Survivors Beware! Fraud, Scams Flourish After Disasters

BROOKLYN, N.Y. — After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often attempt to take advantage of disaster survivors. Federal and state emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity.

When a disaster strikes, unscrupulous people may try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster-aid workers or even as relatives trying to help survivors complete their applications.

Common post-disaster fraud practices include:

Fake offers of state or federal aid: Federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in completing applications.

Phony housing inspectors: When a disaster occurs, applicants may be vulnerable to phony housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA to inspect damage. Ask to see the inspector’s identification badge. All FEMA personnel and contractors will have official laminated photo identification. Housing inspectors have each applicant’s nine-digit registration number. Field inspectors may use different types of communication methods to contact applicants. Inspectors may be calling from issued phones or personal cell phones, so applicants may receive calls from different area codes. Inspectors do not request money to complete an inspection. They can use phone calls, text messages, and emails. Inspectors can and will use any contact information the applicant provided in their application.

There may be occasions when a FEMA representative must contact you to verify personal data. You should request a FEMA identification number (or FEMA registration number) from the caller.  If you are unsure of the caller’s identification or you are suspicious of someone who says they’re a housing inspector sent by FEMA, call the FEMA Hotline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Central Time.

Phony government workers: You may be contacted by scam artists posing as disaster workers who are seeking money for services. Federal, state, and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. Nor will federal disaster employees promise a disaster grant.

Fraudulent charitable solicitations: A list of reputable charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance is available at Give.Org. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions.

The Alliance advises, “do not respond to unsolicited emails, watch out for pushy telemarketers and look out for fake charities that sound real by using similar names.” For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website.

Rental listing scams: The Federal Trade Commission has information on how rental-listing scams work. For instance, scammers know that finding the right apartment or vacation rental can be hard work, and a seemingly good deal is hard to pass up. Learn more 

Beware of unlicensed/uninsured contractors/phony contractors: Often after a disaster, individuals will represent themselves as legitimate contractors.  Ask for references, be cautious about advanced payments, make sure they are licensed and obtain the proper permits.

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, or abuse, you can report these tips - 24 hours a day, seven days a week - to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or email disaster@leo.gov.

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 New York Attorney General:

• Consumer Protection Hotline, 800-697-1220
• Division of Consumer Protection
• File a Consumer Complaint

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

For referrals to agencies that support community specific need, contact your nearest 211 counts center at https://www.211nys.org/contact-us.  In NYC call 311 for outlying area, call 211.

For official information on the recovery effort following the hurricane, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/fema.

 

zella.campbell Mon, 09/13/2021 - 17:11

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of California to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from Aug. 14 and continuing.

Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities in El Dorado County.

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

Andrew Grant has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/13/2021 - 14:37

FEMA Hosts Twitter Spaces National Preparedness Month Chat

PHILADELPHIA – September is National Preparedness Month and FEMA is bringing individuals and community partners together via Twitter Spaces to talk about how to prepare to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your communities.

On Monday September 13, 2021 at 3:00pm ET, individuals, community stakeholders and government agency partners are invited to join FEMA’s Region 3, Region 4, Region 8, and Region 10 subject matter experts in individual and community preparedness, disability integration, tribal affairs, mitigation, and flood insurance. FEMA emergency managers and preparedness professionals will be discussing and answering important questions related to emergencies and how to prepare. Participants can interact, and tweet questions for our experts using the hashtag #ASpaceToPrepare.

Every day, FEMA and our State, Local, Tribal and Territorial partners take steps to help people and communities to be more prepared by developing the capabilities needed to prevent, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against all threats and hazards. Whether we face risks related to earthquakes, cyberattacks or chemical spills, our goal is shared: safety and resilience.

“Experience tells us that when the whole community comes together to tackle a challenge, and everyone plays a role, the end result is more effective,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “Everyone, not just the government, can be involved in preparedness efforts and contribute to building more ready and resilient communities.”

Tierney emphasized the proactive steps necessary to ensure preparedness for those with access and functional needs, “We know that disasters disproportionally impact those with disabilities, older adults, families with young children and those with limited English proficiency. FEMA’s lessons learned and best practices can be invaluable resources for anyone with access and functional needs, their family, and support team members.”

Follow @FEMARegion3, @FEMARegion4, @FEMARegion8, and @FEMARegion10 to be notified when the Space is live. Or follow the link below to access the chat. This event is accessible to those who are hard of hearing with live captioning.

