Free Legal Services, Crisis Counseling Available to Tornado Survivors

FRANKFORT, Ky. – If you are facing new legal issues or experiencing feelings of hopelessness or stress as a result of the Dec. 10-11 tornadoes, you can now get free legal advice and free crisis counseling.

FEMA has made the free help available to residents of the 16 counties most affected by the tornadoes: Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren.

Free Legal Services. Low-income, elderly and other vulnerable residents who were affected by the disaster and are unable to afford their own lawyer may call 877-782-4219. The helpline is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday. Voicemail messages can be left 24 hours a day, every day.

When leaving a message, include the county where you are located and describe your tornado-related legal problem. Callers may receive assistance from staff at Kentucky Legal Aid or a volunteer attorney. Examples of available assistance include help with securing FEMA and other benefits; insurance claims; home repair contracts and contractors; consumer protection matters; replacement of wills and other important legal documents that were destroyed; and mortgage-foreclosure and landlord/tenant problems.

The service is a partnership between FEMA, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, the Kentucky Bar Association and other Kentucky legal groups.

Immediate Crisis Counseling. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and FEMA have activated a Disaster Distress Helpline in Kentucky; telephone or text 800-985-5990. This free crisis support service is available all day every day for disaster survivors experiencing emotional distress or mental health problems caused or aggravated by the tornadoes or their aftermath.

The helpline staff may provide confidential counseling and other needed support services or immediately connect callers to trained professionals from the nearest participating crisis counseling center.

Spanish-speakers can press “2” for bilingual support. Callers can connect with counselors in more than 100 other languages via third-party interpretation services by indicating their preferred language to the responding counselor. A videophone option for American Sign Language users is also available by calling 800-985-5990 from a videophone-enabled device or via an “ASL Now” link at samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline.

The deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance is Friday, Feb. 11. For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

scott.reuter Mon, 01/31/2022 - 16:48

Disaster Recovery Centers in Newport and Monette to Close Permanently

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The joint State/FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Newport and Monette will close permanently on Friday, Feb. 4 and Saturday, Feb. 5, respectively. The hours of operation will remain the same until they close. Additionally, the DRC in Trumann will continue to be open until further notice.

Survivors who were affected by the December severe storms and tornadoes can meet face to face with specialists from FEMA, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and state and local agencies to have their questions about disaster assistance answered. They may also upload any documents needed for their applications at the centers.

After the DRCs close, survivors can still view the status of their application online or contact FEMA through the Helpline if they have questions. Survivors may also still apply for assistance if they have not already done so. They can visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CST. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service

DRC locations, closure dates and hours of operation:

Jackson County

Will close permanently Fri., Feb. 4 at 4 p.m.

Diaz City Hall

3401 S. Main St.

Newport, AR 72112

Hours of operation this week: Thurs. and Fri. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Craighead County

Will close permanently Sat. Feb. 5 at 6 p.m.

First Baptist Church of Monette

18847 Highway 18

Monette, AR 72447

Hours of operation this week: Mon. through Sat. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Poinsett County

Parkview Missionary Baptist Church

104 N. Parkview Dr.

Trumann, AR 72472

Hours of operation until further notice: Mondays through Saturdays 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Residents of any of the five counties approved for individual assistance, Craighead, Jackson, Mississippi, Poinsett and Woodruff may visit any open disaster recovery center in Arkansas.

Carmen.Castro Mon, 01/31/2022 - 16:40

Apply for FEMA Assistance Even If You Have Insurance

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – If your personal property or primary residence was damaged when a line of tornadoes touched down in middle and west Tennessee in December, consider applying for FEMA assistance even if you have insurance. Don’t wait until after you receive your insurance settlement to apply. First, file your insurance claim, then apply for FEMA.

Under a recently signed Major Disaster Declaration, residents in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley and Wilson counties are eligible to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. This includes help with temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs or other essential disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. 

FEMA cannot duplicate benefits, but once you are in the agency’s application system, you can submit documentation on your insurance when you receive it, and any uncovered damages may be considered.  

