NJ Storm Survivors: FEMA Registration Deadline Approaching

TRENTON, N.J. – The deadline is approaching for New Jersey homeowners and renters who had property damage or loss caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida from Sept. 1–3, 2021, to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is Monday, Dec. 6, 2021.

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. 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 where damage occurred
• 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.

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

amir.nijem Thu, 11/18/2021 - 17:28

What to Expect in FEMA Home Inspections

PEARL, Miss. – Individuals and households who live in Amite, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Pearl River, Pike, Walthall and Wilkinson counties who were affected by Hurricane Ida from Aug. 28 – Sept. 1, 2021 and applied for federal assistance may need to have their homes inspected to verify losses.

If you have already begun repairs and replacement, damage should be documented through photos/videos. All receipts for disaster-related purchases should be kept.

If you carry homeowners insurance, FEMA may not send an inspector right away. You’ll need to submit insurance documentation to verify your coverage doesn’t meet your disaster-related needs or you have exhausted the Additional Living Expenses provided by the insurance company. FEMA cannot pay for damage covered by insurance or duplicate benefits from another source.

If you apply for FEMA assistance, a home inspector will contact you to schedule an appointment within 1 to 10 days. During that call, write down:

• The inspector's name;
• Date of call;
• Date and time of appointment; and
• Inspector’s telephone number.

The inspection generally takes 30 to 40 minutes and consists of looking at disaster-damaged areas of your home and reviewing your records. Inspectors can only verify your loss. They do not decide the outcome of your application for disaster assistance nor condemn property. FEMA inspects damaged property for disaster-recovery program purposes only. Inspectors will never ask for money.

The inspector will ask to see:

• Photo identification.
• Proof of ownership/occupancy of damaged residence such as homeowners insurance, a tax bill, mortgage-payment book or utility bill.
• Insurance documents: homeowners, mobile home, condominium and renters’ policies.
• List of household occupants living in residence at time of disaster.
• Disaster-caused damages and disaster-related losses to structural and personal property.

Your inspector will have FEMA identification in the form of a badge with a photo. If the inspector does not show you photo identification, do not proceed with the inspection.

FEMA has recently amended the criteria for which Individual Assistance is offered to disaster survivors. These include:

.

• Issuing inspections for applicants that are pending verifications for identity, occupancy, and/or ownership and providing additional support to verify these requirements at the time of inspection and through additional outreach.
• Providing financial assistance to applicants for the cost of needs (limited to wheelchair ramp, grab bars, and a paved path) due to a disaster-caused disability, when these items were not present in the home before the disaster.
• Providing financial assistance to repair property damaged by disaster-caused mold growth.

You should receive a determination letter with their eligibility decision and the reason for it by regular mail or email, typically on the same day or within 10 days after the inspection.

For those who are eligible, the letter states the dollar amount of the grant and how the money must be used. If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, the letter explains how you can appeal the decision.

Read your determination letter carefully. FEMA may need additional information or documentation from you — such as an insurance settlement showing you may not have been covered for all your essential needs — before you can be reconsidered for federal assistance.

If you have any questions, you can always contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. If you use 711 or Video Relay Service, call 800-621-3362. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time. Find more details about the FEMA inspection process by visiting www.fema.gov/what-happens-inspection.

 

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                       FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during, and after disasters

ricardo.zuniga Thu, 11/18/2021 - 17:18

Help is Still Available After Disaster Recovery Centers Close

HARRISBURG, PA – In close coordination with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, each county affected by Hurricane Ida, and FEMA, a decision was made to close the remaining Disaster Recovery Centers in Pennsylvania.

Even after the remaining Centers close on Nov. 20, FEMA will still be available to help survivors register for assistance, get updates about applications, learn about the appeals process, or check the status of their claim.

The Centers at the Bedford Fire Department, 248 W Penn St, Bedford, and Manchester Township Municipal Building, 3200 Farmtrail Rd, York will cease operations on Saturday, Nov. 20 at 5:00 p.m.

The Deadline to register for assistance is Dec. 10. You will still be able to register until that time:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov  
• Through the FEMA App that you can download from Google Play or the Apple App store.  
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 1-800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. EST.

After the registration deadline, FEMA will continue to be available, as above, to answer questions and provide updates about your registration status.

Recovery officials encourage Pennsylvania residents who registered for disaster assistance with FEMA to stay in touch. If survivors change addresses or phone numbers, they should contact FEMA to update their information. Missing or erroneous information could result in delays in receiving assistance.

For updates on the Pennsylvania response and recovery, follow the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency twitter.com/PEMAHQ on Twitter and Facebook https://m.facebook.com/PEMAHQ/. Additional information is available at fema.gov/disaster/4618.

valerie.amato Thu, 11/18/2021 - 15:47

Keep Your Recovery on Track – Stay in Touch with FEMA

Connecticut residents who registered with FEMA for help after severe storms and flooding caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida, should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure the disaster assistance process stays on track.

Whether you need to update contact information, provide documents, or file an appeal, it’s important that you stay in touch with FEMA and update information as soon as possible.

Having accurate contact information on file is especially important, as FEMA may need to reach you to perform home inspections or ask for additional information needed to complete the application process.

FEMA encourages survivors to request direct deposits of disaster assistance to their checking or savings accounts. Survivors should let FEMA know as soon as possible of any changes to their banking information.

It’s important to note that FEMA disaster assistance checks cannot be forwarded. If you cannot access your home address, you can request the postal service to hold your mail.

Survivors who registered with FEMA may update contact information the following ways:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA app
• Calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

adrien.urbani Thu, 11/18/2021 - 15:36

FEMA Commemorates National Native American Heritage Month

WASHINGTON -- November is National Native American Heritage Month in which we observe and honor the rich history, culture and contributions of our nation's first peoples.

As President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. highlights in his 2021 National Native American Heritage Month proclamation, American Indian and Alaska Native peoples have represented unyielding perseverance, “Despite a painful history marked by unjust federal policies of assimilation and termination.”

