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More Than $2 Million Awarded to Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut
REGION 1 – Griffin Hospital received $2,078,108 from FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program for the care and treatment of COVID-19 patients during the early months of the pandemic.
This funding provides reimbursement to Griffin Hospital in Derby for the setup of a COVID testing tent outside the hospital. Griffin Hospital was also able to repurpose an existing 23-bed unit for COVID patients by adding electrical connections and setting up a nurse calling system. The reimbursements to the hospital are for expenses incurred between Jan. 21 through Aug. 31, 2020.
FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible expenses for this PA project. It covers reimbursements for the costs of a testing tent, expanding capacity by repurposing a 23-bed unit, personal protective equipment, and disinfecting supplies.
“The actions taken by this hospital were vital in the fight against COVID-19,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “FEMA and the state are thankful Griffin Hospital took these actions to save many lives in the Derby area.”
As of May 27, FEMA obligated $498.2 million related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Connecticut.
Additional information about FEMA’s PA Program can be located 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 Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:18More Than $7.5 Million Provided to Connecticut’s Greenwich Hospital for Early Pandemic-Related Emergency Actions
REGION 1 – FEMA and the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) are pleased to announce a total of $7,556,621 in federal funds were awarded to Greenwich Hospital for the State of Connecticut’s initial emergency response to COVID-19 and protective measures from the coronavirus.
The funds are awarded in two separate grants through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program for expenses incurred in 2020. A $5,166,401 grant covers eligible costs from January 20 to June 30, 2020 and a $2,390,220 grant covers eligible costs from January 21 to August 31, 2020. Both grants reimburse hospital officials for emergency work and efforts undertaken to mitigate the COVID pandemic.
The $5,166,401 grant included reimbursement for a command center, a temporary testing facility, rented stretchers and heaters, a temporary morgue, staff for emergency-work tasks, and public dissemination of information.
The $2,390,220 grant included reimbursement for temporary tents and trailers set up outside the hospital as part of an emergency triage area, a specimens-collection point, areas converted into additional rooms for patients, rented beds, and more medical supplies and equipment,.
FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible expenses for these two PA projects.
“Since the start of the pandemic, Greenwich Hospital has been an important partner in the State of Connecticut’s battle against COVID-19 and its many challenges,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “These grants support Connecticut’s mission to save lives, prevent illness and continue down the road to recovery.”
FEMA’s PA Program is for certain types of private non-profit organizations, states, commonwealths, localities, federally recognized Tribes and territories. More information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public.
As of May 20, FEMA obligated $495.6 million related to the coronavirus pandemic in Connecticut.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters
adrien.urbani Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:10FEMA Encourages Individual and Community Preparedness as 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins
PHILADELPHIA – Recent years have not only shown that the east coast is susceptible to the damaging impacts of hurricanes and other tropical systems, but that hurricanes are also not just a coastal threat. The 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins today, June 1st, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) joins our state and local partners in encouraging individuals, families, businesses, and communities to begin preparing for hazardous weather that may result from hurricanes and other tropical systems. Disasters don’t wait; we’ve already seen the first tropical cyclone of the Atlantic season - Tropical Storm Ana. The threat of hurricanes and other tropical systems has already arrived.
“It is not uncommon for residents of the Mid-Atlantic to think hurricanes and tropical systems are unlikely to impact them where they live… but that is not necessarily the case. Tropical weather systems can have severe impacts hundreds of miles inland from the coast. A storm does not need to be a major hurricane to cause damage, and it only takes one to change your life.” said Janice Barlow, FEMA Region 3 Acting Regional Administrator. “Storms as recent as Hurricane Isaias, which impacted parts of Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania in August 2020 are proof that residents and business owners in the Mid-Atlantic should take hurricane season seriously and begin preparing today.”
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic is still an ongoing hazard that could influence your hazardous weather plans when it comes to evacuation and sheltering. This is something to strongly consider when preparing for hurricane season. For example, you may need to adjust your plans if you are unwilling to gather in a group setting such as a public emergency shelter.
FEMA has also taken steps to prepare ourselves and our partners to respond to disasters in a COVID-19 environment. In May 2021 FEMA released COVID-19 Pandemic Operational Guidance. This updated document provides actionable guidance to State, Local, Tribal & Territorial officials to prepare for response and recovery operations for all-hazards and encourages personal preparedness measures amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. FEMA is ready to respond to any hurricane or disaster.
