Louisiana Residents Affected by Hurricane Delta Can Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

BATON ROUGE La. – Late Friday, President Donald Trump granted Louisiana’s request for an expedited Major Disaster Declaration (DR-4570) as a result of Hurricane Delta. The declaration includes Acadia, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Vermilion parishes.

State and federal officials are encouraging Louisiana residents who suffered losses from Delta to register for disaster assistance with FEMA as soon as possible.

If you previously applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Laura, you will have to register again for Delta assistance.

First, contact your insurance company to file your storm-damage claims and document the damage with photos. You do not have to wait until your insurance company makes a decision to take the next steps.

Second, complete the state damage assessment to ensure your damage is reported to state and local government officials. Information collected here will help parish, state and federal authorities understand how and where locations were impacted by Delta.

• Go to damage.la.gov/ on any computer or smartphone.

Third, register with FEMA one of these ways:

• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

• Go to DisasterAssitance.gov on any computer or smartphone.
• Receive a link to download the FEMA app on your smartphone (Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362; Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362).

You will need to have the following readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted;
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying;
• Your Social Security number, if available; and
• If insured, the insurance policy number or your insurance agent and company.

Disaster assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost disaster loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and businesses recover from the effects of the disaster.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to homeowners, renters and businesses. Call the SBA at 800-659-2955 (TTY: 800-877-8339) or visit sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. To schedule an appointment with an SBA customer service representative, call the Southwest Entrepreneurial and Economic Development (SEED) Center, SWLA Economic Development Alliance at 337-433-3632.

The SBA Calcasieu Parish Business Recovery Center:

Willis Noland Conference Center, Second Floor

4310 Ryan St.

Lake Charles, LA 70605

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

For the latest information on Hurricane Delta, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4570 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

christopher.teed Sat, 10/17/2020 - 16:46

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Louisiana

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Louisiana to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Delta from Oct. 6 through Oct. 10.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Acadia, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, and Vermilion parishes. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of Hurricane Delta.

Federal funding is also available to the state, tribal and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Delta in Acadia, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, and Vermilion parishes.

Emergency protective measures including any direct federal assistance through FEMA’s Public Assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding. This assistance is for Acadia, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, and Vermilion parishes.

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

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

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

zella.campbell Sat, 10/17/2020 - 10:34

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for California

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of California to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from Sept. 4 and continuing.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Fresno, Los Angeles, Madera, Mendocino, San Bernardino, San Diego and Siskiyou counties.  Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available to the state, tribal and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures in Fresno, Los Angeles, Madera, Mendocino, San Bernardino, San Diego and Siskiyou counties.

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

Willie G. Nunn has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

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

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/16/2020 - 20:55

FEMA External Outreach Sites Closed Sundays

SALEM, Ore. – FEMA External Outreach Sites operating in Lincoln, Jackson, Lane and Marion counties will be closed on Sundays beginning Oct. 18, 2020. These sites assist survivors of the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds that began Sept. 7 in applying for federal and state disaster assistance.

Help is still available. Outreach sites remain open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., for in-person visits. Residents can get information about their application, ask questions about letters they receive from FEMA, and have their documents scanned to be part of their application packet.

There are several ways to contact FEMA to apply for help, update applications or ask questions:

• Call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT, seven days a week.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Check FEMA’s mobile app.

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.

Outreach sites are at the following locations:

• FEMA External Outreach Site #1

Central High School

815 South Oakdale Ave.

Medford, Oregon 97501  

• FEMA External Outreach Site #2

Lane Events Center

796 W. 13th Ave.

 Eugene, Oregon 97402  

• FEMA External Outreach Site #3

Stayton Community Center

400 W. Virginia St.,

Stayton, Oregon 97385  

• FEMA External Outreach Site #4

Lincoln Outlet Mall

1500 S.E East Devils Lake Rd., Suite 200

Lincoln City, Oregon 97367

 

Representatives from FEMA’s Individual Assistance program will be available at all sites.

Applicants with disabilities who may require a reasonable accommodation can ask FEMA staff directly or submit their accommodation request via email to FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights at any time at FEMACivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or by calling FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread through person-to-person contact, visitors are required to wear a mask or face covering to gain entry and will receive “no touch” temperature screenings. Hand sanitizer will be available to survivors and staff.

