俄勒冈州野火：联邦资助及州政府合作帮助受灾社区尽快恢复

 

 

俄勒冈州塞勒姆市（Salem, Ore.）–  俄勒冈州紧急事务管理办公室和联邦紧急事务管理局（FEMA）继续致力于帮助俄勒冈州的灾难幸存者、企业和社区从去年的毁灭性野火中重建和恢复。迄今为止，近2.62亿美元（$262 million）的联邦援助已送至家庭和社区。

联邦资助帮助社区恢复

截至3月2日， FEMA已批准向俄勒冈州受野火影响的房主和房客提供超过3480万美元（$34.8 million）的个人援助。这些联邦资金为下列获准接受FEMA个人援助八个县的幸存者提供了支持：克拉克马斯县（Clackamas）、道格拉斯县（Douglas）、杰克逊县（Jackson）、克拉马斯县（Klamath）、莱恩县（Lane）、林肯县（Lincoln）、林恩县（Linn）和马里恩县（Marion）。

美国小企业管理局（Small Business Administration）已向542家企业以及房主和房客提供了超过5900万美元（$59 million）的低息救灾贷款。

共有3091名俄勒冈州居民获得了住房援助补助金，总额近2790万美元（$27.9 million）。其中，有538位房主获得了35500美元（$35,500）的最高住房援助补助金。

此外，已批准了超过690万美元（$6.9 million）的资助用于其他方面的援助，以帮助房主弥补个人财产和交通损失、丧葬费以及其他与保险或其他来源无关的严重灾害相关费用。

此外，FEMA的“直接临时住房计划”将为杰克逊县、莱恩县、林肯县、林恩县和马里恩县的合格幸存者提供一些临时的住房解决方案。

目前，这些临时住房单元（无论是野营车还是预制住房单元（MHU））均安置在杰克逊县几个租用的商用地点。美国陆军工程兵团（U.S. Army Corps of Engineers）还在杰克逊县、林肯县、马里恩县和林恩县为FEMA建造一些住房地点。

迄今为止，已有265个幸存者家庭获准在五个合乎资格的县使用FEMA的直接临时住房，目前有100多个幸存者及其家庭已获得许可，搬入FEMA提供的临时住房。

FEMA的“公共援助计划”帮助州、地方、部落、准州政府和某些类型的私营非营利组织应对重大灾难或紧急情况并使之从中恢复。该计划已拨出超过1.59亿美元（$159 million）的专款用于该计划的维修项目。这笔资金可用于支付清除杂物、挽救生命的紧急防护措施以及恢复公共基础设施方面的费用。

政府机构之间的救灾恢复协调

俄勒冈州的“救灾恢复计划”设立了七个恢复支持职能（RSF）以协调不同的援助领域，每个领域均由指定的州机构领导，并得到多个州和联邦合作伙伴的支持。俄勒冈州紧急事务管理部门领导这个由州和联邦机构组成的救灾恢复综合战略小组，为当地的野火救灾恢复工作提供支持。

超过24个州级合作伙伴和10个联邦合作伙伴正在协力合作，为当地管辖区的救灾恢复能力提供帮助，并计划利用州、联邦和捐助者的资源为社区重建计划和救灾恢复项目提供资金。社区规划和能力建设人员正在与县和社区融合，提供有针对性的帮助。

此外，慈善和非营利社区是社区重建过程中不可或缺的一部分，它们可以提供资源和技术援助来支持本地的救灾恢复项目并为修建能力提供帮助。已经与十多个基金会建立了联系，确定了关键的救灾恢复重点和筹资机会，并为资助者与需要资源的人士建立了联系。

俄勒冈州救灾恢复工作主要成就

• FEMA完成了对6993所房屋的损坏检查。
• “救灾法律服务计划”最初是为了回答野火幸存者的法律问题而设立的。幸存者仍然可以在线使用这一服务，网址：oregondisasterlegalservices.org，或在周一至周五上午8点至下午5点之间致电：800-452-7636，或503-684-3763。
• 俄勒冈州废墟管理工作队继续为受到9月份灾难性山火影响的八个县的所有房屋和企业提供免费的山火灰烬和废墟清理服务，包括活动房屋公园、第二居所、企业和其他建筑物。 
• 俄勒冈州获得了超过630万美元（$6.3 million）的联邦拨款，用于向受到野火影响的俄勒冈州居民提供灾难案例管理服务。该拨款使州政府可以启动灾难案例管理计划，提供资金和技术援助，确保采用一种全社区的方式来为灾难幸存者提供服务或将其与当地的服务机构联系起来。
• FEMA与药物滥用和心理健康管理局密切协调，通过“危机咨询即时服务和常规服务计划”提供了超过380万美元（$3.8 million）的资助，通过基于社区宣传和教育服务来帮助个人和社区从灾难带来的心理影响中恢复过来。受压力、焦虑或其他与灾难有关之抑郁症折磨的的儿童和成年人可以拨打“Safe + Strong热线服务”。该网站提供免费和保密资源，帮助野火幸存者恢复正常生活。如需帮助，请致电800-923-4357或访问网站：https://www.safestrongoregon.org/wildfire。
• 除英语和美国手语外， FEMA的所有救灾信息均以在俄勒冈州流行的七种语言提供：西班牙文、中文、日文、韩文、越南文、索马里文和俄文。一些公开会议也提供双语服务。 
• 同样，免费的救灾援助热线（800-621-3362）也提供这七种语言和其他语言的服务，并为所有致电FEMA的申请人提供实时翻译服务。

