FEMA Provides $2.4 Million to The Ohio State University for COVID-19 Response

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) announced today that $2,469,351 in federal funding has been made available to The Ohio State University for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 31, 2020.

This funding will reimburse The Ohio State University for costs related to medical care and COVID-19 testing at multiple sites. The funding also covers costs for warehouse space for centralized receiving and distribution of COVID-19 testing and treatment materials.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for communities as they respond to and recover from the pandemic,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Timely, accurate testing has been critical to ensuring individuals in the state—and across the nation—receive the medical care necessary to treat this virus, while helping stop its spread to others.” 

“This funding enables The Ohio State University to continue contributing toward Ohio’s collective mission to test for the coronavirus, treat those who are ill, and vaccinate Ohioans against COVID-19,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.

“I would like to thank FEMA Region 5 for its ongoing funding support to not only The Ohio State University, but to the state of Ohio,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “FEMA’s continued support ensures Ohioans have accessibility to COVID-19 testing sites, or to facilities to receive treatment.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 06/02/2021 - 14:31

FEMA Awards $1 Million to Village of La Valle

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) announced today that the village of La Valle, Wisc., was awarded $1,021,441 in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds for the acquisition and demolition of five flood-prone properties. To reduce the community’s flood vulnerability, these structures will be removed from the floodplain of the Baraboo River, and the area transitioned into open green space.

“The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program helps create safer communities by reducing loss of life and property damage,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This project will eliminate future structural losses in La Valle by permanently removing these properties from the floodplain, greatly reducing the financial impact on individuals and the community.”

“Flooding can be devastating for a community and it’s imperative that we take every step necessary to reduce the impact it has on people and where they live,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator. “I would like to the thank FEMA for making this valuable funding available to the village of La Valle, so that they can take steps to prevent future hardships.”

HMGP provides grants to state and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures. Through HMGP, FEMA pays 75 percent of eligible project cost. As part of this funding, FEMA is also providing an initial $25,000 to assist the village of La Valle in managing the grant. To learn more about HMGP or FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 06/02/2021 - 14:20

Over $1.6 Million Approved for Beaufort County to Acquire Flood-Prone Properties

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved $1,603,745 to help Beaufort County acquire, demolish and remove 19 residential structures that were flooded after Hurricane Florence in 2018.

The structures are located within a Special Flood Hazard Area in Washington, N.C.  Once they are removed, the parcels will be converted to an open space in the natural floodplain. Purchase of the properties will also help the homeowners to relocate to an area where they won’t face an ongoing flood risk.  

“The completion of FEMA’s review and approval of the program is good news for these property owners and the communities where they live,” said Steve McGugan, State Hazard Mitigation Officer. “The next step is for the state and local governments to move through the procurement of a contractor, which will take a couple of months to complete. Once there is a contractor in place, they will need to mobilize and set up their final project management timeline so property owners can be advised on the approximate date work will be completed on their property.”

FEMA’s share of the cost for this project is $1,202,809 and the state’s share is $400,936. FEMA covers 75 percent of eligible costs and the remaining 25 percent is paid for by the state. The federal share is reimbursed to the state which disburses the funds to local governments.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds projects that reduce risks from repetitive hazards. Hazard mitigation includes long-term solutions that help reduce or eliminate rebuilding costs from future disasters. This mitigation planning breaks the cycle of disaster damage, reconstruction and repeated damage.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Florence, visit ncdps.gov/Florence and FEMA.gov/Disaster/4393. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Wed, 06/02/2021 - 12:11

FEMA Weekly Update of State-Specific Funeral Assistance Information

WASHINGTON -- In the short time since FEMA began accepting COVID-19 funeral assistance applications, the agency has already disbursed more than $128 million to nearly 19,000 applicants.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Additional information about the assistance and frequently asked questions are available on FEMA.gov.

“Applications” in the chart below, reflect the number of people who called to begin the assistance process. Once someone has applied for assistance, they have six months to return requested information to help process the claim. Once applicants have supplied all documentation, a FEMA case worker reviews, and an eligibility determination is made in less than 25 days.