Link to Chat: https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1OdJrVDWkaAJX

 

National Preparedness Month is observed each September to raise awareness about steps individuals, families and communities can take to be ready for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is Prepare to Protect and highlights how preparing for disaster helps protect everyone you love.

Each week in September, the campaign focuses on a different aspect of preparedness for individuals, families, and communities.

 

FEMA’s Weekly themes of National Preparedness Month include:

Week 2: Sept. 5-11 Build A Kit

Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.

Week 3: Sept. 12-18 Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness

Natural disasters don’t wait for a convenient time. Preparing for them shouldn’t wait either. Start today by signing up for alerts, safe-guarding important documents, and taking other low cost and no cost preparedness actions to lessen the impact of disasters and emergencies for you and your family.

Week 4: Sept. 19-25 Teach Youth About Preparedness

Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

Tierney added, “Preparing for disasters simply makes sense, they can happen anywhere and at any time. Here at FEMA, we see this reality unfold often and we understand what is at stake. An all too common remark from disaster survivors is wishing they had done more to prepare. That doesn’t have to be you. I encourage everyone, from individuals simply curious about what they can do, to representatives of community organizations and faith based organizations, to local first responders, and other preparedness stakeholders to participate in conversations like these to contribute to our family’s, our community’s and our nation’s readiness and resilience.”

For more information about this event and a Twitter Spaces FAQ visit: #ASpaceToPrepare National Preparedness Month Twitter Spaces Chat | FEMA.gov

Ready.gov/September has information and resources online, including social media content in multiple languages, for public use. Help spread the word of how to be prepared for disasters and emergencies before they happen. For more information, visit Ready.gov and Listo.gov.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. 

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

amanda.hancher Mon, 09/13/2021 - 14:23

Spend Your FEMA Grant Wisely and Only on Disaster-Related Expenses

BATON ROUGE, La. – As Louisiana homeowners and renters affected by Hurricane Ida begin receiving their FEMA disaster funds, it is important to use the money for specified disaster-related expenses.

FEMA helps survivors keep their spending on track by sending a determination letter stating what the funds are for and listing the ways the money can be used. Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses.

Some examples of approved expenses include:

• Home repairs (e.g., structure, water, septic and sewage systems)
• Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit
• Repair or replacement of an essential vehicle
• Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster
• Necessary educational materials (e.g., computers, schoolbooks, supplies)
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster
• Replacement of essential personal property such as appliances or bed from an occupied bedroom
• Increased childcare expenses

It’s important to read the determination letter carefully. Receipts for all expenses should be kept for at least three years, as disaster funding may be subject to audit. If you have spent the payment on anything other than its intended purpose, you may be denied disaster assistance in the future. In some cases, FEMA will ask that the money be returned.

In addition, it’s important for applicants to make sure that FEMA has their most up-to-date contact information, including addresses, phone numbers and bank accounts. If FEMA does not have the correct contact information, survivors may miss letters or phone calls about their application for assistance or payment status.

For any questions, call the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362. TTY users can call 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 09/13/2021 - 13:55

Debris Pick-Up a Priority as Louisianans Recover from Hurricane Ida

BATON ROUGE, La. – As Louisiana survivors start to clean up after Hurricane Ida, FEMA urges you to know the best approach for removing debris from your property. You shouldn’t wait to clean up storm damage. Instead, start the clean-up process as soon as possible and document the damage with photos or videos.

Take care when cleaning up. Dangling power lines, flooding, reptiles, spiders and other hazards remain. Treat every wire as a live wire; do not touch loose or dangling wires or wires on the ground. Do not drive over wires. Instead, reach out to your utility company to make them aware of the issue. Do not pile debris on or near utility boxes or thruways. If trees and other debris have fallen on your private property, be sure to check with your insurance agent to determine if tree damage is covered by your policy.

