FEMA Awards Almost $5.7 Million to Amherst College for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $5.7 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Amherst College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $5,682,750 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private liberal arts college in Amherst for the cost of administering 285,870 tests between July 2020 and February 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Amherst College 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.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.2 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Wed, 08/31/2022 - 03:32

FEMA Awards Rhode Island Health Department Nearly $2 Million for COVID Data Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $2 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state health department for the costs of data analysis to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,954,029 FEMA Public Assistance grant will go to the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) for contracting for experts in data analytics to perform analyses about COVID-19 cases between January and August 2021.

The data was then used by the state’s executive team to inform decisions about actions to take to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus and respond to the challenges it presented.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Rhode Island with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and 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 - 02:59

FEMA Awards State of Rhode Island More Than $2 Million for COVID Fighting Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state health department for the costs of setting up a quarantine resource center during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,016,951 FEMA Public Assistance grant will go to the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) for contracting for services and using its own personnel to set up a resource center to provide individuals and families with information and access to vital services in order to ensure their compliance with quarantine and isolation protocols between July and December 2021.

The center also provided data analytics support for evaluating existing data and analytical reporting processes, and provided a plan to refine and enhance practices. The data was then used by the state’s executive team to inform decisions.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Rhode Island with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and 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 - 02:57

One Month Later: Eastern Kentucky Survivors Benefit from More than $92 Million in Federal Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – One month after historic flooding hit Eastern Kentucky, federal, commonwealth and local resources are working with residents of Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties to help them start their recovery. To date, more than $92 million has been approved in federal grants, loans and flood insurance payments.

As of Aug. 28, 2022:

• FEMA has approved $53.6 million for 6,550 individuals and households, including rental assistance for 3,833 for homeowners and renters and $10 Million for other disaster-related needs.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $27.1 million in disaster loans for 333 homeowners, renters and businesses.
• The National Flood Insurance Program has received 441 claims and paid $11.3 million.

“Every disaster is unique, and with that comes a set of unique challenges. FEMA’s willingness to be flexible within their regulations is appreciated and is necessary to continue to meet the need of Eastern Kentucky,” said Kentucky Emergency Management Director Jeremy Slinker. “Kentucky Emergency Management is committed to coordinating with all our local, state and federal partners to continue to meet the current needs, as well as initiating the recovery process.”

“Our FEMA team members have come from around the country to assist Kentuckians in their time of need,” said Federal Coordinating Officer of Kentucky recovery Brett Howard. “Having such a diverse group of people allows us to innovate and find new ways to overcome the challenges of disaster recovery.”

More than 800 federal personnel from around the country are on the ground in Kentucky helping with flood recovery.

In Eastern Kentucky, challenges include flood-damaged roads, bridges and access routes to many homes preventing some survivors from accessing help or being able to reliably connect with FEMA. Applicants whose homes are isolated in these situations may receive a small initial payment from FEMA. This is to pay for them to get a contractor’s written estimate for the cost of repair for their road or bridge to allow access.

To combat these challenges, FEMA applicant services staff is calling survivors to make sure every applicant who received a FEMA letter stating they are ineligible gets the one-on-one help they need with their application. To date FEMA has approved more than 2,700 additional applicants through this process.

In cases where FEMA housing inspectors were unable to reach applicants by phone or in-person three times, FEMA is sending teams door-to-door to meet with survivors where they live. The teams include Disaster Survivor Assistance personnel to answer questions about the process, a local official and a FEMA housing inspector to ensure an inspection is completed. These teams have provided face-to-face assistance to more than 600 Kentucky survivors helping them keep their recovery process on track.

FEMA continues to operate mobile registration centers, mobile Disaster Recovery Centers and six fixed recovery centers in six hard-hit counties. The mobile registration centers focus on helping people apply for federal assistance, while the mobile and fixed recovery centers can provide face to face assistance from FEMA, the Commonwealth and SBA. These centers have served more than 7,000 disaster survivors and continue to operate to assist those who need face-to-face help.

Eastern Kentucky flood survivors have until Sept. 28, 2022 to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

sandra.habib Tue, 08/30/2022 - 15:41

Tulsa Advances to Round 2 Consideration for FEMA Mitigation Grant to Enhance Community Resilience

DENTON, Texas – The City of Tulsa has advanced to Round 2 consideration for FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant. The nearly $20 million project would improve the city’s resilience to flooding and extreme heat, as well as its water quality. If selected, the City of Tulsa would use the funds to make significant drainage improvements to Fulton Creek.

