Partnerships to Strengthen Resilience on St. Thomas and St. John Began Soon After Irma

St. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands -- Hurricane Irma's winds of more than 150 mph, along with bands of wind-driven rain, severely damaged the power grids on St. Thomas and St. John. The storm blew away roofs from hundreds of homes and damaged other critical services, including medical facilities and schools.

FEMA pre-positioned personnel to the U.S. Virgin Islands to support the territory’s response operations. There were 43 federal personnel deployed and 15 responders from the Defense Coordinating Element deployed to the territory September 2, 2017 – four days before Irma made landfall on St. Thomas and St. John on September 6, 2017.

On September 3, 2017, the Region 2 Incident Management Assistance Team deployed to St. Croix and an Initial Operating Facility was established to respond to Irma in partnership with the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA).

FEMA, the Department of Defense (DoD), other federal partners and VITEMA leveraged numerous resources to support the territory’s response to Irma. In the days after the storm swept through St. John and St. Thomas:

• For the first time, FEMA disseminated more than 26,000 mass texts and deployed the DoD Civil Authorities Information Support Element to broadcast dozens of messages over loudspeakers.
• FEMA supplied more than 582,000 meals and 380,000 liters of water to survivors. 
• The USS Kearsarge and its supporting ships, the USS Oak Hill and USS Wasp, deployed to the Caribbean; the Wasp, along with helicopter support, surveyed damage and performed patient transfers from St. John and St. Thomas to a functional medical facility on St. Croix.
  • Crews spent a total of 98 hours in the air evacuating 126 survivors, transferring 160 federal employees, and transporting 4,850 pounds of equipment and supplies.
  • FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program registration period began September 7, 2017; FEMA approved $31.4 million to survivors on St. Thomas and $9.4 million to survivors on St. John.

FEMA also provided other assistance to eligible survivors such as direct and financial assistance. Direct assistance included permanent housing construction – repairs, and financial assistance included rental assistance and home repair. FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialists provided free advice on how to protect their homes and make them more resilient to future disasters through multiple outreach events.

A whole community response

The response to Irma was a whole community effort. Community groups, philanthropic organizations and Virgin Islanders stepped up to muck and gut homes of debris and mold, repair homes, feed survivors and inform people on how they could receive help.

Five years after Irma made landfall on St. John, organizations such as Love City Strong, a St. John nonprofit organization dedicated to disaster preparedness and response, continue to support initiatives, and create a culture of resilience.

“Since 2017, Love City Strong has been committed to increasing disaster preparedness and response capacity on St. John. That mission has evolved over the years to include recovery and mitigation projects, all of which continue to place an emphasis on community resilience,” said Love City Strong Executive Director Meaghan Enright.

Love City Strong continues to work on home repairs, through privately–and federally-funded programs and offers project management support for federally-funded projects. Its disaster preparedness work includes all hazards preparedness outreach in St. John and partnering with FEMA and VITEMA to support pre-staging and logistical efforts. Love City Strong helps expand capacity in the event of a disaster and provides annual training to its immediate staff and surge capacity contractors to ensure the community is keeping their response skills sharp.  

Preparing for the future

In January, federal and territorial partners began to coordinate this year’s Readiness Initiative, which culminated in weeklong hurricane response exercises in May, one month before the start of hurricane season. During the Readiness Initiative’s Capstone, FEMA and other federal partners participated in a training exercise involving hurricane response simulations at the request of the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands and VITEMA.

Response focus areas involved food and water distribution, patient movement, route clearance, debris removal, temporary power, and power restoration and more. The Capstone incorporated lessons learned from hurricanes Irma and Maria response, helped to identify gaps with territorial or local resources and identified federal resources required to respond to severe storms in the territory.

Further steps toward strengthening the territory include restoration of FEMA's bunker on St. Thomas, an initial operating facility for response, the expansion of storage capabilities of shelf-stable meals and boxed water on St. Thomas and St. John to support initial response and repairing the storm-damaged tsunami warning system on St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island.   

FEMA remains committed to helping Virgin Islanders recover not only from hurricanes Irma and Maria but will continue to support the territory in developing resilience against future disasters.   

delia.husband Wed, 09/07/2022 - 15:45

$54 Million Approved for St. Louis Area Residents: FEMA Application Deadline One Month Away, on October 7

More than $54 million in federal funding has been approved for people affected by the July 25—28 flooding and severe storms in the St. Louis area in Missouri.

• FEMA has approved $28.7 million in Individual Assistance grants for renters and homeowners for damage and serious needs not covered by insurance.

• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid $14.4 million in claims for flood insurance policyholders.

• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $11.2 million in disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses.

The deadline to apply with FEMA is October 7.