Common reasons FEMA encourages even those with insurance to apply:

• You received the settlement from your insurance company, but it did not cover all your losses. FEMA may be able to assist with unmet needs.
• You have exhausted your policy limit or settlement for Additional Living Expenses (ALE for loss of use) or your policy doesn’t pay for temporary housing and your home is no longer safe, sanitary or habitable.
• Your settlement does not cover disaster-related costs, such as medical or dental, transportation, and other disaster-related expenses.
• Waiting for an insurance settlement before applying may cause you to miss FEMA’s application deadline of March 15, 2022.

There are many ways tornado survivors may apply:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Visit one of the state’s Multiple Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) and talk with a FEMA specialist. For locations and hours, go to https://www.tn.gov/tema/get-involved/december-severe-weather.html. MARCs provide Tennessee tornado survivors with an opportunity to get direct, in-person support from federal, state, and local agencies located under the same roof.
• Use the FEMA app, which can be easily downloaded to a smartphone.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362; specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week.
  • If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:
    • Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number
    • Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.

The FEMA Helpline is your go-to resource for answers to questions about insurance or your application as well as to update information.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter@FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Mon, 01/31/2022 - 13:26

Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice Jan. 31-Feb. 18 at Lowe’s, Menards, The Home Depot

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As residents repair and rebuild after the December tornadoes, FEMA has teamed with Lowe’s, Menards and The Home Depot stores to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by natural disasters stronger and safer.

FEMA specialists will be available in Bowling Green, Elizabethtown and Paducah from Jan. 31 to Feb. 18 to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work.

The specialists will be available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except Wednesdays.

The Home Depot #2314 2801 James Sanders Boulevard Paducah, KY 42001

Menards 100 Menards Way Elizabethtown, KY 42701

Lowe's 150 American Lane Bowling Green, KY 42104

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

scott.reuter Sat, 01/29/2022 - 14:02

Two Weeks Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky homeowners and renters who suffered uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from the Dec. 10-11 storms and tornadoes have just two weeks left to apply for federal disaster assistance.

Friday, Feb. 11, is the deadline to apply for assistance for survivors in Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren counties.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. 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.

FEMA’s Individual Assistance program is designed to help disaster survivors with basic, critical needs such as a safe, sanitary, and functional place to live while survivors look for a long-term or permanent housing solution. It is not designed to make survivors whole and is not a substitute for insurance coverage. FEMA Individual Assistance cannot duplicate other sources of assistance.

FEMA provides funds paid directly to eligible individuals and households. Financial Housing Assistance may include rental assistance, lodging expenses reimbursement, home repair assistance, and replacement assistance. All are explained as follows:

• Rental Assistance is financial assistance for homeowners and renters for temporary housing if Hurricane Ida displaced them from their primary residence.
• Lodging Expense Reimbursement is reimbursement for out-of-pocket temporary lodging expenses that resulted from damage that made their primary residence uninhabitable. Eligible lodging expenses may include the cost of the room and any associated taxes.
• Home Repair Assistance is financial assistance for homeowners to repair their primary residences, utilities servicing the primary residence, and residential infrastructure leading to their Hurricane Ida-damaged property.
• Replacement Assistance is financial assistance for any homeowner whose primary residence was destroyed by Hurricane Ida and can be applied to the purchase of a new permanent residence.
• Other Needs Assistance is financial assistance for other disaster-caused expenses and immediate needs. This assistance may include funds to replace personal property, moving and storage expenses, transportation assistance, funeral, medical, dental, childcare, and miscellaneous disaster-related items.

Applying for help is free. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile 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. Lines are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CST daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for other languages.

You also may apply at a Disaster Recovery Center. To find an open recovery center, visit fema.gov/drc.

For official information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

scott.reuter Sat, 01/29/2022 - 13:00

Washington Communities Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

LACEY, Wash.  – Local and tribal governments and certain nonprofit organizations in communities affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from Nov. 5 to Dec. 2, 2021 are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for recovery.

Clallam, Island, Jefferson, Lewis, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom counties and the Hoh Indian Tribe, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Nation and the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community now come under the amended presidential disaster declaration that was issued for Washington.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local, tribal and state government agencies and certain nonprofit organizations for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure.

