FEMA Reaches One Year Mark of COVID-19 Funeral Assistance, Provides More Than $2.1 Billion to Families

WASHINGTON -- Over the past year, FEMA has provided more than $2.1 billion in COVID-19 funeral assistance to 326,000 applicants grappling with the financial stress and burden caused by the pandemic.

Committed to reaching all affected communities, the agency launched a targeted outreach campaign this month. Paid advertisements are directed to localities identified with high rates of COVID-19-related deaths, low funeral assistance application rates and a high Social Vulnerability Index score.

The advertisements help ensure information about FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program reaches underserved communities who have experienced a high COVID-19 death rate. The ads are running in San Bernardino, California; Bronx County, New York; Philadelphia; and Hidalgo, Texas.

In its first year, COVID-19 funeral assistance has:

• Awarded over $2.1 billion to assist 326,000 applicants.
• Provided a $6,500 average award.
• Maintained a 97% eligibility approval rate.
• Supported 76 languages through the toll-free COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helpline.
• Translated 13 web pages and 29 languages for an informational one-pager.

Eligible applicants may qualify for up to $9,000 for each deceased individual per application, with a maximum of $35,500 for applicants who may have incurred funeral expenses for multiple individuals due to COVID-19.

Additional information, including eligibility requirements, can be found at COVID-19 Funeral Assistance | FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 04/13/2022 - 19:51

FEMA Administrator Criswell Urges Resilience Planning during National Hurricane Conference

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell urged collective action today at the 2022 National Hurricane Conference in Orlando, Florida.

She focused her remarks on risk, resilience, innovation and partnerships as she presented to the assembled emergency managers, meteorologists and government officials at the annual gathering.

Criswell also highlighted the need for all parts of the emergency management cycle to engage with each other to benefit the overall mission.

“How can we build strong partnerships during mitigation and preparedness that carry over into response and recovery?” Criswell said. “We need more people sitting at the table when preparedness and mitigation are being discussed… It will require us to expand our network, bring new partners to the table and work toward our common goal of building a safer, stronger and more resilient nation.

FEMA recently found that U.S. communities who chose to adopt modern building codes will avoid paying $132 billion in damages by the year 2040. However, 65% of our country’s counties, cities and towns still have not adopted modern building codes and will not receive this benefit.

To address this issue, Administrator Criswell introduced a new FEMA campaign designed to increase community building codes.

“It will strengthen nationwide capability for superior building performance,” she said. “It will support vulnerable communities, and it will drive public action to increase the adoption and enforcement of hazard-resistant building codes to reduce the negative impacts of climate change.”

Click here for a full transcript of the Administrator’s speech.  

Orlando, Fla. -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (center) and National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham record an episode for the FEMA podcast in Orlando today at the National Hurricane Conference. (FEMA Photo by Alex Hall)

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 04/13/2022 - 19:51

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Closed Sunday

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will close Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta and Vega Baja on Sunday due to the holiday.

All DRCs will resume normal operational hours on Monday, April 18.

The temporary centers are located at:

Pabellón Comercial Rafael Hernández Colón

Calle Méndez Vigo #349

(in front of Residencial El Dorado), Dorado

 

Centro Comunal Los Naranjos

Barrio Cabo Caribe

Comunidad Los Naranjos

Parcela 119-A, Vega Baja

Centro de Usos Múltiples - Luis Muñoz Marín

PR-647 Km 12.5

Barrio Bajuras, Sector Machuchal, Vega Alta

Junta de Inscripción Permanente de Candelaria

RR-865

Barrio Candelaria, Toa Baja

Centro de Usos Múltiples

Carr. PR-5, Km 2.6

Sector Juana Matos, Cataño

 

Normal Hours:

Monday: 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Tuesday - Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Survivors from the affected municipalities of Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

You may also apply with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov

• By phone at 800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 04/13/2022 - 19:15

Nueces County, Texas Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Oct. 13, 2022 for Nueces County, Texas. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps.

Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.

• To use the live chat service, visit http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to 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.

Kurt.Pickering Wed, 04/13/2022 - 18:24

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around April 13, 2022.

Appeals and comments may be submitted through July 12, 2022 for:

• The City of Thibodaux; the towns of Golden Meadow and Lockport; and the unincorporated areas of Lafourche Parish

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.

• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.

• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. 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 http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” 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.