FEMA’s Acting Resilience Deputy Administrator Victoria Salinas joined Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum and other local officials at a media event today to recognize city leaders for this achievement and other ongoing efforts to strengthen their neighborhoods, protect their citizens and to lower flood insurance rates.

FEMA’s BRIC Grant Program supports states, local communities, tribes and territories for mitigation planning, adoption and enforcement of building codes and standards, project scoping and small-scale mitigation projects. Tulsa’s grant submission was selected based on the highest composite score assessed during the review. 

Tulsa has spent decades developing lofty stormwater management goals including drainage system maintenance and floodplain development priorities. These actions have helped to reduce risk from future flooding and to save lives.

“The City of Tulsa serves as an example of how a people-centered, city-wide resilience strategy benefits the whole community,” FEMA’s Victoria Salinas said. “FEMA commends Tulsa as a national leader in community flood risk reduction, and for proposing a project that will create more equitable outcomes for all area residents, businesses and homeowners. We are excited that Tulsa has advanced in the BRIC grant application process. The possibility of providing more funding to help them implement a project that will further community resilience is exciting and encouraging to other communities that wish to do the same.”

The City of Tulsa has a system-based approach to improving resilience to flooding, heat and water quality. To reduce flooding, Tulsa’s project submission will allow the city to make infrastructure enhancements along Fulton Creek by increasing the capacity of the storm sewer system and constructing two detention ponds and culverts. Stormwater runoff prevention will also be enhanced by adding trees to reduce heat and limiting development.

These improvements will result in a more usable, environmentally sensitive, healthier, and safer community while reducing risk from future flooding and to save lives.

Project awards could be announced as early as Spring 2023. For more information on the BRIC Grant Program and other mitigation funding opportunities, visit fema.gov/grants/mitigation.

Tulsa's Top NFIP Community Rating Reduces Insurance Rates for Residents

On April 1, Tulsa hit the highest possible rating under the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System (CRS). Achieving a Class 1 rating has only been accomplished by one other city in the country. Tulsa’s leaders and planners long ago realized something had to be done to avoid future losses from floods. This Class 1 rating is reducing insurance rates for residents by 45 percent. Learn more about the city’s CRS achievement at fema.gov/blog/city-tulsa-rises-top-leader-risk-reduction.

Carmen.Castro Tue, 08/30/2022 - 15:11

FEMA Awards More Than $2.7 Million to Plymouth State University for COVID Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2.7 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Plymouth State University for the cost of providing testing for students and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,731,448 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the public university in Plymouth will reimburse it for contracting to provide 27,313 COVID-19 tests between July 2020 and July 2021.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Plymouth State 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.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $151 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 08/30/2022 - 00:24

FEMA Awards More Than $3.3 Million to Boston College for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $3.3 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Boston College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,311,550 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private Jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill for the cost of administering 132,462 tests between January and May 2021.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Boston College 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.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.2 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 08/30/2022 - 00:23

FEMA Awards Almost $13.4 Million to Tufts Medical Center for COVID-19 Operating Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $13.4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Tufts Medical Center for the increased cost of operating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $13,370,543 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the teaching hospital in Boston affiliated with Tufts University School of Medicine for steps taken to protect the health of its work force, patients and the general public between March and August 2020.

The expenses incurred included purchasing additional medical equipment and supplies for the treatment of COVID-19 patients; hiring additional medical care staff and supporting services; purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE), disinfection services and supplies; and the cost of converting some hospital facility space into treatment areas, including negative-pressure intensive care units (ICUs).

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Tufts Medical Center with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and 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.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.2 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 08/30/2022 - 00:22

FEMA, Utah DEM Recognize Resilient Infrastructure Projects

Provo, Utah – Monday morning, FEMA and the State of Utah recognized three projects in the state that have been selected for federal funding under the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) competitive grant program. For the fiscal 2021 year, $1 billion was made available, with the three Utah projects receiving more than $100 million, or 10 percent of total funding nationwide.

“Public infrastructure can often be taken for granted, but it must operate as intended for our society to function properly,” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani. “Projects like these ensure daily life can continue in our communities even in the face of natural hazards.” "This is a great example of a local, state and federal partnership.  It is unprecedented for Utah to receive this level of funding for pre-disaster mitigation efforts," said Kris Hamlet, Director of Utah Division of Emergency Management. "It's important to remember that this BRIC funding, along with the local contribution, is an investment in the future of these communities, in the resilience of these communities when facing disaster. The completion of these projects will pay dividends in the quality of life for many years to come."

