State, FEMA Continue Work on Hurricane Sally Recovery in Florida

Federal Funding Totals $204.9 Million

PENSACOLA, Fla. – The deadline for individuals and households to apply for FEMA disaster assistance has passed, but work on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Sally continues.

Survivors in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties who registered with FEMA can check the status of their applications, ask questions and get information in several ways:

• By visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Using the FEMA App for smartphones
• Calling 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. 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.

Survivors who were unable to register before the deadline and who can provide justification for late registration may contact FEMA and request consideration for disaster assistance.

As of Dec. 1, 2020, $204.9 million in federal grants, loans and flood insurance payments have been approved for homeowners, renters and businesses in the five counties. This includes:

• $29.2 million in FEMA grants for 7,154 individuals and households.
• $64.7 million in disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for 1,644 businesses, homeowners and renters.
• 4,459 National Flood Insurance Program claims filed; $111 million paid to policyholders.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams helped more than 2,400 residents register for FEMA assistance and provided more than 4,600 referrals to other agencies and voluntary organizations for unmet needs.

FEMA continues to coordinate with the State of Florida on reimbursement for emergency services, debris removal and repair or replacement of damaged public infrastructure, and for funding to mitigate against losses from future storms.

For more information about Hurricane Sally recovery in Florida, visit the FEMA disaster webpage at https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4564 or the Florida Division of Emergency Management webpage at https://www.floridadisaster.org/info/Sally/.

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

barbara.murien… Wed, 12/02/2020 - 11:16

FEMA Application Deadline Has Passed but Help Still Available for Oregon Wildfire Survivors

SALEM, Ore. – The Nov. 30 deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance has passed, but help is still available for wildfire survivors as FEMA continues working with the Oregon Office of Emergency Management.

Oregon homeowners and renters who applied for FEMA disaster assistance have the right to appeal FEMA’s eligibility decisions. Survivors who don’t agree with FEMA’s eligibility decision may file an appeal within 60 days of receiving their letter, even though the application deadline has passed. To learn more about the appeals process, including what to include and how to file an appeal visit https://go.usa.gov/x77EB. Appeals must be made in writing explaining why the agency should re-evaluate its decision and sent to FEMA by mail, fax or uploading to your online FEMA account.

Keep in touch with FEMA

Applicants should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure the disaster assistance process stays on track. Missing or incorrect information could result in delays in receiving assistance. Update contact information, report additional home damage or a delay in insurance claims in the following ways:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA app
• Calling the FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.
• 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 is able to contact you. Phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.
• While the deadline to apply with FEMA has passed, late applications may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

 Buy Flood Insurance Now

Oregonians who live in and around areas impacted by the wildfires face an increased risk of flooding for up to several years after the disaster. If you haven’t already purchased a flood insurance policy, it’s important to consider buying it now. It takes 30 days after applying for a new National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) insurance policy to go into effect. For more about information on FEMA’s NFIP, visit FloodSmart.gov. If you are ready to buy flood insurance, go to FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance/buy. To find a flood insurance provider near you, visit FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance/providers. Twenty-five providers were listed for Oregon as of Nov. 25. Many have toll-free phone numbers. Before rebuilding, homeowners should contact their local building official and/or floodplain manager to make sure all building requirements are met.

SBA Disaster Loans

The Nov. 30 application deadline for homeowners, renters and businesses for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loan for home or business physical damage has also passed. In some circumstances, however, applications may be accepted after the deadline on a case-by-case basis. For more information, call 800-659-2955 (TTY: 800-877-8339) 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, email questions to FOCWAssistance@sba.gov or visit sba.gov/disaster. The application deadline for businesses and private nonprofit organizations for a loan for economic injury is June 15, 2021. Applicants can complete an online application at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

Free Home Repair Advice

All Oregon residents – including disaster survivors affected by the wildfires and straight-line winds – can still get personalized mitigation advice from a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Specialist.   For information on how to build safer and stronger or to inquire about your flood risk following a fire, email FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov and a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Specialist will respond. This is a free service.

Free Crisis Counseling is Available

Need to talk? The Safe+Strong Helpline is available for both children and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety or other disaster-related depression-like symptoms. For help, call 800-923-4357 or visit safestrongoregon.org/mental-emotional-health.