Applicants that may be eligible for Public Assistance include:         

• Local governments, special districts and any tribe or nation in the declared area
• Certain nonprofits or institutions that conduct activities of a governmental nature and are open to the public
• Houses of worship
• Federally recognized tribes
• State government agencies

For more information about Washington flood and mudslide recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in the state to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.

mary.j.edmon Fri, 01/28/2022 - 23:00

Disaster Recovery Center Will Serve 3 Clallam Locations

LACEY, Wash. – The Disaster Recovery Center currently in Forks will move after Feb. 4 to two additional sites in Clallam County to help survivors of the November flooding apply for FEMA assistance. The center is operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division.

Center locations:

• ICN Building, 71 N. Spartan Ave., Forks, WA 98331, currently operating and continuing through Feb. 4. The center operates Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday noon – 6 p.m. 
• Feb. 5: Clallam Bay Fire Station, 60 Eagle Crest, Clallam Bay, WA 98326. The center will operate 10 a.m. -- 3 p.m. 
• Feb. 7-9: Clallam County Emergency Operations Center, 223 E. 4th St. (County Courthouse building), Port Angeles, WA 98362. The center will operate 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state agencies will be available to help flood survivors of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, including the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Nation and other tribes in the three counties, apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is March 7, 2022.

In addition, a FEMA team will be at the Clallam County Emergency Operations Center Jan. 28-29, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., to help with applications.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated counties can apply online at 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.

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

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

For more information about Washington flood and mudslide recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in Washington State to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.

mary.j.edmon Fri, 01/28/2022 - 22:28

FEMA Urges Residents to Prepare for Approaching Winter Storm

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell spoke with several governors earlier today ahead of the winter storm forecast to affect areas along New England and coastal Mid-Atlantic/Northeast this weekend.  

“We remain in close contact with our state partners as they prepare for this storm,” said Administrator Criswell. “FEMA is prepared to assist communities who may face impacts caused by the storm, and we continue to encourage everyone to follow the guidance of their state and local officials.”

Extreme travel disruptions may affect areas in the storm forecast areas. Avoid travel, if possible and listen to local updates for the latest road conditions and closures. If you must be on the road, make sure you have an emergency supply kit with food, water and blankets in your car.    

• During and after a winter storm, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Make sure you have food, water and other supplies. Your kit should also include a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and extra flashlights and batteries.
• Make sure your phone and other electronic items are fully charged in case you lose power.
• Visit Ready.gov/winter-weather for tips to help keep yourself and your family safe.
• In addition to heavy snow, the eastern third of the country will experience bitter cold, so it’s important to make sure you have the proper supplies, including:  
  • Rock salt or pet-friendly chemical product to melt ice on walkways. 
  • Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
  • Adequate clothing and blankets to help keep you warm. 
  • Don’t forget to include your pets in your winter weather planning, including food, water and blankets. 

amy.ashbridge Fri, 01/28/2022 - 21:57

FEMA Obligates Nearly $335K to House of Worship in Nassau County for Ida Recovery

NEW YORK – FEMA has obligated nearly $335,000 to reimburse Temple Tikvah in Nassau County for costs associated with emergency protective measures following remnants of Hurricane Ida. This is just one step FEMA has taken to help houses of worship in the state of New York recover and rebuild.

Located in New Hyde Park, N.Y., Temple Tikvah (“hope”) serves congregants from Queens and Nassau counties. Like many other homes and businesses across the region, the Temple sustained damage from the heavy rains Ida brought to the Northeast. Social gatherings, religious ceremonies and religious instruction were put on hold. Hallways, classrooms and the place where worshippers feel closest to their spiritual selves – their sanctuary -- was under water.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program is a vital resource for state, tribal, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofits (PNP) to cover disaster-related expenses,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Lai Sun Yee. “Funding plays a critical role for private non-profits and houses of worship. The need for additional funding to support cleanup and repairs after a disaster can be overwhelming for these groups in particular, as insurance may not cover some of these costs.”