People affected by the disaster in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County have three ways to apply and stay in touch with FEMA:

• Call: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Go Online: DisasterAssistance.gov
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center

If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

Six Disaster Recovery Centers are Open for One-on-One Help

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are helping people complete or check the status of their applications in these locations:

ST. LOUIS CITY

Ranken Technical College

Mary Ann Lee Technology Center

1313 N. Newstead Ave.

St. Louis, MO 63113

(On the corner of Newstead and Page)

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Urban League Empowerment Center

9420 W. Florissant Ave.

Ferguson, MO 63136 University City Recreation Division

Centennial Commons

7210 Olive Blvd.

University City, MO 63130

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042

ST. CHARLES COUNTY

O’Fallon Municipal Centre

100 N. Main St.

O’Fallon, MO 63366

(Southeast Entrance)

Developmental Disabilities Resource Board – DDRB Building

1025 Country Club Road

St. Charles, MO 63303

(Near I-70 at the Zumbehl Road Exit)

• Hours for All Locations: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday to Saturday until further notice.

• Appointments are NOT required. Walk-ins are welcome.

• If you need help applying, FEMA can assist you at a Disaster Recovery Center.

About FEMA Individual Assistance

For needs not covered by insurance or other sources, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you’ve had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food.
• FEMA works with everyone – renters and homeowners – on a case-by-case basis.
• By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.

Homeowners and Renters: If you have been referred to SBA for a disaster loan, please submit the application. Submitting the SBA application makes it possible for you to be considered for additional grants. If you qualify for a loan, you will have that resource available if you choose to accept it.

Other Help Available by Calling 2-1-1

United Way 211 connects individuals with unmet needs to assistance programs through volunteer and faith-based organizations. Anyone impacted who needs additional help should call 2-1-1 for assistance or visit http://211helps.org.

For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA_ and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

tiana.suber Tue, 09/06/2022 - 22:02

FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided more than $2.7 billion to over 431,000 individuals and families to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020. This assistance helped pay for the funerals of more than 441,000 people who died from COVID-19.

Eligibility determinations are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation. The determinations are not driven by state/locations.

“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.

Please find state-specific information below:

State / Territory

Applications

Amount Approved

Number of Awards

Alabama

12,052

$66,211,234.95

9,758

Alaska

499

$1,773,971.49

362

American Samoa

31

$67,550.52

13

Arizona

9,518

$37,153,805.53

7,503

Arkansas

5,650

$28,654,837.84

4,600

California

44,776

$225,061,343.46

35,208

Colorado

5,173

$22,389,564.59

4,122

Connecticut

5,179

$29,487,423.35

4,307

Delaware

1,659

$8,528,921.49

1,340

District of Columbia

794

$3,981,535.28

598

Florida

35,288

$159,477,250.42

28,534

Georgia

21,512

$118,901,518.73

17,361

Guam

33

$147,673.19

20

Hawaii

781

$3,410,151.22

589

Idaho

1,956

$8,724,984.44

1,591

Illinois

21,046

$118,908,779.87

17,270

Indiana

11,053

$62,821,874.98

9,067

Iowa

4,532

$26,898,886.21

3,779

Kansas

4,867

$26,162,797.99

4,035

Kentucky

10,017

$58,962,156.11

8,189

Louisiana

9,004

$48,696,934.06

7,069

Maine

1,193

$5,091,940.41

950

Marshall Islands

Less than 10

$7,148.71

Less than 10

Maryland

9,186

$50,148,596.04

7,469

Massachusetts

9,874

$55,201,929.61

8,104

Michigan

18,961

$96,901,767.65

15,750

Minnesota

5,843

$32,944,238.74

4,852

Mississippi

8,061

$43,150,233.13

6,383

Missouri

10,904

$56,316,394.70

9,032

Montana

1,375

$5,688,695.50

1,128

Nebraska

2,420

$13,879,609.87

2,012

Nevada

4,724

$19,385,275.51

3,666

New Hampshire

1,430

$6,950,797.01

1,163

New Jersey

17,258

$97,522,240.53

14,134

New Mexico

3,467

$14,164,171.41

2,685

New York

37,526

$207,311,256.90

30,241

North Carolina

17,915

$95,523,539.39

14,659

North Dakota

1,226

$7,621,185.44

1,027

Northern Mariana Islands

33

$82,251.99

16

Ohio

23,122

$125,263,263.98

19,338

Oklahoma

8,442

$43,382,867.70

6,924

Oregon

2,678

$9,212,937.30

2,075

Pennsylvania

25,317

$139,764,324.65

21,174

Puerto Rico

2,618

$7,640,258.87

1,941

Rhode Island

1,737

$9,790,591.89

1,431

South Carolina

11,956

$66,052,333.72

9,805

South Dakota

1,199

$7,067,537.11

987

Tennessee

15,213

$83,986,021.78

12,499

Texas

48,240

$253,503,492.05

39,092

U.S. Virgin Islands

80

$403,749.32

64

Utah

2,485

$13,736,613.87

2,025

Vermont

320

$1,413,259.24

257

Virginia

12,523

$67,748,450.67

10,255

Washington

4,723

$19,279,701.01

3,641

West Virginia

4,222

$23,182,085.07

3,415

Wisconsin

8,814

$48,820,177.85

7,380

Wyoming

838

$3,747,371.19

682

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. EDT today, Sept. 6, 2022.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 09/06/2022 - 16:33

Casey and Harlan Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in Casey and Harlan counties are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent work to repair public facilities that were damaged by the Eastern Kentucky flooding that began on July 26.

These counties join Breathitt, Clay, Cumberland, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Whitley and Wolfe counties which were all previously approved for FEMA Public Assistance.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.

sandra.habib Tue, 09/06/2022 - 16:14

Lee County Approved for FEMA Individual Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Lee County has been approved for additional FEMA assistance after flooding in Eastern Kentucky.

Residents of Lee County affected by the historic flooding may now apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, which may include temporary housing assistance, basic home repairs and certain other uninsured disaster-related needs.

Lee County joins Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties, which were previously approved for FEMA Individual Assistance.

Survivors in the designated counties can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. When you apply, you will need to provide:

• 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.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

Lee County had previously been designated for FEMA’s Public Assistance program under the major disaster declaration.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

For an accessible video on how individuals can apply for assistance go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw. For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.

sandra.habib Tue, 09/06/2022 - 16:08

FEMA to Host Public Meeting on Preliminary Observations of the Diablo Canyon Power Plant Exercise

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Technological Hazards Branch, Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program, announced today that a public meeting will be held on September 16, 2022, in San Luis Obispo, California. 

The public meeting will present preliminary FEMA observations regarding the performance of the state of California, County of San Luis Obispo during a Plume Phase Exercise (PPX) held with Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) Diablo Canyon Power Plant (DCPP) in the County of San Luis Obispo earlier this week.

The purpose of the PPX is for federal teams to evaluate, assess and validate state, county and local emergency response ability to protect the health and safety of the public near DCPP in the event of an incident at the power plant were to occur. Representatives from FEMA will chair the meeting, and present their preliminary observations.

• What: A public meeting in San Luis Obispo, California, where FEMA representatives will present preliminary performance observations following a full-scale PPX in the County of San Luis Obispo, California.
• Who: FEMA Region 9, Technological Hazards Branch
• When: Friday, September 16, 2022 at 11:00 a.m.
• Where: PG&E Educational Center, 6588 Ontario Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Seating is limited)

Members of the media: Please email FEMA-R9NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov for additional details and to coordinate attendance and interview requests in advance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Mon, 09/05/2022 - 13:20

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Mill Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) regional administrator authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combatting the Mill Fire burning in Siskiyou County.

On Sept. 2, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 2,500 homes in and around Weed, CA. The fire also threatened the local water system, communications and electrical transmission lines; U.S. Route 97; Union Pacific Railroad; and Lake Shastina watershed.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become a greater incident.

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Sat, 09/03/2022 - 13:05

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community to supplement tribal recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms from July 17-18, 2022.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. 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 severe storms.

Federal funding is also available to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and certain non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms.

Lastly, federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

Andrew F. Grant is the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. 

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/02/2022 - 23:39

Five FEMA Recovery Centers Will Be Open for Labor Day

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Five Disaster Recovery Centers will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. On Monday, Sept. 5 in observance of Labor Day.

The five centers open on Labor Day are:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library – 1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex - 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn KY 41831
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Perry County: Hazard Community College –1 Community College Dr, Hazard KY 41701
• Pike County: Dorton Community Center –112 Dorton Hill Rd., Jenkins KY 41722

The Disaster Recovery Center in Clay County will close at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2, and will reopen at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 6.

Normal hours of operation will resume for all Disaster Recovery Centers on Tuesday, Sept. 6.

Regular center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go to any center to get help applying for FEMA assistance.

FEMA representatives will be at the centers to help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a disaster recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Fri, 09/02/2022 - 13:26

Kentucky Counties Have More Time to Request Public Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Local governments, houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Wolfe counties damaged by the July 26 Eastern Kentucky floods have more time to submit requests for FEMA Public Assistance.

FEMA extended the deadline for these counties at the request of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations that meet certain criteria may be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

Applicants whose facilities were damaged by July’s floods can apply for assistance through the Commonwealth. For more information on submitting a request for Public Assistance, applicants should contact KY Division of Emergency Management, or email pa.help@KY-em.org.