Kurt.Pickering Wed, 04/13/2022 - 16:46

Severe Weather Threat Tomorrow: Are you Ready?

CHICAGO – As temperatures warm, many Midwesterners face a heightened risk of severe storms, heavy rains, localized flooding and even the potential for tornadoes tomorrow. Monitor local forecasts, and take steps now to prepare for the possibility of a dangerous situation.

“The threat of severe weather should be taken seriously,” said FEMA Region 5 Administrator Thomas Sivak. "Now is the time to make sure you and those you care about know where to go to stay safe in case those risks become reality."

• Follow the direction of local and state officials and make sure to sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, become familiar with the warning tone.
• Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study and play. Pay attention to weather reports and warnings and be ready to take shelter immediately, if necessary.
• Secure your property. Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures, loose roofing materials and objects in yards, patios, roofs or balconies that could blow away.
• Make sure all mobile devices are fully charged in advance of the storm. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs in case the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. 
• Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Report them immediately.
• After the storm and once you are safe, check on neighbors and friends to make sure they’re okay.

Find even more valuable tips to help you prepare for severe weather at www.ready.gov/severe-weather and download the free FEMA app, available for your Android, Apple or Blackberry device. 

# # #

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

troy.christensen Tue, 04/12/2022 - 20:49

Covid-19 Funeral Assistance Is Still Available

CHICAGO – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to provide financial assistance for individuals who incurred COVID-19 related funeral expenses for loved ones. Since launching the program on April 1, 2021, FEMA has provided more than $2.1 billion in COVID-19 funeral assistance to eligible applicants across the country, but assistance is still available for those who qualify.

"This program was created to address the unique financial challenges faced by our nation caused by the pandemic that has taken the lives of nearly a million loved ones, friends and neighbors across the country,” said Thomas C. Sivak, FEMA Region 5 administrator. “While we cannot bring those people back, this financial assistance can help ease the burden of their final arrangements.”

Eligible applicants may qualify for up to $9,000 for each deceased individual per application, with a maximum of $35,000 for families who may have multiple funeral expenses due to COVID-19. Since the assistance began on April 12, 2021, the average amount of assistance awarded is $6,500.

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.

# # #

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

troy.christensen Tue, 04/12/2022 - 15:14

Survivors Should Notify FEMA About Insurance Settlements

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Survivors of the Dec. 10-11 tornadoes who have already applied for FEMA disaster assistance are encouraged to let FEMA know about any insurance settlements you receive. FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may cover damage that your insurance does not.

By law, FEMA cannot provide funding to individuals or households for losses covered by insurance or any other source. However, if you filed an insurance claim and have disaster-related needs that still need to be addressed, FEMA may consider you for its Other Needs Assistance program or refer you to an agency that can help.

To be considered for disaster assistance, you must have applied to FEMA before the deadline, which was March 14. If you’re insured, FEMA will confirm that you filed a claim with your insurance company.

Remember when you file a claim with your insurance agent or company, find out what your policy covers. And be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work you have done to repair your home.

Here are some other reminders:  

• If your insurance settlement is delayed longer than 30 days, let FEMA know by writing a letter and including proof that you filed a claim. Any assistance FEMA provides would be considered an advance and would have to be repaid once you get the insurance settlement.
• If you received the maximum settlement from your insurance company and still have unmet disaster-related needs, write to FEMA and explain what your need is. Again, include documentation from the insurance company.
• If you spent the “additional living expense” provided by the insurance company and still need help with finding temporary housing, write to FEMA and explain your need. Attach documentation from the insurance company to prove you used the funds provided. Also include your permanent housing plan.

Here’s how to stay in touch with FEMA:

• Log into your account at DisasterAssistance.gov.

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• You may also fax FEMA at 800-827-8112 or send a letter to this address:

FEMA National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

For information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Mon, 04/11/2022 - 13:13

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Cataño and Vega Baja

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Survivors of the severe storm, flooding, and landslides that occurred Feb. 4 - 6, 2022 can meet with FEMA specialists and apply for disaster assistance at two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Cataño and Vega Baja.

Residents affected by the February storms can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and get questions answered. Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are also on hand at both DRCs to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits, and renters, and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Hazard Mitigation will have a Community Education Outreach Specialist on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents. 