Disaster Legal Assistance

Disaster Legal Services is taking questions from wildfire survivors. Go to: oregondisasterlegalservices.org, or call 800-452-7636 or 503-684-3763, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Disaster Case Management

Community members who are enrolled in local/state/tribal and/or federal programs providing case management are encouraged to reach out to and stay in touch with their providers throughout their recovery.

211info

211info is a nonprofit organization funded by state and municipal contracts, foundations, United Ways, donations and community partners in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

211info empowers Oregon and Southwest Washington communities by helping people identify, navigate and connect with the local resources they need. To speak with a community information specialist about resources in your area: call 211 or 866-698-6155; text your zip code to 898211; or email help@211info.org. Representatives are available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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The SBA is the federal government’s primary source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property. These disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations. For more information, applicants may contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling (800) 659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s website at sba.gov/disaster. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call (800) 877-8339.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish)

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.

 

issa.mansaray Tue, 12/01/2020 - 19:43

FEMA approves $11.9 million for Hurricane Michael recovery expenses

PANAMA CITY, Fla. — FEMA has approved two projects totaling more than $11.9 million for the state of Florida to reimburse Gadsden District Schools and the city of Tallahassee for Hurricane Michael recovery work.

Gadsden District Schools is receiving $1,404,477 for permanent repairs to Shanks Middle School campus, including removing and replacing hurricane-damaged roofing, insulation, windows and lighting fixtures. Additionally, funds cover the costs of hurricane-damaged contents at Shanks Middle School, such as athletic equipment.

Tallahassee is receiving $10,561,390 for repairs to its hurricane-damaged electrical grids. Funds cover repairs to electrical power poles, power distribution lines and transformers throughout the city caused by high winds, rain and flooding.

These grants are funded by FEMA’s Public Assistance program, 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 implemented new procedures 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.

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

barbara.murien… Tue, 12/01/2020 - 13:13

Delta Deadline to Register for FEMA Assistance is December 16

BATON ROUGE, La. — Renters and homeowners in parishes designated for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Delta have until Dec. 16 to register for help.

 

Federal assistance includes help for temporary housing, rental assistance and repair or replacement of damaged property.

Additionally, grants may be available to help with other expenses such as medical and dental care, childcare, funeral and burial costs, replacing essential household items, moving and storage, vehicle repairs and cleanup.

Survivors who live in the following parishes that have been designated for this disaster may be eligible: Acadia, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, Rapides and Vermilion.

For more information or to register for assistance:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY at 800-877-8339).
• Visit the FEMA website disasterassistance.gov/.
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC and your ZIP Code (i.e. DRC 12345).
• To receive a link to download the FEMA app:

• Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362 
• Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362

• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit fema.gov/disaster/4559. Or, for Hurricane Delta, visit fema.gov/disaster/4570. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6

scott.reuter Tue, 12/01/2020 - 12:25

FEMA Approves More Than $3 Million for Maine COVID-19 Costs

REGION I – Maine will receive $3,353,905 from the FEMA for the cost of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for testing and care for the public due to COVID-19. The grant is awarded to the State as reimbursement for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including disposable non-sterile isolation gowns and disposable isolation suits.

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention distributed the PPE in response to emergency needs from organizations such as first responders, long-term care facilities, frontline caregivers, and others involved in the state’s COVID-19 response. Additionally, the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services distributed the PPE to essential State employees.

It is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Grant program which reimburses communities for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a disaster, allowing them to quickly move forward.  Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations. The grant applications are submitted from the state, which coordinates the process with local governments. 

“FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program is essential to helping communities recovering from a federally declared disaster get back on their feet,” said Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Captain Russ Webster, who oversees FEMA’s operations in Maine. The Maine Emergency Management Agency works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

“This funding is just one of the positive results of the partnership between FEMA and the State of Maine through Maine Emergency Management Agency,” concluded Webster.

FEMA obligates funding for this project directly to the state of Maine.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found 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, 12/01/2020 - 11:25

FEMA Approves More Than $1 Million for Vermont COVID-19 Costs

REGION I –Vermont will receive $1,393,160 from FEMA for costs incurred by Vermont Department of Public Safety for the purchase of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and bulk supplies in response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. The materials were stored in a warehouse and distributed throughout the state in an ongoing basis.

