Jefferson and Shelby County Disaster Survivors: Be Alert to Fraud & Scams

CLANTON, Ala. – Disaster survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.

If a FEMA Inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.

If you did not apply for assistance, but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 from 6 a.m. until midnight Central Time and multilingual staff are available. The helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application.

If you do wish to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the Helpline will assist you in creating a new application.

Scams

FEMA housing inspectors carry visible official identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.

Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.

Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. FEMA representatives will have a photo-ID badge and your FEMA application number.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the Office of the Attorney General: 

If you believe you or a loved one has become a victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the office of the Alabama Attorney General:

• Office Main Number: 334-242-7300
• Consumer Protection Hotline: 800-392-5658
• Office of Victim Assistance: 800-626-7676
• www.ago.state.al.us/Page-Consumer-Protection  

If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.

If you suspect identity theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov.

 

For more information about Alabama disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4632. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 12/28/2021 - 17:23

One Month Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance for Those Impacted by Remnants of Hurricane Ida in Connecticut

HARTFORD, Conn. – Connecticut residents in Fairfield, New Haven and New London counties who suffered damage or losses from remnants of Hurricane Ida, have one month left to apply for disaster assistance with FEMA and low-interest disaster loans with U.S. Small Business Administration.

FEMA disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. The application deadline is Jan. 28, 2022.

Survivors may register with FEMA the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download the FEMA app
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Lines are open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Help is available in most languages.

Survivors should keep their contact information updated because FEMA may need to reach them to perform a home inspection or get additional information. FEMA encourages survivors to request direct deposit of disaster assistance to their financial institution. Survivors should let FEMA know as soon as possible of any changes to their mailing or banking information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

Low-interest Disaster Loans

U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loans are available for businesses, homeowners and renters.  Next to insurance, low-interest disaster loans from SBA are the primary source of funds for Connecticut disaster survivors to make property repairs and replace personal property destroyed by Hurricane Ida.

Through SBA, homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

SBA can also help businesses and private nonprofit organizations with up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and other business assets. Additionally, eligible small businesses and nonprofits can apply for economic injury disaster loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.

For more information, or to request a paper application, contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center call 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit SBA’s website at sba.gov/disaster. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

The application filing deadline for SBA physical damage loans is Jan. 28, 2022.

The application filing deadline for SBA economic injury loans for businesses affected by the storm is Aug. 1, 2022.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/28/2021 - 17:15

FEMA Obligations for Permanent Work Increase

84 percent of the funds granted during 2021 were for reconstruction work following María

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – While the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maintained a fast-paced obligation of funds last year, construction work leads the way towards the revitalization of many communities throughout the island.

To date, FEMA has allocated over $25.7 billion in federal funds, of which more than $19 billion are for permanent work. Hundreds of projects have already been completed, while others are on the initial stages of construction.

“When we attend groundbreaking ceremonies across the island, we take great pride in the duty and responsibility that we have. Each work confirms that the Island is on a steady pace towards recovery,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.

Roads and Bridges

The municipality with the greatest number of obligations for permanent repairs to roads and bridges is Jayuya, for a total of $6.3 million to manage projects such as PR-144 in the Las Arenas neighborhood and the Miguel Orlando sector. At a state level, $110 million were also approved in 2021 for the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works to repair roads along the island.

In Puerto Rico’s central region, municipalities like Orocovis and Barranquitas have received allocations that allowed them to repair the main roads for the residents in those communities. Barranquitas was approved over $300,000, with which it managed to repair the Julián Hernández road at the Palo Hincado neighborhood, the rural road that grants access to Orocovis, Coamo and different sectors within the municipality.

“Thanks to this project we are connected to the rest of the community. Some water pipes that were greatly affected were also included. Now our families will be able to have a good quality of life,” said Gerardo Hernández Ortiz resident of said community in Barranquitas.

Likewise, the Municipality of Orocovis renovated roads on the Saltos neighborhood, repaired a bridge, a community center and more with an allocation of over $1.5 million. “Through the FEMA funds, we made a project to reconnect a bridge with its two ends. We were able to practically connect the communities of Saltos with the town,” said the Mayor of Orocovis, Jesús Colón Berlingeri.