County deadlines to submit a Request for Public Assistance are as follows:

• Sept. 11, 2022 – Cumberland and Whitley counties.
• Sept. 18, 2022 – Lee, Lincoln and Powell counties.
• Oct. 4, 2022 – Clay, Martin and Perry counties.
• Oct. 5, 2022 – Floyd, Knott, Owsley and Pike
• Oct. 11, 2022 – Breathitt, Johnson, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin and Wolfe.

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

sandra.habib Fri, 09/02/2022 - 13:22

New Campaign by FEMA and the Ad Council Encourages Black Community to “Create a Lasting Legacy” by Preparing for Disasters FEMA will also visit Howard University for series of events to kick off National Preparedness Month and announce the new campaign

WASHINGTON -- As part of FEMA’s ongoing approach to advance accessibility and cultural competency in boosting the nation’s preparedness, FEMA and the Ad Council created new PSAs developed specifically to reach Black and African American communities, which will air nationwide.

Today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks will also visit Howard University, a founding member of the HBCU Emergency Management Workforce Consortium, for a series of events kicking off National Preparedness Month and announcing the new Ready Campaign.

Black communities are on the frontlines of climate change and related extreme weather events. A report from the Environmental Protection Agency shows that socially vulnerable populations, including Black and African American communities, may be more exposed to the highest impacts of climate change. Specifically, with global warming, Black and African American individuals have a 10% higher risk of living in areas with the highest projected inland flooding damages compared to reference populations.

“Black and African American communities often suffer disproportionate impacts from disasters. This is something that we must work to change and that starts with how we prepare,” said Administrator Criswell. “Our 2022 Ready Campaign speaks directly to the communities who need our help the most and who deserve equitable access to preparedness resources that protect people and property. By continuing to advance accessibility and cultural competency in our preparedness messaging, we can make sure that everyone is ready when disaster strikes.”

The new Ready Campaign PSAs, entitled “A Lasting Legacy,” are meant to help mitigate these discrepancies by encouraging Black communities to protect the lives they have built and the legacies they will leave behind through preparation and disaster readiness. These new PSAs build upon the work the FEMA is doing to advance equity and ensure everyone gets the help they need before, during and after disaster.   

“Preparing for disaster is not just about protecting people and property, it’s about safeguarding the lives we’ve built and the legacy we will leave to our children and the generations to come,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks. “With this campaign, FEMA reaffirms our commitment to equity and says loud and clear that every community deserves to be protected from hazards.”

FEMA’s Ready Campaign PSAs were developed pro bono by Creative Theory Agency in coordination with the Ad Council and will be available in TV, radio, print, out of home and digital formats. Throughout the month, the Ready campaign will emphasize unique aspects of preparedness, such as making a plan, building a kit and teaching communities how to engage their families on emergency preparedness.

“We want to make sure that all Americans feel represented by FEMA and this latest work,” said Ad Council Chief Campaign Development Officer Michelle Hillman. “This creative leans into the importance of family and reminds us that, with preparation, we can make sure that our legacy endures whatever disasters life sends our way.”

“This is the work that gets us excited! We're honored to partner with FEMA and the Ad Council and make history with their first 'readiness campaign' targeting the Black community,” said Creative Theory Agency Co-Founder & CEO, Tamon George. “At our core we seek to tell real stories through marketing and advertising and this campaign allows us the unique opportunity to create work that impacts our community, friends and family in tangible ways.”

This round of creative work for the Ready campaign supports and extends FEMA’s annual National Preparedness Month activities to engage communities and promote the steps to prepare for disasters. Last year’s theme was “Prepare to Protect” and was designed to resonate with Latino communities. As a direct result of that campaign, the Listo.gov—the Spanish version of Ready.gov—had a 500% increase in visits to the “Make a Plan” page and a 400% increase in visits to the “Build a Kit” page.

This is the latest round of work in 19 years of educating the public about disaster and emergency preparedness. For more information and to get started on your emergency plan, visit ready.gov/plan or listo.gov/plan. 

amy.ashbridge Thu, 09/01/2022 - 16:03

Free Rebuilding and Repair Tips Offered by FEMA at Local Hardware Stores

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As Kentuckians begin to rebuild, survivors of the July 26 flooding can get tips and advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be on hand in Breathitt and Knott counties this week and next to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of disaster. These mitigation specialists will be available Sept. 1 through Sept. 8 at the following locations:

Breathitt County - Jackson True Value Hardware– 726 Highway 15 N, Jackson, KY, 41339

• Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday; closed Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Labor Day.

Knott County - ProMart Home Center - 1622 Highway 160 S, Hindman, KY, 41822

• Hours: 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday and Labor Day.

