Federal Assistance Following Hurricane Sally Tops $100 Million, One Month Remains to Apply for Disaster Assistance

MONTGOMERY, Ala.  – About a month after the federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Sally, over $100 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for survivors.

The funds include grants from FEMA, the National Flood Insurance Program and low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help with uninsured or underinsured losses.

“Alabamians, particularly in our coastal communities are still working to get back on their feet following the impacts from Hurricane Sally. I remain grateful to the Trump Administration and the team at FEMA for helping provide this immediate relief for Alabamians,” Governor Ivey said. “I encourage folks in the eligible counties to take advantage of any of this assistance as we work to recover from Hurricane Sally.”

FEMA disaster assistance can help you start on your road to recovery. Alabama homeowners, renters and businesses who had property damage or loss related to Hurricane Sally have one month left to register and apply for federal disaster assistance.

The deadline to register for assistance from FEMA and the SBA is November 19, 2020.

“FEMA is here with our state and federal partners to help Alabama communities and survivors recover from the devastating storm and flooding,” said Allan Jarvis, Federal Coordinating Officer for the Hurricane Sally disaster in Alabama. “Register for assistance if you have uninured disaster losses.”

Survivors should register even if they have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but eligible homeowners and renters may be able to receive FEMA grants or SBA low interest loans for losses not covered by insurance to help pay for basic home repairs, temporary rental assistance and other needs such as replacing personal property.

Survivors in Baldwin, Escambia, and Mobile counties have until Thursday, November 19, to apply for federal disaster help.

Register for assistance in one of three ways:

• Online by logging onto DisasterAssistance.gov
• The FEMA app. Visit: fema.gov/mobile-app or your phone’s app store.
• Call 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Language translators also are available. Toll-free numbers are open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight central time, 7 days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Survivors who have questions about SBA low-interest disaster loans may contact the Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955 (TTY 800-877-8339), email at FOCEHELP@sba.gov  or visit SBA’s website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov

felicia.jordan Mon, 10/19/2020 - 15:40

Hurricane Delta Survivors: Previous FEMA Help Doesn’t Affect Eligibility

BATON ROUGE La. – Even if you registered for federal assistance because you suffered damage from Hurricane Laura, you must re-register for assistance if you incurred more damage from Hurricane Delta. Federal aid does not stop after applying for and/or receiving assistance from a single disaster.

Survivors in Acadia, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, and Vermilion may be eligible for FEMA grants to help with their recovery including uninsured and underinsured damage and losses incurred in the second storm. Help may also include rental assistance, home repair or replacement and other disaster-related needs such as childcare, medical and dental expenses.

If you have a homeowner’s or flood insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately before applying for disaster assistance. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin.

To register for assistance after losses from Hurricane Delta, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA helpline 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).

For the latest information on Hurricane Delta, visit https://www.fema.gov/disasters/hurricane-delta. 

scott.reuter Mon, 10/19/2020 - 13:42

10 Tips to Know: #BeCyberSmart to be Cyber Secure

CHICAGO – October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 5 office wants everyone to Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart and get the resources you need to be safe online.

“Protecting against potential cyberattacks should be a part of everyone’s overall disaster preparedness plan,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5.  “Take the time now to set-up the proper controls in your online life—whether at home, work or school—to keep you, your family and your information safe and secure.”

“Cybersecurity starts with each of us, and is everyone’s responsibility,” said Alex Joves, regional director, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Region 5. Cyber self-defense basics can go a long way to keeping you and your data out of the hands of bad actors.”

The following are things you can do now before a cyberattack occurs:

1. Use strong passwords that are 12 characters or longer. Use upper and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Use a password manager.
2. Use a stronger authentication such as a PIN or password that only you would know. Consider using a separate device that can receive a code or uses a biometric scan (e.g. fingerprint scanner).
3. Watch for suspicious activity that asks you to do something right away, offers something that sounds too good to be true or needs your personal information. Think before you click.
4. Check your account statements and credit reports regularly.
5. Use secure Internet communications.
6. Use sites that use HTTPS if you will access or provide any personal information. Do not use sites with invalid certificates. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) that creates a secure connection.
7. Use antivirus solutions, malware and firewalls to block threats.
8. Regularly back up your files in an encrypted file or encrypted file storage device.
9. Limit the personal information you share online. Change privacy settings and do not use location features.
10. Protect your home network by changing the administrative and WiFi passwords regularly. When configuring your router, choose the WiFi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) setting, which is the strongest encryption option.

To learn more about National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, or to find tip sheets and resources for reducing cybersecurity risks and protecting yourself online visit CISA’s website at www.cisa.gov/national-cybersecurity-awareness-month-resources. You can also find cybersecurity information at www.ready.gov/cybersecurity. 

