$1.6 Million Awarded to Reimburse Repair Costs for Sampson County Roads Damaged by Hurricane Florence

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved $1,604,562 to reimburse the state’s Department of Transportation for the repair of roads in Sampson County damaged by Hurricane Florence in 2018.

Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance Program covers stone and asphalt to repair road surfaces and earthen material. The work also includes seeding, mulching and fertilizing to repair embankments.

FEMA’s share of the cost for this project is $1,203,407 and the state’s share is $401,135. FEMA covers 75 percent of eligible costs and the remaining 25 percent is paid for by the state. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred costs.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Florence, visit ncdps.gov/Florence and FEMA.gov/Disaster/4393. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Fri, 06/04/2021 - 14:53

Louisiana Survivors Affected by May Flooding Can Apply for Possible FEMA Assistance

BATON ROUGE, La. – Louisiana homeowners and renters affected by the May severe storms, tornadoes and flooding who live in parishes that have recently been designated for Individual Assistance could be eligible for help from FEMA.

The parishes are:

Ascension, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberville and Lafayette.

If you have homeowners or renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may then be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting  www.disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

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

If it is safe to do so, start cleaning up now. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.

U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans are available for homeowners, renters, businesses of any size and nonprofits. Like FEMA, SBA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance.

• For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture and most nonprofits, up to $2 million is available for working capital needs even if there was no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
• For homeowners: up to $200,000 is available to repair or replace their primary residence. For homeowners and renters: up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles.

Businesses and residents can apply online at  Disaster assistance (sba.gov). For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. 

For the latest information on severe storms, tornadoes and flooding visit fema.gov/disaster/4606. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.  

stuart.lewis Thu, 06/03/2021 - 20:28

How to Appeal a FEMA Disaster Assistance Decision How to Appeal a FEMA Disaster Assistance Decision

CLANTON, Ala. – Disaster survivors who registered with FEMA for the March 25-26 severe storms and tornadoes may receive a letter from FEMA stating they are ineligible for assistance. This may not be the final word. If you disagree with FEMA’s decision you can file an appeal with FEMA.

You will need to read your determination letter carefully to understand why FEMA decided the application was “ineligible.” Many times, the solution is as simple as providing missing documents or information.  

FEMA may find you ineligible if the following documents are missing:

• Insurance letters: Documents from your insurance company that show your policy coverage and/or settlement is not enough to make essential home repairs, provide a place to stay, or replace certain contents. FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, those who may be underinsured may still receive help after their insurance claims have been settled.

 

• Proof of occupancy: A copy of utility bills, a driver’s license or lease that proves the damaged home or rental was your primary residence at the time of the storms.

 

• Proof of ownership: Mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts or a deed. If your documents were lost or destroyed, visit www.usa.gov/replace-vital-documents for information on replacing lost documents.

Legal Services are Available

Free legal help with filing appeals and other disaster-related legal concerns is available to eligible survivors in Bibb, Calhoun, Clay, Hale, Jefferson, Perry, Randolph, and Shelby Counties.

Victims facing legal issues who are unable to afford a lawyer may call 334-517-2252, locally, or 1-800-354-6154, toll-free, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, to request assistance. When connected to the hotline voicemail, callers should identify that they are seeking disaster-related legal assistance, provide brief details of the assistance needed and the county where they live. Individuals who qualify for assistance will be matched with Alabama lawyers who have volunteered to provide free legal assistance.

Types of legal assistance available include:

• Help with securing FEMA and other government benefits available to disaster victims.

• Assistance with life, medical and property insurance claims.

• Help with home repair contracts and contractors.

• Replacement of wills and other important legal documents destroyed in the disaster.

• Help with consumer protection matters, remedies and procedures.

• Counseling on mortgage-foreclosure and landlord-tenant issues.

Disaster legal services are not available for cases that may produce a monetary award. This free legal help program is funded by FEMA.

How to Submit an Appeal

All appeals must be in writing and signed by you the applicant. The appeal letter should explain why you disagree with FEMA’s decision. It is important to include any documentation FEMA requested and/or documents that support your appeal claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs. If the person writing the appeal letter is not the applicant or a member of the household, you as the applicant must sign a statement that the writer is authorized to act on your behalf.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to include a copy of the cover letter you received from FEMA when you submit your appeal documents.

Mail, fax or upload documents and your appeal letter within 60 days of the date on your determination letter.

• Mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055 
• Fax: 800-827-8112, and mark it “Attention: FEMA – Individuals & Households Program.”
• To set up a FEMA online account or to upload documents online, visit disasterassistance.gov and click on “Check Your Application and Log In” and follow the directions.

Once you submit your appeal you will receive a decision letter within 90 days of FEMA's receipt of your appeal request.

If you need help understanding your letter, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). If you use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel you should update FEMA with your assigned number for that service. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available at the Helpline. Lines are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time, daily.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Friday, June 25.

For additional online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit www.disasterassistance.gov and click “information.”

For referrals to Alabama’s health and human service agencies as well as community organizations, dial 211, text 888-421-1266, or chat with referral specialists via www.211connectsalabama.org.

For more information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit ema.alabama.gov, AlabamaEMA Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4596 and www.facebook.com/fema.

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

brianasummer.fenton Thu, 06/03/2021 - 19:55

FEMA Corps Gives Back to Community in Jackson County

Central Point, Ore. – Over the last month, 22 FEMA Corps members have been supporting Oregon’s vaccination efforts at the Jackson County Vaccine Equity Center at the Expo.  

Assigned to serve as greeters, traffic control, data entry, and community outreach staff, the FEMA Corps members are supporting the goals of equity, access, and partnership in providing vaccines. 

“I’m a helper. I love to help people,” says Kyle Coburn, a member of the FEMA Corps Summit 6 team assigned to Jackson County. “Being part of a program like FEMA Corps where that’s literally 100% of what you’re doing has been really rewarding.”

Corps members are devoted to FEMA’s disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery efforts. Four FEMA Corps teams will be at the Jackson County Vaccine Equity Center until it closes on June 15.

In addition to their work at the Expo with vaccinations, the FEMA Corps teams have also been engaged in various Independent Service Projects—including cleaning the Central Point cemetery as well as creating defensible space for wildfire prevention and mitigation.  

FEMA Corps is a full-time, 12-month, residential national service program for young adults. It is a partnership between FEMA and the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) that was formed in 2012 to help the agency respond to disasters while promoting an ethic of national service and civic engagement among members.

In exchange for their service, Corps members receive financial assistance toward their college tuition or student debt as well as a small living allowance, room and board, and leadership development. Many Corps Members also say that their service led to increased self-confidence and the knowledge that, through active citizenship, people can indeed make a difference.

AmeriCorps NCCC is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service. For more information about the AmeriCorps NCCC program, visit www.AmeriCorps.gov/nccc.

 

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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.

 

hannah.weinstein Thu, 06/03/2021 - 19:26

State of Maine Awarded More Than $1.5 Million for Non-Congregate Emergency Sheltering During the COVID-19 Pandemic

REGION 1 – The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) received a $1,585,092 grant from FEMA for the cost of sheltering the City of Portland’s high-risk population in non-congregate locations during the state’s emergency response to coronavirus last year.

Non-congregate emergency sheltering—such as in motels and hotels—is a housing solution widely used during the pandemic to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission among high-risk populations. It keeps individuals, or families, separated from other individuals, or other families. This promotes physical distancing and allows those who test positive to quarantine.

The five sites funded under this grant were in the City of South Portland: Budget Inn, Comfort Inn Airport, Days Inn by Wyndham Airport/Maine Mall, Howard Johnson by Wyndham South Portland, and Quality Inn & Suites. One site was in Portland: Motel 6.

This grant to the Maine DHHS is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program, which reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include states, commonwealths, localities, certain types of private non-profit organizations, federally recognized Tribes and territories.

FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible expenses for this PA project, which covers from July 1 to Oct. 31, 2020.

“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, FEMA and the State of Maine have provided much-needed resources for everyone—especially to the most vulnerable,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “Our agency is thankful the state took these essential actions to save lives.”

As of June 2, FEMA’s PA Program obligated more than $42.1 million in 283 projects related to the coronavirus pandemic in Maine.

Additional information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

adrien.urbani Thu, 06/03/2021 - 19:12

Connecticut Office of the State Comptroller Is Reimbursed More Than $2.1 Million for COVID-19 Testing

REGION 1 – FEMA announced a $2,152,253 grant to the Connecticut Office of the State Comptroller for COVID-19 testing. The action was one of many the state took in its emergency response to coronavirus last year.