In addition, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff will be on hand to offer in-person FEMA registration and application reviews to Kentucky survivors with questions about FEMA assistance.

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to register for disaster assistance or look up the status of their disaster assistance application. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.

sandra.habib Thu, 09/01/2022 - 11:25

FEMA Celebrates Disaster Resilience Month, Highlighting Billions of Dollars Committed Mitigation Funding

WASHINGTON -- During Disaster Resilience Month in August, FEMA announced several bold actions to make the nation safer from extreme weather events and other hazards.

These include more than $4 billion in grant announcements and future funding opportunities, boosted by investments from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As part of the rollout process, FEMA is expanding assistance to communities to increase grant access and revising materials to be simpler so governments navigate programs.

The announcements represent the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to increase climate resilience in order to protect people and infrastructure from natural hazards and the effects of climate change like more energized hurricanes with deadlier storm surges, extreme heat and more frequent and severe droughts, wildfires and floods.

“Hurricanes are more energized, wildfire season is now a year-long threat and devastating floods are becoming too common,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “These devastating effects of climate change and associated extreme weather are a call to action. FEMA, and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are answering that call, proactively expanding resilience investments to communities across the nation, with a special emphasis on those who need it the most.”

Aligning with FEMA’s strategic plan, the agency recognizes that when individuals and communities are climate literate, they are better positioned to take necessary steps to apply that knowledge to build resilient communities. These grants are a tool to help the nation shift towards smart investments in system-based, community-wide projects to protect those at most severe and persistent risk.

“As natural hazards worsen, it’s imperative to be proactive and find solutions which make communities safer,” said Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks. “The announcements we have made this month are a testament to FEMA’s commitment to supporting community resilience in a way which is both effective and equitable.”

While Disaster Resilience Month focuses on community and infrastructure actions, FEMA will now shift to promoting individual initiatives in National Preparedness Month, held annually in September.  

Here’s a summary of announcements for Disaster Resilience Month:

• On Aug. 1 in Miami, Vice President Kamala Harris announced selections for $1.16 billion in climate resilience funding through two competitive grant programs -- Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities  and Flood Mitigation Assistance -- to help communities across the nation enhance climate and disaster resiliency.
  • For BRIC, FEMA selected projects across all 10 FEMA regions with 53 states and territories, the District of Columbia and 271 different communities, including 33 tribes.
  • The Flood Mitigation Assistance grant programs’ 19 states and 72 different communities will also receive funding.
• On Aug. 5, the Shoalwater Bay Tribe in Washington dedicated a FEMA-funded evacuation tower to keep its community safe from tsunamis.
• On Aug. 9, FEMA's Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak toured areas of Wisconsin and the city of Madison. Sivak met with Wisconsin Emergency Management Hazard Mitigation Program Supervisor and Engineer for the city of Madison to highlight benefits of mitigation projects.
• On Aug. 12 in Gastonia, North Carolina, Administrator Criswell announced more than $3 billion in funding for the BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs for the next annual funding cycle. BRIC more than doubles to nearly $2.3 billion while the Flood Mitigation Assistance program is seeing a five-fold increase to $800 million.
  • The administrator joined the FEMA's Region 4 Administrator Gracia Szczech and Gov. Roy Cooper to mark the city of Gastonia’s critical infrastructure restoration and stream protection project following its selection by FEMA for the FY 21 BRIC funding cycle. The project will use federal grant funding will to restore a stream, stabilize a creek bank and realign critical water and power infrastructure.
  • These funding levels are bolstered by nearly $900 million through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: $200 million for BRIC and $700 million for Flood Mitigation Assistance. Both programs were vastly oversubscribed, representing the intense demand for climate resilience funding.
• On Aug. 12, FEMA announced expanding investment in the BRIC’s non-financial Direct Technical Assistance to at least 40 communities in the next grant cycle to help build capacity and capability at the local level. The assistance reduces barriers a community may face that could prevent them from accessing the BRIC program. It includes helping communities submit high-quality applications for innovative projects that can increase resiliency.  This is an increase from eight communities for FY 20 and 20 in FY 21.
• On Aug. 12, FEMA’s Region 10 Administrator Willie Nunn joined State of Washington and local officials to announce projects selected for the FY 21 funding cycle and the future FY 22 cycle. The event took place near the location of the planned North Shore Levee project, which selected during the FY 21 cycle. It will provide critical flood protection for residents and businesses across Aberdeen and Hoquiam.
• On Aug. 23, FEMA’s Region 1 Administrator Paul Ford joined local and state officials to visit the wastewater treatment plant in Leominster, Massachusetts. The project will protect the plant’s infrastructure from potential failure following erosion along the Nashua River.
• On Aug. 24, FEMA published a notice in the Federal Register seeking public comment on updates to its Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program and Policy Guide. The guide provides helpful information for state, local, tribal and territorial governments seeking to successfully navigate the application and grant processes. It has been updated be more equitable, reduce complexity and address climate resilience.
• On Aug. 29, FEMA announced the launching of a notice of intent for a future funding opportunity to reduce vulnerability to natural hazards, foster greater community resilience and reduce disaster suffering. The Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation Revolving Loan Fund program will provide no less than $50 million in capitalization grants to states to fund low-interest loans to local governments. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, also commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Congress appropriated $500 million for this opportunity through 2026.
  • One of the primary sponsors of this legislation, Senator Gary Peters, did an event in Traverse City, Michigan with the FEMA Region 5 administrator marking this opportunity. 
• On Aug. 29 FEMA launched a new webpage Climate Resilience in Action to have a central focal point for different types of media stories that address the effects of climate change. There are a series best practice stories and video stories highlighting how communities are protecting their legacies, building back stronger and becoming climate resilient.
• On Aug. 29, the FEMA's Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani joined local officials in Provo, Utah to announce a water supply project received the maximum funding of $50 million for an aquifer storage recharge system, selection during the FY 21 cycle. The project will help maintain an adequate level of clean drinking water for the community.
• On Aug. 30, the City of Tulsa and State of Oklahoma officials joined FEMA’s  FEMA’s Acting Deputy Administrator of Resilience, Victoria Salinas and the Region 6 Deputy Administrator representatives for an event marking the city’s resilience project being selected during the FY 21 BRIC project cycle. The flood reduction project will make infrastructure enhancements by increasing the capacity of the storm sewer system and constructing two detention ponds and culverts.
• On Aug. 31, FEMA will make new support materials available to governments to help them apply for FEMA resilience grants. The materials aid state, local, tribal and territorial governments in submitting more successful Hazard Mitigation Grant Program applications.
  • Materials also help them reduce time it takes to receive awards. The application period for the $3.46 billion in HMGP funding available for all 59 COVID-19 major disaster declarations has been extended to provide more time for states, tribes and territories across the nation to work with communities in developing quality sub-applications that will make them more climate resilient.

