.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a disaster recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Wed, 08/10/2022 - 17:53

FEMA Approves Another $2.9 Million for Utah COVID-19 Response

DENVER – FEMA has approved an additional $2.9 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Utah. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 4, 2020. FEMA has now provided more than $300 million for the Utah COVID-19 response with this additional funding.

• FEMA awarded $1.5 million in grant funds to the Utah Department of Health to reimburse them for the cost of contracted long-term medical care for COVID-19 positive patients. The state reserved skilled nursing beds at designated COVID-19 nursing facilities for long-term care patients who were discharged from acute care, or for patients who did not require hospitalization, but needed to be transferred from other nursing or assisted living facilities to accommodations specifically geared towards COVID-19 care until they were deemed safe to return to their original living situation. Ninety-three beds were reserved at three separate facilities within the state of Utah, to prevent or mitigate the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. This award covers contracted nursing facilities from January 17, 2022, to March 31, 2022.
• FEMA also awarded $1.3 million to Salt Lake County as reimbursement for the cost of setting up and operating a COVID-19 emergency coordination center.  Salt Lake County used their own staff and contracted labor to operate the emergency coordination center and provide technical expertise for the county’s COVID-19 response. This included the cost to staff quarantine and isolation centers, and to serve as a liaison to volunteer organizations and community partners regarding COVID-19 issues. It also includes rental of a warehouse facility for receiving and handling of COVID-19 supplies, cleaning supplies, and materials needed to set up testing and vaccination sites.  This award covers Salt Lake County’s COVID-19 coordination center costs from January 30, 2020, through December 31, 2021.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow state and local governments to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, tribal and local officials work to assist their communities during this response.  

To fully support this essential work, the President authorized provision of FEMA Public Assistance at 100 percent federal funding through July 1, 2022.   Beginning July 2, 2022, the federal cost share for COVID-19 projects is 90 percent of the eligible cost.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 08/10/2022 - 16:50

FEMA Awards Additional Funds for Spring Creek Wildfire Response

DENVER – FEMA has awarded another $1.9 million to the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control for the cost of fighting the Spring Creek Wildfire that impacted portions of Colorado in late June and July of 2018. The funds are provided by FEMA’s Public Assistance program under a Fire Management Assistance declaration for Colorado issued on June 28, 2018.

The Spring Creek wildfire began in Costilla and Huerfano counties on June 27, 2018. The fire burned 108,000 acres, destroyed 140 buildings and caused the evacuation of approximately 400 homes.  This Fire Management Assistance Grant for the Spring Creek wildfire reimburses the state for costs incurred to fight the wildfire including the cost of air tankers, helicopters, firefighters, EMTs, communications technicians, and personnel support equipment.

The FEMA grant represents the 75 percent federal cost share made available under the Fire Management Assistance Grant declaration.  FEMA has now awarded the state more than $6.6 million in response to the Spring Creek Wildfire.

For more information on FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grants, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details.  Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 08/10/2022 - 16:43

FEMA Awards Funds for Dollar Ridge Wildfire Response

DENVER – FEMA has awarded $4.1 million to the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands to cover costs of fighting the Dollar Ridge wildfire that impacted north-central Utah in July of 2018. The funds are provided by FEMA’s Public Assistance program under a Fire Management Assistance declaration for Utah issued on July 2, 2018, in response to the wildfire.

The Dollar Ridge wildfire began south of Fruitland on July 1, 2018. The fire burned over 68,000 acres of private, state, and federal land, destroying 74 homes and damaging six others and prompting the evacuation of approximately 300 residents.   In addition, the fire threatened several hundred gas and oil wells and the Strawberry River watershed.

The FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant for the Dollar Ridge wildfire reimburses the state for costs incurred to fight the wildfire including the cost of firefighters from 13 fire departments and the Utah National Guard, as well as state employees and contractors, communications, firefighting equipment, and air operations.

The FEMA grants represent the 75 percent federal cost share made available under the Fire Management Assistance Grant declaration.

For more information on FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grants, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details.  Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 08/10/2022 - 16:33