The Office of the State Comptroller’s Healthcare Policy & Benefit Services Division administers benefits programs for all state employees, retirees and their families. Its medical, dental and pharmacy programs cover more than 200,000 people. Employees and other groups were tested for COVID-19, and the state agency paid those costs.

This grant is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, which reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include states, commonwealths, localities, certain types of private non-profit organizations, federally recognized Tribes and territories. Additional information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible expenses for this Public Assistance project. It is for eligible expenses submitted from April 15 through June 23.

“Timely, accurate testing early on was critical to ensuring individuals across our nation received the medical care necessary to treat this virus, while helping to stop its spread to others,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “Ramping up COVID-19 testing was a key goal for FEMA and the State of Connecticut, and we owe the Office of the State Comptroller a huge debt of gratitude for its efforts.”

As of June 2, FEMA obligated $511.2 million related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Connecticut.

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

adrien.urbani Thu, 06/03/2021 - 19:05

Nearly $15.6 Million Awarded to Yale New Haven Hospital for COVID-19 Expenses

REGION 1 – Yale New Haven Hospital (YNHH) received $15,582,953 in federal funds for COVID-19 emergency protective efforts conducted for the public and its hospital workers.

The grant from FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program to the private, non-profit hospital are for 100% reimbursement of the eligible costs for the care and treatment of the public and the training of YNHH workers during the first half of 2020. Most occurred at the hospital’s York Street campus, one of two main campuses YNHH has in New Haven.

Reimbursements included establishing a call-in center, offering two specimen-collection areas off-site, expanding the hospital’s capacity, using trailers for treatment, utilizing a pulsed-ultraviolet system for facility disinfection, renting stretchers and beds, buying medical equipment and supplies, and disseminating information. Costs for hospital workers included purchasing personal protective equipment.

“We and our partners in the State of Connecticut thank the Yale New Haven hospital for taking the many actions to save lives during these difficult times,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England.

As of June 2, FEMA’s obligated more than $511.2 million related to the coronavirus pandemic in Connecticut.

Additional information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

adrien.urbani Thu, 06/03/2021 - 18:58

Temporary Rental Assistance Available to Storm Survivors

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Residents of Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties whose homes were made unsafe or uninhabitable by the March 25 to April 3 storms and flooding may be eligible for temporary rental assistance from FEMA.

Rental assistance is not money that must be returned to FEMA. Those funds may be used to lease a house, apartment or manufactured home.

To be considered for temporary rental assistance, homeowners and renters must have been displaced from their primary residence that was damaged in the storms. Eligibility is based on a FEMA assessment of the primary residence.

The damaged home also must be in one of the three counties approved for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program: Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties.

Rental assistance may be considered for people whose primary residences are uninsured or whose coverage is not enough to meet their temporary housing needs. You may also be considered for rental assistance if you are willing to relocate while the home is being repaired.

The initial rental assistance award is based on the fair market rent established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the county in which the disaster-affected home is located. The award is also based on the number of occupied bedrooms the household requires.

Rental assistance is intended to cover the monthly rent and cost of essential utilities (gas, electric, water, trash and sewer). It does not include telephone, cable, TV or internet service. The award can also be used to pay a security deposit not more than the cost of one month’s rent.

The first step to seeking rental assistance is applying for FEMA assistance. There are several ways to apply:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. For information, go to: fema.gov/mobile-app.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available, and lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Thu, 06/03/2021 - 17:01

FEMA In Person Help Available at Individual Assistance Registration Support Centers

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA staff will be available to meet in person with Kentucky survivors affected by the severe storms and flooding to answer questions and help with their disaster assistance applications at Individual Assistance (IA) Registration Support Centers in Breathitt, Johnson and Powell counties June 5, 7 and 8.

“We welcome the new addition of the Mobile Registration Support Centers staffed by FEMA representatives to assist our families and homeowners impacted by the recent record flooding event,” said Michael Dossett, director of Kentucky Emergency Management. “This unique Covid-Safe solution is one the many ways available to our citizens to encourage registration for Individual Assistance during the remaining timeframe, thanks to our FEMA partners for this engagement.”

Representatives will be at the locations below to offer an easy way to assist with FEMA registration, answer questions about appeals and scan documents into applicants’ case files. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service.