The DRCs are located at:

DRC 4 DRC 5 Centro Comunal Los Naranjos Centro de Usos Múltiples Barrio Cabo Caribe Carr. PR-5, Km 2.6 Comunidad Los Naranjos, Parcela 119-A Sector Juana Matos Vega Baja Cataño

Hours:

Monday -  7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Tuesday - Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Survivors from the affected municipalities of Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find the DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

You may also apply with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• By phone at 800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

frances.acevedo-pico Sat, 04/09/2022 - 19:27

FEMA Authorized Statements on PREPA Projects

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved nearly $9.5 billion to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) in September 2020, representing the largest funding allocation in the history of the federal agency's Public Assistance program under the FEMA Accelerated Awards Strategy (FAASt).

For the rebuilding of the Island's power grid, FEMA works on the basis of project submissions that must include a detailed scope of work of how the work will be done as well as a hazard mitigation proposal.

At the moment, FEMA has not received transmission and distribution projects for evaluation and the approval of construction funds. The projects submitted by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) for generation and by LUMA for substations are broken down as follows:

- Transmission and distribution: 0

- Substations: Only 5 have a detailed scope of work.

- Generation: Only 5 have a detailed scope of work. Below is a breakdown of the five generation projects with detailed scopes of work:

1. Aguirre plant, units 1 and 2

• Detailed Scope of Work submittal date: March 31, 2022
• Repairs to the condenser circulating water pump motor, among other repairs.

2. Aguirre Power Plant Infrastructure Projects

• Detailed Scope of Work submission date: March 31, 2022
• Wastewater treatment plant improvements, rehabilitation of the reserve tanks, fuel tanks of the generating facility, replacement of the steam plant, among other repairs.

3. Permanent repairs to the Cambalache power plant

• Detailed scope of work submission date: March 7, 2022.
• Repairs to the wastewater pumping system, hydraulic equipment, storm water pump system, among other repairs.

1. Mayagüez Hydro-Gas Power Plant Permanent Repairs

• Detailed Scope of Work submission date: March 7, 2022
• This project was recently approved with a federal share of over $16.3 million.
• Repairs include the gas generator and Fuel Tank 1, among other repairs.

2. San Juan Power Plant - Auxiliary Infrastructure

• Detailed Scope of Work submission date: March 31, 2022
• Repairs to auxiliary infrastructure, Nautilus water treatment system, acquisition of raw water tank for units 7 and 10.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to develop the scope and cost of the projects. The development of the scope and cost of the projects by the applicant means that the project was created. For each project, the applicant must develop a detailed scope of work with its initial design in accordance with industry codes and standards. FEMA can only consider and approve a project once the applicant has completed all of these steps.

As it has for the past four and a half years, FEMA continues to be at the complete disposal of PREPA, LUMA and the Government of Puerto Rico to provide the necessary technical support to address delays in the submission of projects by local agencies. The objective is for PREPA and LUMA to submit their projects with the complete documentation that is required and to accelerate the work related to the electric grid for the benefit of all residents and PREPA customers in Puerto Rico.

FEMA allocates federal funds to the Government of Puerto Rico, which are managed by the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3). Disbursements to subrecipients, such as PREPA, can be found on COR3's transparency portal. Information on obligations and disbursements is updated weekly: https://www.recovery.pr/. Any questions regarding disbursements of funds to PREPA should be directed to COR3.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Fri, 04/08/2022 - 15:44

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Lincoln County, Oklahoma

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review in Lincoln County, Oklahoma. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around April 7, 2022.

Appeals and comments may be submitted through July 6, 2022 for:

▪ The City of Stroud; and the unincorporated areas of Lincoln County

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

▪ An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.

▪ Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.

▪ If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps. 

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. 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 http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” 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.

Kurt.Pickering Thu, 04/07/2022 - 21:24

Over $600 Million from FEMA for Earthquake Recovery

The agency expects to approve all funding for this disaster by the end of this year

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico –Public housing facilities, police operations centers, childcare centers and libraries are some of the municipal buildings that will be repaired with a multimillion-dollar allocation from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). According to the federal agency, of the $640 million, $309 million is for 488 permanent construction projects that include other structures damaged by the earthquakes.