As you clean up, be sure to keep in mind the following information:

• Due to the magnitude of the damage from Ida, you can move debris from your private property to public rights-of-way for pick up and removal by local governments for a limited time. Debris removal from private property is generally the responsibility of the property owner, just as before the hurricane.
• Follow guidance from your local officials when placing debris for collection. Separate debris into six categories when disposing along the curb:
  • Electronics, such as televisions, computers or phones.
  • Large appliances, such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves or dishwashers. Be sure to seal or secure the doors so that they are not accessible.
  • Hazardous waste, such as oil, batteries, pesticides, paint or cleaning supplies. If you suspect that materials contain lead-based paint, keep them moist or place the materials in plastic bags so that the paint does not become airborne.
  • Vegetative debris, such as tree branches, leaves or plants.
  • Construction debris, such as drywall, lumber, carpet or furniture; and
  • Household garbage, discarded food, paper or packaging.
• Place debris away from trees, poles or structures including fire hydrants and meters.
• Remove all water-damaged materials from your home and place curbside for pickup.
• Debris should not block the roadway.

Hurricane Ida left behind fallen trees, limbs and material from damaged buildings on private and public property. Workers are picking up debris deposited on streets, highways and curbsides.

The parishes eligible for debris removal include Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingstone, Orleans, Plaquemines, Point Coupee, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.

mayshaunt.gary Sun, 09/12/2021 - 19:29

Here’s How to Speed Disaster Assistance

BROOKLYN, NY — State and federal officials who are helping New Yorkers recover from the Remnants of Hurricane Ida have some tips to speed disaster aid.

• Registering online is the fastest way to access FEMA assistance. Download the FEMA app or visit disasterassistance.gov. Not only can you register here, you can check the status of your claim, upload requested documents, and access FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids.
• You can also register by telephone calling 800-621-3362. Individuals who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY should call 800-462-7585 directly. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) may call 800-621-3362.  These toll-free telephone numbers are operating from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.

You will need to have the following 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 damages and losses; and
• If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name.

• Remember, registering with voluntary agencies does not register you with FEMA.

• You should register for any uninsured and underinsured damage or losses resulting from the storm and flooding.  Your insurance coverage may not cover everything. However, FEMA disaster assistance, by law, cannot duplicate insurance coverage.

• Disaster assistance covers a wide range of losses. Along with rental assistance and assistance for home repairs, disaster-related losses include damaged or lost personal property that may include anything from a wheelchair to a major appliance.

• Stay in touch and keep appointments after you have registered for disaster assistance. A FEMA inspector will make an appointment to visit your home. Make every effort to be at the damaged property for the visit, and call if you need to change the appointment.

• Return all forms promptly. After registering, you may receive a request to fill out a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loan application. Fill it out and return the forms promptly or visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) for SBA assistance. Even if you are not interested in a loan, complete the loan package and return it. Filling out the SBA application is a necessary step to being considered for other forms of disaster assistance; storm victims are not obligated to accept an SBA loan.  If referred, applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov

• If you have questions after registering you can review your case online or visit a Disaster Recovery Center to meet face-to-face with recovery specialists. If you have disaster aid questions, need help filling out an SBA loan, want to check on the status of your application, or need information on how to re-build better and stronger, you can talk with recovery specialists at a DRC.

 

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

For referrals to agencies that support community specific need, contact your nearest 211 counts center at https://www.211nys.org/contact-us. In NYC call 311 for outlying area, call 211.

For official information on the recovery effort following the hurricane, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/fema.

 

zella.campbell Sat, 09/11/2021 - 14:38

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the commonwealth of Pennsylvania to supplement commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Ida from Aug. 31 to Sept. 5, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia and York 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 Hurricane Ida.

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

E. Craig Levy, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated area can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.

 

zella.campbell Sat, 09/11/2021 - 01:12

North Carolina Survivors Affected by Tropical Storm Fred Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Residents of Buncombe, Haywood, and Transylvania counties who were affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred from Aug. 16 – 18, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to apply. The toll-free telephone lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

You can also apply by smartphone or tablet using the FEMA App, or at www.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.
• 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, renter’s or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible 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 flooding.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4617. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapman Fri, 09/10/2021 - 20:09

FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center Opens in Nevada County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC) will open in Nevada County for survivors whose uninsured and underinsured primary residence was damaged or destroyed by the River Fire. Chicago Park Elementary School will host the MRIC for three days from Friday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 12. The MRIC will be staffed by FEMA personnel to assist with registration and answer questions about disaster assistance programs.