Take action today to prepare for hurricanes and other tropical systems:
Know your risk. These storms are not just a coastal threat. Extreme flooding and damaging winds could occur hundreds of miles inland from the coast.
Begin planning. Know what you’ll do if a storm is coming to your area, how to stay in touch with family and friends, and where you will go if your home is unsafe. Visit ready.gov for preparedness and planning tips.
Make a kit. Make sure you have non-perishable food items, water, essential documents, flashlights, a battery back or other means of charging your cell phone, NOAA weather radio, toys or comfort items for kids, and any supplies needed for your pet. Have enough supplies to last at least 72 hours but preparing to be on your own for up to a week is a good idea. Learn more at ready.gov/kit.
Download the FEMA app. By having the FEMA app installed on your smartphone you can receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service, share real-time notifications with loved ones, review emergency preparedness tips and checklists, locate emergency shelters, and more.
Stay informed. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your mobile phone to receive emergency alerts from the National Weather Service. A NOAA Weather Radio can also provide these lifesaving emergency alerts.
- Pay attention to weather forecasts in your area provided by local news outlets or the National Weather Service. Many people also use weather apps on their mobile phones for this purpose.
- Always follow the guidance of local officials during an emergency. If your community has an emergency alert system you should consider signing up. Contact your local emergency manager for more information.
Purchase flood insurance. Talk to your insurance provider about your coverage and determine if you would be covered in the event of a flood.
- Most homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage.
- Flood insurance takes 30 days to become effective – don’t wait until the last minute!
- Visit floodsmart.gov for more information.
Known your zone. If you live in a coastal area, become familiar with community evacuation plans, evacuation zones, and evacuation routes. Where will you go and how will you get there?
- Maryland: mema.maryland.gov/know-your-zone
- Virginia: knowyourzoneva.org
More information on how to prepare may be found at ready.gov/hurricanes.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
For questions about this release or hurricane preparedness, please contact FEMA Region 3 External Affairs by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov.
gabriel.lugo Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:06
FEMA Awards More Than $1.8 Million to New Haven, Connecticut
REGION 1 – The City of New Haven, Connecticut received a $1,874,811 grant from FEMA for COVID-19 response efforts in 2020.
The grant fully reimbursed the city for eligible expenses incurred from January 20 through June 30, 2020. Expenses included creating and maintaining three temporary care facilities with nurses for coronavirus-positive police, fire and medical personnel, and the purchase of personal protection equipment, disinfection kits, wipes, and foldable beds.
The project was 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 localities, states, commonwealths, certain types of private non-profit organizations, federally recognized Tribes and territories. In Connecticut, PA project applications are submitted through the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), which coordinates the FEMA process with eligible applicants.
“In the early days of the Pandemic in 2020 Connecticut took quick action to protect their citizens,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England. “FEMA is pleased to provide these funds for the actions they took to save lives and protect the city of New Haven. We continue to work closely with the state and the City of New Haven to address the ongoing needs associated with COVID-19.”
Additional information about FEMA’s PA Program can be found at https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters
adrien.urbani Tue, 06/01/2021 - 14:56Free Legal Help Available for Disaster Survivors
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A free legal aid hotline is now available to eligible survivors of the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides in 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 counties.
Low-income individuals affected by the disaster facing legal issues who are unable to afford a lawyer may call a toll-free legal services hotline at (844) 478-0099. Callers should identify that they are seeking storm or flooding-related legal assistance, and provide the county where they are located and a phone number where they can be reached by an attorney.
This service is a partnership between AppalReD Legal Aid, the Kentucky Bar Association, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA and other local organizations.
Types of free legal assistance available include:
- Help securing FEMA and other government benefits available to disaster survivors
- Assistance with life, medical and property insurance claims
- Help with home repair contracts and contractors
- Replacement of wills and other important legal documents lost or destroyed in the disaster
- Consumer protection issues such as price-gouging and avoiding contractor scams in the rebuilding process
- Counseling on mortgage-foreclosure problems
- Counseling on landlord-tenant problems
Callers should be aware that there are limitations on disaster legal services. For example, assistance is not available for cases that will produce a fee (those cases where attorneys are paid part of the settlement by a court). Such cases are referred to a local lawyer referral service.
