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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of New Jersey to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storm and snowstorm from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, 2021.

Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storm and snowstorm in Cape May, Morris, Ocean, Sussex and Warren counties.

In addition, federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments on a cost-sharing basis for snow removal for a continuous 48-hour period during or proximate to the incident period in Morris, Sussex and Warren counties.

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

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

zella.campbell Wed, 04/28/2021 - 21:20

FEMA Hosts Roundtable with Local Community Organizations on COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts

Dr. Cameron Webb speaks at the Norfolk Community Vaccination Center - YouTube

Norfolk, Virginia — FEMA hosted a Community Leadership Roundtable to support ongoing COVID-19 vaccination efforts at the Military Circle Mall on April 20. Together with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the Virginia Department of Health and a number of local organizations, the goal of the meeting was to ensure the communities’ needs were met.

The event was held at Norfolk State University, and the panel included Dr. Cameron Webb from the White House COVID-19 Task Force. Among the topics discussed were community-specific hesitation to receive the vaccine, equitable access to the vaccines and ways in which interagency partners can assist in helping getting residents vaccinated.

“We need to ensure those who are most affected by COVID are the ones receiving the vaccine. By working together in summits like this, we are making sure we focus on leveraging resources at the local level,” said Dr. Cameron Webb.

Currently, all Hampton Roads residents over the age of 16 can get their free Pfizer vaccine at the Community Vaccination Center located at the Military Circle Mall. Reasonable accommodation for people with access and functional needs is available as well as information and onsite interpretation in a variety of languages, including American Sign Language.

Walk-ins are welcome at the center, which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The center will remain closed on Sunday, April 25. First doses of the vaccine will continue on Monday, April 26 through Saturday, May 1. Second doses are currently being administered at the site and will continue through May 22.

Walk-ins are welcome at the center, which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. First doses of the vaccine will continue through Saturday, May 1. Second doses are currently being administered at the site and will continue through May 22.

People interested in preregistering for their vaccine can do so online at norfolk.gov/covid19vaccine or they may call 1-877-829-4682.

Additionally, FEMA-supported community vaccination centers are open this week throughout the Hampton Roads community at the following locations:

• First Baptist Church South Hill, Chesapeake, VA (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) Now open till May 1st.
• Gethsemane Baptist Church, Newport News, VA (12:00 p.m-7:00 p.m.) Now open till April 30th
• Shiloh Baptist Church, Norfolk, VA (10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) Opening on April 29, 2021

All clinics welcome walk-ins and will be administering free first doses of Pfizer.

For more on the ongoing vaccination efforts in Virginia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4512 or vaemergency.gov.

 

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amanda.hancher Wed, 04/28/2021 - 21:01

FEMA approves additional $7 million for Bay Medical Center Hurricane Michael expenses

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved a grant of $7,019,830 for the state of Florida to reimburse the former Bay Medical Center for repairs after Hurricane Michael in 2018.

The grant reimburses the hospital for the cost of repairs to the South Tower of Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, including repairs to the ceiling, flooring, walls and storage cabinets. Bay Medical Center was acquired by Ascension and Sacred Heart Health System in March 2019.

This brings FEMA's total grants for the center's Hurricane Michael-related expenses to $39.5 million.

These grants are funded by FEMA’s Public Assistance program, 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.

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

barbara.murien… Wed, 04/28/2021 - 20:56

More than $1.7 Million Awarded to Rhode Island Department of Health to Continue its Fight Against COVID-19

Region 1 - The Rhode Island Department of Health recently received a $1,799,507 grant from FEMA for supplies and services used by medical facilities around the state.  The grant covered costs incurred from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2020.

State efforts funded through this grant include travel costs for COVID-19 inspector enforcement, supplies for the Office of the State Medical Examiner, ventilator supplies, contracted personnel support, and alternate hospital sites.

Specific provisions included supplies of PPE for the mortuary-staffed medical examiner’s office; medical labor for staging and relocating hospitalized COVID-positive elderly patients to their Specialty Nursing Homes; and providing temporary alternate hospital sites for expanded medical facilities statewide.

“Federal funding provided to the Department of Health has allowed the State of Rhode Island the ability to provide for the care and needs of critically ill elderly patients,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford.  “It also provided the means to access alternate hospital sites for use throughout the pandemic.”