 

FEMA Individual Assistance Registration Support Centers

Location

 

Date

Address

Powell County

Clay City Church of God

June 5, 7, 8

4200 Main Street, Clay City, Kentucky 40312

Breathitt County

Old Montessori School

June 5, 7, 8

422 Jett Drive, Jackson, Kentucky 41339

Johnson County

City of Paintsville Tourism Welcome Center

June 5, 7, 8

100 Stave Branch Road, Paintsville, Kentucky 41256

HOURS: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the above dates. No appointments are necessary.

WHO: Homeowners and renters affected by the severe storms in any of the 31 declared counties for Individual Assistance can visit any of the registration support centers. You do NOT have to register in the county in which you live. Additional centers will be available in the coming weeks. The 31 IA counties include Anderson, Breathitt, Boyd, Clark, Clay, Estill, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Greenup, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Madison, Magoffin, Martin, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Warren and Woodford.

REQUIREMENTS: You should have the following information available to register:

• Address of the damaged primary dwelling where damage occurred
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Social Security number
• Your insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account numbers for checking or savings accounts so FEMA may directly transfer disaster assistance funds
• A description of disaster damage and losses.

However, individuals do not need to visit an IA Registration Support Center to apply or update their application. Homeowners and renters may also register for assistance with FEMA in one of three ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA app; or
• Calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time. Multilingual operators are available during those hours (press 2 for Spanish).
• Those who use a Relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide their specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA can contact you. Phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

The FEMA registration deadline is June 23, 2021.

Locations, dates, and times of the registration support centers are subject to change based on needs or circumstances.  Please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to check availability.

For more information on Kentucky’s disaster recovery, visit https://kyem.ky.gov

and www.fema.gov/disaster/4595. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

 

neily.chapman Thu, 06/03/2021 - 14:58

Over $277 Million in FEMA Funds Propel Recovery in the South

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — There are 168 projects underway to rehabilitate the areas and structures that were affected by the 2020 earthquakes. Projects include allocations for the municipalities of Mayagüez and Ponce. Around $185,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are earmarked to repair the Castilo Serralés, the Salazar Museum and a senior citizen center in Ponce, as well as the Casa de Pilar Defilló Museum and a community center in Mayagüez. 

“Our goal is to complete all earthquake-related inspections this year to facilitate the recovery of the southern area. It is our priority to help repair the structures that were damaged by last year's earthquakes,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.

Nearly $22,000 was allocated to the municipality of Ponce to repair the cracks in the theater, foyer, and hallways of the iconic Castillo Serrallés. This architectural jewel dates back to 1930, when it served as home to the Serrallés family and today represents the main tourist attraction of the city known as “ciudad señorial” (stately city), where it receives approximately 25,000 visitors a year.

Likewise, another $102,000 will help repair the Casa Zapater, the Barrio Mameyes Memorial Hall and Casa Salazar museums. In the latter, the walls, ceilings, moldings, facades, beams and concrete slabs will be repaired. The Casa Salazar houses the Ponce History Museum, which has an annual attendance of 7,800 people, including local and international tourists.

Similarly, at the Cruz Espada Center for the Elderly in Ponce, the roofs, concrete beams and columns, among others, will be repaired with a federal contribution of $33,000. This center offers food preparation, nutrition, health, social work, recreation and day care services to more than 115 participants.

To date, over $916,000 has been awarded to the municipality of Ponce for earthquake-related projects.

“For the Municipality of Ponce and the people we serve the award of reconstruction funds is extremely significant, as it allows us to reopen places where we provide important services. First, the Cruz Espada Senior Center is an oasis for elderly residents; it is where they have the opportunity to be accompanied while receiving balanced meals. Secondly, the museums are places full of history and culture that provide recreation for residents and visitors alike. All of this is part of the revival that Ponce and its people need,” said Ponce Mayor, Luis M. Irizarry Pabón.    

On the other hand, in the western side of the island, over $28,600 will help repair the Museo Casa de Pilar Defilló and the Castillo Community Center in Mayagüez. At the museum, a 19th century mansion in honor of the mother of renowned cellist Pablo Casals, the balconies, railings and walls will be repaired. The building is listed as historical heritage of the Institute of Culture of Puerto Rico.

In addition, some 410 families who receive direct services at the Castillo Community Center, such as use of the electronic library, access to sports activities and the walking track, will have access to repairs at the facilities with the obligation of over $21,000 for the center. Improvements to the kitchen area and the operation of the virtual library will benefit about 2,400 people a year, who also use the space to hold community and school meetings.