FEMA Accelerated Awards Strategy

The Accelerated Awards Strategy, known as FAASt, allows the grouping of permanent work critical infrastructure projects for the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewers Authority (PRASA) and the Puerto Rico Department of Education (PRDE) respectively to speed up the award process.

On January 2021, a total of $3.6 billion was awarded to PRASA through this initiative. One of the construction works that is in progress is PRASA’s Central Laboratory in Caguas. This project is one of the most significant because of the impact and importance of the essential services for thousands of people.

Mitigation Measures

In terms of measures to prevent damage from future disasters, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) earmarked approximately $3 billion for the island. This is the program's largest amount for a disaster in FEMA history.

Also, FEMA identified opportunities to mitigate future damage in 5,110 Public Assistance projects. To this end, nearly $635 million have been granted for mitigation activities like the waterproofing of roofs, reinforcement of doors and windows, increase bridge protection, among others.

An example of this are completed repairs at the Puerto Rico Institute of Culture’s general archive, thanks to federal funding of nearly $3.1 million. At this facility, built in 1885, windows, components of the roof and lighting were replaced with the purpose of strengthening the structure which houses important documents of great historical value to the island.

Future Projections

Facing 2022, FEMA foresees it will address all remaining recovery projects related to Hurricane María, with the exception of the FAASt projects. “A little over four years after María, the accomplishments in terms of the obligation of funds have been many and part of this job translates into constructions started or in process. Our focus for 2022 is to maintain this work rhythm to contribute to Puerto Rico’s future” concluded Baquero.

Furthermore, Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3), said that this was a very productive year in terms of establishing the necessary conditions for the development of permanent construction projects.  He also added that for next year it is projected that about 2,000 projects will be under construction, which represents an investment of over $3 billion. Meanwhile, under HMGP, projects estimated at $2 billion will be submitted to FEMA during 2022.

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

CAGUAS, Puerto Rico (July 15, 2021) – On January 2021, a total of $3.6 billion was awarded to PRASA through the Accelerated Awards Strategy, known as FAASt initiative. One of the construction works that is in progress is PRASA’s Central Laboratory in Caguas. This project is one of the most significant because of the impact and importance of the essential services for thousands of people. Photo FEMA / Eliezer Hernández

BARRANQUITAS, Puerto Rico (December 14, 2021) – Barranquitas was approved over $300,000, with which it managed to repair the Julián Hernández road at the Palo Hincado neighborhood, the rural road that grants access to Orocovis, Coamo and different sectors within the municipality. Photo FEMA / Eduardo Martínez

frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 12/28/2021 - 11:37

FEMA Extends Deadline for Public Assistance Application for Hurricane Ida until Feb. 11, 2022

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA has extended the period for applicants to request Public Assistance grants for Hurricane Ida. The new deadline is Feb. 11, 2022.

The Public Assistance (PA) Program delivers FEMA grant assistance to local and state governments and their agencies, houses of worship and certain private nonprofit applicants following a disaster declaration.

Communities, nonprofits and houses of worship interested in applying for a PA grant should contact their local or state emergency manager to begin the process and submit a Request for Public Assistance form. Applicants are highly encouraged to submit their forms through the online FEMA Grants Portal for faster processing.

kiarash.ghiam Mon, 12/27/2021 - 20:15

Disaster Recovery Center Reopens in Fulton County

FRANKFORT, Ky – The Disaster Recovery Center in Fulton County will reopen at noon on Dec. 27.

The location is as follows:  

FULTON COUNTY Gibson Electric Membership Corp. 1702 Moscow Ave., Hickman, KY 42050

The Disaster Recovery Centers, operated by the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and FEMA, offer in-person support to survivors in the designated counties of Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren.

FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs. Other Disaster Recovery Centers will open across the Kentucky disaster area in the coming days.

Additional Disaster Recovery Center Locations currently open:

HOPKINS COUNTY Central High School 6625 Hopkinsville Road, Madisonville KY 42431

WARREN COUNTY Former Sears location at Greenwood Mall 2625 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104

CALDWELL COUNTY Butler Gymnasium 600 W. Main St., Princeton, KY 42445

MUHLENBERG COUNTY Neal’s Chapel General Baptist Church State Route 81, Sacramento, KY 42372

MARSHALL COUNTY Joe Creason Community Center 1600 Park Ave., Benton, KY 42025

GRAVES COUNTY Graves County Public Library 601 N. 17th St., Mayfield, KY 42066

Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST Monday through Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. CST Sunday, until further notice.