Please find below state-specific information:

State/Territory

Applications

Amount Approved

Number of Awards

ALABAMA

4,712

$1,986,922

272

ALASKA

92

$11,050

2

AMERICAN SAMOA

4

 $0

0

ARIZONA

3,407

$634,524

116

ARKANSAS

1,972

$874,169

130

CALIFORNIA

22,387

$14,273,288

2,111

COLORADO

1,429

$476,399

80

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

3

 $4,344

1

CONNECTICUT

2,553

$2,422,702

336

DELAWARE

605

$380,491

59

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

407

$209,447

29

FLORIDA

11,531

$8,336,237

1,445

GEORGIA

7,661

$3,092,738

449

GUAM

8

$0

0

HAWAII

200

$44,102

10

IDAHO

385

$242,101

47

ILLINOIS

8,566

$7,695,464

1,112

INDIANA

3,512

$1,118,426

152

IOWA

1,896

$1,048,310

137

KANSAS

1,704

$399,225

55

KENTUCKY

2,719

$1,043,777

144

LOUISIANA

3,838

$1,901,368

271

MAINE

229

$78,985

20

MARYLAND

4,050

$2,084,190

292

MASSACHUSETTS

4,275

$2,134,232

301

MICHIGAN

6,733

$2,565,689

410

MINNESOTA

1,933

$987,102

144

MISSISSIPPI

3,379

$1,192,880

163

MISSOURI

3,467

$1,206,130

176

MONTANA

343

$65,833

14

NEBRASKA

863

$603,910

80

NEVADA

1,752

$464 ,217

79

NEW HAMPSHIRE

473

$269,489

47

NEW JERSEY

8,886

$8,133,359

1,133

NEW MEXICO

1,117

$368,746

73

NEW YORK

19,192

$18,597,697

2,585

NORTH CAROLINA

5,957

$5,577,227

833

NORTH DAKOTA

513

$274,859

36

OHIO

6,961

$8,327,993

1,276

OKLAHOMA

2,894

$1,329,203

190

OREGON

570

$243,491

47

PENNSYLVANIA

9,446

$5,233,781

775

PUERTO RICO

845

$71,612

18

RHODE ISLAND

910

$984,692

135

SOUTH CAROLINA

4,251

$1,452,511

198

SOUTH DAKOTA

527

$526,969

66

TENNESSEE

5,040

$2,239,439

304

TEXAS

18,488

$11,887,401

1,738

UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS

18

$8,855

1

UTAH

763

$664,107

96

VERMONT

103

$47,672

8

VIRGINIA

4,459

$2,416,999

350

WASHINGTON

1,282

$418,263

68

WEST VIRGINIA

1,031

$264,189

41

WISCONSIN

3,391

$1,170,399

164

WYOMING

174

$136,524

22

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. ET Monday, June 1, 2021.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 06/01/2021 - 21:33

FEMA Provides an Additional $1.4 Million to Salt Lake County for COVID-19 Response

DENVER – FEMA has approved more than $1.4 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Utah. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 4, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of $94 million for the Utah COVID-19 response to date.

The $1.4 million was received by Salt Lake County for COVID-19 to disseminate information to the public for warnings and guidance, provided security, law enforcement, barricading and patrolling jurisdiction-wide for COVID-19 safety measures; and provided law enforcement officers to staff the Emergency Support Function #13 (public safety and security) desk at the County's Emergency Operations Center and at the Emergency Communications Center.

This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021 Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

anthony.mayne Tue, 06/01/2021 - 20:08

Town of North Topsail Beach Awarded $13.69 Million for Beach Restoration After Hurricane Florence

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved $13,696,691 to reimburse the Town of North Topsail Beach for beach restoration after Hurricane Florence in 2018.

Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program covers installation of 607,059 cubic yards of beach sand along 18,500 linear feet at the north and south ends of North Topsail Beach in Onslow County, and sand fencing to protect the dunes at beach access points.

FEMA’s share for this project is $10,272,518 and the state’s share is $3,424,172.

The Public Assistance program provides grants for state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to reimburse the cost of debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent repair work.

Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program. FEMA reimburses applicants at least 75 percent of eligible costs and the remaining 25 percent is covered by the state. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred costs.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Florence, visit ncdps.gov/Florence and FEMA.gov/Disaster/4393. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Tue, 06/01/2021 - 18:42

ICYMI - Prepare Now for Hurricane Season

WASHINGTON -- Today marks the start of the Atlantic hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration  recently released the 2021 outlook, which predicts another active season.