Temple Tikvah, a first-time applicant for FEMA disaster assistance, represents a tight-knit community who was devastated by the severe damage to the place they call home.

Through FEMA’s PA program, this recent obligation will help the Temple recover costs associated with the removal of water from inside the building. This is just one of several projects that have been approved for this applicant. 

The Temple has additional projects in process with FEMA including reimbursement for debris removal, mold remediation and permanent work that covers the repair and/or replacement of the building and its contents.

FEMA’s PA program enables communities to quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. Houses of worship owned or operated by PNP organizations may be eligible applicants if their facilities were damaged or destroyed by a disaster.

Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis of 75 percent of eligible costs for Public Assistance. The remaining 25 percent comes from non-federal funds.

The Request for Public Assistance application period has closed for Hurricane Ida in all eligible counties. However, FEMA continues to work with the state of New York to support ongoing recovery.

Learn more about FEMA’s Public Assistance program and prepare for future disasters, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.

For official information on New York’s recovery effort, visit fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion2  and at facebook.com/fema.

kimberly.keblish Fri, 01/28/2022 - 20:02

FEMA Needs Your Current Contact Information

LACEY, Wash. – After you apply for federal disaster assistance, it is important to make sure FEMA has your current contact information. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers.

FEMA may need to call some applicants in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, including the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Nation and other tribes in the three counties, to conduct a home inspection. The inspection is needed to allow FEMA to continue processing their applications for assistance after the November flooding and mudslides. FEMA also may contact survivors to obtain more information for their application.

When calling applicants, FEMA specialists will have the applicant’s FEMA registration number, telephone number and address of the damaged property. They will not ask for money; there is no charge to apply for FEMA assistance. If you are suspicious about a caller, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify that FEMA is trying to reach you.

If there are changes in your phone number, current address, banking or insurance information, you should let FEMA know or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence.

You can update your information online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is March 7, 2022.

For more information about Washington flood recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in the state to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy

mary.j.edmon Fri, 01/28/2022 - 17:18

To Receive FEMA Assistance, You Must Apply with FEMA

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – It’s a simple message, but often misunderstood. Tornado survivors in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson counties who wish to receive FEMA assistance, need to apply with FEMA. If you fill out paperwork, for example, with a nonprofit organization or a local government office, that doesn’t create a FEMA application. The only way to be considered for FEMA assistance, is to apply with FEMA.

There are several ways to apply:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Visit one of the state’s Multiple Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) and talk with a FEMA specialist. For locations and hours, go to https://www.tn.gov/tema/get-involved/december-severe-weather.html. MARCs provide Tennessee tornado survivors with an opportunity to get direct, in-person support from federal, state, and local agencies located under the same roof.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362; specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week.
  • If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:
    • Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number
    • Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.
• Use the FEMA app, which can be easily downloaded to a smartphone.

FEMA assistance includes help with temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs or other essential disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.  

However, if you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you may still apply with FEMA. Just file your insurance claim first, then apply for FEMA assistance. Keep in mind though, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. But if your policy does not cover all your damage-related expenses, FEMA may be able to help.

Once you apply, FEMA will send a letter explaining the status of your application. The letter may state you’re ineligible for assistance or “no decision” can be made at this time. Don’t be discouraged or frustrated. Instead, just read the entire letter to find out what’s needed for FEMA to continue processing your application. Many times, it’s a simple fix that can be addressed in an appeal.

To learn more about writing an appeal letter and the deadline to submit it, go to https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20220126/disagree-femas-determination-letter-appeal or call 800-621-3362.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter@FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Fri, 01/28/2022 - 16:07

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Ferndale

LACEY, Wash. – FEMA, in partnership with the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open a Disaster Recovery Center Wednesday, Jan. 26 in Ferndale (Whatcom County) to help survivors of the November flooding and mudslides.