To-date, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program obligated more than $190 million for 245 projects related to the pandemic in Rhode Island.  Additional information about the program is 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 Wed, 04/28/2021 - 19:21

Rhode Island Receives an Additional $3.4 Million for its COVID-19 Response

REGION 1 – FEMA has awarded an additional $3.4 million in Public Assistance Program funding for the State of Rhode Island’s COVID-19 response. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 30, 2020. The agency has provided more than $460.8 million for Rhode Island’s COVID-19 response, as of April 22, 2021

Recently, the Rhode Island Executive Military Staff was awarded a $3,490,947 PA Program grant for the cost of deploying active-duty Rhode Island National Guard (RING) troops during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded at 100%, the grant covers the cost of the mission assignment from March 14 to April 14, 2020. The major disaster declaration started on Jan. 20, 2020 and is continuing.

“The RING’s work during the response and recovery from the pandemic continues to be a vital role against COVID-19,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “We continue to work alongside the State and RING in our joint effort to combat this virus.”

Specifically, this grant was approved for RING troops who served on teams at various sites statewide performing pandemic-associated duties. They included assembling components for testing kits; distributing test kits; packing personal protective equipment; training staff how to use PPE correctly; staffing call centers; scheduling tests; providing Spanish public communications in the Central Falls and Pawtucket areas; directing traffic at testing sites; collecting patients’ test samples; notifying patients about test results; and helping create and operate alternate hospital sites.

More information about the PA Program is at Assistance for Governments and Private Non-Profits After a Disaster.

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

adrien.urbani Wed, 04/28/2021 - 19:07

Boston Public Health Commission Awarded $1.2 Million for COVID-19 Testing At Five Local Health Centers

REGION 1 – FEMA recently obligated $1,210,103 to reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the cost of COVID-19 community-based testing sites at five local health centers between May 13 and Aug. 31, 2020.

The grant, which was provided at 100% federal cost share, reimburses the Boston Public Health Commission for costs it incurred for the creation, operation and management of the testing sites during the COVID-19 emergency response.

"Testing is vital to the coronavirus-pandemic response, and these health centers helped save the lives of many in the Boston area,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “The centers continue to serve an important role in underserved communities throughout the area and with those disproportionately affected by COVID-19.”

Fixed and mobile site testing was conducted at Codman Square Health Center, Dorchester House (DotHouse Health), East Boston Neighborhood Health Center, Greater Roslindale Medical and Dental Center and the Whittier Street Health Center.  Costs for testing at individual testing locations varied depending on the location and number of testing-related services performed.

This project is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program that reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include the state, federally recognized tribal governments, local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations. Project applications are submitted from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), which coordinates the process with eligible applicants.

FEMA awarded funding for this project directly to MEMA who works directly with the applicant to ensure all terms and conditions of the award are met before funding is disbursed.

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

adrien.urbani Wed, 04/28/2021 - 18:55

Norfolk Residents Have Until May 1 to Get First Dose of Pfizer Vaccine at FEMA-Supported Vaccination Center

Norfolk, Virginia — Hampton Roads residents have until May 1 to get their first free Pfizer vaccine at the FEMA-supported Community Vaccination Center in Military Circle Mall. Second doses are currently being administered at the center through May 22.

The vaccination center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome and those interested in getting their vaccine must bring a valid ID or any document that provides proof of name. Visit www.norfolk.gov/COVID-Vaccine-Information for additional information.

All Hampton Roads residents over the age of 16 are eligible to receive their free vaccine at the Military Circle Mall location. Individuals who are 16 or 17 will need to have a parent or guardian with them at the vaccination site in order to receive the vaccine.

In addition to the Community Vaccination Center at Military Circle Mall, FEMA is supporting additional clinics in Newport News and Chesapeake this week. All clinics are offering the Pfizer vaccine and walk-ins are welcome. For more information:  FEMA is Supporting Several COVID-19 Vaccination Sites for Hampton Road Residents | FEMA.gov

Reasonable accommodations for people with access and functional needs is available as well as information and onsite interpretation in a variety of languages, including American Sign Language.

For information on all available clinics visit https://vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 1-877-829-4682.

For more on the ongoing vaccination efforts in Virginia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4512 or vaemergency.gov.

 

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amanda.hancher Wed, 04/28/2021 - 15:35

More Than $1.6 Million Provided to Connecticut’s Middlesex Hospital for Pandemic-Related Emergency Actions

REGION 1 – FEMA and the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security announced today $1,610,356 in federal funding has been awarded to Middlesex Hospital in Middletown for the State of Connecticut’s emergency response to COVID-19.