For more information about FEMA’s hazard mitigation assistance programs, visit fema.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/31/2022 - 23:12

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in O’Fallon, Missouri

A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will open in O’Fallon, Missouri (St. Charles County) on Thursday, September 1 to provide one-on-one assistance to people directly affected by the July 25—28 flooding and severe storms.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.

The disaster recovery center location is:

O’Fallon Municipal Centre

100 N. Main St.

O’Fallon, MO 63366

(Southeast Entrance)

Hours: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

• After this Sunday, September 4, all six FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed on Sundays.
• The Disaster Recovery Centers will still be open six days a week: Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice.
• Labor Day hours: All Disaster Recovery Centers will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Labor Day, Monday, September 5.

Other recovery centers are open in these locations:

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Urban League Empowerment Center                

9420 W Florissant Ave.

Ferguson, MO 63136

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

University City Recreation Center

Centennial Commons

7210 Olive Blvd

University City, MO 63130

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042                                   

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. LOUIS CITY

Ranken Technical College

Mary Ann Lee Technology Center

1313 N. Newstead Ave.

St. Louis, MO 63113

(On the corner of Newstead and Page)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. CHARLES COUNTY

Developmental Disabilities Resource Board – DDRB Building

1025 Country Club Road

St. Charles, MO 63303

(I-70 near Zumbehl Road Exit)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome.

Before visiting a center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362). Hours on Labor Day are: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

People directly affected by flooding in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County may visit any recovery center.

For needs directly related to the July 25—28 flooding, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food

By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.            For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

tiana.suber Wed, 08/31/2022 - 20:27

FEMA Administrator Reaffirms Collaboration with Local Government in Reconstruction Efforts

As a prelude to the commemoration of the five-year mark of Hurricane María, Deanne Criswell visited Puerto Rico to highlight the mitigation opportunities available through agency funds

San Juan, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Administrator, Deanne Criswell, visited Puerto Rico this week to hold meetings with several officials and the agency's local team, as part of the events leading up to the commemoration of the five-year mark of Hurricane María. The Administrator's agenda focused on the achievement of over 10,000 obligated projects and the mitigation opportunities available in the reconstruction progress.

This trip marks Criswell’s second visit to Puerto Rico since taking office as FEMA Administrator in 2021.

During her meeting with Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi and Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero, the officials discussed projects under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and the expediting of funds to rebuild critical infrastructure through FEMA's Accelerated Awards Strategy (FAASt), a pilot initiative that began in Puerto Rico.