This grant is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Grant program which reimburses communities for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations. The grant applications are submitted from the state, which coordinates the process with local governments.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program is essential in helping communities recovering from a federally declared disaster get back on their feet,” said Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Captain Russ Webster, who oversees FEMA’s operations in Vermont. Vermont Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

“This funding is just one of the positive results of the partnership between FEMA and the State through Vermont Emergency Management,” concluded Webster.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grant funding to state and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. FEMA obligates funding for this project directly to the state of Vermont.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found 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, 12/01/2020 - 09:06

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available for Those Affected by Tropical Storm Isaías

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that employees or self-employed individuals who live in Aguada, Hormigueros, Mayagüez or Rincón and became unemployed as a direct consequence of Tropical Storm Isaías may be eligible to receive Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

Survivors that live in the four affected municipalities can file a claim until Dec. 30, 2020. To be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance, the applicant must:

• File a regular unemployment insurance claim and be determined ineligible for benefits;
• Be unemployed or partially unemployed as a direct result of the disaster;
• Be able and available for work, unless injured as a direct result of the disaster;
• File an application for DUA within 30 days of the date of this announcement; and
• Have not refused an offer of employment in a suitable position.

Survivors can find the DUA application at trabajo.pr.gov. Applications can be can placed in the mail box located at the nearest Puerto Rico Department of Labor office, from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., or uploaded at trabajo.pr.gov/DocUploader. 

To receive DUA benefits, all required documentation must be submitted to the Puerto Rico Department of Labor within 21 days from the day the DUA application is filed. Required documentation may include Social Security number, a copy of the most recent federal income tax return, check stubs or documentation to support that applicants were working or self-employed when the disaster occurred.

To verify eligibility and additional information on DUA, survivors must visit their local unemployment office or visit trabajo.pr.gov. DUA is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Labor and funded by FEMA. Survivors may also search for employment and training opportunities through the American Job Center or by visiting CareerOneStop.org/LocalHelp.  

For more information on Puerto Rico’s recovery from Tropical Storm Isaías, visit fema.gov/disaster/4560. Follow us at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 11/30/2020 - 09:18

Oregon Wildfires: Wells, Septic Systems May be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

Salem, Ore. -- Oregon residents who lost access to water and sewer service through their private wells and septic systems due to the September wildfires could be considered for financial assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.

Residents in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn and Marion counties designated for federal assistance to individuals and households due to 2020 wildfires may be eligible for a FEMA award for household repairs not usually covered by insurance. This includes repair or replacement of septic systems and wells damaged by wildfires.

Settlement of a homeowner’s insurance policy is the primary source of money to pay for home repairs following a major disaster. FEMA assistance cannot duplicate insurance coverage. However, households that don’t have insurance or have received an insurance settlement less than the cost to repair serious damage may apply to FEMA for help with costs that are necessary to have a functioning home, including for repair or replacement of private wells and/or septic systems.

Steps to take to be considered for assistance with your private well and/or septic system:

Apply with FEMA: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; through the FEMA App; or by phone at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PST daily. Be sure to report any damages to your well as a result of the disaster. Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

If you have applied with FEMA and have not had a home inspection, you should let the FEMA inspector know you have a private well and/or septic system. If you have applied with FEMA and are insured, you should contact the helpline and let them know that you have well/septic damage so that an inspection can be issued.  If you have already had an inspection and your well or septic system wasn’t reported, you may send FEMA a dated and signed letter, along with a contractor’s estimate, indicating you are appealing for the well/septic system.

In situations where you received FEMA assistance for your private well/septic system, but additional help for these costs is needed, you may submit an appeal:

You should provide to FEMA a verifiable estimate/receipt indicating the well/septic system was physically damaged, collapsed, and/or is no longer functioning as a direct result of the disaster. You will need to include a dated and signed letter, along with the contractor’s estimate, indicating you are appealing for the well/septic system.

If the submitted estimates/receipts do not specifically include this information, FEMA will call the contractor to confirm the information.

You may always contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) if you have any questions about your disaster assistance options.

 

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish)

Disaster survivors affected by the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds can also get personalized mitigation advice to repair and rebuild safer and stronger from a FEMA Mitigation Specialist. For information on how to rebuild safer and stronger or to inquire as to your new flood risk following a fire near you, email FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov, a FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialist will respond survivor inquiries.

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.

virginia.case2 Fri, 11/27/2020 - 10:14

Additional FEMA Help Approved for Nine California Counties

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Additional help has been approved for nine California counties ravaged by the September/October wildfires.