The funding, part of FEMA Public Assistance grant program, reimbursed Middlesex Hospital, part of Middlesex Health, for costs to provide a mobile field hospital and two trailers for COVID-19 patient testing, conducted in front of its Emergency Department, and converting the hospital’s operating room into a COVID-19 surgical room.

The grant included reimbursement for other medical services including the cost of training staff, purchasing and distributing medical supplies, equipment, personal protective equipment, sanitizing products, creating a new inventory storage space for medical supply items related to COVID-19, and disseminating public information.

FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible expenses for this project, which covers the period from Jan. 20 to July 31, 2020.

“Since the start of the pandemic, Middlesex Hospital has been an important partner in Connecticut’s battle against COVID-19,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “This funding supports the state’s mission to save lives, prevent illness and continue down the road to recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program in New England is for states, localities, Tribes, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations. More information about the program is available at:  https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

As of April 22, FEMA has obligated a total of $474.7 million in federal support related to the pandemic in Connecticut.

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

adrien.urbani Wed, 04/28/2021 - 14:04

Kentucky Survivors Affected by Severe Storms Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Kentucky homeowners and renters affected by the severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that occurred from February 27 to March 14, 2021, and who live in counties that have recently been designated for Individual Assistance, may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

The designated counties are: Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Johnson, Lee, Magoffin, Martin and Powell. Additional counties may be designated at a later date if requested by the Commonwealth and warranted by the results of further assessments.

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

The fastest and easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.

If it is not possible to register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 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 register via smartphone or tablet by downloading the FEMA app from our website or through your mobile provider’s application store.

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; and
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

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 families recover from the effects of the event.

For the latest information on Kentucky severe storms, visit Kentucky Severe Storms (DR-4595-KY) | FEMA.gov. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.  

neily.chapman Tue, 04/27/2021 - 20:38

FEMA Awards Palm Beach County $1.25 Million for Hurricane Irma Costs

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,257,342 for the State of Florida to help Palm Beach County defray the cost associated with Hurricane Irma in 2017.

FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the county for administrative costs of tracking and accounting for labor, equipment, materials and other expenses after the storm.

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.

barbara.murien… Tue, 04/27/2021 - 18:38

Eight Counties Can Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance from the March Tornadoes

CLANTON, Ala. – Homeowners and renters who suffered damage from the March 25-26, 2021 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes in in Bibb, Calhoun, Clay, Hale, Jefferson, Perry, Randolph and Shelby counties should apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from the tornado.

Bibb, Calhoun, Clay, Hale, Jefferson, Perry, Randolph and Shelby counties were designated eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program under the major disaster declaration signed by President Biden on April 26, 2021, for damage and losses from the March tornadoes.

If you have a homeowner’s insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately, before applying for federal assistance. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin. 

You can register for FEMA disaster assistance online by visiting  DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. Multilingual operators are available. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT.

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.

If you cannot return to your home, or you are unable to live in your home, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, or call 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY) to determine what federal, state, local, or voluntary agency assistance may be available to you.

If you can return to your home and it is safe, has working power, water and sewer or septic service, visit DisasterAssistance.gov to determine if state, voluntary and local organizations in your community can address any unmet needs.

“The people of Alabama are resilient,” said Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director, Brian Hastings. “We witnessed the immense damage caused by these tornadoes, and the incredible work accomplished by the local community to respond & recover. This federal assistance is another tool to assist eligible survivors and communities in their long term recovery process.”

Disaster assistance may provide temporary help and a place to stay while you build your recovery plan. Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it may be able to help your recovery move forward by providing grants for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure. FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, those without insurance, or those who may be underinsured, may still receive help after their insurance claims have been settled.

“We’re working closely with Alabama EMA and voluntary agencies to connect survivors with the resources they need to start their recovery,” said Allan Jarvis, FEMA’s chief coordinating official in Alabama.

Long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and that do not duplicate benefits from other agencies or organizations.

If referred, applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov or by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

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.

ron.roth Tue, 04/27/2021 - 17:03

Two Weeks Remain for Homeowners, Renters and Businesses to Apply for Disaster Assistance

BATON ROUGE, La. – If you are a Louisiana homeowner, renter or business owner who sustained property damage or loss caused by severe winter storms in February, you have two weeks left to register and apply for federal disaster assistance.