“The projects are close to entering the proposals phase to begin the contracting process, complying with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. We are grateful for the diligence in obtaining these funds that will have an impact on our communities,” said Olga López de Krumhansl, from the Public Relations Office of the Municipality of Mayagüez.

Meanwhile, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3), Engr. Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that they continue working with FEMA to maximize the resources destined to the reconstruction of the areas affected by last year's earthquakes. “These projects in the southern and western areas of Puerto Rico, which are carried out under the Public Assistance Program and include risk mitigation works, are a positive step to ensure the preservation of part of Puerto Rican history and above all will strengthen the structures for the safety of those who frequent those spaces,” said Laboy. “At COR3 and FEMA, we remain focused on the goal of culminating this year with the inspections of the areas impacted by the earthquakes.”

FEMA works with COR3 through the agency's Public Assistance program to obligate recovery funds to private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and Puerto Rico government agencies.

For more on Puerto Rico’s recovery from the earthquakes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4473.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 06/03/2021 - 12:32

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Louisiana to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from May 17-21, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Ascension, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberville and Lafayette parishes. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

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

John E. Long has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY.  

zella.campbell Wed, 06/02/2021 - 23:30

FEMA Provides $2.4 Million to The Ohio State University for COVID-19 Response

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) announced today that $2,469,351 in federal funding has been made available to The Ohio State University for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 31, 2020.

This funding will reimburse The Ohio State University for costs related to medical care and COVID-19 testing at multiple sites. The funding also covers costs for warehouse space for centralized receiving and distribution of COVID-19 testing and treatment materials.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for communities as they respond to and recover from the pandemic,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Timely, accurate testing has been critical to ensuring individuals in the state—and across the nation—receive the medical care necessary to treat this virus, while helping stop its spread to others.” 

“This funding enables The Ohio State University to continue contributing toward Ohio’s collective mission to test for the coronavirus, treat those who are ill, and vaccinate Ohioans against COVID-19,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.

“I would like to thank FEMA Region 5 for its ongoing funding support to not only The Ohio State University, but to the state of Ohio,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “FEMA’s continued support ensures Ohioans have accessibility to COVID-19 testing sites, or to facilities to receive treatment.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 06/02/2021 - 14:31

FEMA Awards $1 Million to Village of La Valle

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) announced today that the village of La Valle, Wisc., was awarded $1,021,441 in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds for the acquisition and demolition of five flood-prone properties. To reduce the community’s flood vulnerability, these structures will be removed from the floodplain of the Baraboo River, and the area transitioned into open green space.

“The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program helps create safer communities by reducing loss of life and property damage,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This project will eliminate future structural losses in La Valle by permanently removing these properties from the floodplain, greatly reducing the financial impact on individuals and the community.”

“Flooding can be devastating for a community and it’s imperative that we take every step necessary to reduce the impact it has on people and where they live,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator. “I would like to the thank FEMA for making this valuable funding available to the village of La Valle, so that they can take steps to prevent future hardships.”

HMGP provides grants to state and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures. Through HMGP, FEMA pays 75 percent of eligible project cost. As part of this funding, FEMA is also providing an initial $25,000 to assist the village of La Valle in managing the grant. To learn more about HMGP or FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 06/02/2021 - 14:20

Over $1.6 Million Approved for Beaufort County to Acquire Flood-Prone Properties

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved $1,603,745 to help Beaufort County acquire, demolish and remove 19 residential structures that were flooded after Hurricane Florence in 2018.

The structures are located within a Special Flood Hazard Area in Washington, N.C.  Once they are removed, the parcels will be converted to an open space in the natural floodplain. Purchase of the properties will also help the homeowners to relocate to an area where they won’t face an ongoing flood risk.  

“The completion of FEMA’s review and approval of the program is good news for these property owners and the communities where they live,” said Steve McGugan, State Hazard Mitigation Officer. “The next step is for the state and local governments to move through the procurement of a contractor, which will take a couple of months to complete. Once there is a contractor in place, they will need to mobilize and set up their final project management timeline so property owners can be advised on the approximate date work will be completed on their property.”