“Every day, we are working to advance our mission to ensure our programs are fully accessible to all communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Tribal nations remain at the forefront of those efforts, and we are committed to helping meet their unique needs which have been exacerbated by climate change and the pandemic.”

With 574 federally recognized tribal nations that govern an estimated 100 million acres of indigenous land across the United States, native peoples have confronted the effects of climate change using innovative and traditional key mitigation measures dating back thousands of years. As a nation, and as an agency, we have the opportunity to develop future mitigation efforts that are inspired by techniques implemented by native peoples.

Administrator Criswell has heard directly from tribal leaders and community members throughout the year about the first-hand impacts and challenges they continue to face as a result of climate change. They voiced the ongoing threats to their ecosystems, water infrastructure, public safety, heritage, traditions and the need for increased funding and technical assistance to address these disproportionate impacts.

Through pre-disaster programs such as FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) and the $6.8 billion in funding provided through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, tribal nations can access the resources needed to assist in mitigating the current and future impacts of climate change.

The observance of National Native American Heritage Month is also representative of FEMA's dedication to further racial equity and uplift the agency's core values -- compassion, fairness, integrity and respect. This month and every month, FEMA remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting tribal nations as they build resilient and prepared communities.

FEMA also recognizes its Tribal Employee Resource Group (FERG), established earlier this year to help foster a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Tribal FERG is a voluntary, employee-led group that will assist with recruitment and outreach events, organize networking and mentoring opportunities and host commemorative, cultural, educational and social events.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 11/17/2021 - 15:27

FEMA Approves Over $142 Million for Schools Affected by Earthquakes

The sum includes $24.4 million to repair schools in Guánica, Mayagüez, Peñuelas, Ponce, San Germán and Yauco

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated over $24.4 million during October and November to repair and reinforce various schools in the South and West regions of Puerto Rico that experienced structural damage caused by the 2020 earthquakes. To date, over $142 million has been obligated to the Puerto Rico Department of Education for 115 permanent work projects that address damage related to the tremors.

Due to the amount of structural damage caused by the earthquakes, most of the allocated funds will be used for mitigation works such as installing supports and steel structural reinforcements to protect the buildings in case of a future seismic event.

“Investing in construction works related to education has a ripple effect in Puerto Rico’s recovery. Although it’s true that the construction industry plays a vital role in any country’s economy, when the works relate to education, the impact is even greater because the education of children and youths is one of our most important assets, it is the future of Puerto Rico,” said FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.

The funds include nearly $1.2 million to repair the Segundo Ruiz Belvis elementary school – built during the 1940’s – over $2.7 million for the Eugenio María de Hostos High School and nearly $3.9 million for the Dr. Pedro Perea Fajardo Vocational Superior Public School, all three located in Mayagüez. Between the three campuses there is an enrollment of approximately 1,870 students who will benefit from the reconstructed spaces.

“School infrastructure improvement work is at the top of our work agenda through our Reconstruction Office.  We have moved forward with several auctions of these projects which will allow permanent improvements to begin at the schools.  Our vision is to make school environments safe and comfortable in a way that facilitates better outcomes for our students,” said the Acting Secretary of the Puerto Rico Department of Education, Eliezer Ramos Parés.

Another school building that was earmarked to receive federal funding was the Josefa Vélez Bauzá High School at the Cotto neighborhood in Peñuelas. This is the only high school in town and the third in the southern region with the greatest school enrollment with over 700 students. With the obligation of nearly $2.9 million, funds were budgeted to reinforce shear walls and columns with steel beams and supports. “This is the best news I’ve received,” said the school’s Director, Miguel Rodríguez. “The school is a safe area, the only space where we provide meals and safety to many students. Also, this allows us to continue the expansion that we had planned,” he added.

Likewise, Peñuelas Mayor Gregory Gonsález Souchet commented that the allocation of funds for the repair of schools is fundamental in the reconstruction aspects of the municipality.  “We are aware that each job takes time. We are confident that the reconstruction of our schools will be carried out in a short time and that our youth will be able to return to their classrooms regularly,” the mayor said.

In addition, funding approved to Ponce includes nearly $2.1 million for the Eugenio Le Compte Benitez, over $2.1 for the Manuel González Pató Middle School at la Rambla urbanization, $1.9 million for Bethzaida Velázquez Andújar High School at the Las Delicias sector and over $1.4 million for Aurea E. Rivera Collazo Elementary School, located at the El Madrigal neighborhood.

All four schools have similar damage –broken walls and columns and damage to their facade and common areas. As in the other schools, most of the allocation will cover mitigation works to reinforce the columns and shear walls to reduce possible damage in case of a future earthquake.

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3), said, this multi-million-dollar obligation will have a significant impact not only on the earthquake recovery process, but also on the lives of thousands of students who are eager to resume their school life by returning to their classrooms. “Our team at COR3 will continue to assist in these efforts to provide school communities with resilient and safe spaces that allow for the socioeconomic development of Puerto Rico”, he added.

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 Wed, 11/17/2021 - 11:47

Six Disaster Recovery Centers to Close Permanently Nov. 18-20

BATON ROUGE, La. – The Disaster Recovery Centers at the following locations will close permanently this week.

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit a number of other centers open in Louisiana. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists at the following centers until they close permanently.

DRCs Closing Nov. 18 DRCs Closing Nov. 19 DRCs Closing Nov. 20

Convent Senior Center

5775 Hwy. 44 Convent, LA 70723

• Closes at 6 p.m.

Plaquemines Parish Government Complex

333 F. Edward Hebert Blvd. Belle Chasse, LA 70037

• Closes at 6 p.m.

St. Helena Parish 5th Ward Recreation District (parking lot)

31676 Hwy. 16 Amite, LA 70442

• Closes at 6 p.m.

AMVETS Post 68

26890 Hwy. 42 Springfield, LA 70462

• Closes at 6 p.m.