The following assistance, approved Nov. 25, is added to the Oct. 16 presidential disaster declaration for the wildfire period Sept. 4 through Nov. 17, 2020:

• Del Norte County for Public Assistance, including direct federal assistance.
• Fresno, Madera, Mendocino, Napa, Shasta, Siskiyou, and Sonoma counties for debris removal (Category A) and permanent work (Categories C-G). These counties are already designated for Individual Assistance and emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program.
• Yuba County for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B), including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program.

FEMA’s PA program provides federal grant assistance to help communities quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies declared by the president. An applicant is a nonfederal entity (a local, state, territorial or tribal government or an eligible private nonprofit organization) that applies for assistance under a federal award.

Federal funds pay for not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost of emergency work and permanent work.

The PA program benefits everyone – neighborhoods, towns, cities, counties, states and their residents. Funds are used for projects to renovate classrooms, refurbish hospitals, restore parks and repair public transportation systems so students can go to safe schools, doctors and nurses can provide medical care and families can enjoy the outdoors in public parks.

For the latest information on wildfire recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4569 and follow the FEMA Region 9 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion9.

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bree-constance… Wed, 11/25/2020 - 18:02

FEMA Provides $46 Million to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) announced today that $46,077,160 in federal funding has been made available to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation 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 Cleveland Clinic Foundation for costs to expand capacity at their existing medical facility to treat COVID-19 patients and to purchase and distribute medical supplies, ventilators and personal protective equipment.  

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding has helped ensure the availability of critical medical services in Ohio to combat this virus.”

“Areas in and around Cleveland continue to have the second highest rates of COVID-19 cases in the state,” said Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick. “This funding allows for the Cleveland Clinic Foundation to continue its mission of providing critical medical care to patients.”

FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project, which totals $46,077,160. The eligible cost for this project is $61,436,213.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 11/25/2020 - 11:20

FEMA Awards $1.5 Million to the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $1.5 million to repair the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music for damages caused by Hurricane María. Beyond being a specialized public university, the Conservatory is a symbol of Puerto Rico’s heritage and musical traditions.

To help preserve the unique qualities of this facility, a team of FEMA specialists carefully assessed the damage and construction of the historic structure. Among other measures, these experts considered the fusion of modern features embedded in a building that dates from the XIX Century and is the last construction work completed by the Spanish government on the island.

“The Conservatory is an iconic place for music in Puerto Rico. Given its historic nature, it’s important to restore this facility for future generations,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

On the other hand, about $367,000 of the funds allocated are destined for mitigation measures to prevent similar damage in future disasters. These include upgrades to avoid water leaks in the roof and windows, which caused most of the damage to this structure.

Professor Pedro Segarra Sisamone, the conservatory’s rector, said FEMA’s evaluation was very comprehensive. “Once the appropriate materials for the restoration were determined, the costs were estimated,” he said.

The Conservatory is home to piano laboratories, a library, concert halls and an amphitheater. In addition to its undergraduate academic offerings, which serve 400 students, the Conservatory offers programs such as “100x35 Music” and the Preparatory School. These develop social skills through music and have a combined total of nearly 1,600 students.

“We are very pleased to help the Conservatory of Music continue offering community and educational services. Music is an art form that has helped us so much during these times and Puerto Rico has an enormous pool of talent that must continue to develop. We appreciate the Conservatory staff members for their great efforts and achievements, particularly during these past months,” said the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience, Ottmar Chávez.

To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $19.3 billion for costs related to hurricanes Irma and María, including projects to help rebuild infrastructure throughout Puerto Rico. FEMA works with COR3 through the agency’s Public Assistance program to obligate recovery funds to private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and agencies of the Government of Puerto Rico.

For more information on Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on our social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 11/25/2020 - 06:55

Oregon Wildfires: Wells, Septic Systems May be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

Salem, Ore. -- Oregon residents who lost access to water and sewer service through their private wells and septic systems due to the September wildfires could be considered for financial assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.

Residents in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn and Marion counties designated for federal assistance to individuals and households due to 2020 wildfires may be eligible for a FEMA award for household repairs not usually covered by insurance. This includes repair or replacement of septic systems and wells damaged by wildfires.

Settlement of a homeowner’s insurance policy is the primary source of money to pay for home repairs following a major disaster. FEMA assistance cannot duplicate insurance coverage. However, households that don’t have insurance or have received an insurance settlement less than the cost to repair serious damage may apply to FEMA for help with costs that are necessary to have a functioning home, including for repair or replacement of private wells and/or septic systems.