To find the latest Disaster Recovery Center information, open the FEMA App on your smart phone, click on “Talk to FEMA in person.” The centers are all listed with pertinent details.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

The Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are federal facilities and under COVID-19 protocols a face mask is required. If you do not have a mask, one can be provided.

Mobile Registration Center Locations

In addition to the newly opened DRCs, Mobile Registration Centers are open to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and provide information about resources for survivors. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST) daily, For an updated list of locations, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630.

You do not need to visit a center to apply with FEMA

If you are unable to visit one of the centers, there are other ways to apply: You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, you can provide FEMA the number for that service.

When you apply, you will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is Feb. 11, 2022.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

 

scott.reuter Mon, 12/27/2021 - 17:37

Two Weeks Left to Register for New Jersey Ida Disaster Assistance

TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey homeowners, renters and businesses who had property damage or loss caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida from Sept. 1–3, 2021, have less than two weeks to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for assistance from FEMA and for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022.

Federal disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property losses, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

If you live in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union or Warren counties, you can register for disaster assistance, update your contact information, ask questions about a letter from FEMA, get information about FEMA home inspections, or learn how to appeal a FEMA decision by:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Downloading the FEMA app; or
• Calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  Multilingual operators are available.

You should have the following information available when you are ready to register

• Address of the damaged primary dwelling
• Current mailing address, telephone number and Social Security number
• Your insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account numbers for checking or savings accounts for direct deposit; and
• A description of disaster damage and losses.

The primary source of federal funding for long-term disaster recovery not covered by insurance is the Small Business Administration. SBA offers disaster assistance in the form of low interest loans to businesses, nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters. SBA also provides eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations with working capital to help overcome an economic injury.

Homeowners, renters and businesses that were affected by Hurricane Ida may apply for disaster loans using SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/, and should apply under SBA declaration #17143. For more information, applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

amir.nijem Mon, 12/27/2021 - 14:57

Marion County Designated for FEMA Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky –Marion County residents may now be eligible for FEMA assistance for damage suffered during the Dec. 10 storms and tornadoes.

Individuals and households in the designated counties may apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, which may include temporary housing assistance, basic home repairs and certain other uninsured disaster-related needs.

Other counties previously designated for assistance are: Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren.

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

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

Residents may also visit a disaster recovery center to apply with FEMA. For an updated list of locations, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is Feb. 11, 2022.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw

Marion County also joins Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor, and Warren counties designated for FEMA Public Assistance, which provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of eligible emergency protective measures and debris removal.

Under the President’s order, the federal share for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B), including direct federal assistance, has been increased to 100 percent of the total eligible costs, for a 30-day period from the date of the declaration.

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Fri, 12/24/2021 - 23:26

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Marshall County

FRANKFORT, Ky – A Disaster Recovery Center is now open in Marshall County in addition to the recovery centers already open in Caldwell, Hopkins, Muhlenberg and Warren counties.

The Disaster Recovery Centers, operated by the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and FEMA, offer in-person support to survivors in the designated counties of Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren.

FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs.

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers will open across the Kentucky disaster area in the coming days.

Disaster Recovery Center Locations

HOPKINS COUNTY #1

Central High School, 6625 Hopkinsville Road, Madisonville KY 42431

 

WARREN COUNTY #2

Former Sears location at Greenwood Mall, 2625 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104

 

CALDWELL COUNTY #3

Butler Gymnasium, 600 W. Main St., Princeton, KY 42445

 

MUHLENBERG COUNTY #4

Neal’s Chapel General Baptist Church, State Route 81, Sacramento, KY 42372

 

MARSHALL COUNTY #6

Joe Creason Community Center, 1600 Park Ave., Benton, KY 42025

Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST Monday through Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. CST Sunday, until further notice. All recovery centers will be closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

The DRCS are federal facilities and under COVID-19 protocols a face mask is required. If you do not have a mask, one can be provided.