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.
felicia.jordan Tue, 06/01/2021 - 14:39Greenbelt Metro Community Vaccination Center in Maryland Surpasses 115,000 Vaccinations; Last Day for Shots Tuesday, June 1
GREENBELT, Md. – After providing more than 115,000 shots in arms, the team at the FEMA-run Greenbelt Community Vaccination Center (CVC) will offer its final vaccinations Tuesday, June 1.
The vaccination center will be open through Memorial Day weekend and Tuesday, June 1. Vaccinations are available by appointment or walk-in 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday and Tuesday.
“The Greenbelt Metro community vaccination center was a tremendous success thanks to the help and support of all of our partners,” said Janice Barlow, FEMA Region 3 Acting Regional Administrator. “We are grateful to our state, local and federal partners – and to the thousands of visitors who did their part to fight the pandemic and protect their families, friends and communities by getting vaccinated.”
The CVC opened April 7, 2021, and operated seven days a week to deliver vaccinations.
"I want to thank FEMA for their tremendous partnership with Maryland at the Greenbelt Vaccination Center," said Maryland Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Russ Strickland. "The Greenbelt vaccination center, which is accessible by public transportation, was a big help in our efforts to equitably distribute and administer over 115,000 vaccinations here."
The CVC is providing the Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccinations. The free vaccine requires only one shot, not two, and is approved for individuals 18 years and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Appointments can be scheduled at massvax.maryland.gov. Walk-ins are welcome.
“Our ability to provide COVID-19 protection to so many people required a coordinated effort among many agencies, the private sector and volunteers,” said Timothy Pheil, FEMA Deputy Federal Coordinating Officer for Maryland. “The real heroes of this operation were the thousands of Maryland residents who came forward to get vaccinated and help defeat the coronavirus.”
Reasonable accommodation for people with access and functional needs is available as well as onsite interpretation in eight spoken languages, and American Sign Language, Certified Deaf Interpretation and Sensory Interpretation.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
gabriel.lugo Fri, 05/28/2021 - 20:12
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Nebraska Disaster Declaration
WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Nebraska by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for public assistance projects as a result of a severe winter storm, straight-line winds and flooding during the period of March 9-July 14, 2019.
Under the major disaster declaration issued for Nebraska on March 21, 2019, federal funding was made available for public assistance, hazard mitigation and other needs assistance at 75% of the total eligible costs.
Under the President's order yesterday, the federal share for public assistance has been increased to 90% of the total eligible costs.
mayshaunt.gary Fri, 05/28/2021 - 19:16Prepare Now for Hurricane Season
WASHINGTON -- June 1 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.
This 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 Fri, 05/28/2021 - 19:11FEMA Approves 22 Additional Counties for Individual Assistance
Frankfort, Ky. – Twenty-two more counties in Kentucky have been designated for disaster assistance as part of the federal disaster declaration for the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred Feb. 27 through March 14.
The announcement brings the total number of counties designated for Individual Assistance to 31 with today’s addition of Anderson, Boyd, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Greenup, Jackson, Jessamine, Knott, Laurel, Lawrence, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Madison, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Warren and Woodford.
Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Johnson, Lee, Magoffin, Martin and Powell are the counties previously designated for Individual Assistance.
Individual Assistance for homeowners and renters may include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses not met by insurance or other assistance programs.
Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses, private non-profit organizations, homeowners and renters to cover residential and business losses as a result of the disaster.
How to Get Help From FEMA
- Contact your insurance company and file a claim for the disaster-caused damage.
- By law, FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments or assistance from government programs or charities.
- Take photographs or video of the damage and keep all receipts related to home repair.
- If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, contact FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA app and register on your smartphone or tablet, or call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. Multilingual operators are also available during these hours.
- 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.
- After registering, create an account to check the status of your application, view messages from FEMA, update your personal information, and upload important documents.
- If you have any questions, please contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The Helpline is the same telephone number as the registration line. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), please call 800-621-3362.
Applicants can apply for a low-interest disaster loan online using SBA’s secure website at https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. Email FOCE-Help@SBA.gov to set up a phone appointment for assistance with your disaster loan application.
You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. The center is open 8 am. to 8 pm. ET, seven days a week. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.