No matter what the hurricane season outlook predicts, it’s important to remember that it only takes one storm to devastate a community. Now is the time to prepare your home and your family.  Remember, hurricanes are not just a coastal problem, so it’s important to know the risks where you live: rain, wind and flooding could happen far from the coast.

“FEMA’s mission to help people before, during and after disasters has never been more critical, given our shared experience during this pandemic,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Even if you’re experiencing disaster fatigue due to your experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, we all must use the lessons learned from it to prepare for potential disasters on the horizon.”

Although FEMA has had a very busy year supporting President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccination mission and other disasters, the agency is ready to handle future disasters.

“More than 20,000 FEMA employees across the nation stand ready to support our state, local, tribal and territorial partners in hurricane prone areas to provide any help they may need to protect lives and property,” said Administrator Criswell. “The best way to help your community recover from a disaster is by taking steps now to prepare yourself and your family BEFORE a disaster strikes. Visit Ready.gov to start your planning today.”

Consider these actions to start your preparedness today:

• In addition to being prepared for a disaster, ensuring that you and your family are vaccinated against COVID-19 helps your entire community be more resilient before future disasters. COVID-19 vaccines are effective at preventing COVID-19 disease, especially severe illness and death. Vaccines also reduce the risk of people spreading COVID-19, making all our communities safer.
• Everyone can take steps to make sure they’re prepared for any disaster. Visit Ready.gov to learn about how to prepare for disasters that might happen where you live, work or visit.
  • Ready.gov has information online for individuals, individuals with disabilities, families, kids, pets and businesses on how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. Find updated information from the Centers for Disease Control on how to prepare for the hurricane season during the pandemic.
  • Build an emergency kit. If you live in Hawai’i, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, consider having supplies to last at least 10 days.
  • Visit Ready.gov/hurricanes for the latest information on being prepared for this hurricane season.
• You can also download the free FEMA App to receive weather alerts and warnings for up to five different locations in the United States.

Last week, Administrator Criswell spent time with officials in both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to discuss recovery projects and preparedness efforts for the Caribbean Area Office ahead of hurricane season.

While in Puerto Rico, she toured FEMA’s Caribbean warehouse and distribution center in Caguas, visited the Susana Centeno Community Health Center in Vieques and met with Gov. Pedro Pierluisi, Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón and Speaker of the House Rafael “Tatito” Hernández. While in the U.S. Virgin Islands, she met with Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett and toured the Juan F. Luiz Hospital on St. Croix.

 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (May 26, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (center) discusses ongoing recovery and hurricane preparedness efforts with Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi (right).

 

CAGUAS, Puerto Rico (May 25, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left) and Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón (right) tour the FEMA warehouse and distribution facilities in Caguas, Puerto Rico, ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season beginning June 1.  

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands (May 28, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell meets with U.S. Virgin Islands Gov. Albert Bryan ahead of the start of the Atlantic Hurricane season on June 1.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 06/01/2021 - 17:13

FEMA Awards an Additional $33.7 million in Hurricane Laura Public Assistance Grants

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) grant program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (GOHSEP) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

Public Assistance grants go to governments and nonprofits after a disaster. The money helps protect people and property, clean up neighborhoods, haul away disaster debris, put utilities back in order, and repair roads and bridges, among other projects.

Applicants provide FEMA with thorough documentation to support damage claims. Following approvals by FEMA and GOHSEP, FEMA obligates funding for the project. Once a project is obligated by FEMA, GOHSEP works closely with the applicant to finalize the grant and begin making payments.

Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit (PNP) organizations.

FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the State of Louisiana. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive these awards. Following the state's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the sub-recipients.