“With these funds, the municipalities have the opportunity to renovate the affected spaces to once again offer services for their communities. The recovery supports a better quality of life for the residents of these municipalities and the reconstruction is directed to that end,” said the FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The funds for municipalities in the south, center and west of the Island include seven public housing complexes in Guánica and Ponce. The Administrator of the Public Housing Administration (PRPHA), Alejandro Salgado Colón, explained that over 2,300 people will have better and safer homes after the repairs are completed with the approved funds.

“After the earthquakes that shook mostly the southern region of the Island, we have looked for ways to continue addressing the damage that risked the homes of the affected families. Truthfully, this obligation of funds represents one more step towards disaster recovery. There is still a long road ahead, but we’re sure that, with the collaboration of the federal agencies, we will accomplish a complete reconstruction for the benefit of our residents,” said Salgado Colón.

One of the facilities affected was the Montalva Community Center in Guánica. The work to be completed with the obligation of more than $779,000 includes demolishing the center, where workshops and other social and community development activities will be held after reconstruction.

The Mayor of the Municipality, Ismael Rodríguez Ramos, explained that “the Montalva Community Center has been a multiuse center that has served the community with social events that make an impact. With this allocation we’ll rebuild a facility that serves all generations of people from Guánica; the younger ones with workshops that encourage development, as well as our elderly, by being a place of gathering and welcome that serves them in different ways.”

The repairs also consider public and community service spaces, as is the case of some centers that serve the more than 22,000 residents of Lajas. Funds were earmarked for the city hall and the center where the municipal police station and the Municipal Emergency Management Office are located. In addition, repairs will be completed at the Multi-Service Center for the Elderly, which has an enrollment of over 90 people and provides meals and activities for those who are bedridden.

For his part, the Executive Director for the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Eng. Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said, “in COR3, we continue working as a team alongside the subrecipients in favor of the development of these reconstruction projects that will provide resiliency to the aqueducts infrastructure and other structures that house families. This significant obligation of federal funds will give peace of mind to the communities and the opportunity to begin to rebuild their living spaces. To date, COR3 has disbursed $258 million to address matters related to this disaster that affected us two years ago and we are committed to continue being facilitators in this difficult task.”

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the earthquakes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4773 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr y Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 04/07/2022 - 11:55

Five SBA Business Recovery Centers Open to Assist Survivors

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The U.S. Small Business Administration has five Business Recovery Centers open until April 29 to assist tornado survivors with their loan applications.

Survivors who receive a letter from FEMA referring them to the SBA should apply for a loan as soon as possible. SBA loans are not just for businesses. Long-term, low-interest loans are available to homeowners and renters as well. If approved, there is no obligation to accept the loan. Even if survivors think they won’t qualify for a loan, they should complete the loan application and return it anyway.

Those who are turned down for a loan or receive a loan that won’t cover their needs may be referred back to FEMA for additional assistance. A FEMA program called Other Needs Assistance provides financial help for disaster-related necessary expenses and serious needs that are not covered by insurance or provided by any other source.

The locations of the business recovery centers are:

• Graves County: Trace Creek Baptist Church, 3577 State Route 131, Mayfield, KY 42066 
  • Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Saturday. 
• Hopkins County: Hopkins County Emergency Management, 130 N. Franklin St., Madisonville, KY 42431
  • Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Saturday.
• Marshall County: Joe Creason Community Center, 1600 Park Ave., Benton, KY 42025
  • Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Saturday.
• Warren County: Western Kentucky University Business Accelerator Center, Room 118, 2413 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101
  • Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Friday.
• Warren County: Kummer/Little Recreation Center, 333 College St., Bowling Green, KY 42101
  • Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Friday.  

Survivors who cannot visit a Business Recovery Center may apply online using SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. For more information on SBA’s disaster assistance program, email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. You may also call the Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call 800-877-8339.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Wed, 04/06/2022 - 20:31

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Vega Alta

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Vega Alta to help survivors affected by the severe storm, flooding, and landslides that occurred Feb. 4 - 6, 2022.

Residents in flood-affected communities can visit the DRC to get help with their FEMA applications, upload documents and ask questions in person.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are also on hand at the DRC to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits, and renters, and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Hazard Mitigation will have a Community Education Outreach Specialist on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents. 