The selected projects include:

•  $50 million to the City of Provo for a water supply project to address the threat of drought.  The project will use excess water from the Provo River to recharge the Provo Aquifer. The award represents a 61 percent federal cost share, with $50 million being the maximum amount available under the program.
•  $36.7 million to Salt Lake City for enhancements to a water treatment plant.  The project includes several flood mitigation measures to facility components and a seismic retrofit for one building.  The award represents a 70 percent federal cost share,
•  $21.6 million to the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District for a parallel water pipeline for the Davis Aqueduct.  The parallel line will use earthquake resistant steel pipe and be routed though less seismically sensitive areas, allowing continued service should the existing pipeline be damaged or blocked after a quake. The award represents a 40 percent federal cost share.

“Provo City has been recognized nationally for our forward-looking waterwise efforts,” said Mayor Michelle Kaufusi. “In the short-term by encouraging citizen water conservation, and in the long-run by focusing on ground water storage, re-use and other sustainable methods.  FEMA’s support in constructing our water treatment facility is vital to our community’s drought resistance.”

In addition to the competitive grant funding, each state receives $1 million in allocated funds, which Utah used to fund 10 additional projects, consisting of scoping studies for larger projects and updates to local mitigation plans.

Additional information about the BRIC program can be found at www.fema.gov/bric.

 

Brian.Hvinden Mon, 08/29/2022 - 23:02

Biden-Harris Administration Launches Resilience Revolving Loan Fund Program Funded By Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund will reduce disaster suffering and vulnerability to natural hazards

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is launching a notice of intent for a new program to fund resilience projects that will make communities safer from natural hazards. The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund program will make $50 million available in capitalization grants to states to fund low-interest loans to local governments.

The program is funded by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invests $500 million in the program over five years.

The program will allow jurisdictions to reduce vulnerability to natural hazards, foster greater community resilience to climate change, and reduce disaster suffering. In particular, the new program will help homeowners, businesses, nonprofit organizations and communities fund hazard mitigation projects that reduce disaster risks. Loans will also be available to help local governments satisfy non-federal cost share requirements under FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, update building codes adoption and enforcement, and make zoning and land use changes.

“As the impacts of climate change bring increases in extreme weather, one of our key roles at DHS is to ensure communities are prepared, able to respond, and equipped and resourced to recover from a natural disaster,” said DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “These capitalization grants through the new Infrastructure Investment legislation that President Biden signed into law are helping ensure we are proactively investing in communities’ resilience.”

“Supporting local communities in their fight against climate change requires a multi-pronged approach,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “FEMA’s revolving loans join a suite of other hazard mitigation grant programs and serve as a unique tool our partners can use in their pursuit of building climate resilience.”

“Increasing our nation’s resilience to climate change and the associated natural hazards is a shared responsibility — FEMA cannot do it alone,” said Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks. “Fortunately, the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan program provides us with the opportunity to work collaboratively across different levels of government to help ensure that all communities are climate resilient.”

FEMA expects to publish the program funding opportunity by the end of 2022 and receive applications through spring 2023. Initial funding will focus on both increasing public understanding of the program and working with participating communities to learn how to enhance the program in future iterations.

Since taking office, President Biden provided additional funding to FEMA’s annual resilience grant programs—Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities and Flood Mitigation Assistance—more than doubling last year’s funding to approximately $3 billion for FY 22 grant applications. Both programs also include significant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  

“Natural disasters in Michigan and across the nation continue destroying homes, forcing small businesses to shut their doors, and causing millions of dollars’ worth of damage. That is why I created this program to help states establish low-cost revolving loan funds that will allow local communities to invest in projects like seawalls and storm water drains that mitigate damage from extreme weather events,” said U.S. Senator Gary Peters, Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and author of the STORM Act. “This announcement is a significant step to ensuring communities can begin accessing these critical funds. As Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, I’ll continue my efforts to ensure this program is implemented as soon as possible so we can improve our nation’s resilience.”

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance helps communities increase resilience to extreme heat waves, drought, wildfires, flood and hurricanes by funding transformational projects that reduce risk to multiple hazards, support adaptation to future conditions, and lessen the impact of all disasters on our nations most underserved residents and disadvantaged communities. 

Visit fema.gov for more information.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 08/29/2022 - 22:01

Apply with FEMA Today, Application Deadline One Month Away

OKLAHOMA CITY—Oklahoma residents affected by the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding May 2-8 have one month remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline to apply is Sept. 28, 2022.