Friday, Sept. 10, Chicago Park Elementary School, 15725 Mt. Olive Rd., Grass Valley, CA 95945 │ 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 11 – Sunday, Sept. 12, Chicago Park Elementary School, 15725 Mt. Olive Rd., Grass Valley, CA 95945 │ 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. In addition to visiting an MRIC, the easiest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT, seven days a week. Multi-lingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service. The registration deadline is Oct. 25, 2021.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following on-hand before contacting FEMA: their Social Security number, address of the damaged primary residence, a description of the damage, information about their insurance coverage, current contact number and address where they can receive mail, and bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds.

The MRICs will be accessible for individuals with disabilities and accommodations can be made upon arrival, with on-site communication accessibility tools including amplified listening devices and Video Remote Interpreting. ASL interpreters and multilingual services will be available upon request.

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All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD).

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

robert.barker Fri, 09/10/2021 - 15:56

‘Blue Roof’ Program Now Available in 25 Parishes

BATON ROUGE, La. – Survivors in all 25 Louisiana parishes eligible for Individual Assistance affected by Hurricane Ida can now sign up for temporary, fiber-reinforced sheeting to cover their damaged roofs until permanent repairs are made.

Operation Blue Roof, a free program managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in coordination with FEMA, has expanded its mission to the parishes designated for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. The Blue Roof service is available to homes that serve as a primary residence and to permanently-occupied rental properties.

The 25 parishes designated for Individual Assistance are: Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, Pointe Coupee, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana. 

To register for the Blue Roof Program, call 888-ROOF-BLU or 888-766-3258. There may be significant delays in reaching a specialist because of the large number of affected homes eligible for the Blue Roof Program. If your call goes directly to voicemail, hang up and try calling again. You may also visit BlueRoof.us

Carmen.Castro Fri, 09/10/2021 - 00:37

FEMA Defines Equity in its Mission of Making Programs More Accessible

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA announced its new equity definition to ensure alignment and coordinated progress across the agency. The definition clarifies how the agency addresses gaps, barriers and challenges experienced by vulnerable populations to ensure all survivors have access to disaster assistance.

The definition is a result of recently announced initiatives on how the agency is advancing equity. At FEMA, our definition of equity is: “The consistent and systematic fair, just and impartial treatment of all individuals.”

Leaders across the agency and emergency management community have voiced their support of this urgent work. Here’s what some of them had to say:

“The role and responsibility of emergency managers requires sensitivity to the needs of all disaster survivors and equitable and fair distribution of assistance to all those affected -- especially those disproportionally impacted. NEMA shares FEMA’s renewed commitment to equity in disaster response and remains a trusted partner in their mission to help people before, during and after a disaster strikes.” – Sima Merick, President of the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA)

“Most disaster response and recovery operations are complex, but those without equity further exasperates those vulnerable populations that are traditionally marginalized. As the world’s premier leader in emergency management, FEMA is setting the bar high with the adoption of the equity definition as it seeks to ensure the removal of barriers in the delivery of programs and services we provide tribes, states, locals and territorial jurisdictions.” – Kevin Sligh, Adviser to the FEMA Administrator 

“FEMA helps people during their worst days, and that starts with recognizing the disproportionate effects disasters have on marginalized and underserved communities. Equity must be at the core of FEMA’s mission to ensure we can all be more resilient against disasters and quickly recover from them when they do happen.” – MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator

“The adoption of this definition is an explicit commitment by Administrator Criswell and the Biden Administration that FEMA works to ensure that all communities are treated in a fair, just and impartial manner. I am pleased that this commitment to equity will undergird the development of FEMA’s vision and strategy.” – Ramesh Kolluru, FEMA National Advisory Council Vision 2045 Subcommittee Chair

“FEMA is taking a much-needed step towards tackling the barriers that harm medically fragile and historically disenfranchised communities. As disasters become more extreme and more frequent, this is a step towards supporting all communities, especially those most harmed by these events.” – Nicolette Louissant, FEMA National Advisory Council Member

“Equity must be baked into the front end of the federal declaration process, not an afterthought. Critical to the process is for decision makers to be intentional in all phases of the disaster management cycle to minimize discriminatory actions to prevent undesired outcomes that plague underserved and marginalized communities.” – Warren D. Miller, FEMA National Advisory Council Equity Subcommittee Vice Chair

“Along with FEMA, the African-American FEMA Employee Resource Group remains steadfast in the implementation of accessible resources and services and will work with our colleagues to continue to advocate and move the needle forward in advancing our mission through an equity-focused approach.” – Vallee Bunting, African-American FEMA Employee Resource Group Chair