Recent Grants Awarded

• Allen Parish: $7,395,643 awarded to Allen Parish for debris removal operations. A total of 550,897 cubic yards (CY) of debris were removed from within the applicant’s jurisdiction.
• Jefferson Davis Electric Co-Op Inc.: $16,890,557 awarded to the Jefferson Davis Electric Co-Op Inc. for emergency protective measures. Hurricane Laura interrupted the electrical supply to significant areas of southeast Louisiana, creating a need to respond to an immediate threat to the health and safety of the general public. 
• Lafayette Parish: $1,678,092 awarded to the Lafayette Parish Consolidated Government for permanent repairs to their electricity generation and distribution system.
• Vermilion Parish:  $3,956,001 awarded to the Vermilion Parish for debris removal operations. In response to the event, the parish utilized contract labor to remove 265,868 CY of debris.
• Rapides Parish: $1,229,097 awarded to Rapides Parish for debris removal operations. The parish utilized contract labor to remove a total of 690,605 CY of debris.
• Town of Kinder: $1,225,367 awarded to the Town of Kinder for debris removal operations due to the threat to the health and safety of the general public. The town utilized contract services to remove a total of 122,691 CY of debris.
• City of Oakdale: $1,418,809 awarded to the City of Oakdale for debris removal operations due to the threat to the health and safety of the general public. The city utilized contract labor to remove a total of 101,664 CY of debris.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit fema.gov/disaster/4559. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

stuart.lewis Tue, 06/01/2021 - 16:51

Volunteering and Donating in Alabama – Rise Above the Storm! Volunteering and Donating in Alabama – Rise Above the Storm!

Clanton, AL – When disaster strikes, people come together to help. That is a way of life here in Alabama.

Many volunteers have already given their time, money, and talent to help put Alabama back on its feet following the March 25-26 severe storms and tornadoes. As survivors of the storms move into the long and difficult recovery phase of this disaster, many more volunteers are needed.

“Local resources were able to help the impacted area immediately following the March 25th tornado. We are thankful that Calhoun County has a very active Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) group. Calhoun County VOAD was on the ground immediately after the tornado helping victims with immediate needs and will continue to be here until the recovery process is complete.”  Said Myles Chamblee/Calhoun County’s EMA Director.

A VOAD is a coalition of faith-based, community-based, and other nonprofit organizations that are key to training and placing volunteers to help survivors after a disaster.  If you want to volunteer to help your community recover, volunteering through an organization, already active in the disaster – like a VOAD, is the smart way to go. There are many tasks still to be done in the impacted areas of the state; cleaning up and rebuilding remains two of the biggest, along with roof tarping services, tree work and debris removal.

Everyone is welcome. Men and women from all walks of life are needed. High school and college students may want to help the community, and possibly fulfill a community-service requirement for graduation.

Volunteer manhours used for delivery of such services may potentially help offset the “local match” share of eligible federally funded public assistance projects.

To make the most of your help, FEMA and state officials say, it is important to do it right and follow these guidelines for donating and volunteering responsibly:

• To find a list of trusted organizations that can put your contributions of time or money to the best possible use, check out the Alabama VOAD online at https://www.alvoad.org/ or for the National VOAD go to https://www.nvoad.org/

 

• Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible, and most effective method of donating. Learn more at https://www.nvoad.org/howtohelp/donate/

 

• Cash is best. Cash offers voluntary agencies the most flexibility in obtaining the most-needed resources.

 

• Know before you go. A list of trusted organizations operating in Alabama can be found online at https://www.nvoad.org/volunteer/ . These organizations know where volunteers are needed and can ensure appropriate volunteer safety, training, and housing.

 

• Be patient. Recovery in Alabama – and the need for volunteers – will last months, maybe years. Your volunteer help will be needed here when others may have long forgotten about the tornadoes.

For additional online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit www.disasterassistance.gov and click “information.”

For referrals to Alabama’s health and human service agencies as well as community organizations, dial 211, text 888-421-1266, or chat with referral specialists via www.211connectsalabama.org.

For more information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit ema.alabama.gov, AlabamaEMA Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4596 and www.facebook.com/fema.

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

brianasummer.fenton Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:49

More Than $2 Million Awarded to Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut

REGION 1 – Griffin Hospital received $2,078,108 from FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program for the care and treatment of COVID-19 patients during the early months of the pandemic.

This funding provides reimbursement to Griffin Hospital in Derby for the setup of a COVID testing tent outside the hospital. Griffin Hospital was also able to repurpose an existing 23-bed unit for COVID patients by adding electrical connections and setting up a nurse calling system. The reimbursements to the hospital are for expenses incurred between Jan. 21 through Aug. 31, 2020.

FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible expenses for this PA project. It covers reimbursements for the costs of a testing tent, expanding capacity by repurposing a 23-bed unit, personal protective equipment, and disinfecting supplies.

“The actions taken by this hospital were vital in the fight against COVID-19,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “FEMA and the state are thankful Griffin Hospital took these actions to save many lives in the Derby area.”

As of May 27, FEMA obligated $498.2 million related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Connecticut.

Additional information about FEMA’s PA Program can be located at: https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

adrien.urbani Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:18

More Than $7.5 Million Provided to Connecticut’s Greenwich Hospital for Early Pandemic-Related Emergency Actions

REGION 1 – FEMA and the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) are pleased to announce a total of $7,556,621 in federal funds were awarded to Greenwich Hospital for the State of Connecticut’s initial emergency response to COVID-19 and protective measures from the coronavirus.

The funds are awarded in two separate grants through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program for expenses incurred in 2020. A $5,166,401 grant covers eligible costs from January 20 to June 30, 2020 and a $2,390,220 grant covers eligible costs from January 21 to August 31, 2020. Both grants reimburse hospital officials for emergency work and efforts undertaken to mitigate the COVID pandemic.

The $5,166,401 grant included reimbursement for a command center, a temporary testing facility, rented stretchers and heaters, a temporary morgue, staff for emergency-work tasks, and public dissemination of information.

The $2,390,220 grant included reimbursement for temporary tents and trailers set up outside the hospital as part of an emergency triage area,  a specimens-collection point, areas converted into additional rooms for patients, rented beds, and more medical supplies and equipment,.

FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible expenses for these two PA projects.

“Since the start of the pandemic, Greenwich Hospital has been an important partner in the State of Connecticut’s battle against COVID-19 and its many challenges,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “These grants support Connecticut’s mission to save lives, prevent illness and continue down the road to recovery.”

FEMA’s PA Program is for certain types of private non-profit organizations, states, commonwealths, localities, federally recognized Tribes and territories. More information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

As of May 20, FEMA obligated $495.6 million related to the coronavirus pandemic in Connecticut.

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

adrien.urbani Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:10

FEMA Encourages Individual and Community Preparedness as 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins

PHILADELPHIA – Recent years have not only shown that the east coast is susceptible to the damaging impacts of hurricanes and other tropical systems, but that hurricanes are also not just a coastal threat. The 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins today, June 1st, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) joins our state and local partners in encouraging individuals, families, businesses, and communities to begin preparing for hazardous weather that may result from hurricanes and other tropical systems. Disasters don’t wait; we’ve already seen the first tropical cyclone of the Atlantic season - Tropical Storm Ana. The threat of hurricanes and other tropical systems has already arrived.

“It is not uncommon for residents of the Mid-Atlantic to think hurricanes and tropical systems are unlikely to impact them where they live… but that is not necessarily the case. Tropical weather systems can have severe impacts hundreds of miles inland from the coast. A storm does not need to be a major hurricane to cause damage, and it only takes one to change your life.” said Janice Barlow, FEMA Region 3 Acting Regional Administrator. “Storms as recent as Hurricane Isaias, which impacted parts of Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania in August 2020 are proof that residents and business owners in the Mid-Atlantic should take hurricane season seriously and begin preparing today.”

Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic is still an ongoing hazard that could influence your hazardous weather plans when it comes to evacuation and sheltering. This is something to strongly consider when preparing for hurricane season. For example, you may need to adjust your plans if you are unwilling to gather in a group setting such as a public emergency shelter.

FEMA has also taken steps to prepare ourselves and our partners to respond to disasters in a COVID-19 environment. In May 2021 FEMA released COVID-19 Pandemic Operational Guidance. This updated document provides actionable guidance to State, Local, Tribal & Territorial officials to prepare for response and recovery operations for all-hazards and encourages personal preparedness measures amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. FEMA is ready to respond to any hurricane or disaster.

 

Take action today to prepare for hurricanes and other tropical systems:

Know your risk. These storms are not just a coastal threat. Extreme flooding and damaging winds could occur hundreds of miles inland from the coast.