There may be several reasons that you have not applied with FEMA. However, federal assistance may be a necessary step in your disaster recovery.

Common Misconceptions Debunked:

• “I have my own insurance.” Even if you have insurance you should apply for assistance. Sometimes damage is found that insurance won’t cover, but federal disaster assistance may.
• “I’m still waiting on a visit from my insurance adjuster.” You should still apply with FEMA, as your insurance may not meet all your disaster-related needs.
• “I think I make too much money to apply for assistance.” Most state and federal disaster assistance programs are available to individuals of all income levels. The kind of help provided depends on the applicant's circumstances and unmet needs.
• “I don’t think I sustained enough damage to qualify.” Damage that may not be visible now, may be discovered during repair work. If you applied for disaster assistance, these repairs may be covered.
• “I don’t want to take assistance from someone else.” There are enough disaster funds to take care of every eligible applicant, so you should not worry that you are taking money from other applicants whom you feel need it more.
• “I’m worried that disaster assistance will interrupt or interfere with my other federal assistance.” Disaster assistance grants are not taxable income and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, welfare assistance, SNAP, Supplemental Security Income or any other federal programs.

 If You Have Not Applied for Federal Assistance:

• Log onto DisasterAssistance.gov. The website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To locate the closest DRC to you, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA app or visit the DRC Locator. You can also text 43362 and type DRC (your ZIP Code); for example, DRC 12345.

Download the FEMA mobile app at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products for more information about DRCs.

Carmen.Castro Mon, 08/29/2022 - 20:48

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Ferguson

A FEMA disaster recovery center will open in Ferguson (St. Louis County) on Tuesday, August 30 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:

Urban League Empowerment Center          

9420 W Florissant Ave.

Ferguson, MO 63136

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

Other recovery centers are open in these locations:

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

University City Recreation Center

Centennial Commons

7210 Olive Blvd.

University City, MO 63130

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042                                   

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

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. seven days a week until further notice

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. seven days a week until further notice

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

All Disaster Recovery Centers will be open on Labor Day, Monday, September 5.

Before visiting a center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).

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 Mon, 08/29/2022 - 18:58

Grants Announced to Mitigate Against Future Disasters

OAKLAND, Calif. – On Aug. 1, Vice President Kamala Harris, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced the selections for $1.16 billion in funding through two competitive grant programs, Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA), to help communities across the nation enhance climate and disaster resiliency.

These grants will help improve community resilience to a multitude of hazards, including wildfires, earthquakes, floods and more. Many projects leverage innovative solutions to protect communities such as nature-based solutions, which increase resilience and provide benefits to the environment. They also focus on protecting large and small community infrastructure, which helps ensure the continuity of vital services after an emergency or disaster.

FEMA selected BRIC projects from 271 communities in 53 states, tribes, territories and the District of Columbia; and FMA projects from 72 communities in 19 states. Thirty-eight BRIC projects worth over $192 million were selected from FEMA Region 9 states, tribes and territories, including mapping potential landslides to protect life and property in Arizona; reducing fire fuels on tribal lands in Northern California to lessen the severity and frequency of wildfires; and developing a project at American Samoa Community College to improve drainage conditions, which will minimize the likelihood of flooding, building collapse and the development of unhygienic conditions.

The next round of BRIC and FMA funding opens Sept. 30, 2022, and will close Jan. 27, 2023. For more information on upcoming grant opportunities to address high-level future risks to natural disasters, visit fema.gov/grants/mitigation.

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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, 08/29/2022 - 17:14

Florida Rebuilding with Resilience after Hurricane Irma

ATLANTA – Nearly five years after Hurricane Irma travelled the length of Florida, communities are making themselves more resilient as they restore public facilities with the help of FEMA grants.

Crossing the Atlantic, Hurricane Irma’s winds reached 185 mph, making it one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record. On Sept. 10, 2017, the eye of the hurricane made landfall in Cudjoe Key in Monroe County as a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph. It made a second landfall that afternoon on the southwest coast near Marco Island as a Category 3 hurricane with winds of 115 mph.

A major disaster declaration was issued the same day. Through the recovery process, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) in partnership with FEMA has worked with communities to make public facilities more resilient.

As of July, FEMA has provided $2.45 billion for 7,943 rebuilding projects under its Public Assistance (PA) program, including $35 million for 299 projects that increased the resilience of public facilities.