Port Sulphur YMCA

278 Civic Center Dr. Port Sulphur, LA 70083

• Closes at 5 p.m.

   

American Legion Home

63349 Hwy. 10 Bogalusa, LA 70427

• Closes at 6 p.m.

 

 

sandra.habib Tue, 11/16/2021 - 15:47

Two FEMA Recovery Centers Open in Fairfield County

Hartford, Conn.– Two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) opened today in Bridgeport and Greenwich (Fairfield County) to help Connecticut residents affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  

Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the center to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about FEMA letters and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

The DRCs are located at:

Bridgeport: Bridgeport Public Library, 925 Broad St., Bridgeport, CT, 06604

Hours for the Bridgeport location are: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; Noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and Closed Sunday

Greenwich: Glenville Fire Station, 266 Glenville Rd., Greenwich, CT 06831

The Greenwich location will open at 10 a.m. Tuesday Nov. 16, normal hours of operation are as: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; Closed Sunday.

Help is still available on Sunday by calling the Disaster Assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Survivors can ask questions or seek further information in person at the DRC, in addition to online or by phone. Survivors can visit any of the DRC locations and can also find their closest location through the FEMA App.  To download the FEMA App please visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

To help alleviate the risk of COVID-19 being spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering is required to gain entry. Hand sanitizer is available to survivors and staff.

Workstations are spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA ensures that common areas are cleaned regularly, and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Individuals in Fairfield and New London Counties are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. FEMA is working with state officials to open further centers throughout declared counties.

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.

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

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

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4629. Follow the FEMA Region 1 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion1.

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

adrien.urbani Tue, 11/16/2021 - 15:08

Infrastructure Deal Provides FEMA Billions for Community Mitigation Investments

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act today. The legislation takes decisive action, allowing $1.2 trillion to tackle the climate crisis and strengthen the nation’s resilience, including underserved communities that are most vulnerable.

The threat from climate change cannot be overstated and this Act provides $6.8 billion that FEMA will invest in communitywide mitigation to reduce disaster suffering and avoid future disaster costs in the face of more frequent and severe events arising from wildfires and droughts to hurricanes, tornados and floods. 

“The pace and severity of natural disasters in this country are undeniably increasing. The resources required to respond and recover from these events requires bold action from across the federal government,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.

“The bipartisan infrastructure deal provides FEMA an additional $6.8 billion to continue to address climate change through mitigation projects and establishes a new Cybersecurity Grant program. These resources will greatly assist in our Agency’s rigorous efforts to help communities build resilience and bolster their preparedness for future events.”

These funds are complementing previous award programs that FEMA has amplified to make the nation more resilient. In August 2021,  FEMA committed $3.46 billion through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program across the 59 major disaster declarations issued due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. FEMA also committed $1.16 billion earlier this year for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities and Flood Mitigation Assistance grant programs in the Fiscal Year 2021 application cycle.

In line with the White House’s Justice40 Initiative created by the Executive Order 14008 in January 2021, these investments will advance environmental justice, reduce community disaster vulnerability, promote individual and community safety and strengthen our ability as a nation to adapt to changing conditions.

Highlights

FEMA is establishing guidelines to access this significant influx of funding and looking forward to collaborating and supporting state, local, tribal and territorial partners to implement this additional funding.

The Act enables FEMA to take action now so that individuals and communities will be better positioned to adapt to climate change and recover more quickly. The impacts are alarming, and the suffering of those impacted by a disaster is devastating, especially for socially vulnerable populations who are disproportionately affected. This Act supports FEMA’s focus and commitment to help make disadvantaged communities more resilient.

The threat from climate change cannot be overstated and this Act will fund mitigation actions that will directly impact the future. We must move away from incremental mitigation measures and focus on system-wide critical lifelines and large projects that protect infrastructure and community systems. Mitigation actions and more resilient infrastructure means communities will be safer from the impacts.

Flood Mitigation Assistance

FEMA makes federal funds available through the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program to states, local communities, tribes and territories to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured under the National Flood Insurance Program.

The Act provides $3.5 billion in Flood Mitigation Assistance grants over five years -- $700 million per year, for Fiscal Years 2022 – 2026.  In previous years, the annual grant cycle for the Flood Mitigation Assistance program ranged from $150-$200 million a year. The Act more than triples the amount available for future flood mitigation.

Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities

Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) supports states, local communities, tribes and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects, reducing the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards.

The Act provides $1 billion over five years, which is in addition to the funding FEMA provides through setting aside up to 6% of the assistance the agency provides following major disaster declarations through the Public Assistance and Individuals and Households Program. The funding is based off an estimated 180 days after each declaration and does not include funding made available through the Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs.

Dam Safety

Dams play a vital role in the nation’s overall infrastructure. They contribute to the economic development of the United States and to the social welfare of the American public.  For the next five years, $733 million is awarded to FEMA in dam safety grants to states and territories to enhance dam safety and rehabilitate or remove aging dams.

Safeguarding Tomorrow Through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act

The STORM Act was signed into law on Jan. 1, 2021 and authorizes FEMA to provide capitalization grants to states or eligible tribal governments to establish revolving loan funds to provide hazard mitigation assistance to local governments to reduce risks to disasters and natural hazards.

The Infrastructure Act provides $500 million to the STORM Act, or $100 million per year for five years. This new FEMA grant program may finance water, wastewater, infrastructure, disaster recovery, community and small business development projects.

Cyber Security

The Biden administration also recognizes strong cyber security practices are needed to support states, local communities, tribes and territories.  The Act provides $1 billion over the next four years in a whole-of-nation effort to combat cyber threats and enhance cybersecurity grant programs.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 11/16/2021 - 00:21

Second FEMA Recovery Center Opens in New London County

Hartford, Conn. – A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) opened today in Norwich (New London County) to help Connecticut residents affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  

Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the center to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about FEMA letters and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

The DRC is located at:

New London County: Three Rivers Community College, 574 New London Turnpike (E Wing building, enter from north entrance), Norwich, CT 06360

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; Closed Saturday and Sunday

Help is still available on the weekend by calling the Disaster Assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

In person assistance is also available 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday until further notice at the Norwich Fire Station, 10 N. Thames St., Norwich, CT. 07055.