Residents who were temporarily forced from their homes because of utility failures should also register with FEMA. Reimbursement for hotel or other temporary rental expenses may be possible

The deadline to register for assistance from FEMA and to apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration is Monday, May 10.

Survivors should register even if they have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but eligible homeowners and renters may be able to receive a grant from FEMA for losses not covered by insurance to help pay for basic home repairs, temporary rental assistance and other needs such as replacing personal property.

Individuals and businesses in parishes included in the Louisiana federal disaster declaration for the winter storms may still register for assistance or update contact information, ask questions about a letter from FEMA, get information about FEMA home inspections, or learn how to appeal a FEMA decision by:

• Going online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Calling the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 or 800-462-7585 (TTY) anytime from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should alert FEMA as to the specific number assigned to that service.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App by texting ANDROID or APPLE to 43362.

For the latest information on  the Winter Storms, visit Louisiana Severe Winter Storms (DR-4590-LA). Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

stuart.lewis Tue, 04/27/2021 - 14:06

Deanne Criswell Takes Oath as FEMA's 12th Administrator

WASHINGTON -- Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas swore in Deanne Criswell as FEMA’s 12th Administrator, the first woman confirmed to serve in this role.

Administrator Criswell took the oath this evening after receiving unanimous support from the Senate. As Administrator, she is tasked with reducing the loss of life and property, protecting the nation from all hazards and leading the nation through a comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery and mitigation.

She joins FEMA at a critical juncture as the agency continues to coordinate COVID-19 vaccination efforts, support the Department in its humanitarian efforts at the southern border and prepare for future disasters like the upcoming hurricane season.

“Deanne’s career is one of commitment and service to our nation,” said Secretary Mayorkas. “That commitment now rises to the next level of leading the dedicated people of FEMA as they continue working to meet unprecedented challenges. I have full confidence in her ability to lead FEMA with compassion, fairness, integrity and respect as she works to fulfill the agency’s ever-important mission: helping people before, during and after disasters. It is my honor to welcome Administrator Criswell to the Department of Homeland Security.”

With more than 25 years of leadership experience in emergency management, including serving as the Commissioner for New York City Emergency Management, as a member of the Colorado Air National Guard and deployed to numerous disaster assignments with FEMA, she also worked as a local firefighter and managed the Aurora, Colorado, office of emergency management.

“I believe the best way to balance the competing demands is to make risk reduction investments to build more resilient communities and infrastructure, including against the threat of climate change,” Criswell said during her confirmation hearing. “As an emergency manager, I have always focused on keeping families and communities safe. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to help the people of this country.”

zella.campbell Tue, 04/27/2021 - 12:56

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Virginia

Philadelphia – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Emergency Preparedness Exercise at the North Anna Power Station. The exercise will occur during the week of May 4, 2021 to assess the ability of the Commonwealth of Virginia to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said Janice Barlow, Acting Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone and the 50-mile Ingestion Pathway Zone within the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions.  The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise.

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 9:00 a.m. on May 7, 2021.  Due to the Public Health Emergency the meeting will be conducted in a virtual format via Zoom.   Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA. 

Access to the public meeting is provided below:

https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1618697623

Meeting ID: 161 869 7623

Passcode: 059737

At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:

Janice P. Barlow

Acting Regional Administrtor

FEMA Region III

615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program.

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

gabriel.lugo Mon, 04/26/2021 - 21:26

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Alabama to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from March 25-26, 2021.

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

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

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

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/or by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 04/26/2021 - 20:47

An SBA Loan Application Could Bring More FEMA Grant Assistance

BATON ROUGE, La. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan application holds many benefits for disaster survivors who register for federal assistance. An applicant who is referred to the SBA during the initial FEMA registration process is expected to complete an application. If the person chooses not to apply, the federal funding process stops at that point. If they apply and are turned down for a low-interest disaster loan, this may open the door to an additional grant from FEMA. Submitting an SBA loan application keeps the full range of disaster assistance available as an option.

If SBA does not approve a loan for you - or approves a small loan that doesn't cover all of your needs - you may be offered FEMA grants to replace essential household items, replace or repair a damaged vehicle, cover storage expenses or meet other serious disaster-related needs.

No one is obligated to accept a loan. But the SBA application may be the basis of referrals to other grant programs. If you received a referral to the SBA it’s important to fill it out online and submit it to the SBA by Monday, May 10.