Step to take to be considered for assistance with your private well and/or septic system:

• Apply with FEMA: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; through the FEMA App; or by phone at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PST daily. Be sure to report any damages to your well as a result of the disaster. Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

If you have applied with FEMA and have not had a home inspection, you should let the FEMA inspector know you have a private well and/or septic system. If you have applied with FEMA and are insured, you should contact the helpline and let them know that you have well/septic damage so that an inspection can be issued.  If you have already had an inspection and your well or septic system wasn’t reported, you may send FEMA a dated and signed letter, along with a contractor’s estimate, indicating you are appealing for the well/septic system.  

In situations where you received FEMA assistance for your private well/septic system, but additional help for these costs is needed, you may submit an appeal:

• You should provide to FEMA a verifiable estimate/receipt indicating the well/septic system was physically damaged, collapsed, and/or is no longer functioning as a direct result of the disaster. You will need to include a dated and signed letter, along with the contractor’s estimate, indicating you are appealing for the well/septic system.
• If the submitted estimates/receipts do not specifically include this information, FEMA will call the contractor to confirm the information.

You may always contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) if you have any questions about your disaster assistance options.

 

                                                                                            ###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish)

Disaster survivors affected by the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds can also get personalized mitigation advice to repair and rebuild safer and stronger from a FEMA Mitigation Specialist. For information on how to rebuild safer and stronger or to inquire as to your new flood risk following a fire near you, email FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov, a FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialist will respond survivor inquiries.

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.

jassiel.oliveromelo Tue, 11/24/2020 - 20:42

FEMA Awards Gainesville Regional Utilities $1.9 Million for Hurricane Irma Mitigation Measures

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,954,088 for Gainesville Regional Utilities to upgrade utility poles and harden the electrical distribution system for 36 neighborhoods.

After Hurricane Irma in 2017, FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) will assist the city with minimizing the loss of service through pole-mounted transformers and other distribution equipment. The project will reduce damage from future windstorms of up to 141 miles per hour.

The grant is funded by the HMGP, an important source of federal disaster assistance. Funding from the program may become available following the president’s declaration of a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings, facilities and infrastructure that people use every day.

A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation will save more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.

Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.

Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Irma disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.

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

barbara.murien… Tue, 11/24/2020 - 15:15

FEMA Deadline to Register for Hurricane Laura Looms

BATON ROUGE, La. — Renters and homeowners in parishes designated for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Laura have until Nov. 27 to register for help.

Federal assistance includes help for temporary housing, rental assistance and repair or replacement of damaged property.

Additionally, grants may be available to help with other expenses such as medical and dental care, childcare, funeral and burial costs, replacing essential household items, moving and storage, vehicle repairs and cleanup.

To see if you live in a designated parish, visit: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4559/designated-areas.

For more information or to register for assistance:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
• Visit disasterassistance.gov/.
• To find a drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), text 43362 and type DRC and a ZIP code (for example DRC 12345).
• To receive a link to download the FEMA app:
  • • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
    • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
    • Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app .

 

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

Hurricane Laura survivors with home repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 833-336-2487 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

 

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

christopher.teed Tue, 11/24/2020 - 15:11

FEMA Awards Vizcaya Museum and Gardens $3.6 Million for Hurricane Irma Mitigation Measures

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $3,600,000 for Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Trust, Inc. to retrofit the museum for protection from wind and flood during storms.

After Hurricane Irma in 2017, FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) will assist the museum with the installation of impact-resistant windows and doors, and wind protection for other openings such as vents and exhaust fans. The project will reduce damage from future windstorms of up to 182 miles per hour. The roof will be upgraded, equipment will be elevated and the electrical wiring will be waterproofed.

The grant is funded by the HMGP, an important source of federal disaster assistance. Funding from the program may become available following the president’s declaration of a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings, facilities and infrastructure that people use every day. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation will save more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.

Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.

Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Irma disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.

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

barbara.murien… Tue, 11/24/2020 - 15:05

FEMA Announces $140 Million for Emergency Food and Shelter Program

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has announced that $140 million will be available to communities across the county to assist with feeding and sheltering.