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

troy.christensen Mon, 10/19/2020 - 09:46

Applying for FEMA disaster assistance

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – If you lost your home or sustained other losses because of wildfires in Lassen or Tulare counties Aug. 14-Sept. 26, 2020, you may be eligible for assistance from FEMA. This applies to survivors of the Sheep Fire and W-5 Cold Springs Fire in Lassen County and Tulare County’s SQF Complex, which includes the Castle Fire and Shotgun Fire.

FEMA gives eligible survivors financial awards to help them pay for such needs as rent, home repair or replacement; medical, dental or funeral costs and other serious disaster-related expenses.

Insurance is generally the best source of funds to recover from a disaster. If you have insurance that covers all or part of your wildfire losses, file your claim immediately before applying for disaster assistance. Get the process started as quickly as possible. The faster you file your insurance claim, the faster you can move ahead with your recovery. If your insurance doesn’t cover all your serious disaster-related expenses, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance to help fill the gap.

Take photographs or video of the damage and keep all receipts related to clearing smoke, home repair or other disaster-related needs.

The only way to determine whether you are eligible for FEMA assistance is to apply. You can do that in three ways: online at www.disasterassistance.gov, by downloading and using the FEMA app on your 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. The helpline has specialists who speak many different languages. 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. Deadline to register is Nov. 23.

You may also call the helpline for answers to your questions about FEMA assistance and to discuss letters that FEMA may send you.

To apply for assistance, be prepared with the following information:

• Social Security Number
• Insurance policy information
• Address of the damaged primary dwelling
• A description of disaster-caused damage and losses
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account number of your checking or savings account (for direct transfer to your bank account)

After registering, create your own personal account at the disasterassistance.gov website or with the FEMA app on your smartphone or tablet. You can use your account to check the status of your application, view messages from FEMA, update your personal information, and upload important documents.

If you are unable to upload your documents, mail them to FEMA at P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-8055 or fax them to 800-827-8112.

Inspections

Before FEMA can determine eligibility for home replacement or repair, the applicant’s property must be inspected. During COVID-19, FEMA inspections are being conducted by phone. These remote inspections are comparable to traditional, in-person inspections and can expedite recovery assistance for eligible applicants. For security purposes, the inspector will verify your identity by asking a series of qualifying questions and then provide you with the first four digits of your application to complete the verification.

If you reported that you cannot safely live in your home, a FEMA inspector will contact you by phone and ask about the type and extent of damage sustained. Survivors with minimal damage who can live in their homes will not automatically be scheduled for a home inspection when applying to FEMA, but they may request an inspection.

Home inspections do not impact the types of assistance that may be available for other disaster-related expenses such as for childcare, transportation, medical, dental, funeral, moving and storage assistance and other serious wildfire-related expenses.

U.S. Small Business Administration

Following a disaster SBA makes disaster loans available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations. Many survivors use SBA disaster loans to help fund their recovery. SBA has established a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center to help homeowners and renters. Customer service representatives are available to assist business owners and individuals, to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete their electronic loan application.

Virtual Business Recovery Center and Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center

For customer service: Mondays – Sundays 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PDT FOCWAssistance@sba.gov (800) 659-2955

For the latest information on wildfire recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4558 and follow the FEMA Region 9 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion9.

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bree-constance… Mon, 10/19/2020 - 06:16

FEMA AUTHORIZES FUNDS TO FIGHT COLORADO’S CALWOOD FIRE

DENVER – This afternoon, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Calwood Fire burning in Boulder County near the Town of Jamestown.

FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Calwood Fire was threatening 500 homes. Mandatory evacuations are in place for approximately 1,000 people. The fire also is threatening 750 other buildings, US Hwy 36, public utility distribution, powerlines, and Lefthand Canyon watershed in the area. The fire started on October 17, 2020, and has burned in excess of 3,000 acres of federal and private land.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

Brian.Hvinden Sun, 10/18/2020 - 00:36

FEMA AUTHORIZES FUNDS TO FIGHT COLORADO’S EAST TROUBLESOME FIRE

DENVER – This afternoon, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the East Troublesome Fire burning in Grand County, Colorado near the City of Granby, and the Towns of Hot Sulphur Springs and Parshall.

FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the East Troublesome Fire is threatening 135 homes. Mandatory evacuations are in place for approximately 100 people. Buildings, road, and bridge infrastructure also are being threatened, as well as the Colorado river watershed in the area. The fire started on October 12, 2020, and has burned in excess of 7,871 acres of federal and private land.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

Brian.Hvinden Sun, 10/18/2020 - 00:36

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