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.
felicia.jordan Fri, 05/28/2021 - 18:37FEMA Provides an Additional $3.4 Million to North Dakota for COVID-19 Response
DENVER – FEMA has provided more than $3.4 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in North Dakota. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 1, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of almost $100.9 Million for the North Dakota COVID-19 response to date.
The $3.4 million was approved for the North Dakota Department of Health for emergency protective measures. The funds were used to rent a warehouse with two temperature-controlled containers to store supplies, equipment, temperature sensitive vaccines, and testing materials. They purchased and distributed medical supplies, vaccination fliers, and personal protective equipment for public health-related activities statewide.
This funding is authorized under 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 Fri, 05/28/2021 - 17:39FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Spur Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of Arizona in combating the Spur Fire burning in Yavapai County.
On May 27, 2021, the state of Arizona submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Spur Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 500 homes in and around Baghdad, AZ. The fire also threatened 15 business, a fire station, school and power transmission lines in the area. Mandatory evacuations were in place for around 750 people.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on May 27, 2021, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.
robert.barker Fri, 05/28/2021 - 14:27FEMA Issues Public Notice
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A public notice is now available that addresses the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged by the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides in Kentucky, under disaster declaration DR-4595-KY.
The notice is now posted on FEMA’s Kentucky disaster declaration website at https://www.fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/dr-4595-ky-public-notice-001 and the Kentucky Emergency Management website at FEMA PA Public Notice for DR-4595.pdf (ky.gov).
Under the disaster declaration, Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Johnson, Lee, Magoffin, Martin and Powell counties were designated for Individual Assistance. Bell, Boyd, Breathitt, Calloway, Carter, Casey, Clark, Cumberland, Edmonson, Elliott, Floyd, Franklin, Graves, Greenup, Harlan, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Magoffin, Marion, Martin, Mason, Menifee, Morgan, Ohio, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Union, Whitley, and Wolfe counties were designated for Public Assistance Categories A-G. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is available statewide. The notice describes proposed activities that may affect historic properties and activities and critical actions that may affect wetlands and floodplains.
For routine activities, this will be the only public notice provided. Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific project by writing to Federal Emergency Management Agency, DR-4595 KY, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Rd., Atlanta, GA 30341, or emailing FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Comments should be sent in writing to John Brogan, Federal Coordinating Officer, at the above address within 15 days of the date of this notice.
FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities through the Public Assistance, Individual Assistance, or Hazard Mitigation Grant programs.
felicia.jordan Fri, 05/28/2021 - 14:17Providence Community Vaccination Center to Transition Staffing
Region 1- Since the March 17 opening of the joint state-federal Downtown Providence Community Vaccination Center, more than 110,000 vaccinations have been given to Rhode Island residents. On May 29th the leadership and operations of the Dunkin Donuts Center will transition to State contracted staff. This transition of staff will ensure Rhode Island will have available resources to continue supporting their vaccination plans.
“The vaccination site at The Dunk has been enormously successful,” says Rhode Island Emergency Management Director Marc Pappas. “Rhode Islanders showed up, rolled up their sleeves, and got vaccinated. We now rank in the top five for states with 70% of the population vaccinated. We couldn’t have done it without FEMA and all the federal employees from all over the country who came here to help. We are very grateful to FEMA and all the federal employees for staffing the site and coordinating with the state for the good of all.”
Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee says, “We would not have been able to reach 70% of eligible Rhode Islanders with at least one dose and more than 50% of the Rhode Island population fully vaccinated without FEMA, RING, national partnerships, and local collaborations. Thank you to each and every individual who has brought their expertise and passion to the Ocean State’s vaccination efforts.”
Since the Center’s opening, it has been supported by over 125 personnel from the following federal agencies: FEMA, US Dept. of Agriculture, US Forestry Service, Dept. of Homeland Security, Public Health Services, Veteran’s Administration, Dept of Health and Human Services, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, US Secret Service, US Citizen and Immigration Services, US Coast Guard, Transportation Security Administration, Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, along with locally hired staff and FEMA Corps members. During the operation’s peak, the staff administered nearly 3,700 vaccines a day.
While FEMA is no longer needed at the Dunkin Donuts Center, the work to vaccinate all individuals in America who want a vaccine is not over. Many of the local staff hired by FEMA to support vaccination efforts in Rhode Island will transition to the Vaccination Center on Sockanosset Street in Cranston along with FEMA Corp members.