Begin planning. Know what you’ll do if a storm is coming to your area, how to stay in touch with family and friends, and where you will go if your home is unsafe. Visit ready.gov for preparedness and planning tips.

Make a kit. Make sure you have non-perishable food items, water, essential documents, flashlights, a battery back or other means of charging your cell phone, NOAA weather radio, toys or comfort items for kids, and any supplies needed for your pet. Have enough supplies to last at least 72 hours but preparing to be on your own for up to a week is a good idea. Learn more at ready.gov/kit.

Download the FEMA app. By having the FEMA app installed on your smartphone you can receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service, share real-time notifications with loved ones, review emergency preparedness tips and checklists, locate emergency shelters, and more.

Stay informed. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your mobile phone to receive emergency alerts from the National Weather Service. A NOAA Weather Radio can also provide these lifesaving emergency alerts.

• Pay attention to weather forecasts in your area provided by local news outlets or the National Weather Service. Many people also use weather apps on their mobile phones for this purpose.
• Always follow the guidance of local officials during an emergency. If your community has an emergency alert system you should consider signing up. Contact your local emergency manager for more information.

Purchase flood insurance. Talk to your insurance provider about your coverage and determine if you would be covered in the event of a flood.

• Most homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage.
• Flood insurance takes 30 days to become effective – don’t wait until the last minute!
• Visit floodsmart.gov for more information.

Known your zone. If you live in a coastal area, become familiar with community evacuation plans, evacuation zones, and evacuation routes. Where will you go and how will you get there?

• Maryland: mema.maryland.gov/know-your-zone
• Virginia: knowyourzoneva.org

More information on how to prepare may be found at ready.gov/hurricanes.

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

For questions about this release or hurricane preparedness, please contact FEMA Region 3 External Affairs by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov.

 

gabriel.lugo Tue, 06/01/2021 - 15:06

FEMA Awards More Than $1.8 Million to New Haven, Connecticut

REGION 1 – The City of New Haven, Connecticut received a $1,874,811 grant from FEMA for COVID-19 response efforts in 2020.

The grant fully reimbursed the city for eligible expenses incurred from January 20 through June 30, 2020. Expenses included creating and maintaining three temporary care facilities with nurses for coronavirus-positive police, fire and medical personnel, and the purchase of personal protection equipment, disinfection kits, wipes, and foldable beds.

The project was funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program, which reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include localities, states, commonwealths, certain types of private non-profit organizations, federally recognized Tribes and territories. In Connecticut, PA project applications are submitted through the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), which coordinates the FEMA process with eligible applicants.

“In the early days of the Pandemic in 2020 Connecticut took quick action to protect their citizens,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England. “FEMA is pleased to provide these funds for the actions they took to save lives and protect the city of New Haven. We continue to work closely with the state and the City of New Haven to address the ongoing needs associated with COVID-19.”

Additional information about FEMA’s PA Program can be found at https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

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

adrien.urbani Tue, 06/01/2021 - 14:56

Free Legal Help Available for Disaster Survivors

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A free legal aid hotline is now available to eligible survivors of the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides in Anderson, Breathitt, Boyd, Clark, Clay, Estill, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Greenup, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Madison, Magoffin, Martin, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Warren and Woodford counties.

Low-income individuals affected by the disaster facing legal issues who are unable to afford a lawyer may call a toll-free legal services hotline at (844) 478-0099. Callers should identify that they are seeking storm or flooding-related legal assistance, and provide the county where they are located and a phone number where they can be reached by an attorney.

This service is a partnership between AppalReD Legal Aid, the Kentucky Bar Association, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA and other local organizations.

Types of free legal assistance available include:

• Help securing FEMA and other government benefits available to disaster survivors
• Assistance with life, medical and property insurance claims
• Help with home repair contracts and contractors
• Replacement of wills and other important legal documents lost or destroyed in the disaster
• Consumer protection issues such as price-gouging and avoiding contractor scams in the rebuilding process
• Counseling on mortgage-foreclosure problems
• Counseling on landlord-tenant problems

Callers should be aware that there are limitations on disaster legal services. For example, assistance is not available for cases that will produce a fee (those cases where attorneys are paid part of the settlement by a court). Such cases are referred to a local lawyer referral service.