Survivors can ask questions or seek further information in person at the DRC, in addition to online or by phone. Survivors can visit any of the DRC locations and can also find their closest location through the FEMA App. To download the FEMA App please visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

To help alleviate the risk of COVID-19 being spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering is required to gain entry. Hand sanitizer is available to survivors and staff.

Workstations are spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA ensures that common areas are cleaned regularly, and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Individuals in Fairfield and New London Counties are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. FEMA is working with state officials to open further centers throughout declared counties.

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.

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

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

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4629. Follow the FEMA Region 1 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion1.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 11/15/2021 - 21:21

Two Weeks Remain to Apply for Hurricane Ida Assistance

BATON ROUGE, La. – Survivors of Hurricane Ida still have two weeks left to apply for individual assistance from FEMA. The final deadline to apply is Monday, Nov. 29.

FEMA assistance for individuals and families affected by Hurricane Ida can cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

The easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Phone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m., seven days a week. Individuals can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply and meet with FEMA specialists in person. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit fema.gov/DRCLocator.

Nov. 29 is also the final deadline to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan. SBA representatives are available at disaster recovery centers. Businesses and residents can also visit sba.gov/disaster-assistance, call SBA’s customer service center at 800-659-2955 (TTY) 800-877-8339, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information or to apply.

Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance. All DRC centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for all visitors, employees and volunteers.

kiarash.ghiam Mon, 11/15/2021 - 16:47

FEMA Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in New London County

Hartford, Conn.– A FEMA Mobile Disaster Recovery Center opened today in Norwich (New London county) to help Connecticut residents affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  

Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the center to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about FEMA letters and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

The MDRC is located at:

New London County:  Norwich Fire Station, 10 N. Thames St., Norwich, CT. 07055.

Hours: Open every Saturday until further notice, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To help alleviate the risk of COVID-19 being spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering is required to gain entry. Hand sanitizer is available to survivors and staff.

Workstations are spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA ensures that common areas are cleaned regularly, and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Individuals in Fairfield and New London counties are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. FEMA is working with state officials to open further centers throughout declared counties.

Survivors can ask questions or seek further information in person at the MDRC, in addition to online or by phone. Survivors can visit any of the DRC locations and can also find their closest location through the FEMA App.  To download the FEMA App please visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

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 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

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

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4629. Follow the FEMA Region 1 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion1.

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

adrien.urbani Fri, 11/12/2021 - 20:24

Two Months into Recovery, Federal Funding Tops $518 Million for New Jersey

TRENTON, N.J. – In a little more than two months since President Joe Biden declared a major disaster in New Jersey for the remnants of Hurricane Ida, more than $518 million in federal funds have been provided to New Jersey residents to aid in their recovery.

“FEMA and our state and federal partners are committed to the recovery in New Jersey,” said Patrick Cornbill, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer for the New Jersey disaster recovery operation. “The funding will help communities, households and businesses here in the Garden State start their recovery off on the right foot. Survivors also have additional time, until Dec. 6, to apply for the assistance they need.”

Here’s a breakdown, by the numbers:

• Nearly $178 million in Individual Assistance (IA) program grants provided to 35,388 homeowners and renters in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union and Warren counties. These grants help pay for uninsured and underinsured losses and storm-related damage, including:
  • More than $163 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
  • More than $14.6 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs—such as moving and storage fees, and medical and dental expenses.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved 3,845 long-term, low-interest disaster loans for a total of $180 million for New Jersey homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and to cover economic injury from the Sept. 1-3 storms.
• In addition, $160.8 million in claims have been paid to homeowners statewide insured by the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA mitigation specialists have provided advice to 4,560 individuals on flood mitigation and insurance through FEMA’s outreach activities at local hardware stores and Disaster Recovery Centers.
• FEMA has staffed and operated 16 Disaster Recovery Centers and 11 mobile centers in each of the counties designated for Individual Assistance. At the centers, survivors can speak to representatives from FEMA Individual Assistance and Hazard Mitigation programs, and SBA to get answers to disaster assistance questions. Literature is available on repairs and rebuilding to make homes disaster resistant. The centers had 8,512 visits by survivors.
• FEMA has sent Disaster Survivor Assistance teams to storm-affected neighborhoods in all IA-declared counties. These teams help residents register for assistance, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies for additional support.

To date, the teams have visited 131,708 homes, interacted with 26,805 survivors and registered 4,211 households for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

• The last day for survivors to register with FEMA for federal assistance is Monday, Dec. 6, 2021.
• The following are ways survivors can apply for disaster assistance:
  • The most convenient is by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) or apply via the FEMA app. The toll-free telephone lines are operating from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET, seven days a week.
  • 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.
  • Visit a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

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

amir.nijem Fri, 11/12/2021 - 18:11

التعافي من الكوارث يصل إلى جميع المجتمعات المتنوعة في جنوب شرق ميشيغان

ديترويت -  منذ بداية جهود الاستجابة والتعافي من العواصف والفيضانات والأعاصير الشديدة التي حدثت في 25-26 يونيو، FEMA وولاية ميشيغان ملتزمتان بضمان وصول جميع الناجين إلى البرامج والمساعدات التي تقدمها الوكالة والدولة. لقد نتج عن جهود تقديم الخدمات هذه أكثر من 270 مليون دولار من المساعدات الفيدرالية المعتمدة لمساعدة أكثر من 52,000 ناجٍ في مقاطعات ماكومب وأوكلاند وواين وواشتناو. 