The temporary center is located at:

Centro de Usos Múltiples – Luis Muñoz Marin

PR-675 Km 12.5

Barrio Bajuras Sector Machuchal

Vega Alta

Hours: Monday: 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

            Tuesday - Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Survivors from the affected municipalities of Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

You may also apply with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• By phone at 800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 04/06/2022 - 19:27

Prepare for the Unexpected: Four Steps to Protect Your Finances in a Disaster

CHICAGO – April is National Financial Capability Month and an opportunity to to take action to improve your financial future while considering the financial resources you may need to rebuild in case of a disaster or other emergency.

"Disasters can be unpredictable and often create financial challenges to fully recover. Everyone must have a financial plan to face emergencies, big or small,” said Thomas C. Sivak, regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Financial plans provide essential recovery tools for individuals and families and help to create more prepared communities and a more ready nation.” 

1. Set aside enough cash to get you and your family through multiple days after an emergency. This is especially important if ATMs, banks and credit card machines aren’t functioning due to an extended power outage. Include smaller bills as well, in case stores can’t make change. If putting aside that much money isn’t an immediate option, consider saving in smaller increments to eventually save the amount you may need.
2. Gather financial and critical personal, household and medical information. Have extra originals or copies of passports, driver's licenses, birth and marriage certificates, adoption decrees, Social Security cards and military records stored in a safe, easily accessible location—such as a safe deposit box, external hard drive or the cloud—to avoid any issues. 
3. Implement multi-factor authentication on your accounts and think before you click. By implementing a second layer of identification, like a confirmation text message or email, a code from an authentication app, a fingerprint or Face ID, or best yet, a FIDO key, you’re giving your bank or any other site you’re logging into the confidence that it really is you. And remember: if you’re sent a link you don’t recognize, trust your instincts, and think before you click. These simple steps can help protect your personal information every day, but especially after a disaster, when scam artists and other criminals often attempt to take advantage of disaster survivors. Learn more about ways to keep yourself secure online by visiting www.cisa.gov/shields-up.
4. Obtain property insurance. Talk to your insurance agent about the coverage your home may need. Review existing policies and ensure the amount and extent are adequate to cover losses from any possible hazard. With the increased flood risk in warmer spring months, keep in mind that homeowner’s insurance doesn’t typically cover flooding, so you may need to purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program. Learn more about your flood insurance options by visiting www.FloodSmart.gov.

An easy way to start preparing your finances for an emergency is by completing an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit. This important document offers guidance on organizing and securing important documents, provides important advice on managing finances, and describes what to expect should a disaster strike your community. For even more information on how to financially prepare for an unexpected emergency or disaster, visit www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness. 

# # #

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

troy.christensen Wed, 04/06/2022 - 13:33

Itasca County Residents Invited to Attend Virtual Flood Map Information Open House

CHICAGO – Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a Virtual Flood Map Information Open House for communities in Itasca County, Minnesota, on April 12, 2022, from 5 – 7 p.m. The open house will give residents the chance to review preliminary versions of a recently completed Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report and its accompanying preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).

The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood (also known as the 1-percent-annual-chance event) information, designate areas that are subject to significant flood hazards within areas of the county, and offer information that public officials may use when permitting development in the floodplain.

Experts at the virtual open house will help residents understand flood risk and flood insurance, floodplain development regulations and the mapping process. Residents can meet with experts one-on-one to view their own addresses on the new maps. They’ll learn about their specific risk and ways to help prevent flood loss.

Once effective, the maps will inform flood insurance rates and local floodplain management rules adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA encourages public officials to use the maps to assist planning processes and prepare communities to quickly respond to and recover from future events.

WHAT:              Itasca County virtual Flood Map Information Open House

WHEN:             April 12, 2022, from 5 p.m.– 7 p.m. CST

WHERE:           Visit www.zoom.com and enter the meeting ID and passcode. This requires registering for a free Zoom account or                           clicking the following link:                          https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1619158469                          Meeting ID: 161 915 8469, Passcode: ItascaOpen

You may also call into the meeting using one of the following telephone numbers and entering the meeting ID and passcode shown above. Long-distance charges may apply.

                       669 -254 -5252                        646 -828 -7666   

Property owners, realtors, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the Preliminary FIRMs and FIS report can be downloaded from www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata.

If you need a reasonable accommodation (sign language interpreters, Braille, CART, etc.), please send an e-mail to FEMA-Region5-FloodInsuranceOutreach@fema.dhs.gov at least 48 hours before the event. Last minute requests will be accepted but may not be possible to fulfill.