There are important reasons to complete the application and send it to the SBA, even if you think you don’t currently need a loan:

• You may be underinsured. You may discover in the next few weeks that you were underinsured for the amount of work required to repair or replace your home. An SBA low-interest disaster loan may cover the difference. In other words, the SBA will bridge the gap between your recovery costs and the settlement amount. Apply with the SBA to keep your options open. SBA offers loans for homeowners up to $200,000 to repair or replace their primary residence. The loans are customized to your personal financial circumstances. On a case-by-case basis, the SBA may be able to assist with refinance of your current mortgage(s).
• SBA can also help renters and homeowners replace household contents and vehicles, referred to as personal property. You may be able to borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace clothing, furniture, cars or appliances that were damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

For businesses and private nonprofit organizations, there are loans available:

• For businesses of any size and private nonprofit organizations - up to $2 million to repair or replace real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other assets that were damaged or destroyed.
• For small businesses, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations - up to $2 million for working capital needs, even if they had no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
• Economic Injury - only for small businesses and most private non-profit organizations suffering adverse financial impacts of the disaster (with or without property loss), up to $2 million for working capital to help pay obligations until normal operations resume.

Businesses and residents can apply online at Disaster assistance (sba.gov). For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. 

For the latest on the Winter Storms, visit Louisiana Severe Winter Storms (DR-4590-LA). Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

stuart.lewis Mon, 04/26/2021 - 17:39

Still Need Housing Assistance? FEMA Needs to Hear from You

BATON ROUGE, La. – Did you register for assistance with FEMA after hurricanes Laura or Delta and still need a place to live? Or did your circumstances change, and you now need housing after telling FEMA you did not? If so, FEMA needs to hear from you no later than Friday, May 28.

Applicants should call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).

FEMA is working on housing approximately 700 families who remain on the list of applicants eligible for direct temporary housing.

Applicants may be eligible for direct temporary housing if they are homeowners or renters whose home:

• Was destroyed or had major damage (total loss or damaged structurally and is not safe, sanitary and functional to live in) as a result of hurricane Laura or Delta (based on the FEMA determination); and are
• Pre-disaster residents of one of the twelve parishes designated for the Direct Temporary Housing program: Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Grant, Jefferson Davis, Rapides, St. Landry, St. Martin, Vermilion and Vernon.

FEMA needs to hear from those:

• Applicants whose home was destroyed or received major damage from the hurricanes (based on the FEMA determination) and have not been contacted by FEMA to determine whether they need temporary housing.
• Applicants who initially indicated they did not need temporary housing assistance, but circumstances have changed, and they may now need housing assistance.
• Applicants who FEMA has been unable to contact to complete the interview. If you think you should have heard from FEMA or have additional information about the condition of your home,

The deadline to contact FEMA regarding temporary housing assistance is Friday, May 28.

Applicants can contact FEMA by calling the Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should alert FEMA as to the specific number assigned to that service.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit Louisiana Hurricane Laura (DR-4559-LA). For the latest information on information on Hurricane Delta, visit Louisiana Hurricane Delta (DR-4570-LA). Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at FEMA Region 6 (@FEMARegion6) / Twitter.

stuart.lewis Mon, 04/26/2021 - 17:33

50,000+ Lifesaving Vaccines Administered at the Greenbelt Metro Community Vaccination Center

GREENBELT, Md. – In just three weeks, vaccinators at the Greenbelt Metro Community Vaccination Center (CVC) have administered more than 50,000 shots to help bring the world closer to ending the COVID-19 pandemic.   

The federally operated center is a joint effort between the State of Maryland, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It has showcased a great partnership with great results in its first three weeks of operation. 

“The Greenbelt CVC has been an extremely successful collaboration with the state for the COVID-19 vaccine mission, highlighted by the results we are seeing every day,” said Acting Regional Administration, Janice P. Barlow. “People are so happy to get vaccinated, and it is a pleasure and privilege to serve them. This partnership of federal, state and local agencies has saved thousands of lives and increased the equitable distribution of the vaccine.” 

This Type 2 center can provide up to 3,000 vaccinations every day. It is open for those with appointments as well as anyone who walks in. Staff will assist individuals to register for both first and second vaccinations.   

The CVC is staffed by FEMA Civil Rights Advisors and Disability Integration Advisors to ensure the vaccination process is accessible and equitable. On-site American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDI), Sensory Interpreters are available. For spoken languages, interpreters are here to assist with Spanish, French, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Igbo, Twi, Fanti, Akan and Ewe. Wheelchairs, modesty rooms and expedited services are provided when requested.  