Federal staff will wear masks, face shields and gloves. Workstations will be spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA will ensure that common areas are cleaned regularly during the day and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Disaster survivors affected by the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds can also get personalized 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.

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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).

At any time applicants with disabilities who may require a reasonable accommodation can ask FEMA staff directly or submit their accommodation request via email to FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights at FEMACivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or by calling FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.

hannah.weinstein Fri, 10/16/2020 - 20:19

Mobile Registration Intake Center Open in Santa Clara County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center serving SCU Lighting Complex wildfire survivors will open Oct. 17 in Santa Clara County. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Oct. 21. It is closed Sunday, Oct. 18.

The center is part of the ongoing response and recovery mission for FEMA and the State of California to support survivors affected by the SCU Lightning Complex wildfires, which burned nearly 400,000 acres in August and September before their containment Oct. 1.

The center is at the CAL FIRE Smith Creek Fire Station, 22805 Mount Hamilton Rd., Mount Hamilton, CA 95140.

Survivors can register with FEMA for federal aid in one of three ways:

• online at disasterassistance.gov;
• by downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet;
• or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. PDT. If you use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, provide FEMA the specific number assigned to that service when you register.
• The helpline staff can also answer questions about applications already submitted.

On Sept. 28, Santa Clara County was added to an earlier FEMA disaster declaration, allowing residents with damage from the wildfires to apply for financial assistance that may include rent, home repair, home replacement and other disaster-related needs such as childcare, medical and dental expenses.

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bree-constance… Fri, 10/16/2020 - 19:38

Wildfire Survivors Can Apply for Federal Aid Even if Insured

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – If you suffered personal or business losses in the devastating wildfires that broke out in August and you’re waiting for your insurance settlement before you register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, don’t delay any longer. Disaster assistance may be able to fill insurance gaps or provide help if you’ve been waiting more than 30 days on a homeowner’s claim. Another reason not to delay: the deadline for registering with FEMA is Nov. 23, 2020.

By law, FEMA cannot duplicate insurance or other benefits. However, it may be able to help with uninsured or underinsured losses if the insurance settlement is delayed.

FEMA may also be able to help:

• If you have received the settlement from the insurance company but you still have unmet needs.
• If you have exhausted the settlement for Additional Living Expenses (ALE for loss of use) and you need disaster-related temporary housing.
• If your settlement does not cover disaster-related needs such as medical, dental and funeral costs, emergency home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.

Register with FEMA:

• Online, by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov;
• By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet; or
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free lines are open 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. PDT daily. Helpline operators are also available to answer questions about applications already submitted.

The registration process includes your providing 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 your settlement has been delayed longer than 30 days, you may write FEMA to explain your situation. Provide insurance documentation to prove you’ve submitted your claim, including the claim number, the date you applied and how long you estimate it will take for the company to settle, and mail your letter to:

FEMA - Individuals & Households Program

National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville MD 20782-70155

* You may also fax it to 800-827-8112.

Well/septic system help

Register with FEMA if your well or septic system was damaged in the fires as most homeowner policies don’t cover them. Homeowners in the 10 designated counties – Butte, Lake, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo – may be eligible for grant funding to pump septic tanks, perform required repairs or replace the system as needed. Damaged private wells that are the sole source of water for the home and need to be repaired or decontaminated are also potentially eligible.

U.S. Small Business Administration assistance

Survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA and were contacted by the U.S. Small Business Administration to complete an SBA low-interest disaster loan application have many good reasons to submit one before the Nov. 23 deadline. Some of the key reasons include:

• SBA helps businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters fund repair/rebuilding efforts and cover replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property. Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged/destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.
• A future insurance settlement may fall short. Survivors may find out that they are underinsured for the amount of work it takes to repair/replace their damaged home. An SBA low-interest disaster loan can cover the uninsured costs. The loan balance may be reduced by their insurance settlement. However, the opportunity for an SBA loan may be lost if they wait until after the Nov. 23 deadline.
• SBA may approve a loan for the repair or replacement of a home up to $200,000. Renters, as well as homeowners, may be eligible to borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace clothing, furniture, appliances and damaged vehicles.
• If SBA determines that homeowners or renters aren’t eligible for a loan, SBA may refer them back to FEMA. This could make them eligible for more FEMA assistance.