The center location:

Ferndale Chamber of Commerce, 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale, WA 98248. Hours this week: Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Thursday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday, 2 p.m. – 8 p.m., closed Sunday. Effective Jan. 31 hours of operation will be Monday-Tuesday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Thursday-Saturday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., closed Sunday.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state agencies will be available to help survivors of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, including the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Nation and other tribes in the three counties, apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated counties can apply online at 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.

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

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

For more information about Washington flood and mudslide recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in Washington State to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.

mary.j.edmon Wed, 01/26/2022 - 21:48

Disagree with FEMA’s Determination Letter? Appeal.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Once you apply for FEMA assistance, you will receive a letter explaining the status of your application. The letter may state you’re ineligible for assistance or “no decision” can be made at this time. Don’t be discouraged or frustrated. Instead, just read the entire letter to find out what’s needed for FEMA to continue processing your application. Many times, it’s a simple fix that can be addressed in an appeal.

Here are some of the most common reasons for an ineligible or “no decision” determination:

• Insurance settlement. You must provide a copy of your insurance settlement approval or denial letter to FEMA. If your insurance settlement is insufficient to meet your disaster-related needs, you may be eligible for federal assistance. Appeal the determination and provide additional information and/or documentation.
• You reported no home damage or minimal damage when you registered with FEMA. If you reported your home had no disaster-related damage but later discovered tornado damage did occur, appeal the determination. Documentation from a local official or contractor supporting your appeal may help document the tornado damage to your home.
• Proof of occupancy. When FEMA is unable to verify the occupancy of your primary residence, you may need to provide documentation, such as utility bills, a bank or credit card statement, phone bill, pay stubs, a driver’s license, state-issued ID card or voter registration card showing the address of your damaged primary residence.
• No initial rental assistance. FEMA cannot provide temporary rental assistance if you remain in your damaged home while it’s being repaired. After you apply to FEMA, you may find your housing needs have changed. Contact FEMA as soon as possible to update your housing status and explain why you have a need to relocate.
• No communication with FEMA. If you miss an appointment with a FEMA housing inspector and did not follow up with FEMA, your assistance could be affected. Also, make sure FEMA has your correct contact information. If you are unable to meet with an inspector as planned, let FEMA know.
• Your home is safe to occupy. FEMA housing assistance typically only covers costs to make your home habitable. Damage to non-essential space, landscaping or spoiled food is not covered by FEMA grants.

There may be other reasons why FEMA determined your application was ineligible. If you have questions or need additional information about the next steps to take, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362; specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

• If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:
  • Update the “Current Phone” field using the relay service phone number
  • Add “Relay Service” to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.

Every survivor has the right to appeal

• You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal.
• Appeals must be in writing, signed and dated.
• If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, that person must sign it and provide FEMA with a signed statement authorizing the individual to act on behalf of the applicant.
• Include documents that support the reason for your appeal letter.
• Include your name, current address and phone number, pre-disaster primary residence, registration number (on every page) and FEMA disaster declaration number – DR-4637 (on every page).
  1. 8. to file your appeal
• Mail documents: FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program National Processing Service Center P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville MD 20782-7055.
• Fax documents: 1-800-827-8112.
• Upload documents:  Log onto to your FEMA account or create an account at DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.

You may also apply for FEMA assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov. Additional ways to apply include using the FEMA app, which can easily be downloaded to a smartphone or tablet; or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

felicia.jordan Wed, 01/26/2022 - 20:27

Only a Few Days Left for Connecticut Survivors to Apply with FEMA

HARTFORD, Conn. – With the Jan. 28 deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance only a few days away, FEMA—along with their state and federal recovery partners—continue to offer help and resources to those affected by remnants of Hurricane Ida in Fairfield, New London, and New Haven counties.

Federal Resources for Disaster Survivors

Stay in Touch with FEMA – There are three ways to keep in touch with FEMA: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; via the FEMA app; or by calling 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  Multilingual operators are available. Callers should refer to their nine-digit registration number, which can be found on all communications from FEMA.