For more information, contact the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

# # #

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

troy.christensen Tue, 04/05/2022 - 17:54

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided more than $2.1 billion to over 320,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.

“Applications” in the chart below 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

11,019

$51,822,681

7,592

Alaska

430

$1,226,070

238

American Samoa

11

$33,802

Less than 10

Arizona

8,595

$27,751,596

5,554

Arkansas

5,145

$21,718,598

3,436

California

40,505

$176,505,061

27,412

Colorado

4,637

$15,943,246

2,892

Connecticut

4,696

$23,169,733

3,379

Delaware

1,476

$6,131,404

971

District Of Columbia

739

$3,202,781

473

Florida

32,355

$127,867,804

22,662

Georgia

19,609

$92,071,227

13,360

Guam

29

$133,040

19

Hawaii

658

$2,209,387

377

Idaho

1,726

$6,054,029

1,072

Illinois

19,101

$89,436,862

13,049

Indiana

9,961

$43,552,904

6,253

Iowa

4,116

$20,046,916

2,798

Kansas

4,364

$17,970,490

2,781

Kentucky

8,701

$39,987,993

5,539

Louisiana

8,254

$38,621,962

5,609

Maine

998

$3,023,683.18

555

Maryland

8,344

$38,029,050

5,658

Massachusetts

8,857

$39,435,441

5,707

Michigan

17,051

$72,514,810

11,785

Minnesota

5,163

$23,277,018

3,406

Mississippi

7,211

$31,923,194

4,729

Missouri

9,855

$42,135,026

6,687

Montana

1,221

$4,186,290

822

Nebraska

2,169

$9,809,797

1,418

Nevada

4,237

$14,364,085

2,661

New Hampshire

1,256

$4,850,378

797

New Jersey

15,781

$77,152,434

11,211

New Mexico

3,041

$9,573,180

1,826

New York

34,483

$165,363,202

24,125

North Carolina

16,191

$71,691,989

10,954

North Dakota

1,103

$5,780,965

778

Northern Mariana Islands

30

$47,828.11

Less than 10

Ohio

20,760

$87,905,413

13,524

Oklahoma

7,545

$31,134,959

4,909

Oregon

2,302

$6,349,651

1,369

Pennsylvania

22,617

$102,260,338

15,488

Puerto Rico

2,134

$5,042,795

1,322

Rhode Island

1,603

$7,663,470

1,126

South Carolina

10,886

$50,549,249

7,431

South Dakota

1,079

$5,457,710

758

Tennessee

13,696

$64,180,863

9,434

Texas

43,901

$196,336,812

30,110

U.S. Virgin Islands

72

$291,374.59

45

Utah

2,268

$10,070,705

1,460

Vermont

262

$955,367

167

Virginia

11,206

$49,763,375

7,499

Washington

4,156

$13,540,321

2,481

West Virginia

3,605

$15,141,337

2,220

Wisconsin

8,061

$34,873,010

5,277

Wyoming

749

$2,711,529

490

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. EDT Monday, April 4, 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 Mon, 04/04/2022 - 21:33

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Dorado and Toa Baja

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Survivors of the severe storm, flooding, and landslides that occurred Feb. 4 - 6, 2022 can meet with FEMA specialists and apply for disaster assistance at two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Dorado and Toa Baja.

Residents affected by the February storms can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and get questions answered. Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are also on hand at both DRCs to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits, and renters, and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Hazard Mitigation will have a Community Education Outreach Specialist on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents. 

The DRCs are located at:

DRC 1

Pabellón Comercial Rafael Hernández Colón

Calle Méndez Vigo #349

(in front of Residencial El Dorado)

Dorado

 

DRC 2

Junta de Inscripción Permanente de Candelaria

RR-865

Barrio Candelaria

Toa Baja, PR

 

Hours:

Monday: 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Tuesday-Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Survivors from the affected municipalities of Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

You may also apply with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• By phone at 800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 04/04/2022 - 20:09

San Juan CDTs to Be Repaired with Over $21 Million from FEMA

This is the greatest amount of funds obligated for the municipality to date

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved an obligation of over $21 million to repair six Diagnostic and Treatment Centers, known as CDT for its Spanish acronym, in San Juan. In addition to repairing the buildings, the funds include hazard mitigation measures for these centers to be better prepared to face future disasters.