So far more than 70 % of the state’s population has received at least one dose of the vaccine and ranks fifth among all 50 states in the number of vaccinations given to their state residents.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters
adrien.urbani Thu, 05/27/2021 - 21:18FEMA Assistance Can Help if Insurance Doesn’t Cover Losses
CLANTON, Ala. – Homeowners and renters who suffered damage from the March 25-26 severe storms and tornadoes in Bibb, Calhoun, Clay, Hale, Jefferson, Perry, Randolph, and Shelby Counties should apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance even if they have insurance.
While FEMA cannot duplicate insurance or other benefits, it may be able to help with uninsured or underinsured losses, or if your insurance settlement is delayed. Applicants should notify FEMA of their situation and provide insurance company documentation.
You may be eligible for a grant if you received a settlement from your insurance company and still have unmet disaster-related needs.
FEMA may still be able to assist with disaster-related temporary housing if you have exhausted the settlement from your insurance for additional living expenses.
You may be eligible for grants to cover emergency home repairs, disaster-related medical, dental, and other disaster-related expenses if an insurance settlement is insufficient to cover those costs.
If your insurance settlement has been delayed longer than 30 days from the time you filed a claim, you should contact FEMA. After providing the necessary documentation – the claim number, date applied, and an estimate of how long it will take to receive a settlement – you may qualify for an advance that would have to be repaid to FEMA once the insurance settlement is received.
The quickest way to apply for federal assistance is online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open daily 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time, 7 days a week.
The registration process includes you providing FEMA a phone number so FEMA can contact you and set up a virtual home inspection. If you use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, you should provide FEMA your specific number assigned to that service.
If you were affected by the March 25-26 Severe storms and tornadoes in Alabama and need a sign language interpreter, foreign language translator, a Braille or large-print document, or have any other accommodation request, you should let FEMA know when registering.
For additional online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit www.disasterassistance.gov and click “Information.”
Homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes may obtain information about U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans by calling 800-659-2955 (TTY 800-877-8339) or online at www.SBA.gov. To apply for an SBA loan, visit www.disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/
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, 05/27/2021 - 20:22FEMA Provides an Additional $3.1 Million to Montana for COVID-19 Response
DENVER – FEMA has approved more than $3.1 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Montana. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 31, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of $35.2 million for the Montana COVID-19 response to date.
The $3.1 million was provided to the Billings Clinic to manage an increased patient workload due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Billings Clinic purchased supplies, rented equipment, and hired 63 temporary medical personnel to assist from October 23, 2020, through February 27, 2021.
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 Thu, 05/27/2021 - 19:57FEMA Supported Community Vaccination Site in Pueblo Will Close on June 14, 2021
DENVER – The federally- supported COVID-19 Community Vaccination Site (CVS) at the Colorado State Fairgrounds in Pueblo will close on June 14, after completing nine weeks of vaccinations, one week more than the original pilot timeline. The site must close in order to return the property to the Colorado State Fairgrounds for previously scheduled events.
FEMA began supporting the vaccination effort at the Colorado State Fairgrounds on April 14, in cooperation with the State of Colorado, the Department of Defense (DoD), Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment, Centura Health, and Covid Check Colorado. Federal support brought dedicated personnel, supplies, and vaccine to the site.
The CVS was also a hub for mobile equity clinics that brought vaccines into several socially vulnerable communities, and included outreach at schools, churches, rescue missions, and vaccinations of migrant farm workers and home-based individuals.
“As this site sunsets, we can reflect on our collective efforts to remove barriers to accessing the COVID-19 vaccine in the Pueblo community,” said Nancy Dragani, acting FEMA Regional Administrator. “FEMA, Colorado, the City and County of Pueblo, and area community groups are working together to make sure the vaccine is available to anyone who wants it.”
The site continues to offer both first and second doses of the Pfizer vaccine, as well as single doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Since May 25, 2021, and through the closure of the site, individuals receiving their first Pfizer vaccine dose at the site are being provided with local resources for scheduling their second dose.
Since the CVS transitioned to FEMA April 14, it has been supported by DoD personnel. FEMA and DoD staff worked alongside Centura Health staff and locally hired non-clinical staff in administering vaccines to the Pueblo community.
Brian.Hvinden Thu, 05/27/2021 - 19:02Disney Institute Joins FEMA on Whole-of-America Response to COVID-19
WASHINGTON -- Recently, FEMA and the Disney Institute kicked off a training program for FEMA employees and other federal personnel who will be working at community vaccination centers across the country.