If those affected by the wildfires need help completing their loan application they should call SBA at 800-659-2955 (TTY 800-877-8339) or send an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. They are encouraged to apply online using SBA’s electronic loan application at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

SBA has established a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center with customer service representatives available to assist business owners and individuals answer questions about the SBA disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete an electronic loan application.

Virtual Business Recovery Center and Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center

Mondays – Sundays

5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PDT

FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

(800) 659-2955

For more information on California recovery, visit the disaster webpage at www.fema.gov/disaster/4558, Twitter at www.twitter.com/femaregion9 and the Cal OES website, www.caloes.ca.gov/.

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bree-constance… Fri, 10/16/2020 - 10:58

FEMA Grant Does Not Affect Eligibility for Other Federal Aid

BATON ROUGE, La.– The Oct. 27 deadline to register for Hurricane Laura-related FEMA disaster assistance is fast approaching yet some have not applied for fear that receiving a federal grant will impact other financial assistance or count as taxable income.

It will not.

FEMA grants are not taxable income and won’t affect eligibility or benefits received for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or other public-assistance programs.

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, replacement of 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.

To find out if you qualify for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
• Visit disasterassistance.gov/.
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC and your 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
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• 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 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm 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 Fri, 10/16/2020 - 10:57

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Counties, Poarch Band of Creek Indians

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - A public notice has been posted to the FEMA and Alabama Emergency Management websites describing available FEMA assistance and proposed FEMA-funded actions, including activities that may affect historic properties, threatened and endangered species, critical habitat, or wetlands and floodplains in Alabama.

FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant programs.

The public notice addresses FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged by Hurricane Sally in Baldwin, Barbour, Butler, Clarke, Coffee, Conecuh, Covington, Crenshaw, Escambia, Geneva, Houston, Mobile and Pike counties, as well as the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

The public notice is posted on FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/dr-4563-al-public-notice-001 . It is also posted on the Alabama Emergency Management Agency website at https://alabamaema.files.wordpress.com/2020/10/4563-dr-al-public-notice.10-15-2020.pdf .

This may be the only public notice given regarding these FEMA actions. Questions should be directed to U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency – Region IV - EHP, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Rd, Atlanta, GA 30341-4112 or by emailing FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov within 15 days of the date of this notice.

felicia.jordan Fri, 10/16/2020 - 10:06

Mobile Registration Intake Centers Closed, FEMA Help is Still Available

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – FEMA disaster recovery specialists remain available to Alabama residents in Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties who have Hurricane Sally-related damages and may need assistance.

The Mobile Registration Intake Centers that allowed homeowners and renters to register for disaster assistance have closed, but residents in the three designated counties may still call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) for assistance with storm-related issues.

The toll-free line is open every day from 6 a.m. to midnight (Central Time). Multilingual operators are available.

Help and information is also available at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or on your smartphone via the FEMA app.

For example, you can call the Helpline to:

• Register for federal disaster assistance, if you have not yet done so;
• Check the status of your application, if you are already registered;
• Get clarification about a letter from FEMA;
• Update address, phone or bank account numbers;
• Get guidance on filing an appeal on any FEMA decision; and
• Find out about other types of federal disaster assistance available.

The deadline for residents of Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties to register for FEMA disaster assistance is Nov. 19, 2020.

For more information about disaster recovery operations in Alabama, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563

felicia.jordan Fri, 10/16/2020 - 09:14

Disaster Recovery Center in Davenport to Close October 16

Help is still available for derecho survivors

DES MOINES, Iowa – The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will close in Davenport on Friday, October 16 at 6 p.m.  However, help for survivors of the August derecho is just a phone call, a mouse click or a tap away on the FEMA app.

The DRC is at the Annie Wittenmyer Family Aquatic Center located at:

2828 Eastern Ave.

Davenport, IA 52803

(At the corner of East 29th St. and Eastern Ave.)

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register or submit documents to FEMA. 

Applicants may register in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Documents also may be submitted in any of the following ways:

• Mail to FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055. 
• Fax to 800-827-8112.
• Submit them via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account,  visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers federal low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters. Apply at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. People may also call 800-659-2955 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who use TTY may call 800-877-8339.