 

قال مسؤول التنسيق الفيدرالي سكوت بورغيس، الذي يشرف على جهودFEMA  للاستجابة والتعافي من الكارثة: "منذ إجراءاتنا الأولى، التزمنا بضمان تلقي جميع الأشخاص المتضررين من هذه الكارثة المساعدة التي يستحقونها والتي هم مؤهلون للحصول عليها". "جنوب شرق ميشيغان غنية بتنوع الأشخاص والمجموعات العرقية والأديان والثقافات، وتدرك FEMA أن مجتمعات معينة غالبًا ما تتأثر بالكوارث بشكل غير متناسب."

 

لقد اتخذت FEMA الخطوات التالية لكي تضمن أن التعافي من هذه الكارثة يشمل الجميع:

 

• تم إحضار عملية تقديم طلبات مساعدة الكوارث إلى هذه المجتمعات مع التركيز على الفئات السكانية الضعيفة اجتماعياً التي تعرضت لأضرار مرتبطة بالكوارث. لقد زار موظفو FEMA المنازل والشركات والمنظمات غير الربحية لمساعدة السكان في التقدم للحصول على المساعدة، تحديد الاحتياجات الفورية والناشئة ومعالجتها، والإحالة إلى الوكالات الأخرى للحصول على دعم إضافي. تمت زيارة أكثر من 30,000 منزل وأكثر من 1,500 شركة ومجتمع ومنظمات دينية، حيث وصلوا إلى ما يقرب من 12,000 ناجٍ.
  • تم تجهيز موظفي تقديم المساعدات بخدمات الترجمة لضمان التواصل الفعال حول خيارات الموارد المتاحة لجميع الناجين.
  • تم إنشاء مواقع لتسهيل تثديم الطلبات لغير المواطنين والأطفال القصر. تم تزويد هذه المواقع بموظفين يتحدثون عدة لغات للوصول إلى المجتمعات التي غالبًا ما يكون لديها عدد أقل من المتقدمين للحصول على المساعدات في حالات الكوارث.
  • استجاب موظفو FEMA لدعوات من المجتمع المحلي والمجموعات الثقافية لإنشاء مواقع للتسجيل والمعلومات، بما في ذلك مع المجتمع الإسباني.
  • التقى موظفو FEMA مع قيادات ديربورن هايتس، ميشيغان، لمناقشة مخاوف الحساسية الثقافية في بداية جهود التعافي لتحسين التواصل مع المجتمع العربي الأمريكي. ساعد طلاب الشرطة الناطقون باللغة العربية موظفي FEMA على التواصل مع كل بيت، مما أدى إلى زيادة المتقدمين بنجاح في هذا المجتمع.  
  • نسق موظفو FEMA مع قادة المجتمع المسلم لإنشاء موقع في أحد المساجد لتقديم الطلبات، مما أيضًا زاد من عدد المتقدمين المسلمين.
  • تم إنشاء مواقع خاصة لتقديم الطلبات لمساعدة المستجيبين الأوائل الذين تأثروا بفيضانات شهر يونيو والذين لديهم أيضًا تضارب في الجدولة وقيود زمنية.
  • يُعزى الكثير من نجاح جهود تقديم المساعدات هذه إلى الشراكة التي أقامتها FEMA مع كلية جامعة واين الحكومية للعمل الاجتماعي. حيث قدم طلاب الدراسات العليا، الذين يعيش العديد منهم في المنطقة المتضررة، دعم لدراسة الحالة للمتقدمين. وتم إجراء تقديم خدمات استهدفت مقدمي الطلبات الذين قد يواجهون عقبات كبيرة في عملية التعافي من الكوارث. أجرى الطلاب نداءات وزاروا منازل وتابعوا من أجل ربط المتقدمين بموارد ميشيغان وخدمات FEMA. كما قاموا بالتنسيق مع فريق FEMA للمساعدات الفردية للتأكد من سرعة وصول المساعدات للمتقدمين ذوي الاحتياجات الملحة.

 

لقد تم دعم جهودنا الاستباقية لتقديم المساعدات من قبل العديد من الاستراتيجيات القوية للوصول إلى المجتمعات المتنوعة وفي كثير من الأحيان الضعيفة:

 

• تم إنشاء قنوات اتصال متعددة لتوزيع المعلومات وتثقيف المجتمعات حول برامج المساعدات في حالات الكوارث. تضمنت القنوات وسائل إعلام تقليدية واجتماعية، بالإضافة إلى بذل جهد خاص لاستخدام منافذ وسائط الإعلام الثقافية والمجتمعية الأصغر والأكثر محلية.
• الاستفادة من برنامج FEMA الراسخ لخدمات الترجمة الذي لديه القدرة على تقديم خدمات الترجمة للعديد من اللغات. تم استخدام هذه الخدمات لترجمة النشرات الإخبارية وصحائف الوقائع والنشرات إلى الإسبانية والعربية، من بين لغات أخرى، والتي تم توزيعها على تلك المجتمعات.
• تم بذل جهد خاص للوصول إلى المجتمعات البنغالية والبولندية، خاصة في بداية التعافي. كما تمت ترجمة منشورات الطلبات إلى هذه اللغات.
• جعلت FEMA عملية تقديم المساعدات في حالات الكوارث في متناول الأشخاص الصم أو ضعاف السمع. كما أبرمت الوكالة عقدًا لتوفير خدمات لغة الإشارة الأمريكية لتوفير مترجمين فوريين للاجتماعات، في مراكز التعافي من الكوارث، وعند الطلب بشكل خاص لدعم جهود تقديم المساعدات الميدانية.
• قام مكتب متحدثي FEMA بالتنسيق مع حكومات الولايات والحكومات المحلية والشركات والمنظمات غير الربحية في جميع أنحاء المنطقة المتضررة وعقد 38 اجتماعًا وجلسة إعلامية، سواء بشكل شخصي أو افتراضي. ومن خلال هذه الجهود، كانت FEMA قادرة على الوصول إلى ما يقرب من 2,300 شخص.