These medical facilities have emergency rooms, provide primary care and pediatric services, obstetrics and gynecology, apart from preventive services like radiology, laboratories and vaccination. Likewise, they provide specialized services to homeless people, and some offer mental health services at specific times.

“The health sector in San Juan will be transformed with this unprecedented allocation. And to help prevent that another storm causes similar damage again, the federal share includes nearly $1.7 million for work that will strengthen the roofs and protect electric equipment,” stated FEMA’s Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero.

The health centers that will benefit from this obligation are the José S. Belaval CDT, Más Salud Dr. Gualberto Rabell Center, Dr. José López Antongiorgi CDT, Dr. Olivera Guerra CDT, Dr. Enrique Koppisch CDT and the Dr. Manuel Quevedo Báez CDT. To date, FEMA has obligated more than $168 million to the Municipality of San Juan for emergency and permanent work.

“Today is a great day for the residents of San Juan and for public health in Puerto Rico. The obligation will allow us to update important centers that provide comprehensive and accessible care to the individuals and families of the Capital City, whether residents, neighbors or visitors, regardless of their financial situation or migratory status. [They] offer direct services that are essential to accomplishing the quality of life that we aim for our town. This will also allow us to improve the work areas of our talented and committed medical faculty, as well as administrative staff, essential to continue improving the service to our town,” said Miguel A. Romero Lugo, the mayor of San Juan.

For the Más Salud Dr. Gualberto Rabell Center in Santurce, which specializes in mental health services, over $10.4 million are earmarked to remove doors, the acoustic panels, the air conditioning units and the condenser, among others. These works have already been completed and lighting work, the installation of membranes on the roof, waterproofing of windows and improvements to the drain systems to prevent leaks are pending.

Moreover, at the Dr. Enrique Koppisch CDT in Río Piedras, some works were completed like the repair of the emergency generator, the removal and replacement of the air conduits, acoustic panels, luminaries, among others. Within the share of $2.8 million approved for this facility, over $460,000 were addressed towards hazard mitigation measures like the installation of membranes on the roof.

Likewise, the residents of the Sabana Llana area will have a repaired health center. The Dr. Olivera Guerra CDT, which has offered services for over 55 years, has completed part of its repairs, like the replacement of the air conditioning units. The work will continue with the replacement of gates, LED lighting and windows with over $2.7 million assigned.

The projects for the S. Belaval CDT and Más Salud Dr. Gualberto Rabell Center are covered under the Bipartisan Budget Act, which ensures that Puerto Rico rebuilds its critical services facilities according to the current industry standards without having to consider their conditions prior to the disaster.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Sun, 04/03/2022 - 13:23

Happening Today: FEMA’s Podcast Relaunches with New Focus, Format

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that FEMA is relaunching the agency’s podcast, “Before, During & After” across multiple platforms today.

The podcast will offer a new format with information and insights tailored to the nation’s emergency management community. The first of the relaunched episodes is a one-on-one interview with Administrator Criswell, setting the stage with a robust discussion of the agency’s priorities in the years ahead.

“It is FEMA’s priority to engage and empower all communities to help us become a more prepared and resilient nation,” Criswell said. “The podcast will provide listeners with insight into where emergency management is headed, how we are preparing today for the threats of tomorrow and how each of us has a role in keeping our communities safe from future disasters.”

Release of the podcast is being done on the agency’s 43rd anniversary, marking the date President Jimmy Carter signed an executive order on April 1, 1979 establishing FEMA.

“Before, During & After - a Podcast from FEMA” is available on Apple iTunes, Google Play or www.FEMA.gov/podcast to stream or download. Approximately 20 to 30 minutes in length, the podcast will be updated with a new episode on a bi-weekly basis. By subscribing, new episodes will automatically update on a listener’s device.

Each podcast is fully accessible to listeners within the deaf and hard of hearing community, with subtitle text uploaded to all platforms alongside the audio. Transcripts of episodes are also posted on FEMA.gov/podcast.

Future podcast episodes will cover FEMA’s work in climate resilience and adaptation, how equity is being instilled into emergency management, recent disaster recovery efforts and resources available to better prepare for future disaster risks.

For more information about “Before, During & After - a Podcast from FEMA” or to provide ideas for future episodes, visit www.FEMA.gov/podcast.   

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 04/01/2022 - 14:59