Mobile Registration Center Locations

In addition to the newly opened Disaster Recovery Centers, Mobile Registration Centers are open to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and provide information about resources for survivors. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST) daily, except for Christmas Day. For an updated list of locations, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630.

You do not need to visit a center to apply with FEMA

If you are unable to visit one of the centers, there are other ways to apply: You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

When you apply, you will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is Feb. 11, 2022.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Fri, 12/24/2021 - 22:30

Northeast Arkansas Tornado and Storm Survivors May Apply for FEMA Assistance

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Arkansas homeowners and renters affected by the recent tornadoes and severe storms that occurred Dec. 10-11, 2021, who live in counties that have recently been designated for Individual Assistance, may apply for help from FEMA.

The designated counties are: Craighead, Jackson, Mississippi, Poinsett and Woodruff.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines will operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CST, except for Dec. 24, 25, 31 and Jan. 1 in which they will be open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

You can also use the FEMA App on your smartphone.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security number, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

As soon as it is safe to do so, start cleaning up. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans are available for homeowners, renters, businesses of any size and most nonprofits. Similar to FEMA, SBA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance.

• For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture and most nonprofits, up to $2 million is available for working capital needs even if there was no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
• For homeowners: up to $200,000 is available to repair or replace their primary residence. For homeowners and renters: up to $40,000 is available to replace personal property, including vehicles.

Businesses and residents can apply online at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov Applicants can contact an SBA customer service representative via phone at 800-659-2955 or via email at FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help each survivor recover from the disaster damage and will provide one-on-one assistance in completing applications for these loans.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4633  Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

daniel.green2 Fri, 12/24/2021 - 20:55

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Arkansas

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Arkansas to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes from Dec. 10-11, 2021. 

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Craighead, Jackson, Mississippi, Poinsett and Woodruff counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

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

Jerry S. Thomas 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 warranted by the results of damage assessments.

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

mashana.davis Fri, 12/24/2021 - 17:34

Barren County is Now Eligible for FEMA Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky – One additional county is now eligible for FEMA Assistance after the Dec. 10, 2021 storms and tornadoes.

Individuals and households in Barren County can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, which may include temporary housing assistance, basic home repairs and certain other uninsured disaster-related needs.

Barren County joins Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

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

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is Feb. 11, 2022.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

Barren County is also added to the major disaster declaration for FEMA Public Assistance, which provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of eligible emergency protective measures and debris removal.

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Thu, 12/23/2021 - 20:43

FEMA Awards $3.6 Million to Colorado for Fighting Spring Creek Wildfire

DENVER – FEMA has awarded more than $3.6 million to the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control to reimburse the cost of fire suppression measures resulting from the 2018 Spring Creek wildfire in Costilla and Huerfano Counties.

The funds are awarded through a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). FEMA provides a 75 percent share for eligible costs to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. Under this award, total eligible costs were $4,834,278.91 with the federal cost share of $3,625,709.18.

The Spring Creek Fire was human-caused and started on June 27, 2018. At the time of the FMAG request, the fire was 0% contained and threatened the Forbes Ranch Community, Wagon Creek Estates, power lines, and other infrastructure. This created an immediate threat to property and the health and safety of the public. The fire ultimately burned 108,045 acres and destroyed 140 buildings. It was the third largest wildfire in Colorado’s history at the time.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details.

Brian.Hvinden Thu, 12/23/2021 - 20:37

Survivors can visit Westwego Disaster Recovery Center until Dec. 29

BATON ROUGE, La. – Survivors have a few more days to visit the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at the Alario Center in Westwego. The center will close permanently at 4 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 29. Prior to its final closure, the center will close for the holidays from Dec. 23 to 26. It reopens for its final three days from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday, Dec. 27.

FEMA specialists will be available to work with survivors until the center closes.

Although the center in Westwego is closing, residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida may continue to visit any open center. To locate a center, check the FEMA app, visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 12/23/2021 - 15:22

Alabama Disaster Survivors Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Residents of Jefferson and Shelby counties in Alabama who were affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred Oct. 6-7, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

President Joseph Biden approved a major disaster declaration on Dec. 21. Residents in the designated counties can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. When you apply, you will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

 

If you have homeowners or renter’s insurance, you must also file a claim with your insurance company. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. You will need to provide your insurance claim information to FEMA to determine eligibility for federal assistance.

Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, along with other programs to assist those recovering from the storms.

For more information about Alabama disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4632. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 12/22/2021 - 15:50

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to supplement the tribe’s efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from July 12 to Aug. 8, 2021.

Federal funding is available to the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and certain private nonprofit organizations organized or doing business under tribal law on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by wildfires on Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation land.

The federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.

Thomas J. Dargan has been named as 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 tribe and warranted by the results of further assessments.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 12/22/2021 - 14:49

As Federal Assistance Tops $34 million, Local, State and Federal Agencies Still Committed to Connecticut Recovery

HARTFORD, Conn. – More than three-months after remnants of Hurricane Ida ripped through Connecticut communities, more than $34 million in direct federal assistance has been disbursed to help individuals, households and businesses on their road to recovery. State, federal, volunteer, local and community partners remain committed to Connecticut disaster survivors with damage and losses from the remnants of Hurricane Ida.

By the Numbers

To date, FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program has provided nearly $6.4 million in federal grants. This amount includes more than $6 million in individual assistance for temporary housing and rental and home repair or replacement and $341,547 in other needs assistance (ONA) which can help pay for disaster damaged personal property, transportation, and moving and storage expenses.

In addition, the U.S Small Business Administration has approved nearly $9.4 million in SBA disaster loans to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from remnants of Hurricane Ida.

The National Flood Insurance Program has also paid nearly $18.8 million to policy holders. The program allows property owners in communities that participate in NFIP to purchase flood insurance administered by the federal government.

Federal, State, Community Resources Still Available

FEMA along with the State of Connecticut and their local and federal partners continue to provide resources and help to Connecticut residents affected September’s storm.

Stay in Touch with FEMA — If you registered for disaster assistance it’s important that you stay in touch. Missing or incomplete information can delay disaster assistance.

If you need help with an existing application, visit DisasterAssistance.gov; download the FEMA app; or call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  Multilingual operators are available. Callers should refer to their nine-digit registration number, which can be found on all communications from FEMA. Below is a list of resources to help survivors keep

File an Appeal with FEMA — If you are found to be ineligible for disaster assistance, or you feel the award amount is insufficient, you have the right to an appeal. Carefully read your determination letter to understand why the decision was made and how you can receive the assistance you need. For more information, you may contact the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).

Follow Up on U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance Loans — If you applied for an SBA loan after the disaster declaration and want to follow up or have any questions about your loan, contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800- 659-2955, or emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339. To apply visit SBA’s website at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/.

Disaster Legal Services—For information and referrals to Connecticut attorneys providing free and reduced fee legal services to individuals affected by a disaster. Call 800-453-3320 or apply online at https://apply.slsct.org/.

For a list of local and community organizations available to provide disaster recovery resources in Connecticut visit https://go.usa.gov/xetGd

adrien.urbani Wed, 12/22/2021 - 14:39

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Alabama

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Alabama to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from October 6-7, 2021.

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

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

Alan Jarvis 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 warranted by the results of damage assessments.

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

mashana.davis Tue, 12/21/2021 - 23:58

Waiting for Answers on your FEMA Application? Follow up with FEMA

BATON ROUGE, La.— If you have not yet received a payment or followed up on your determination letter from FEMA, you can do something to move the process along: call us, visit us online or use the FEMA app – just don’t wait. FEMA may be able to help!

First, read your FEMA determination letter carefully. It tells you FEMA’s original decision and tells you what actions might be needed to change that decision.

One obstacle may be your homeowner or renters’ insurance documentation. After Hurricane Ida, insurance settlements have taken longer than usual to process. FEMA cannot complete your application until a copy of the insurance settlement is in your file. Once you receive the information from your agent, be sure to give a copy to FEMA.

Another problem may be documents that you are having trouble finding. If you are having a problem proving where you lived when the hurricane struck or proving you owned the damaged property, let FEMA know. We have specialists who can advise where to get the paperwork you need. Many forms of proof are accepted that you may not have even thought of.