The PA program reimburses eligible applicants for the costs of emergency response and recovery. As part of the restoration, funds may be included to increase resilience and reduce future damage. FEMA reimburses at least 75 percent of the cost of each project, the remainder coming from non-federal sources.

Throughout the state, reconstruction from Hurricane Irma is occurring in urban and rural communities.

Here are some highlights:

• The Collier County Housing Authority increased the resistance to wind at the Horizon Village complex while repairing hurricane-damaged roofing.
• The South Florida Water Management District installed additional riprap and Geotech fabric along a channel in Palm Beach County that was damaged by hurricane flood waters.
• The collapsed Riverside Park Grand Pavilion in Indian River County was rebuilt with pressure-treated beams resistant to saltwater exposure.
• The Florida Keys Electric Cooperative in Monroe County, which had significant damage from hurricane winds and storm surge, installed concrete foundations for transmission line poles to stabilize the structures and protect against erosion from storms.
• Cathedral Parish School in St. John’s County installed flood barriers at six entrances to the school gymnasium and elevated and weatherproofed control boxes for a security gate.

In addition to funding for rebuilding storm-damaged facilities, there is $565 million available to the State of Florida from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) for projects that could reduce damage from future events. FDEM evaluates proposals from communities statewide and sets priorities for how the money may be spent. To date, $304 million for specific projects has been approved and more proposals are being processed.

“Florida is demonstrating in the strongest way how to increase safety and reduce costs from future events by including mitigation in storm recovery efforts,” said Gracia B. Szczech, Regional Administrator for FEMA’s Region 4. “The State is committed to funding resilient projects.”

Among the HMGP projects completed:

• In Collier County, the City of Naples installed seven diesel backup pumps and made improvements to wastewater lift stations.
• In Desoto County, the City of Arcadia improved wind protection at city hall and the police department with the installation of accordion shutters and roll-down shutters for all exterior openings.
• In Lake County, the City of Minneola installed a 400-kilowatt emergency generator to keep the city hall building operational in the event of an outage.
• Marion County protected the utility department building, which serves as an emergency command post, by installing storm shutters and protecting vents, louvers and exhaust fans.
• In Polk County, the City of Winter Haven installed emergency generators at four utility lift stations to ensure operation in the event of a power outage.
• The Sarasota County Public Hospital Board installed additional switching gear for an emergency generator, increasing capacity to provide 100 percent of power requirements for emergency services.
• Seminole County installed two 500-kilowatt mobile emergency generators for use at two special needs shelters and the Seminole County Services Building.

After Hurricane Irma, FEMA and FDEM established a process to expedite approval of Public Assistance grants. FDEM completes eligibility, technical feasibility, and cost effectiveness reviews. To shorten the review time, FDEM also participates in the environmental review of projects.

“Thanks to our strong partnership with FEMA, the Division has been able to quickly and efficiently distribute funding to impacted communities as they continue their long-term recovery from Hurricane Irma,” said FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie. “To date, Hurricane Irma was the costliest hurricane to impact Florida, and the funding for critical rebuilding and mitigation projects empowers our communities to become more resilient and lessen the impacts of future disasters.”

The federal response to Hurricane Irma in Florida included more than $1 billion assistance to 774,691 individuals and households for the costs of temporary housing, basic home repairs and other disaster-related needs. The National Flood Insurance Program paid $982.5 million to 28,751 policy holders. The U.S. Small Business Administration provided $1.43 billion in low-interest disaster loans to 37,083 businesses and homeowners.

neily.chapman Mon, 08/29/2022 - 14:51

FEMA Recovery Center Opens in Whitley County for Three Days

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Mobile Disaster Recovery Center staff are returning to Whitley County to assist Kentucky flood survivors who experienced loss from the Eastern Kentucky flooding for three days Aug. 28-30.

Mobile Center location:

• Whitley County:  Whitley County Home Health Agency - 368 Penny Ln. Williamsburg, KY 40769

This mobile center will be open Aug. 28 - Aug. 30.

Fixed centers are also available at these locations:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library–1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Clay County: Clay County Community Center–311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY  40962
• 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 Hill Rd., Pikeville, KY 41501

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 Sat, 08/27/2022 - 20:37

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for Alaska

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Alaska to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding from May 8-11, 2022.

Federal funding is available to 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 flooding in the Copper River Regional Educational Attendance Area (REAA), Iditarod REAA and Kuspuk REAA.