 

للمزيد من المعلومات عن تعافي ميشيغان، يرجى زيارة  fema.gov/disaster/4607. الموعد النهائي للأفراد لتقديم طلبات الحصول على المساعدة في حالات الكوارث هو يوم الجمعة 12 نوفمبر 2021.  اتصل بممثل FEMA على الرقم 3362-621-800 أو قم بزيارة DisasterAssistance.gov.

 

##

 

 مساعدات التعافي من الكوارث تقدم بدون تمييز على أساس العرق أو الدين أو الأصل القومي أو الجنس أو العمر أو الإعاقة أو إتقان للغة الإنجليزية أو الوضع الاقتصادي.  ستكون التسهيلات المعقولة، بما في ذلك خدمات الترجمة ومترجمي لغة الإشارة الأمريكية عبر خدمة ترحيل الفيديو، متاحة لضمان التواصل الفعال مع المتقدمين ذوي المعرفة المحدودة باللغة الإنجليزية وأصحاب الإعاقات والوصول والاحتياجات الوظيفية. إذا تعرضت أنت أو أي شخص تعرفه للتمييز، فاتصل بـ FEMA على الرقم المجاني 3362-621-800 (بما في ذلك 711 أو ترحيل فيديو). إذا كنت أصم أو تعاني من ضعف في السمع أو لديك إعاقة في النطق وتستخدم هاتفًا نصيًا، فاتصل على 7585-462-800.

 

إن مهمة FEMA هي مساعدة الناس قبل وأثناء وبعد الكوارث.

troy.christensen Wed, 11/10/2021 - 21:58

La recuperación por desastre llega a todas las comunidades diversas del sureste de Michigan

Detroit– Desde el comienzo de la respuesta y la recuperación de las tormentas severas, inundaciones y tornados ocurridos el 25 y 26 de junio, FEMA y el Estado de Michigan se han comprometido a garantizar que todos los sobrevivientes tengan acceso a los programas y la asistencia que la Agencia y el Estado ofrecen. Este esfuerzo de difusión ha dado como resultado la aprobación de más de $270 millones en asistencia federal para ayudar a más de 52,000 sobrevivientes en los condados Macomb, Oakland, Wayne y Washtenaw. 

 

“Desde nuestras primeras acciones nos hemos comprometido a garantizar que todas las personas afectadas por este desastre reciban la asistencia que merecen y a la que tienen derecho”, dijo Scott Burgess, coordinador federal que supervisa la respuesta de FEMA y los esfuerzos de recuperación de este desastre. “El sudeste de Michigan es rico en diversidad de personas, grupos étnicos, religiones y culturas, y FEMA entiende que algunas comunidades suelen verse afectadas por los desastres de forma desproporcionada”.

 

FEMA ha tomado las siguientes medidas para asegurar que todos sean incluidos en la recuperación de este desastre:

 

• El proceso de solicitud de asistencia por desastre se llevó a estas comunidades, concentrándose en las poblaciones socialmente vulnerables que sufrieron daños relacionados con el desastre. El personal de FEMA visitó las viviendas, negocios y organizaciones sin fines de lucro para ayudar a los residentes a solicitar asistencia, identificar y atender las necesidades inmediatas y emergentes, y brindar referidos a otras agencias para obtener apoyo adicional. Se visitaron más de 30,000 viviendas y más de 1,500 negocios, organizaciones comunitarias y religiosas, llegando a casi 12,000 sobrevivientes.
  • El personal de alcance comunitario fue equipado con servicios de traducción para asegurar la comunicación efectiva de las opciones de recursos disponibles a todos los sobrevivientes.
  • Se establecieron centros para facilitar las solicitudes de personas no ciudadanas y de niños menores de edad. Estos centros contaron con personal multilingüe para llegar a aquellas comunidades que suelen tener un número menor de solicitantes de asistencia por desastre.
  • El personal de FEMA respondió a las invitaciones de grupos comunitarios y culturales locales para establecer sitios de inscripción e información, incluso con la comunidad hispana.
  • El personal de FEMA se reunió con los dirigentes de Dearborn Heights, Michigan, para dialogar sobre las preocupaciones de sensibilidad cultural al principio de las actividades de recuperación para mejorar la difusión a la comunidad árabe-americana. Los cadetes de la policía que hablan árabe ayudaron al personal de FEMA con los esfuerzos de alcance comunitario puerta a puerta, aumentando con éxito la cantidad de solicitantes en esa comunidad.
  • El personal de FEMA se coordinó con los líderes de la comunidad musulmana para programar un centro para llenar solicitudes en una mezquita, aumentando aún más el número de solicitantes musulmanes.
  • Se establecieron centros especiales para llenar solicitudes con el fin de ayudar a los primeros respondedores que se vieron afectados por las inundaciones de junio y que, además, tenían conflictos de horario y limitaciones de tiempo.
  • Gran parte del éxito de estos esfuerzos de alcance comunitario es atribuible a la alianza que FEMA mantuvo con la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Estatal de Wayne. Los estudiantes de posgrado, muchos de los cuales viven en la zona afectada, proporcionaron apoyo a los solicitantes. Se llevó a cabo esfuerzos de alcance comunitario dirigido a los solicitantes que podían experimentar barreras significativas para la recuperación del desastre. Los estudiantes hicieron llamadas, visitaron viviendas y realizaron seguimiento para conectar a los solicitantes con los recursos en Michigan y los servicios de FEMA. También se coordinaron con el equipo de apoyo a la asistencia individual de FEMA para asegurarse de que los solicitantes con necesidades urgentes recibieran ayuda rápidamente.