If you are claiming assistance for non-housing aid FEMA gives under its Other Needs Assistance (ONA) Program for things such as funeral assistance, medical and dental assistance, childcare assistance, moving and storage assistance, you simply need to provide receipts for these items.

For loss of personal property, transportation (your car, motorcycle, etc.) or funding for group flood insurance, there is an additional step having to do with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If FEMA does not refer you to the SBA program for a low-interest disaster loan or you fill out the paperwork for a loan but are denied, then you may qualify for these types of additional Other Needs assistance and you will again need to provide receipts. If you qualify for an SBA loan, but choose not to accept one, ONA may not be available.

If you want to know your options or have questions about your application, FEMA staff are available to assist – you can call the FEMA Helpline (800-621-3362) or visit one of the open disaster recovery centers in Louisiana to speak face-to-face with a FEMA representative. Find your nearest center by visiting www.fema.gov/DRC.

You can reach FEMA in several ways:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Calling the FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available; or
• Downloading the FEMA app.

kiarash.ghiam Tue, 12/21/2021 - 19:01

FEMA Working Through the Holiday Season for Hurricane Ida Survivors

BATON ROUGE, La. – Home for the holidays has a much greater meaning for those affected by Hurricane Ida. FEMA will be working through the holiday season to continue recovery efforts, including helping eligible survivors into homes.

“We are working with a keen sense of urgency,” said Federal Coordinating Officer John Long. “We know that being in your home, albeit a temporary one, makes all the difference after a disaster, especially during the holidays.”

Each housing program is unique, and every application is evaluated individually for eligibility. FEMA determines if applicants are eligible and then survivors are matched with the best available housing solution to meet their individual needs.

FEMA is making progress. The direct, short-term, housing assistance team continues to rollout manufactured housing units and travel trailers. As of Dec. 17, 233 units have been “licensed in,” which means families have been given the keys and taken possession of their temporary home and survivors will continued to be licensed-in throughout the holidays.

More than 816,000 Louisianans have been approved for federal assistance. To date, more than $1 billion has been put in the hands of survivors. More than 614,000 households have received more than $807,000 in Critical Needs Assistance. In addition, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has paid $585 million in 14,359 claims have been submitted. Individuals have also been approved for more than $1.2 billion in home loan assistance through the Small Business Administration. 

FEMA is also working hard to find financial help for survivors who don’t qualify for federal assistance. Using an automation calling center, FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) team contacted survivors generating more than $6 million in insurance (coverage) funds to survivors.

Additionally, survivors can meet face-to-face with mitigation experts for rebuilding and repairing advice at big box stores from Dec. 27 – 30 and Jan. 3. Those experts will also be available at FEMA DRCs as long as they remain open.

You may also call 833-FEMA-4-US or 833-336-2487 to speak to a mitigation specialist.  You can email a specialist at FEMA-LAMit@fema.dhs.gov. Visit a mitigation web link to find repairing, retrofitting, and rebuilding information at https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lamit, https://fema.connectsolutions.com/la-es-mit for Spanish, or https://fema.connectsolutions.com/la-vie-mit for Vietnamese.

To learn the status of your application, residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can talk with FEMA specialists at Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) Monday - Friday. For locations and hours of operation check the FEMA app or visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

Applicants can also call the FEMA Helpline from 6 a.m. – 11 p.m., seven days a week at 800-621-3362. Holliday hours for the Helpline will be 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 24 – 25 and Dec. 31 - Jan. 1.

All DRCs will be closed from Dec. 24 – Dec. 26 and again the following week from Dec. 31 – Jan. 2. However, survivors can check the status of their application 24/7 online at disasterassistance.gov

kiarash.ghiam Tue, 12/21/2021 - 17:30

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for the Holidays

BATON ROUGE, La. – All Disaster Recovery Centers in Louisiana will be closed Dec. 24 – 26 and close again the following week Dec. 31 - Jan. 2 for the holidays.

The Alario Center in Westwego has a different schedule. It will be closed Dec. 23 – 26. It will open again Dec. 27 before closing permanently at 4 p.m. on Dec. 29.

For hours and other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA DRC Locator for a complete list of DRCs currently open in Louisiana. All centers will follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks will be required by both FEMA specialists and survivors. 

kiarash.ghiam Mon, 12/20/2021 - 20:00