The Administrator also reaffirmed her and the agency's commitment to the projects that are pending an allocation of funds.

As of today, the country has over $126 million in HMGP funds, a tool that also supports the work of the municipalities during an emergency.

"Puerto Rico has a unique opportunity to not only rebuild, but to build back better. The historic assistance provided by FEMA presents Puerto Ricans with the opportunity to meet their goal of a strong infrastructure prepared to mitigate future damage. As an agency, we remain committed to advancing equity and combating climate change, while increasing preparedness and resilience in the face of future natural and man-made disasters," Criswell said.

Meanwhile, Governor Pierluisi said, "In our meeting, I took the opportunity to thank her for the agency's unequivocal support and efforts to help Puerto Rico. The relationship we have developed with FEMA since the beginning of my administration last year has resulted in a steady progress toward rebuilding Puerto Rico and benefiting our people. We have constant communication and full collaboration, and we're working together as a team toward a more agile reconstruction.”

According to Federal Coordinator Baquero, the Administrator's visit underscores the importance of Puerto Rico's recovery to the agency. "The entire world is facing a variety of extreme consequences as a result of climate change, and we know what that means for the agency. For that and much more, we're extremely grateful for Administrator Criswell's visit, as her participation in key meetings with recovery leaders was invaluable as we continue the work ahead."

Another of Criswell's priority meetings took place at the Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3) with Executive Director Manuel Laboy. The officials discussed their shared vision for advancing projects aimed at mitigating damage from future natural disasters. They also discussed the priority of finalizing the update of mitigation plans for municipalities, a goal that will be completed soon.

Furthermore, Administrator Criswell also met with FEMA's Joint Recovery Office (JRO) staff to discuss labor equity initiatives in Puerto Rico. At the meeting, the federal official highlighted the efforts of the internal teams that drafted and implemented the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation document, created to plan, strategize and make evidence-based decisions at the programmatic and operational levels. Criswell also recognized the staff responsible for designing nature-based project strategies to mitigate future damages.

Puerto Rico has already been allocated over $28 billion in Public Assistance funds for recovery and reconstruction projects. These funds also include over $9.5 billion under FAASt for the reconstruction of Puerto Rico's electrical grid, aqueduct and sewer system, public schools, and public housing.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 08/31/2022 - 20:14

ICYMI: FEMA Administrator Visits USVI to Receive Irma/Maria Recovery Update, Tours WAPA Power Generation Plant and Juan F. Luis Hospital North

Washington -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell reviewed ongoing response and recovery activities in the United States Virgin Islands with visits to Government House, the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority’s Estate Richmond Power Generation Plant and Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital North on the island of St. Croix.

This trip marks Criswell’s second visit to the USVI as FEMA Administrator.

“Visits like this give me the opportunity to engage with community partners to better understand the ongoing recovery mission,” said Criswell. “Even as new threats emerge, like sargassum and the effects of climate change, FEMA continues to work closely with Governor Bryan and all of the territory’s agencies to move recovery forward here in the Virgin Islands.”

"We remain grateful for the support of FEMA under the leadership of Administrator Criswell in our effort to not only rebuild a resilient public infrastructure post hurricanes Irma and Maria but also for their support as we transform our territory for generations to come," said Gov. Bryan.

During her visit, Criswell reviewed the state of the recovery with USVI Recovery Director Kristen Hodge and her staff and discussed the ongoing sargassum response with Federal Coordinating Office Patrick Cornbill and Caribbean Area Office Coordinator Mark Walters. She also met at Government House with Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s Chief of Staff Karl Knight, Office of Disaster Recovery Director Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA)  Director Daryl Jaschen and WAPA CEO Andrew Smith.

Following her meeting at Government House, Criswell received a tour of the water desalination plant co-located at the Estate Richmond Power Generation Plant from WAPA leadership to gain new insight into both the recovery from Hurricane Maria and the response to a recent sargassum inundation impacting water production.

Criswell also visited Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital North for an update on the status construction of the temporary hospital slated to open later this year. FEMA has obligated $111 million for the temporary hospital. FEMA has also awarded $10.5 million for architectural and engineering work for the permanent hospital, currently estimated to cost $800 million for its replacement. 