 

Nuestros esfuerzos proactivos de difusión se apoyaron en varias estrategias sólidas para llegar a comunidades diversas y a menudo vulnerables:

 

• Se establecieron múltiples canales de comunicación para distribuir información y educar a las comunidades sobre los programas de asistencia por desastre. Los canales incluyeron los medios de comunicación tradicionales y sociales, así como un esfuerzo particular para utilizar medios de comunicación comunitarios y culturales más pequeños y localizados.
• Utilización del programa de servicios de traducción de FEMA, bien establecido y con capacidad para proporcionar servicios de traducción para muchos idiomas. Estos servicios se utilizaron para traducir los comunicados de prensa, las hojas informativas y los folletos al español y al árabe, entre otros idiomas, que se distribuyeron a esas comunidades.
• Se hizo un esfuerzo especial para llegar a las comunidades bengalí y polaca, sobre todo al principio de la recuperación. Los folletos de solicitud se tradujeron a estos idiomas.
• FEMA hizo accesible el proceso de asistencia por desastre a las personas sordas o con problemas de audición. La agencia estableció un contrato para proporcionar servicios de lenguaje de señas americano con el fin de ofrecer intérpretes para las reuniones, en los centros de recuperación de desastres y cuando se solicitara especialmente para apoyar los esfuerzos de difusión en el terreno.
• La Oficina de portavoces de FEMA coordinó con los gobiernos estatales y locales, negocios y organizaciones sin fines de lucro de toda la región afectada y celebró 38 reuniones y sesiones informativas, tanto en persona como de forma virtual. A través de este esfuerzo, FEMA llegó a casi 2,300 personas.

 

Para obtener más información sobre la recuperación en Michigan, visite fema.gov/es/disaster/4607. La fecha límite para que las personas soliciten asistencia por desastre es el viernes 12 de noviembre de 2021. Comuníquese con un representante de FEMA en el 800-621-3362 o visite DisasterAssistance.gov/es.

 

##

 

La asistencia por desastre está disponible sin importar la raza, color, religión, origen nacional, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio limitado del inglés o situación económica. Se ofrecerán adaptaciones razonables, incluida la traducción y los intérpretes de lenguaje de señas americano a través del servicio de retransmisión por video, para garantizar una comunicación eficaz con los solicitantes que tengan un dominio limitado del inglés, discapacidades y necesidades de acceso y funcionales. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sido discriminado, llame a la línea gratuita de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (incluidos los usuarios del 711 o servicio de retransmisión por video). Si usted es una persona sorda, con dificultades auditivas o tiene alguna discapacidad del habla y usa el servicio de TTY, llame al 800-462-7585.

 

La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

troy.christensen Wed, 11/10/2021 - 21:56

How to File a Successful Appeal for FEMA Assistance

NASHVILE, Tenn.— The deadline has passed for residents in Dickson, Hickman, Houston, and Humphreys counties to apply for disaster assistance from FEMA for the Aug. 21 severe storms and flooding, but if survivors don’t agree with the final outcome, they may still appeal.

To make a successful appeal it is important to write a letter explaining why you disagree with FEMA’s decision and    to include documentation that supports your claim.

Anyone who would like to speak with a FEMA specialist directly about how to file an appeal can always call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Here are some tips to help you file a successful appeal:

1. Understand why FEMA deemed your claim ineligible before writing the appeal.

• You may not agree with it but analyze why FEMA determined your application was ineligible. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you.

2. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Documentation, depending on your situation, may include:

• Copy of flood insurance declaration page.
• For proof of occupancy, FEMA accepts an employer statement, lease, utility bill (electric, water/sewer, etc.), bank or credit card statement, phone bill, cable/satellite bill, driver’s license, state-issued identification card, motor vehicle registrations, letters from local schools (public or private), documents from federal or state benefit providers, social service organizations (such as community assistance programs and non-profits), or court documents. All bills and/or statements must be dated within 3 months of the disaster.
  • To prove ownership, include your mortgage or insurance documents, mortgage payment booklet, tax receipts or a deed. If your documents were lost or destroyed, contact financial, insurance and/or government agencies in your area to see if you can get a replacement. The following website also offers guidance on replacing lost documents: http://www.usa.gov/replace-vital-documents.
  • Survivors living in mobile homes or travel trailers can include a signed statement from a commercial or mobile home park owner.
  • For homes that have been passed down over the generations without any traditional ownership verification, you may include a public official’s letter or receipts for major repairs or improvements to verify ownership.
  • As a last resort, and only after all other options have been exhausted, FEMA may accept a written document in which you declare yourself the owner of property. The letter does not need to be notarized, but it must match the information on your FEMA application.  

3. Can’t write the appeal yourself? Have someone write it for you.

• If you are the applicant and are unable to write an appeal letter yourself, ask someone to write it for you. Consider asking a family member, friend or a lawyer.
• Residents may also get assistance for appeals from free legal disaster assistance by calling 844-HELP4TN (844-435-7486) or online at https://tn.freelegalanswers.org/. Additionally, survivors can access information about their rights and resources, including links to upcoming legal clinics, and local resources at https://www.help4tn.org/

4. Know your deadline.

• You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation.

5. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter. And when you’re ready, there are three ways to submit your appeal:

• Fax it to 800-827-8112
• Send it by mail to FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
• Upload documents to your disasterassistance.gov account.

6. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit.

7. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Wed, 11/10/2021 - 20:16

FEMA Approves Nearly $5.6 Million More for Lynn Haven Parks Recovery

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA has approved an additional $5,598,399 for the state of Florida to reimburse the city of Lynn Haven for its continuing permanent repairs to five city parks and sports complex after Hurricane Michael in 2018. 

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance grant program will be used for the repairs at A.L. Kinsaul Park, Cain Griffin Park, James E. Rogers Park, Leslie Porter Park, Monument Park and the Lynn Haven Sports Complex.

Repairs will be made to beach and dog parks, splash parks, basketball and tennis courts, ballfields, concession stands, restrooms, pavilions, pedestrian trails and bridges, playgrounds and parking lots to restore them to their pre-disaster design, function and capacity. 

This reimbursement brings the total of FEMA grants to the city for Hurricane Michael recovery to $40.9 million.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Kimberly.Kipp Wed, 11/10/2021 - 20:15

Disaster Recovery Reaching All of the Diverse Communities of Southeast Michigan

Detroit–Since the beginning of the response to and recovery from the June 25-26 severe storms, flooding and tornadoes, FEMA and the State of Michigan have been committed to ensuring that all survivors have access to the programs and assistance the Agency and State offer. This outreach effort has resulted in more than $270 million in approved federal assistance to help more than 52,000 survivors in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, and Washtenaw counties. 