Volunteers from several organizations, as well as local individuals who sign up for a four-hour shift, accompany visitors who need assistance during the 15-30-minute process at the site. 

The Greenbelt Metro Community Vaccination Center is open seven days a week and walk-ins are welcome. The hours of operation are Monday-Tuesday 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Wednesday-Thursday from noon – 8 p.m.; and Friday- Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

Register for an appointment by visiting covidvax.maryland.gov or calling: 1-855-MD-GOVAX (1-855-634-6829). Those between the ages of 16 and 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive a vaccination. 

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

gabriel.lugo Mon, 04/26/2021 - 17:21

Greenbelt Metro Community Vaccination Center Speaks Your Language

GREENBELT – Nothing is more important – and reassuring – than being understood.

The Greenbelt Community Vaccination Center (CVC) continues working to ensure everyone who wants a vaccine can ask for one, offering live on-demand American Sign Language interpreters (ASL) and Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDI) for the deaf and hard of hearing community. Interpreters for spoken languages can assist speakers of Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, French, Twi, Igbo, and Yoruba. Interpretation for additional languages is available with over-the-phone interpreters for 187 languages. These services are available every day of the week during the center’s hours of operation.  “Together we are providing the community equitable access to receive their vaccines and without our volunteer agencies it wouldn’t be possible. By working together, we are ensuring that our mission has a positive impact on the communities we are serving,” said Joe Basham, Voluntary Agencies Liaison for FEMA at Greenbelt.

“Ensuring access and equity informs every aspect of our operation at the Greenbelt CVC,” said April Cummings, FEMA site manager. “Our goal is to reduce any barriers that might prevent someone from getting a vaccination.”

“We have full-time staff dedicated to providing for our guests’ functional needs,” said Joseph Sledgeski, who supervises disability and functional needs programs at vaccination sites for the Maryland Department of Health. “By working with FEMA and our local partners on accessibility issues, we are taking one more step to ensuring that vaccines are available to all who want them.”

The CVC also offers a safe and positive environment, including signage with directions for persons with access and functional needs and non-English-speaking guests throughout the facility. Wheelchairs are readily available to those who need them, and expedited services and modesty rooms are also available when requested. 

Equity is at the core of the FEMA mission, as the agency strives with the State of Maryland, Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), and Maryland Department of Health (MDH) to ensure everyone who wants a vaccine can get one.

The Greenbelt, Maryland Community Vaccination Center is open seven days a week and walk-ins are welcome. The hours of operation are Monday-Tuesday 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Wednesday-Thursday from noon – 8 p.m.; and Friday- Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Register for an appointment by visiting covidvax.maryland.gov or calling: 1-855-MD-GOVAX (1-855-634-6829). Those between the ages of 16 and 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive a vaccination.

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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

gabriel.lugo Mon, 04/26/2021 - 17:17

Volunteers Are the Heart of the Greenbelt Maryland Vaccination Center

Greenbelt, Maryland – Nothing is more rewarding than giving your time to help a community.   

Voluntary organizations and individual volunteers play a key role at the Greenbelt, Maryland Community Vaccination Center where they are helping the site reach its goal of providing 3,000 COVID-19 vaccinations each day. Working alongside federal, state, and local staff, are organizations like the American Red Cross, AmeriCorps, the U. S. Veteran Reserve Corps, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief and volunteers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, as well as local individuals volunteering through Maryland Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (MD VOAD). This generosity of spirit and commitment are celebrated especially during National Volunteer Week, April 18-24.

“Together we are providing the community equitable access to receive their vaccines and without our volunteer agencies it wouldn’t be possible. By working together, we are ensuring that our mission has a positive impact on the communities we are serving,” said Joe Basham, Voluntary Agencies Liaison for FEMA at Greenbelt.

Local individuals may register with MD VOAD at www.marylandvoad.org to work 4-hour shifts at the facility. These volunteers will provide non-clinical support and may serve as greeters providing information sheets, directions, or assistance to individuals with access and functional needs.

The Greenbelt, Maryland Community Vaccination Center is open seven days a week and walk-ins are welcome. The hours of operation are Monday-Tuesday 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Wednesday-Thursday from noon – 8 p.m.; and Friday- Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Register for an appointment by visiting covidvax.maryland.gov or calling: 1-855-MD-GOVAX (1-855-634-6829). Those between the ages of 16 and 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive a vaccination.

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

gabriel.lugo Sat, 04/24/2021 - 17:34