“Changes FEMA has made and will continue to make will benefit communities of color, individuals experiencing homelessness, individuals with disabilities, older adults, neighbors living in poverty -- including those who lost their livelihoods due to the pandemic -- communities that have been historically marginalized.  When systemic wrongs are addressed, everybody wins.  A rising tide raises all sails.” – Jo Linda Johnson, Director, FEMA’s Office of Equal Rights & FEMA Equity Enterprise Steering Group Co-Chair

Our equity definition comes from Executive Order 13985, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, which requires agencies [to] assess equity with respect to race, ethnicity, religion, income, geography, gender identity, sexual orientation and disability. And, integrating equity into everything we do is a key principle of FEMA’s 2021 Annual Planning Guidance.

To hear more about what partners from across the agency and the emergency management community are saying about FEMA’s initiative to advance equity, visit FEMA’s Twitter and Instagram pages. 

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 09/09/2021 - 22:00

Panama City, FL Strengthens Critical Infrastructure for Future Disasters

PENSACOLA, Fla – FEMA has approved grants of more than $4.7 million for two hazard mitigation projects for the city of Panama City to reduce its risk of critical facility failure during future disasters. Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by the city after Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Millville Wastewater Treatment Plant: $2,653,956 for the purchase and installation of twin permanent generators to support the critical operations of the plant. They will be connected to the main electrical transfer system by a switchgear and an underground duct bank, which provide a protected pathway for electrical transmission and allow the city to provide continued service to the community during future power outages.

Sanitary Sewer Lift Stations: $2,052,265 for Phase One in a proposed project to provide flood protection and improvements to 13 sanitary sewer lift stations within the city, including surveying, engineering, design, plan preparation, permitting and the bidding for Phase Two approval. If approved, the project proposes different mitigation actions depending on the needs and assessment of each of the 13 sites to include relocation, elevation or strengthening against storm surge and wave-action hazards.

The HMGP provides funding to help communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage. Following a major disaster, a percentage of a state’s total federal recovery grants is calculated to help develop more resilient communities. Florida has an Enhanced Hazard Mitigation Plan that allows more funding to be available for post-disaster resilience projects. States with the enhanced plan receive HMGP funds based on 20% of their total estimated eligible federal disaster assistance.

Kimberly.Kipp Thu, 09/09/2021 - 19:32

Renters May Apply for FEMA Assistance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Renters in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties whose property was damaged by the severe storm and flooding on Aug. 21, 2021 may apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA Individual Assistance may be available to eligible renters, including students, as well as homeowners. Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to register. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. You may also register via the FEMA app by downloading it to a smartphone or tablet, or at www.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

If you have renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

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

Renters may also qualify for a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for essential personal property and other disaster-related expenses. These may include:

• Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks or school supplies.
• Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required by the self-employed.
• Primary vehicles.
• Medical and dental bills.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to help Tennessee businesses, homeowners and renters repair or replace disaster-damaged personal property, contents, tools of the trade, and vehicles.

For additional information about SBA disaster loans, the loan application process, or for help completing the SBA application, visit SBA’s secure website at www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

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.

bree-constance… Thu, 09/09/2021 - 16:50

FEMA Approves Additional $1.9 Million in Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved an additional $1,945,625 for the state of Florida to reimburse Bay District Schools for management costs following Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program will provide reimbursement for indirect management costs, direct administrative costs and other expenses associated with the administration of eligible projects. As a result of Hurricane Michael, Bay District Schools has identified a total of 153 eligible projects with FEMA.

This additional reimbursement brings FEMA's total grants for the school district's Hurricane Michael-related recovery to more than $106.8 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 Thu, 09/09/2021 - 14:44

Baptist Health Care Corporation Approved for $1 Million for Emergency Protective Measures

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved $1,039,417 for the state of Florida to reimburse the Baptist Health Care Corporation for the emergency protective measures it utilized in response to Hurricane Sally.

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program will be used to reimburse the Corporation for its efforts to reduce the imminent threat to lives, public health and safety by providing water damage remediation and clean-up of damages at eight of its facilities from Sept. 14 through Sept. 28, 2020.  