FEMA’s share of the cost for this project is $1,202,809 and the state’s share is $400,936. FEMA covers 75 percent of eligible costs and the remaining 25 percent is paid for by the state. The federal share is reimbursed to the state which disburses the funds to local governments.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds projects that reduce risks from repetitive hazards. Hazard mitigation includes long-term solutions that help reduce or eliminate rebuilding costs from future disasters. This mitigation planning breaks the cycle of disaster damage, reconstruction and repeated damage.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Florence, visit ncdps.gov/Florence and FEMA.gov/Disaster/4393. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Wed, 06/02/2021 - 12:11

FEMA Weekly Update of State-Specific Funeral Assistance Information

WASHINGTON -- In the short time since FEMA began accepting COVID-19 funeral assistance applications, the agency has already disbursed more than $128 million to nearly 19,000 applicants.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Additional information about the assistance and frequently asked questions are available on FEMA.gov.

“Applications” in the chart below, reflect the number of people who called to begin the assistance process. Once someone has applied for assistance, they have six months to return requested information to help process the claim. Once applicants have supplied all documentation, a FEMA case worker reviews, and an eligibility determination is made in less than 25 days.

Please find below state-specific information:

State/Territory

Applications

Amount Approved

Number of Awards

ALABAMA

4,712

$1,986,922

272

ALASKA

92

$11,050

2

AMERICAN SAMOA

4

 $0

0

ARIZONA

3,407

$634,524

116

ARKANSAS

1,972

$874,169

130

CALIFORNIA

22,387

$14,273,288

2,111

COLORADO

1,429

$476,399

80

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

3

 $4,344

1

CONNECTICUT

2,553

$2,422,702

336

DELAWARE

605

$380,491

59

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

407

$209,447

29

FLORIDA

11,531

$8,336,237

1,445

GEORGIA

7,661

$3,092,738

449

GUAM

8

$0

0

HAWAII

200

$44,102

10

IDAHO

385

$242,101

47

ILLINOIS

8,566

$7,695,464

1,112

INDIANA

3,512

$1,118,426

152

IOWA

1,896

$1,048,310

137

KANSAS

1,704

$399,225

55

KENTUCKY

2,719

$1,043,777

144

LOUISIANA

3,838

$1,901,368

271

MAINE

229

$78,985

20

MARYLAND

4,050

$2,084,190

292

MASSACHUSETTS

4,275

$2,134,232

301

MICHIGAN

6,733

$2,565,689

410

MINNESOTA

1,933

$987,102

144

MISSISSIPPI

3,379

$1,192,880

163

MISSOURI

3,467

$1,206,130

176

MONTANA

343

$65,833

14

NEBRASKA

863

$603,910

80

NEVADA

1,752

$464 ,217

79

NEW HAMPSHIRE

473

$269,489

47

NEW JERSEY

8,886

$8,133,359

1,133

NEW MEXICO

1,117

$368,746

73

NEW YORK

19,192

$18,597,697

2,585

NORTH CAROLINA

5,957

$5,577,227

833

NORTH DAKOTA

513

$274,859

36

OHIO

6,961

$8,327,993

1,276

OKLAHOMA

2,894

$1,329,203

190

OREGON

570

$243,491

47

PENNSYLVANIA

9,446

$5,233,781

775

PUERTO RICO

845

$71,612

18

RHODE ISLAND

910

$984,692

135

SOUTH CAROLINA

4,251

$1,452,511

198

SOUTH DAKOTA

527

$526,969

66

TENNESSEE

5,040

$2,239,439

304

TEXAS

18,488

$11,887,401

1,738

UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS

18

$8,855

1

UTAH

763

$664,107

96

VERMONT

103

$47,672

8

VIRGINIA

4,459

$2,416,999

350

WASHINGTON

1,282

$418,263

68

WEST VIRGINIA

1,031

$264,189

41

WISCONSIN

3,391

$1,170,399

164

WYOMING

174

$136,524

22

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. ET Monday, June 1, 2021.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 06/01/2021 - 21:33

FEMA Provides an Additional $1.4 Million to Salt Lake County for COVID-19 Response

DENVER – FEMA has approved more than $1.4 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 provided a total of $94 million for the Utah COVID-19 response to date.

The $1.4 million was received by Salt Lake County for COVID-19 to disseminate information to the public for warnings and guidance, provided security, law enforcement, barricading and patrolling jurisdiction-wide for COVID-19 safety measures; and provided law enforcement officers to staff the Emergency Support Function #13 (public safety and security) desk at the County's Emergency Operations Center and at the Emergency Communications Center.