File an Appeal with FEMA – If you are found to be ineligible for disaster assistance, or you feel the award amount is insufficient, you have the right to an appeal. Carefully read your determination letter to understand why the decision was made and how you can receive the assistance you need. Survivors who don’t agree with FEMA’s eligibility decision may file an appeal within 60 days of receiving their determination letter. Appeals must be made in writing explaining why the agency should re-evaluate its decision providing the associated documentation (additional receipts, contractors estimate, etc.) This can be provided to FEMA by uploading to your FEMA account online, sent by mail, or fax to FEMA. For more information, contact the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) or visit https://go.usa.gov/xt8pA.

Low Interest Disaster Loans from SBA – Residents who would like to apply for an SBA loan should visit SBA’s website at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s  or if you have questions about an existing loan, contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955 (TTY 800-877-8339) or emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov,

State and Community Resources

Connecticut 2-1-1 – The 2-1-1 HealthyLives Navigator can help identify needs that you or those you care for may have – and resources to meet those. To learn more about available resources or to find resources in your area visit http://www.211ct.org/

Disaster Legal Services – Low-income survivors facing legal issues may call 860-612-2038 between the hours of 9 am to 5 pm ET, Monday-Friday. Survivors may be matched with volunteer attorneys or, for those who qualify based on income, connected with a legal aid organization. 

A list of local and community organizations is also available to provide disaster recovery resources in Connecticut visit https://go.usa.gov/xetGd

adrien.urbani Wed, 01/26/2022 - 18:44

FEMA Region 4 Encourages Young Leaders to Apply for Youth Preparedness Council

ATLANTA – Teens interested in learning more about the field of emergency management are encouraged to apply for FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council (YPC). The 2022 YPC application period is open now through March 6.

FEMA’s YPC was formed in 2012 and is in its 10th year. The council brings together young leaders from across the country who want to strengthen preparedness in their communities and help FEMA build a culture of preparedness.

Selected council members will have the opportunity to present their ideas to FEMA, grow their leadership skills, and support resilience in their communities through emergency preparedness projects. There will also be other opportunities to engage with FEMA leaders and preparedness professionals to network and learn more about emergency management.

Students in grades eight through 11 can apply online at community.fema.gov/PreparednessCommunity/s/apply-to-ypc. Applicants must submit a completed written or video application, two letters of recommendation, academic records, consent from their parent or guardian, and a list of extracurricular activities. All applications and supporting materials must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. PST, March 6. Students who apply for the national YPC from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee also will be considered for Region 4’s YPC.

In the application package, teens should share what preparedness means to them, and how their skills and background could strengthen FEMA’s work. Responses should draw from their schoolwork, community service, and leadership experiences, and provide a complete overview of the applicant.

Applications are reviewed for interest in preparedness and helping others, involvement in their community, and aptitude for working in a team and as a leader. New council members will be announced in June.

To learn more about FEMA’s national YPC and the application process, visit www.ready.gov/kids/youth-preparedness-council.

neily.chapman Tue, 01/25/2022 - 19:52

Hurricane Laura and Delta Survivors Living in FEMA Housing Units Given Extension Up to Oct. 31 to Secure Permanent Housing

BATON ROUGE, La. – At the request of the state, FEMA is currently providing about 1,946 households that are survivors of Hurricanes Laura and Delta with additional time to remain in agency-provided housing as they complete the final steps of their recovery. The original end for the program was scheduled for Feb.28.

The extension of the temporary housing program may allow occupants to complete their housing plan until Oct. 31. As of part of the extension and in agreement with the state, beginning on March 1, occupants will begin to be charged an income-related monthly rent that may be far below fair market rates for comparable properties. FEMA officials urge occupants to complete or follow through on any requests for rent reduction by February 28, the deadline to have their housing unit’s fair market rent estimate reduced.

FEMA’s housing program eligibility and continued occupancy is determined monthly for homeowners and on a bi-weekly basis for renters. To remain eligible, occupants must show they are making continuing progress on their permanent housing plan.

At the peak of the program, there were 2,400 eligible households licensed into FEMA-provided mobile homes, placed across 12 parishes. Close to 75% remain in their FEMA housing units.

Local, state and federal partners are stepping up efforts ahead of the new deadline to help eligible Laura and Delta survivors get into their repaired or new permanent homes.