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 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 Thu, 09/09/2021 - 13:06

FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center Opens in Placer County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC) will open in Placer County for survivors whose uninsured and underinsured primary residence was damaged or destroyed by the River Fire. Two locations will be available for three days from Thursday, Sept. 9 to Saturday, Sept. 11. The MRIC will be staffed by FEMA personnel to assist with registration and answer questions about disaster assistance programs.

Thursday, Sept. 9, OES Finance Administration Building, 2986 Richardson Dr., Auburn, CA 95603 │ 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 10, Sierra Vista Community Center, 55 School St., Colfax, CA 95713 │ 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 11, Sierra Vista Community Center, 55 School St., Colfax, CA 95713 │ 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. The easiest way to register is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT, seven days a week. Multi-lingual operators are available.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following on-hand before contacting FEMA: their Social Security number, address of the damaged primary residence, a description of the damage, information about their insurance coverage, current contact number and address where they can receive mail, and bank account and routing numbers for the direct deposit of funds.

The MRICs will be accessible for individuals with disabilities and access and functional needs, with on-site communication accessibility tools including amplified listening devices and Video Remote Interpreting. ASL interpreters and multilingual services will be available upon request.

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All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD).

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

robert.barker Wed, 09/08/2021 - 23:53

A “no” can become a “yes” with a successful FEMA appeal

NASHVILE, Tenn.— The record-breaking rainfall came on so fast and furious Aug. 21, deadly flash flooding was unavoidable for many. People in Dickson, Hickman, Houston, and Humphreys counties are now looking for answers. FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides eligible survivors with financial assistance and direct services.  Hundreds of middle Tennessee residents have already filed an application. Some, however, may receive a letter stating their claim is ineligible for payment. If you receive that letter, you may be able to change the outcome. Many times, it’s a simple fix. An application is often denied because additional information is needed.

Here are some tips to consider when appealing a FEMA ineligible determination.

Tip 1: 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.

Tip 2: 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.

Tip 3: Include evidence to support your appeal.

It’s important to write a letter explaining why you disagree with FEMA’s decision, but you should also include documentation that supports what’s outlined in your appeal letter. This will help FEMA fight fraud and it can also strengthen your response.

Examples of documents to include with an appeal letter:

• Copy of flood insurance declaration page, if applicable.
• 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. FEMA will also 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.
• Survivors living in mobile homes or travel trailers can also include a signed statement from a commercial or mobile home park owner or a self-declaration as a last resort to prove the damaged home or rental was their primary residence.
• 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.

Tip 4: Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit.

Tip 5: Can’t write the appeal yourself? Authorize someone to 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. Just be sure to provide FEMA with a signed statement saying the writer is authorized to act on your behalf.
• You can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to find out more about this. Multilingual operators are available, and lines are open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.

Tip 6: 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.

Tip 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.

bree-constance… Wed, 09/08/2021 - 21:40

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Declaration for North Carolina

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of North Carolina to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred, from Aug. 16-18, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Buncombe, Haywood and Transylvania 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.

Individuals 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 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY for the hearing and speech impaired. 

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis under FEMA’s Public Assistance program for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged in areas affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred in Avery, Buncombe, Haywood, Madison, Transylvania, Watauga and Yancey counties.

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

John F. Boyle has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/08/2021 - 21:09

FEMA Launches 20th Anniversary 9/11 Multi-Media Webpage

WASHINGTON -- To honor the commitment and service of staff who responded to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, FEMA launched a multi-media webpage to highlight the roles they played in the nation’s response and recovery.

The page contains videos, blogs and quotes from both former and current staff as they tell their story of how they responded to those events

 

Graphic

 

“The impacts from that event reached far beyond a single day,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “As we reflect on this event 20 years later, I hope that you will take the time to hear the personal stories from members of our FEMA community. I am proud to present their stories for everyone to see.”

The page is in both English and Spanish, and videos feature Spanish closed captioning. The page contains 28 stories ranging from those who worked search and rescue operations to people who helped call family members immediately after the attacks. A historical timeline of FEMA’s response to the events of that day and how it changed the agency is also included.

zella.campbell Wed, 09/08/2021 - 19:22

FEMA Awards Miami-Dade County $8.34 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $8,346,330 for the State of Florida to help Miami-Dade County defray the cost of repairs after Hurricane Irma in 2017.

FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the county for the repair and replacement of more than 16,000 streetlights, traffic signs and signals throughout the county.

The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.

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

Nadine.Jones Wed, 09/08/2021 - 19:16