"We have been working closely with our federal, state and local partners to make vaccines available to every person that wants one," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "We're appreciative of the opportunity to collaborate with the Disney Institute and receive additional training that will enhance our customer service at federally supported vaccination sites. We are grateful for the support of The Walt Disney Company."
FEMA continues providing federal support to community vaccination centers, including supplemental vaccine allocation to pilot sites. This includes active or federal community vaccination center pilot sites and mobile pop-up sites in 16 states. Additionally, mobile vaccination units are operating to support states and the Indian Health Service. The federal community vaccination center pilot sites have administered more than 5.5 million vaccinations, while mobile units have delivered more than 48,800 vaccinations.
"Disney is honored to collaborate with FEMA by sharing best practices of our legendary guest service with those working at federal vaccination sites nationwide,” said George A. Kalogridis, President, Segment Development and Enrichment, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “This collaboration is part of our company's broader work to support vaccination efforts."
The Muppets have also joined the response: A Message from Gonzo and Pepe - YouTube.
As more Americans receive the vaccine, the end of the pandemic and a return to normal life is in sight. Anyone interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine can visit vaccines.gov to find a location close to them and make an appointment. Individuals can also text their zip code to 438829 to receive a text with the closest COVID-19 vaccine location.
mashana.davis Wed, 05/26/2021 - 23:36FEMA approves $2.27 million for Hurricane Michael recovery expenses
PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved two grants totaling more than $2.27 million for the state of Florida to reimburse the city of Lynn Haven and the Power South Energy Cooperative for recovery expenses after Hurricane Michael in 2018.
Lynn Haven is receiving $1,138,532 in reimbursement for permanent repairs to A.L. Kinsaul Park, Cain Griffin Park, James E. Rodgers Park, Leslie Porter Wayside Park, Memorial Park and the Lynn Haven Sports Complex.
The Power South Energy Cooperative is receiving $1,135,273 in reimbursement funds for emergency protective measures related to Hurricane Michael. Funds will cover actions to remove the immediate threat to public health and safety, such as safety inspections to the power system, debris removal activities, generator rentals for temporary power source, emergency operations center support and positioning of fuel for power crew vehicles, as well as providing meals and lodging to emergency workers.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.
Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.
Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.
felicia.jordan Wed, 05/26/2021 - 19:58FEMA Awards $17.6 Million for Hurricane Irma Recovery in Florida
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has awarded grants totaling $17,644,098 for the State of Florida to reimburse applicants for debris removal and repairs following Hurricane Irma in 2017.
The FEMA Public Assistance program grants include:
- Miami-Dade County: $13,225,983 for removal of 370,435 cubic yards of vegetative debris, 4,475 cubic yards of mixed debris, 662 leaning trees and 46,091 hanging limbs from public roads, property and rights-of-way.
- Orange County: $3,199,137 for removal of 293,898 cubic yards of vegetative debris and 23,248 cubic yards of construction, demolition and mixed debris from public roads, property and rights-of-way.
- Monroe County: $1,218,978 for repairs to the Harry Harris Park baseball field, ticket booth, concession stand, boat ramp and fishing dock, including the costs of fencing, lighting and equipment.
The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.
The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.
felicia.jordan Wed, 05/26/2021 - 18:54$6.5 Million Approved to Acquire 31 Flood-Prone Properties in Pender County
RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved more than $6.5 million to eliminate flood risks at 31 repetitively damaged properties in Pender County.
The 31 homes are located in Currie, Rocky Point, Hampstead, Burgaw and Willard. All of the properties are susceptible to flooding from several sources including Moores, Beckys and Holly Shelter creeks, the Cape Fear and Northeast Cape Fear rivers and the Atlantic Ocean.
Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program became available after Hurricane Florence in 2018. The state will use the funds to acquire the properties and convert them to open space in order to conserve natural floodplain functions.
“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 for this project is $4,913,358 and the state’s share is $1,637,786. FEMA reimburses 75 percent of eligible project costs and the remaining 25 percent is covered by the state. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to local governments.
Funding from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is used by states to mitigate future hazards, which can include projects to help communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related 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.
felicia.jordan Wed, 05/26/2021 - 17:20Pages