Survivors in Benton, Boone, Cedar, Clinton, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama, counties have until November 2 to register for disaster assistance.

thomas.wise Thu, 10/15/2020 - 18:17

FEMA Awards More Than $3.5 Million to Connecticut for COVID Expenses

FEMA approved $3,506,087 in federal funding to the Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH) for Emergency Protective Measures as a result of the major disaster declaration for the state’s COVID-19 Pandemic. This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act, as a result of a partnership between FEMA and the State of Connecticut Emergency Management Agency.

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the general public requiring emergency response and protective measures throughout the state of Connecticut. In response to the event, DOH utilized contracts to provide non-congregate sheltering to the homeless population to decrease the spread of COVID-19 to lessen eminent threat to lives. “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 COVID operations in Connecticut.

This grant is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance 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 obligates funding for this project directly to the State.  It is the State's responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipient receives this award. Following the state's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the sub-recipient on a reimbursable basis.

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

adrien.urbani Thu, 10/15/2020 - 12:15

External Outreach Site to Open in Lincoln City to Help Wildfire Survivors

SALEM, OR – A FEMA External Outreach Site opens Oct. 15, 2020 in Lincoln City to assist Oregon residents in Lincoln County affected by recent wildfires and straight-line winds.

The site offers in-person visits for residents to get information about their application, ask questions about letters they receive from FEMA, and have their documents scanned to be part of their application.

Representatives from FEMA’s Individual Assistance program will be available at the site.

Hours for all FEMA External Outreach Sites are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. External Outreach Sites are also open in Medford, Eugene and Stayton.

FEMA External Outreach Site #4

Lincoln Outlet Mall—Opens 8 a.m. Oct. 15 1500 S.E. East Devils Lake Rd. Suite 200 Lincoln City, Oregon 97367

The following External Outreach Sites are also available to assist disaster survivors:

FEMA External Outreach Site #1 Central High School 815 South Oakdale Ave. Medford, Oregon 97501

FEMA External Outreach Site #2 Lane Events Center 796 W. 13th Ave. Eugene, Oregon 97402

FEMA External Outreach Site #3 Stayton Community Center 400 W. Virginia St. Stayton, Oregon 97385

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering is required to gain entry. Visitors receive “no touch” temperature screenings. Hand sanitizer is available to survivors and staff.

Federal staff wear masks, face shields and gloves. Workstations are spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA ensures that common areas are cleaned regularly during the day and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Survivors can visit any of the External Outreach Sites for in-person help; however, they do not need to visit an External Outreach Site to apply or update their application. They can apply for assistance or update an application in the following ways:

• Call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT, seven days a week.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Check FEMA’s mobile app.
• 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.

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

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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)

At any time, applicants with disabilities who may require a reasonable accommodation can ask FEMA staff directly or submit their accommodation request via email to FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or by calling FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line at 833-285-7448.

tkeyah.lake Thu, 10/15/2020 - 11:33

FEMA Provides Additional $10.6 Million to North Dakota for COVID-19 Response

DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided $10.6 Million in Public Assistance funding to the North Dakota Department of Health for COVID-19 response efforts. The assistance was made available under the major disaster declaration issued April 1 by President Trump.

The funds are being provided to the Department of Health for costs related to ramping up COVID-19 testing efforts as part of North Dakota’s pandemic response.  The award covers the period from March 7 through June 30, during which 163,977 tests were completed.

“These funds are supporting North Dakota’s expanded testing efforts, an important component to minimizing the spread of COVID-19,” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator Lee dePalo.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding for emergency actions undertaken by communities to protect public safety, providing at least a 75-percent funding share for eligible costs. Remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and local applicants for assistance.

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 can play a critical role as state, tribal, and local officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $105.7 million in Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in North Dakota.  Additional support has come in the form of mission assignments, where FEMA directs another federal agency to perform work to address needs identified by the state.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/14/2020 - 19:10

FEMA Provides Additional $4.4 Million for Denver COVID-19 Response

DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced $4.4 million in additional funding for COVID-19 response efforts undertaken by the City and County of Denver. The assistance was made available under the major disaster declaration issued March 28 by President Trump.

This expedited funding is being provided to Denver for estimated costs related to establishing and promoting COVID-19 testing sites at the Pepsi Center and other locations. The funding is for work that was completed between May 1 and August 1.  Additional assistance may be provided when all costs for the project have been reconciled.