This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021 Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

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 local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

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

anthony.mayne Tue, 06/01/2021 - 20:08

Town of North Topsail Beach Awarded $13.69 Million for Beach Restoration After Hurricane Florence

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved $13,696,691 to reimburse the Town of North Topsail Beach for beach restoration after Hurricane Florence in 2018.

Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program covers installation of 607,059 cubic yards of beach sand along 18,500 linear feet at the north and south ends of North Topsail Beach in Onslow County, and sand fencing to protect the dunes at beach access points.

FEMA’s share for this project is $10,272,518 and the state’s share is $3,424,172.

The Public Assistance program provides grants for state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to reimburse the cost of debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent repair work.

Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program. FEMA reimburses applicants at least 75 percent of eligible costs and the remaining 25 percent is covered by the state. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred costs.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Florence, visit ncdps.gov/Florence and FEMA.gov/Disaster/4393. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Tue, 06/01/2021 - 18:42

ICYMI - Prepare Now for Hurricane Season

WASHINGTON -- Today marks the start of the Atlantic hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration  recently released the 2021 outlook, which predicts another active season.

No matter what the hurricane season outlook predicts, it’s important to remember that it only takes one storm to devastate a community. Now is the time to prepare your home and your family.  Remember, hurricanes are not just a coastal problem, so it’s important to know the risks where you live: rain, wind and flooding could happen far from the coast.

“FEMA’s mission to help people before, during and after disasters has never been more critical, given our shared experience during this pandemic,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Even if you’re experiencing disaster fatigue due to your experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, we all must use the lessons learned from it to prepare for potential disasters on the horizon.”

Although FEMA has had a very busy year supporting President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccination mission and other disasters, the agency is ready to handle future disasters.

“More than 20,000 FEMA employees across the nation stand ready to support our state, local, tribal and territorial partners in hurricane prone areas to provide any help they may need to protect lives and property,” said Administrator Criswell. “The best way to help your community recover from a disaster is by taking steps now to prepare yourself and your family BEFORE a disaster strikes. Visit Ready.gov to start your planning today.”

Consider these actions to start your preparedness today:

• In addition to being prepared for a disaster, ensuring that you and your family are vaccinated against COVID-19 helps your entire community be more resilient before future disasters. COVID-19 vaccines are effective at preventing COVID-19 disease, especially severe illness and death. Vaccines also reduce the risk of people spreading COVID-19, making all our communities safer.
• Everyone can take steps to make sure they’re prepared for any disaster. Visit Ready.gov to learn about how to prepare for disasters that might happen where you live, work or visit.
  • Ready.gov has information online for individuals, individuals with disabilities, families, kids, pets and businesses on how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. Find updated information from the Centers for Disease Control on how to prepare for the hurricane season during the pandemic.
  • Build an emergency kit. If you live in Hawai’i, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, consider having supplies to last at least 10 days.
  • Visit Ready.gov/hurricanes for the latest information on being prepared for this hurricane season.
• You can also download the free FEMA App to receive weather alerts and warnings for up to five different locations in the United States.

Last week, Administrator Criswell spent time with officials in both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to discuss recovery projects and preparedness efforts for the Caribbean Area Office ahead of hurricane season.

While in Puerto Rico, she toured FEMA’s Caribbean warehouse and distribution center in Caguas, visited the Susana Centeno Community Health Center in Vieques and met with Gov. Pedro Pierluisi, Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón and Speaker of the House Rafael “Tatito” Hernández. While in the U.S. Virgin Islands, she met with Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett and toured the Juan F. Luiz Hospital on St. Croix.

 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (May 26, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (center) discusses ongoing recovery and hurricane preparedness efforts with Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi (right).

 

CAGUAS, Puerto Rico (May 25, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left) and Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón (right) tour the FEMA warehouse and distribution facilities in Caguas, Puerto Rico, ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season beginning June 1.  

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands (May 28, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell meets with U.S. Virgin Islands Gov. Albert Bryan ahead of the start of the Atlantic Hurricane season on June 1.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 06/01/2021 - 17:13

FEMA Awards an Additional $33.7 million in Hurricane Laura Public Assistance Grants

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) grant program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (GOHSEP) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

Public Assistance grants go to governments and nonprofits after a disaster. The money helps protect people and property, clean up neighborhoods, haul away disaster debris, put utilities back in order, and repair roads and bridges, among other projects.

Applicants provide FEMA with thorough documentation to support damage claims. Following approvals by FEMA and GOHSEP, FEMA obligates funding for the project. Once a project is obligated by FEMA, GOHSEP works closely with the applicant to finalize the grant and begin making payments.

Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit (PNP) organizations.

FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the State of Louisiana. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive these awards. Following the state's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the sub-recipients.

Recent Grants Awarded

• Allen Parish: $7,395,643 awarded to Allen Parish for debris removal operations. A total of 550,897 cubic yards (CY) of debris were removed from within the applicant’s jurisdiction.
• Jefferson Davis Electric Co-Op Inc.: $16,890,557 awarded to the Jefferson Davis Electric Co-Op Inc. for emergency protective measures. Hurricane Laura interrupted the electrical supply to significant areas of southeast Louisiana, creating a need to respond to an immediate threat to the health and safety of the general public. 
• Lafayette Parish: $1,678,092 awarded to the Lafayette Parish Consolidated Government for permanent repairs to their electricity generation and distribution system.
• Vermilion Parish:  $3,956,001 awarded to the Vermilion Parish for debris removal operations. In response to the event, the parish utilized contract labor to remove 265,868 CY of debris.
• Rapides Parish: $1,229,097 awarded to Rapides Parish for debris removal operations. The parish utilized contract labor to remove a total of 690,605 CY of debris.
• Town of Kinder: $1,225,367 awarded to the Town of Kinder for debris removal operations due to the threat to the health and safety of the general public. The town utilized contract services to remove a total of 122,691 CY of debris.
• City of Oakdale: $1,418,809 awarded to the City of Oakdale for debris removal operations due to the threat to the health and safety of the general public. The city utilized contract labor to remove a total of 101,664 CY of debris.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit fema.gov/disaster/4559. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

stuart.lewis Tue, 06/01/2021 - 16:51

Volunteering and Donating in Alabama – Rise Above the Storm! Volunteering and Donating in Alabama – Rise Above the Storm!

Clanton, AL – When disaster strikes, people come together to help. That is a way of life here in Alabama.

Many volunteers have already given their time, money, and talent to help put Alabama back on its feet following the March 25-26 severe storms and tornadoes. As survivors of the storms move into the long and difficult recovery phase of this disaster, many more volunteers are needed.

“Local resources were able to help the impacted area immediately following the March 25th tornado. We are thankful that Calhoun County has a very active Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) group. Calhoun County VOAD was on the ground immediately after the tornado helping victims with immediate needs and will continue to be here until the recovery process is complete.”  Said Myles Chamblee/Calhoun County’s EMA Director.

A VOAD is a coalition of faith-based, community-based, and other nonprofit organizations that are key to training and placing volunteers to help survivors after a disaster.  If you want to volunteer to help your community recover, volunteering through an organization, already active in the disaster – like a VOAD, is the smart way to go. There are many tasks still to be done in the impacted areas of the state; cleaning up and rebuilding remains two of the biggest, along with roof tarping services, tree work and debris removal.

Everyone is welcome. Men and women from all walks of life are needed. High school and college students may want to help the community, and possibly fulfill a community-service requirement for graduation.

Volunteer manhours used for delivery of such services may potentially help offset the “local match” share of eligible federally funded public assistance projects.

To make the most of your help, FEMA and state officials say, it is important to do it right and follow these guidelines for donating and volunteering responsibly:

• To find a list of trusted organizations that can put your contributions of time or money to the best possible use, check out the Alabama VOAD online at https://www.alvoad.org/ or for the National VOAD go to https://www.nvoad.org/

 

• Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible, and most effective method of donating. Learn more at https://www.nvoad.org/howtohelp/donate/

 

• Cash is best. Cash offers voluntary agencies the most flexibility in obtaining the most-needed resources.

 

• Know before you go. A list of trusted organizations operating in Alabama can be found online at https://www.nvoad.org/volunteer/ . These organizations know where volunteers are needed and can ensure appropriate volunteer safety, training, and housing.

 

• Be patient. Recovery in Alabama – and the need for volunteers – will last months, maybe years. Your volunteer help will be needed here when others may have long forgotten about the tornadoes.

For additional online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit www.disasterassistance.gov and click “information.”

For referrals to Alabama’s health and human service agencies as well as community organizations, dial 211, text 888-421-1266, or chat with referral specialists via www.211connectsalabama.org.

For more information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit ema.alabama.gov, AlabamaEMA Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4596 and www.facebook.com/fema.

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

brianasummer.fenton Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:49