For more information on Kentucky’s disaster recovery, visit https://kyem.ky.gov

and www.fema.gov/disaster/4595. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Tue, 06/01/2021 - 14:39

Greenbelt Metro Community Vaccination Center in Maryland Surpasses 115,000 Vaccinations; Last Day for Shots Tuesday, June 1

GREENBELT, Md. – After providing more than 115,000 shots in arms, the team at the FEMA-run Greenbelt Community Vaccination Center (CVC) will offer its final vaccinations Tuesday, June 1.

The vaccination center will be open through Memorial Day weekend and Tuesday, June 1. Vaccinations are available by appointment or walk-in 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday and Tuesday.

“The Greenbelt Metro community vaccination center was a tremendous success thanks to the help and support of all of our partners,” said Janice Barlow, FEMA Region 3 Acting Regional Administrator. “We are grateful to our state, local and federal partners – and to the thousands of visitors who did their part to fight the pandemic and protect their families, friends and communities by getting vaccinated.”

The CVC opened April 7, 2021, and operated seven days a week to deliver vaccinations.

"I want to thank FEMA for their tremendous partnership with Maryland at the Greenbelt Vaccination Center," said Maryland Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Russ Strickland. "The Greenbelt vaccination center, which is accessible by public transportation, was a big help in our efforts to equitably distribute and administer over 115,000 vaccinations here."

The CVC is providing the Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccinations. The free vaccine requires only one shot, not two, and is approved for individuals 18 years and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Appointments can be scheduled at massvax.maryland.gov. Walk-ins are welcome.

“Our ability to provide COVID-19 protection to so many people required a coordinated effort among many agencies, the private sector and volunteers,” said Timothy Pheil, FEMA Deputy Federal Coordinating Officer for Maryland. “The real heroes of this operation were the thousands of Maryland residents who came forward to get vaccinated and help defeat the coronavirus.”

Reasonable accommodation for people with access and functional needs is available as well as onsite interpretation in eight spoken languages, and American Sign Language, Certified Deaf Interpretation and Sensory Interpretation.

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

 

gabriel.lugo Fri, 05/28/2021 - 20:12

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Nebraska Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Nebraska by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for public assistance projects as a result of a severe winter storm, straight-line winds and flooding during the period of March 9-July 14, 2019.

Under the major disaster declaration issued for Nebraska on March 21, 2019, federal funding was made available for public assistance, hazard mitigation and other needs assistance at 75% of the total eligible costs.         

Under the President's order yesterday, the federal share for public assistance has been increased to 90% of the total eligible costs.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 05/28/2021 - 19:16

Prepare Now for Hurricane Season

WASHINGTON -- June 1 marks the start of the Atlantic hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration  recently released the 2021 outlook, which predicts another active season.

No matter what the hurricane season outlook predicts, it’s important to remember that it only takes one storm to devastate a community. Now is the time to prepare your home and your family.  Remember, hurricanes are not just a coastal problem, so it’s important to know the risks where you live: rain, wind and flooding could happen far from the coast.

“FEMA’s mission to help people before, during and after disasters has never been more critical, given our shared experience during this pandemic,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Even if you’re experiencing disaster fatigue due to your experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, we all must use the lessons learned from it to prepare for potential disasters on the horizon.”

Although FEMA has had a very busy year supporting President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccination mission and other disasters, the agency is ready to handle future disasters.

“More than 20,000 FEMA employees across the nation stand ready to support our state, local, tribal and territorial partners in hurricane prone areas to provide any help they may need to protect lives and property,” said Administrator Criswell. “The best way to help your community recover from a disaster is by taking steps now to prepare yourself and your family BEFORE a disaster strikes. Visit Ready.gov to start your planning today.”

Consider these actions to start your preparedness today:

• In addition to being prepared for a disaster, ensuring that you and your family are vaccinated against COVID-19 helps your entire community be more resilient before future disasters. COVID-19 vaccines are effective at preventing COVID-19 disease, especially severe illness and death. Vaccines also reduce the risk of people spreading COVID-19, making all our communities safer.
• Everyone can take steps to make sure they’re prepared for any disaster. Visit Ready.gov to learn about how to prepare for disasters that might happen where you live, work or visit.
  • Ready.gov has information online for individuals, individuals with disabilities, families, kids, pets and businesses on how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. Find updated information from the Centers for Disease Control on how to prepare for the hurricane season during the pandemic.
  • Build an emergency kit. If you live in Hawai’i, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, consider having supplies to last at least 10 days.
  • Visit Ready.gov/hurricanes for the latest information on being prepared for this hurricane season.
• You can also download the free FEMA App to receive weather alerts and warnings for up to five different locations in the United States.