 

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell receives updates on Irma/Maria Recovery from Recovery Director Kristen Hodge and the sargassum inundation response from Federal Coordinating Officer Patrick Cornbill. (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell greets FEMA employees who work for the Irma/Maria Recovery (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell discusses the territory’s hurricane preparedness and ongoing response efforts with VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen in a meeting at Government House on St. Croix. (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell receives a tour of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Estate Richmond Power Plant and Water Desalination Plant to discuss ongoing projects and internal operations to improve the territory’s power and water infrastructure and reliability. (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell receives a tour of the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital’s new temporary facility under construction on St. Croix. The new temporary hospital will provide a new, up-to-date medical facility to ensure continuing hospital care for Virgin Islanders when the current hospital is replaced as part of the Irma/Maria recovery.  (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/31/2022 - 17:53

Protect the Life You’ve Built, Get Started as National Preparedness Month Kicks Off Tomorrow

CHICAGO – September is National Preparedness Month, and FEMA Region 5 in Chicago encourages everyone to take the steps to prepare for disasters and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

 “Prioritizing personal readiness and the things you value should be part of any plan to take care of your loved ones now and in the years ahead,” said Tom Sivak, regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Protecting your legacy doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. Start with simple steps and include each member of your household, so everyone has a part in safeguarding the future.”  

Lower- or No-Cost Disaster Preparedness Tips 

• Learn your risks and make a plan. Ready.gov offers free resources to learn more about the disasters you may face and what to consider when planning for them.
• Access local resources. Contact your local fire department to find out if they may have programs that provide fire or carbon monoxide detectors. Check online for free or discounted CPR courses offered near you.
• Sign up for free emergency alerts in your area to receive life-saving information from your state and local municipality.
• Verify your home is fully insured for the disaster risks in your area. Talk to your insurance agent to ensure there are no gaps in your coverage, but also remember you should shop around to get the best rate. Ask about discounts that may be available and consider increasing the deductibles to reduce your premiums.
• Make sure everyone in the house knows how to turn off the electricity, gas and water in case of emergency.
• Store important documents and information in a safe place. Items like passports, birth certificates, maps and electronics should be put in a flood-safe place like a high shelf or upper floor in resealable, water-tight plastic bags to help waterproof them. Store important documents like insurance policies digitally. Make sure you put important phone numbers somewhere besides just your cell phone.
• Build your emergency supply kit over time. Start with items you may already have in your home, like a flashlight, extra batteries, copies of important documents, water and non-perishable food. When you go to the grocery store, pick up an extra item each time that you use regularly, especially if it’s on sale! Community food banks are a potential resource for food-insecure families to stock their emergency supply kits. Also consider battery-free supplies, like wind-up flashlights and weather radios, and it’s a good idea to have an external phone charger at the ready in case of a power outage.   

For detailed information about how to be ready for the emergencies you may be at risk for visit Ready.gov or our Spanish site at Listo.gov. Learn more about National Preparedness Month by visiting Ready.gov/September.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 08/31/2022 - 17:50

The Life You’ve Built Is Worth Protecting

ATLANTA – Create a lasting legacy for yourself and your family. Prepare now for future disasters.

September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder of the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. FEMA is working to ensure that all communities and populations have access to information about how to prepare.

“It is vital for everyone to prepare for disasters and other unexpected events,” said Gracia B. Szczech, Regional Administrator for FEMA’s Region 4. “Everyone should take steps to prepare for emergencies at home, school, work and places of worship.”

Make a plan today. Having a plan before disaster strikes can help you save precious time and money. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find. Ask yourself: How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings? What is my shelter plan? What is my evacuation route? What is my family/household communication plan? Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?

Help your children be prepared. On Ready.gov or Listo.gov you will find tools to help kids become a Disaster Master. You will meet Pedro the Penguin, who will teach kids all about staying safe.

Secure your financial legacy: If a disaster strikes, having insurance for your home or business property is the best way to ensure you will have the necessary financial resources to help you repair, rebuild or replace whatever is damaged. Yet more than half of all homeowners in the United States do not carry adequate homeowner’s insurance to replace their home and its contents should a catastrophic loss occur. Flood insurance is an important resource that covers damage not included in most homeowner’s policies. Contact an insurance agent or visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more about coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program.

Get involved in your community: During disaster response, affected communities depend heavily on local and national volunteer organizations to provide trained volunteers and donated supplies. Get involved today by donating to or volunteering with a reputable organization of your choice through the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (NVOAD). Join a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program and get trained on basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

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neily.chapman Wed, 08/31/2022 - 17:02

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Mississippi

WASHINGTON — FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Mississippi to supplement state response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a water crisis beginning on Aug. 30, 2022 and continuing.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Hinds County.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75% federal funding for a period of 90 days.

Allan Jarvis has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.  

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/31/2022 - 14:13

FEMA Awards Brown University Nearly $4 Million for COVID Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $4 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse Brown University for the costs of testing students and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,961,745 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private research university in Providence for the cost of administering 76,861 tests between October 2021 and January 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Brown University with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

These grants brings the total awarded by FEMA to the State of Rhode Island to almost $544 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Wed, 08/31/2022 - 03:34