These funds supported enhanced testing efforts in Denver, a critical component in helping to control the spread of COVID-19,” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator Lee dePalo.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding for emergency actions undertaken by communities to protect public safety, providing at least a 75 percent funding share for eligible costs. Remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and local applicants for assistance.

For the pandemic 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 can play a critical role as state, tribal and local officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $105.7 million in Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Colorado.  Additional support has come in the form of mission assignments, where FEMA directs another federal agency to perform work to address needs identified by the state.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/14/2020 - 18:51

President Donald J. Trump Amends California Major Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that additional disaster assistance is available to the state of California for the wildfire disaster declared on Aug. 22.

This assistance allows for additional funding at 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, for 30 continuous days. State officials will determine the 30 days.

This additional funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations.

Previously, federal funding was available at a 75% cost-share for debris removal and emergency protective measures.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 10/14/2020 - 18:21

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of North Carolina to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Isaias from July 31 to Aug. 4.

Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms and flooding in Beaufort, Bertie, Brunswick, Carteret, Chowan, Columbus, Craven, Hertford, Hyde, Jones, New Hanover, Onslow, Pamlico, Pender and Pitt counties.

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

Myra M. Shird has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 10/14/2020 - 16:48

Castro-Mission Health Center Receives $1.6M FEMA Earthquake Protection Grant

OAKLAND, Calif. – San Francisco’s Castro-Mission Health Center (the Center) will receive a $1.6 million Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant to protect its patients, staff and facilities in the event of an earthquake.

Outdated building materials left the Center with a brittle, inflexible foundation vulnerable to seismic forces. Apart from the addition of an elevator, it has undergone no structural alterations, modifications or additions since construction in 1964. City assessments conclude that the Center is at risk of partial or total collapse during a major earthquake.

Grant money will help modernize the Center with reinforced concrete walls and new foundations, which will significantly reduce lateral sway, minimizing damage to the structure and its contents. A new fire alarm system will also be installed to prevent the common threat of gas and electrical fires after earthquakes.

The $2.1 million project includes a $1.6 million grant from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), with the remaining $538,000 from non-federal sources.

FEMA’s HMGP helps states, territories, federally recognized tribes, local communities, and certain private, non-profit organizations become more resilient to potential infrastructure damage and reduce future disaster costs. In the past 31 years, FEMA has invested nearly $1.4 billion to reduce disaster risk in California.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix

robert.barker Wed, 10/14/2020 - 15:43

Jefferson County Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance; Other Counties Eligible for More Aid

PENSACOLA, Fla. – Jefferson County is now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for recovery from Hurricane Sally.

In addition, Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, Okaloosa, Walton and Washington counties are now eligible for more categories of Public Assistance, including debris removal and permanent repairs.

On Oct. 13, 2020, an amendment to the major disaster declaration means that these counties join Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in being eligible to receive reimbursement for debris removal, emergency measures and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities such as roads and bridges, water control facilities, buildings and equipment, utilities and parks.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 10/14/2020 - 14:59

It’s Important to Submit SBA Loan Application

PENSACOLA, Fla. – After you apply for disaster assistance from FEMA, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you are referred to SBA, you should submit an SBA disaster loan application.

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA disaster loan but failure to submit the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance, such as disaster-related car repairs, essential household items and other expenses.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors.  In planning your recovery, give yourself the widest possible set of options. Submitting the application makes it possible for homeowners and renters to be considered for additional FEMA grants, and if you qualify for a loan you will have that resource available for disaster repair needs.

Applicants may apply online using SBA’s secure website at https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/ or they may email FOCE-Help@SBA.gov for more information on SBA’s disaster assistance program.

For businesses, SBA is operating two Business Recovery Centers at East Pensacola Heights Clubhouse, 3208 E. Gonzalez St., Pensacola, FL 32503; and Bridgeway Center, Building C, 205 Shell Ave., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548. Business owners can meet with SBA representatives and get help applying for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans. Hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily.

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 disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or working capital. Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property.

The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is Dec. 1, 2020. The deadline to return working capital applications is July 2, 2021.

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/.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 10/14/2020 - 14:55

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Allen Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. –A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Allen Parish Oct. 16.

The center will be staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Coushatta Casino

777 Coushatta Drive

Kinder, LA 70648

Additional centers are reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any center in the state.

To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC and your ZIP code (for example DRC 01234).

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm 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 Wed, 10/14/2020 - 11:41