 

“From our first actions we have been committed to being sure that all people who are affected by this disaster receive the assistance they deserve and are entitled to,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Scott Burgess, who oversees FEMA’s response to and recovery efforts from this disaster. “Southeast Michigan is rich in diversity of people, ethnic groups, religions and cultures, and FEMA understands that certain communities are often disproportionately affected by disasters.”

 

FEMA has taken the following steps to ensure that all were included in the recovery from this disaster:

 

• The disaster application process was brought into these communities, concentrating on socially vulnerable populations that sustained disaster-related damage. FEMA personnel visited homes, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to help residents apply for assistance, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other agencies for additional support. More than 30,000 homes and over 1,500 businesses, community and faith-based organizations were visited, reaching almost 12,000 survivors.
  • Outreach personnel were equipped with translation services to ensure effective communication of available resource options to all survivors.
  • Sites were established to facilitate non-citizen and minor child applications. These sites were staffed with multi-lingual personnel to reach those communities that often have lower disaster-assistance, applicant numbers.
  • FEMA staff responded to invitations from local community and cultural groups to set up registration and information sites including with the Hispanic community.
  • FEMA staff met with Dearborn Heights, Michigan, leadership to discuss cultural sensitivity concerns at the beginning of the recovery effort to improve outreach to the Arab-American community. Arabic- speaking police cadets assisted FEMA staff with door-to-door outreach, successfully increasing applicants in that community.  
  • FEMA staff coordinated with Muslim community leaders to schedule an application site at a mosque, further increasing the number of Muslim applicants.
  • Special application sites were set up to help first responders who were affected by the June flooding and who also had scheduling conflicts and time constraints.
  • Much of the success of these outreach efforts is attributable to the partnership FEMA had with the Wayne State University School of Social Work. Graduate students, many of whom live in the affected area, provided casework support to applicants. Targeted outreach was conducted to applicants that may experience significant barriers to disaster recovery. The students did callouts, visited homes and followed up to connect applicants with Michigan resources and FEMA services. They also coordinated with FEMA’s Individual Assistance Strike Team to make sure applicants with pressing needs were helped quickly.

 

Our proactive outreach efforts were supported by several robust strategies to reach diverse and often vulnerable communities:

 

• Multiple communication channels were established to distribute information and educate communities about disaster-assistance programs. Channels included traditional and social media, as well as a particular effort to use smaller, more localized, community and cultural media outlets.
• Utilization of well-established FEMA translation services program that has the capacity to provide translation services for many languages. These services were used to translate news releases, fact sheets and flyers into Spanish and Arabic, among other languages, which were distributed to those communities.
• Particular effort was made to reach the Bengali and Polish communities, especially at the beginning of the recovery. Application flyers were translated into these languages.
• FEMA made the disaster-assistance process accessible to those who are deaf or hard of hearing. The agency established a contract to provide American Sign Language Services to provide interpreters for meetings, at disaster recovery centers, and when specially requested to support field outreach efforts.
• FEMA’s Speakers Bureau coordinated with state and local governments, businesses and nonprofits across the affected area and held 38 meetings and information sessions, both in-person and virtually. Through this effort, FEMA reached almost 2,300 people.

 

For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4607. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Friday, Nov. 12, 2021. Contact a FEMA representative at 800-621-3362 or visit DisasterAssistance.gov.

 

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service, will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.

 

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

troy.christensen Wed, 11/10/2021 - 16:59

FEMA Funding for COVID-19 Response Continues

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. announced Tuesday that funding to support all eligible COVID-19 work will continue at a 100% federal cost share through April 1, 2022.

This funding will be available to local, state, tribal or territorial governments and certain non-profit organizations for eligible costs associated with ongoing COVID-19 recovery efforts and vaccine initiatives.

FEMA will continue to provide 100% of the federal funding for National Guard activities to combat and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. National Guard activities under Title 32 remain under the command and control of their respective governors but is funded by the Department of Defense (DoD). FEMA has mission assigned DoD to fund Title 32 National Guard deployments to support state and territorial efforts in response to the pandemic.

The full capacity and capability of the federal government is brought to this effort to protect and support our families, schools and businesses and to assist state, local, tribal and territorial governments in the fight against COVID-19.

The National Guard will continue assisting with vaccine distribution as their medical teams continue supporting direct patient care. National Guard teams help distribute food and personal protective equipment, support contact tracing and testing.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $32.1 billion in COVID-19 assistance, including $6.1 billion for vaccination support. Previously, President Biden approved FEMA to provide 100% cost share on these measures until Dec. 31, 2021.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 11/10/2021 - 16:56

Only half of those with COVID-19 Funeral Expenses have applied for FEMA assistance

San Juan, Puerto Rico – With only 1,528 applicants registered for FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance to date, FEMA is urging those who paid for funeral expenses due to the coronavirus, and have not applied, to do so NOW.

“The Government of Puerto Rico reports more than 3,246 deceased due to the coronavirus, and that is why we are encouraging every person who covered funeral expenses that yet need to apply for this assistance, to call today”, said Idamis De Jesus, Individual Assistance lead of FEMA Caribbean Area Office in PR. “So far, we have approved over $2.8 million to help with these expenses. Share this information, if you or someone you know, had funeral expenses related to COVID-19.”

Call 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to apply for FEMA COVID-19 funeral assistance. FEMA is only accepting applications via phone call. The phoneline is available from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday.

Once registered, FEMA will send the applicant a Request for Information (RFI) which outlines all the documentation needed to process the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance application. For further information, applicants can also visit the frequently asked questions section in FEMA’s website at: FEMA.gov/funeral-assistance/faq. FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after Jan. 20, 2020, under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

yuisa.rios Wed, 11/10/2021 - 14:36