This week, Administrator Criswell spent time with officials in both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to discuss recovery projects and preparedness efforts for the Caribbean Area Office ahead of hurricane season.

While in Puerto Rico, she toured FEMA’s Caribbean warehouse and distribution center in Caguas, visited the Susana Centeno Community Health Center in Vieques and met with Gov. Pedro Pierluisi, Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón and Speaker of the House Rafael “Tatito” Hernández. While in the U.S. Virgin Islands, she met with Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett and toured the Juan F. Luiz Hospital on St. Croix.

 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (May 26, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (center) discusses ongoing recovery and hurricane preparedness efforts with Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi (right).

 

CAGUAS, Puerto Rico (May 25, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left) and Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón (right) tour the FEMA warehouse and distribution facilities in Caguas, Puerto Rico, ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season beginning June 1.  

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands (May 28, 2021) -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell meets with U.S. Virgin Islands Gov. Albert Bryan ahead of the start of the Atlantic Hurricane season on June 1.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 05/28/2021 - 19:11

FEMA Approves 22 Additional Counties for Individual Assistance

Frankfort, Ky. – Twenty-two more counties in Kentucky have been designated for disaster assistance as part of the federal disaster declaration for the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred Feb. 27 through March 14.

The announcement brings the total number of counties designated for Individual Assistance to 31 with today’s addition of Anderson, Boyd, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Greenup, Jackson, Jessamine, Knott, Laurel, Lawrence, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Madison, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Warren and Woodford.

Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Johnson, Lee, Magoffin, Martin and Powell are the counties previously designated for Individual Assistance.

Individual Assistance for homeowners and renters may include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses not met by insurance or other assistance programs.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses, private non-profit organizations, homeowners and renters to cover residential and business losses as a result of the disaster.

How to Get Help From FEMA

• Contact your insurance company and file a claim for the disaster-caused       damage.
• By law, FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments or assistance from government programs or charities.
• Take photographs or video of the damage and keep all receipts related to home repair.
• If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, contact FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA app and register on your smartphone or  tablet, or call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. Multilingual operators are also available during these hours.
• Those who use a Relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide their specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA can contact you. Phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.
• After registering, create an account to check the status of your application, view messages from FEMA, update your personal information, and upload important documents.
• If you have any questions, please contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The Helpline is the same telephone number as the registration line. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), please call 800-621-3362.

Applicants can apply for a low-interest disaster loan online using SBA’s secure website at https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. Email FOCE-Help@SBA.gov to set up a phone appointment for assistance with your disaster loan application.

You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. The center is open 8 am. to 8 pm. ET, seven days a week. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

For more information on Kentucky’s disaster recovery, visit https://kyem.ky.gov

and www.fema.gov/disaster/4595. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Fri, 05/28/2021 - 18:37

FEMA Provides an Additional $3.4 Million to North Dakota for COVID-19 Response

DENVER – FEMA has provided more than $3.4 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in North Dakota. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 1, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of almost $100.9 Million for the North Dakota COVID-19 response to date.

The $3.4 million was approved for the North Dakota Department of Health for emergency protective measures.  The funds were used to rent a warehouse with two temperature-controlled containers to store supplies, equipment, temperature sensitive vaccines, and testing materials.  They purchased and distributed medical supplies, vaccination fliers, and personal protective equipment for public health-related activities statewide.

This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

anthony.mayne Fri, 05/28/2021 - 17:39

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Spur Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of Arizona in combating the Spur Fire burning in Yavapai County.

On May 27, 2021, the state of Arizona submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Spur Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 500 homes in and around Baghdad, AZ. The fire also threatened 15 business, a fire station, school and power transmission lines in the area. Mandatory evacuations were in place for around 750 people.

The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on May 27, 2021, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Fri, 05/28/2021 - 14:27