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

Yolanda J. Jackson has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 08/26/2022 - 21:46

FEMA and The Salvation Army Sign Disaster Cooperation Agreement

WASHINGTON -- Leaders of FEMA and The Salvation Army signed a new memorandum today, outlining how the organizations will continue to cooperate in carrying out disaster preparedness, response, recovery and other emergency management operations.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and The Salvation Army’s National Commander, Commissioner Kenneth Hodder signed the memorandum of agreement as the latest formalization of the organizations’ longstanding partnership. 

“When helping people before, during and after a disaster, we cannot do it alone.  As we continue to face the impacts of climate change and related extreme weather events, the most powerful resources we have are our partners, and this includes the dedicated team over at The Salvation Army,” said Administrator Criswell.  “This memorandum of understanding between FEMA and The Salvation Army underscores the importance of this partnership and our unyielding commitment to better serve our communities.”

“While each disaster creates its own unique circumstances and challenges, Salvation Army disaster relief efforts focus on bringing immediate relief, hope and healing to people who find themselves in the midst of extremely difficult situations,” said Commissioner Hodder. “Our partnership with FEMA allows us to work together in the most important mission of any disaster relief operation -- meeting the immediate and long-term recovery needs of every survivor and first responder.”

The first memorandum between the two organizations was signed in 1980. Today’s update outlines how the two agencies will streamline information sharing to ensure better coordination; leverage FEMA’s authority to support private non-profit organizations; and expand The Salvation Army’s support in the National Response Coordination Center.

The Salvation Army and FEMA have collaborated to support disaster response and recovery efforts during major events such as Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and COVID-19. Additionally, the two organizations have also worked together for other major projects, including the development and implementation of federal response plans, including the National Response Framework.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 08/26/2022 - 20:19

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Tulsa County, Oklahoma, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the cities of Bixby, Broken Arrow and Tulsa, and unincorporated areas of Tulsa County, Oklahoma.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Tulsa County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

 

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

 

Carmen.Castro Fri, 08/26/2022 - 16:49

Kentucky Houses of Worship Affected by Floods Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may be eligible for FEMA assistance to help pay for emergency protective measures, debris removal and restoration of facilities damaged by the Eastern Kentucky flooding that started on July 26.

The Public Assistance program may provide financial assistance to certain private, nonprofit organizations – including houses of worship – to restore facilities damaged or destroyed by a major disaster. The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with the sub-recipients like local and county governments.

To be eligible, facilities must:

• Have damage caused by the Eastern Kentucky flooding that began on July 26 in the following counties: Breathitt, Clay, Cumberland, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Whitley and Wolfe;
• Provide a current ruling letter from the IRS granting tax exemption under Section 501 (c) (d) or (e) of the IRS Code of 1954, or through the Kentucky Secretary of State;
• Be owned or operated by a private nonprofit organization; and
• Have either not received funding or received insufficient funding after applying for a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan.

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:

• Aug. 28, 2022 – Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Wolfe counties.
• Sept. 11, 2022 – Cumberland and Whitley counties.
• Sept. 18, 2022 – Lee, Lincoln and Powell counties.

sandra.habib Fri, 08/26/2022 - 12:31

Kentucky Survivors: Small Dollar FEMA Payments May Be for Contractor Estimate

FRANKFORT, Ky. –Kentucky disaster survivors are reporting receiving disaster assistance payments from FEMA in amounts between $179 - $195. This money can help pay for a contractor to inspect and provide an estimate of the cost to repair disaster caused damage.

Funds can be used for a contractor to inspect HVAC and septic systems, wells, retaining walls or privately owned roads and bridges. More assistance may be available, but a contractor’s written estimate is the key to unlock that aid. 

Once a survivor has their estimate in hand, they can file an appeal for possible additional funding.

The appeal must include the following for identity verification purposes:

• Applicant’s full name
• Applicant’s FEMA Application Number and Disaster Number (DR-4663-KY for the Eastern Kentucky flooding)
• Damaged property address and current mailing address, if different
• Applicant’s date and place of birth
• Applicant’s signature with one of the following:
• Notary stamp or seal; or
• The statement “I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.”

The appeal can be mailed or faxed using the information below.

• Mailing Address: Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center; P.O. Box 10055; Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
• Fax Number: 800-827-8112
• If a Disaster Assistance Center account has been created, applicants can also upload documents through the Upload Center in their online account.

If they have questions survivors can also bring their contractor’s estimate to their local recovery center.

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, 08/26/2022 - 00:18