FEMA and the State Joint Recertification housing teams continue to meet regularly with occupants to support the hard work it takes to get back into permanent housing. The teams routinely guide occupants to available resources and advise them on program requirements and deadlines.

Recovery officials note that several Louisiana communities passed temporary zoning exemptions to permit FEMA mobile homes on private property or in special floodplain hazard areas. Some exemptions were set to expire on the original end date of February 28. To be sure they are not in violation of local zoning ordinances, occupants are encouraged to check with their local officials.

Carmen.Castro Tue, 01/25/2022 - 19:43

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams at Work in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are reaching out to tornado survivors in a 12-county area in middle and western Tennessee. The teams are going door-to-door to help those who want to apply for FEMA assistance and to also make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies that may be able to assist with unmet needs. Look for DSA specialists in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson counties.

DSA staff use mobile equipment when calling on survivors that allows them to create an application right there on the spot. Specialists are also able to update information, check the status of claim and answer questions about the application process. However, when applying to FEMA, DSA staff will need your social security number, annual income and bank information, as well as the names of those living in the damaged property.  Like all FEMA field personnel, DSA staff carry a photo i.d.; you are encouraged to ask to see that before engaging in a conversation.

In addition to DSA, you may also apply for assistance by:

• Go online to www.disasterassistance.gov;
• Use the FEMA App for Android or iPhone which can be easily downloaded; or 
• Call 1-800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

The deadline to apply is March 15, 2022.

Due to a Major Disaster Declaration recently signed by President Joe Biden, residents in those counties are now eligible to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance.

Assistance includes temporary housing, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs, grants for the repair or replacement of a homeowner’s primary residence, repairing storm-damaged privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges and other uninsured or under-insured disaster-related expenses such as the repair or replacement of personal property, moving and storage fees, childcare, medical and dental expenses and certain funeral costs.         

After applying with FEMA, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). In times of disasters, the SBA offers low-interest loans for businesses, homeowners and renters. There’s no obligation to accept a loan, but you may miss out on the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds if you don’t apply. Information about low-interest SBA disaster loans and application forms are available online at SBA.gov/disaster. You may also call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. If you use TTY, call 800-877-8339.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Tue, 01/25/2022 - 17:34

FEMA Seeks Teen Leaders for National Youth Preparedness Council

WASHINGTON – FEMA is accepting applications for the National Youth Preparedness Council. 

This program brings teens together from across the country who are interested and engaged in community preparedness.

Council members are selected based on their dedication to public service, their efforts in making a difference in their communities and their potential to expand their impact as national leaders for emergency preparedness. Students in grades eight through 11 are eligible to apply.

 

“The Youth Preparedness Council is our nation’s next generation of emergency managers,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This is an exciting opportunity for youth leaders to join a diverse group of like-minded peers. Together, members will find new and creative ways to make preparing for disasters easier and more accessible for children, teens and families in their own communities.”

During their one-year term on the virtual council, members will collaborate with each other to develop projects that promote preparedness on a local and national scale. Members will also participate in the annual council summit in July and engage with top leaders within FEMA, the federal government and national non-profit organizations.

Youth interested in applying to the council must submit a completed application form and provide two letters of recommendation and parent or guardian consent. All applications and supporting materials must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m., March 6, 2022. New council members will be announced in June.

To access the application materials, read about the current council members and learn more about the Youth Preparedness Council, visit.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 01/25/2022 - 16:51

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Houma

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

FEMA specialists are available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday at the following location:

East Park Recreation Center – Parking Lot

107 Robert Street

Houma, LA 70363

 

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

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit any open disaster recovery center in Louisiana. To locate a center, check the FEMA app, visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

rebecca.watson Tue, 01/25/2022 - 15:57

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Houma

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

FEMA specialists are available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday at the following location:

East Park Recreation Center – Parking Lot

107 Robert Street

Houma, LA 70363

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

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit any open disaster recovery center in Louisiana. To locate a center, check the FEMA app, visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

rebecca.watson Tue, 01/25/2022 - 15:52