Congress made $125 million available for Fiscal Year 2020, and this year, the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) National Board is including an additional $15 million from funds that have not been used from prior grant years. FEMA awarded the $125 million to the National Board, which is now allocating the funds, combined with the additional $15 million, to qualifying jurisdictions (counties and cities).

EFSP funds assist local organizations dedicated to feeding, sheltering, and providing critical resources to people with economic emergencies, including our nation's hungry and homeless populations. These funds are for people with non-disaster related emergencies and can be used for a broad range of services, including mass shelter, mass feeding, food pantries and food banks, utility bill payments to prevent cut-offs, rent/mortgage payments to prevent evictions/foreclosures, and transition assistance from shelters to stable living conditions.

Of this year’s allocation, 8% will be made available to states that will make funding determinations to aid people in jurisdictions with needs that may not be reflected in the National Board’s qualifying formula.

The National Board is chaired by FEMA, with representatives from American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, The Jewish Federations of North America, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Salvation Army and United Way Worldwide. United Way Worldwide, selected by the National Board as its Secretariat and Fiscal Agent, is also responsible for the daily administration of the EFSP.

EFSP funding is allocated to qualifying local jurisdictions based on a formula using the most recent national population, unemployment and poverty data. Grants are then awarded by local boards to nonprofit and government organizations that provide direct services to those in need in their communities. With the FY 2020 funding, the total aid disbursed in the EFSP’s 38-year history will be more than $5 billion.

View the Phase 38 Fiscal Year 2020 Allocations for a state-by-state list of the eligible jurisdictions and award amount

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 11/23/2020 - 14:16

Federal Aid Tops $260 Million for Alabama Recovery from Hurricane Sally

Montgomery, Ala. – More than $260 million in federal grants, loans and flood insurance program claims has been approved for residents and businesses since Hurricane Sally made landfall in Alabama two months ago.

Nearly $77 million of that amount has come in the form of grants to hurricane-impacted homeowners and renters to help pay for rent, temporary housing and repairs to a primary residence, as well as other disaster-related needs.

Three Alabama counties—Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile—were designated eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program in a declaration signed by President Trump on Sept. 20, 2020.

As of Nov. 23, IA grants for temporary housing and rental and home repair or replacement total $55.3 million. Grants for other needs assistance (ONA) exceed $21.5 million.

ONA is provided to individuals and households to help address necessary expenses that cannot be met through other forms of disaster assistance or insurance, such as replacement of personal property and medical, dental, funeral, childcare, transportation, and moving and storage expense reimbursements.

“We are grateful for our local, state, and federal partnership that has helped deliver assistance to families that were devastated by Hurricane Sally,” said Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director, Brian Hastings. “As the recovery process continues, we encourage everyone to build forward better and start preparing for the next disaster.”

Small Business Administration (SBA)

More than $109.8 million in SBA disaster loans have been approved to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from Hurricane Sally. As of Nov. 23, SBA has approved nearly $103.3 million in long-term, low interest disaster loans for homeowners and renters, as well as more than $6.5 million disaster loans to businesses.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

To date, NFIP has approved 3,247 flood insurance claims, and has paid more than $74.2 million to policy holders. The program allows property owners in communities that participate in NFIP to purchase flood insurance administered by the federal government.

felicia.jordan Mon, 11/23/2020 - 13:30

Applying with FEMA is a Good Idea: Nov. 30 is the Deadline

SALEM, Ore. – Have you registered with FEMA yet? Are you thinking you wouldn’t be eligible because you have insurance? You should still apply. If you are a survivor affected by the Oregon wildfires and live in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn or Marion county, apply by Monday, Nov. 30.

“The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is fast approaching,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Dolph Diemont, who is in charge of the Oregon wildfire recovery. “There’s still time and we know there are survivors who still need our assistance.  We want to urge survivors affected by these fires to get the most out of their recovery and apply today.”

FEMA assistance is your tax dollars at work in Oregon, providing funds to help kickstart your recovery process. To apply, visit www.disasterassistance.gov/, download the FEMA app, or call 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.

Here are 10 facts about the help that may be available to you:

1. You won’t be taking grant money away from someone else by applying. There are enough disaster funds to assist every eligible applicant.
2. If you applied for assistance through a voluntary organization or other federal or state agency, this does not register you with FEMA.
3. FEMA funds provided to eligible homeowners and renters do not have to be repaid. Remember: federal assistance cannot duplicate insurance or payments from other sources.
4. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal or state benefits.
5. If you are insured, but also had damage to your well and/or septic system, or a private road or bridge, you may be eligible for financial assistance from FEMA. These items are considered uninsurable and FEMA assistance would not be a duplication of funds you receive from your insurance settlement.
6. If you are underinsured and your insurance settlement isn’t enough to cover your expenses, FEMA might be able to help.
7. If your insurance settlement is delayed by 30 days or more, and you need immediate money to relocate, FEMA may be able to help. Contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to find out what you need to do to get this assistance. NOTE: Any money you may get from FEMA that you use for costs that will be reimbursed by your insurance settlement must be repaid to FEMA when you get your insurance payment.
8. If your car had uninsured damage caused by the disaster, you may be eligible for money to help repair or replace it. Certain requirements apply, but you must register with FEMA first to determine eligibility.
9. Disaster survivors affected by the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds can also get personalized mitigation advice to repair and rebuild safer and stronger from a FEMA Mitigation Specialist. For information on how to rebuild safer and stronger or to inquire as to your new flood risk following a fire near you, email FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov, a FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialist will respond to survivor inquiries.
10. If you applied for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan for the COVID-19 disaster, be aware those loans are separate from SBA loans for the wildfire disasters. You should apply if FEMA refers you to SBA for the recent wildfires. You may be eligible for separate loans for both the COVID-19 and wildfire disasters. The deadline to apply for an SBA low-interest disaster loan is also Nov. 30, 2020. Applicants may be eligible for an increase of up to 20 percent in their SBA property damage loan amount to pay for measures to make their property more resistant to future disaster damage. Survivors can find out more and apply for a loan at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. For additional assistance, contact the SBA’s Customer Service Line. Customer service representatives are available to assist individuals and business owners, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete their electronic loan application. The SBA Customer Service Line is open 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST daily. Call 800-659-2955 or email DCS@sba.gov. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

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The SBA is the federal government’s primary source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property. These disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations. For more information, applicants may contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s website at sba.gov/disaster. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish)

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.

virginia.case2 Mon, 11/23/2020 - 10:19

A Few Days Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Sally in Florida

PENSACOLA, Fla. – Northwest Florida residents who have uninsured losses resulting from Hurricane Sally have until Dec. 1, 2020 to register with FEMA for assistance.

Survivors in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties can register with FEMA in several ways:

• By visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA App for smartphones
• Calling 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. 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.

Dec. 1, 2020 also is the deadline to apply to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans for physical property damage. The deadline for working capital applications for small businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations is July 2, 2021.

For additional information about SBA disaster loans, the loan application process, or for help completing the SBA application, visit SBA’s secure website at https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email FOCE-Help@sba.gov to make an appointment for assistance over the phone. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call 800-877-8339.

For in-person assistance with an SBA disaster loan, visit the Business Recovery Centers, open seven days a week, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., at East Pensacola Heights Clubhouse, 3208 E. Gonzalez St., Pensacola, FL 32503; or Bridgeway Center, Building C, 205 Shell Ave., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.

For more information about Hurricane Sally recovery in Florida, visit the FEMA disaster webpage at https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4564 or the Florida Division of Emergency Management webpage at https://www.floridadisaster.org/Info/Sally/.

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

barbara.murien… Mon, 11/23/2020 - 10:19

FEMA Approves More Than $4 Million for Connecticut COVID-19 Medical Costs

REGION I –Connecticut will receive $4,690,101 from FEMA for support of costs due to COVID-19. The funds will go to Stamford Hospital for increased levels of temporary nursing and independent community medical doctors and staff in response to increased COVID-19 admission rates in Fairfield County. Additional costs incurred include the setup of a temporary facility to secure additional patient beds, providing drive-through patient COVID-19 testing, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and supplies to all frontline staff and patients.

This grant is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Grant program which reimburses communities for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations. The grant applications are submitted from the state, which coordinates the process with local governments. 

“FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program is essential to helping communities recovering from a federally declared disaster get back on their feet,” said Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Captain Russ Webster, who oversees FEMA’s operations in Connecticut. The state’s agency works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

“This funding is just one of the positive results of the partnership between FEMA and the State of Connecticut through their Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security,” concluded Webster.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grant funding to state and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. FEMA obligates funding for this project directly to the state of Connecticut.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found 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 Sun, 11/22/2020 - 16:22