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无论其种族、肤色、宗教、原国籍、性别、年龄、残疾、英语水平或经济状况如何，灾难恢复援助对所有人均一视同仁。如果您或您的熟人受到歧视，请拨打FEMA免费电话：800-621-3362，文本电话请拨打800-462-7585。使用中继服务（如视频电话、InnoCaption或CapTel）的用户应将其服务的最新分配编号通知FEMA。这些用户请注意，从FEMA打来的电话可能是未知号码。该电话提供多种语言服务（按号码2接通西班牙语服务）。    

受俄勒冈野火和直线风影响的灾难幸存者还可以从FEMA的救灾减损专家那里获得一些有关维修和重建更安全、更坚固住房方面的具体建议。有关如何重建更安全、更坚固住房的信息以及有关在居所附近发生火灾后新的洪水风险信息，请将请求送至该电子邮件地址：FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov。FEMA的救灾减损专家会对幸存者的询问作出答复。重建住房时，请咨询您当地的建筑官员和洪泛区管理人员以获取指导。

请在Twitter和LinkedIn上关注FEMA 第10区以获取最新信息。若需更多信息，请访问网站：fema.gov。

FEMA的使命是在灾难发生之前、发生过程之中和发生之后为人们提供帮助。

issa.mansaray Fri, 03/05/2021 - 22:15

Dabka Oregon: Lacagaha Federalka, Kaalmada Wada Shaqeynta Gobolka waxay kaalmeyaan Bulshada ay Waxyeelada Soo Gaartay ee ku Socda in ay Ka Soo Kabsadaan

Salem, Ore. – Xafiiska Maamulka Degdegga Oregon (Oregon Office of Emergency Management) iyo FEMA waxay sii wadaan ballanka ay qaadeen in ay kaalmeyaan dadka ka badbaaday musiibada Oregon, ganacsatada iyo bulshada si ay u dib u dhisaan kana soo kabsadaan dabkii burburka geystay sannadkii la soo dhaafay. Ilaa iminka, ku dhawaad $262 malyan oo ah kaalmada federaalka ayaa gashay reeraha iyo bulshada.

Doolarka Federaalka Wuxuu Kaalmeyaa Kabsiga Bulshada

Laga bilaabo Maarso 2, FEMA waxay ogolaatay in ka badan $34.8 malyan oo ah kaalmada la siiyo milkiileyaasha iyo kiresteyaasha ay waxyeelada ka soo gaartay dabka Oregon. Doolaraadkaan federaalka waxay taageero siiyaan dadka ka badbaaday musiibada ee ku sugan sideed dagmo oo loo soo ogolaaday Kaalmada Gaarka FEMA (FEMA Individual Assistance): Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, iyo Marion.

Maamulka Ganacsatada Yaryar ee Mareykanka (U.S. Small Business Administration) waxay bixisay in ka badan $59 malyan oo ah deynta musiibada korsaarka yar oo la siiyay 542 ganacsato, milkiileyaasha guryaha iyo kireesteyaasha.

3,091 oo ka mid ah dadka daggan Oregon ayaa loo ogolaaday deeqda kaalmada guriyeynta, ku dhawaad $27.9 malyan marka leysku darro. 538 mikiileyaal guri oo ka tirsan tiradaas ayaa helay deeqda ugu badan kaalmada guriyeynta ($35,500).

Intaas kaddib, in ka badan $6.9 malyan oo lagu kaalmeysto baahi kale ayaa la ogolaaday si loo kaalmeeyo milkiileyaasha hantida ay soo gaartay khasaarada gaadiidka, kharashka duugta iyo kharash kale oo culus lana xariira musiibada uusan bixinin ceymiska ama laga helin ilo kale.

Intaas kaddib, Ujeedada Guriyeynta Ku Meelgaarka Tooska ee FEMA (FEM's Direct Temporary Housing Mission) waxay tahay in guryo ku meel gaar ah la siiyo dadka ka badbaaday musiibada ee xaqa u yeesha sida bulshada  Dagmooyinka Jackson, Lane, Lincoln, Linn iyo Marion.

Iminka, guryahaan ku meelgaarka ah, ha ahadaan RVyada ama Guryaha Lagu Sameeyo Warshadaha (MHUs) waxaa lagu meeleeyay dhul la kireyay oo ku yaal dhowr ka mid ah goobaha tijaarada Dagmada Jackson.  Sidoo kale, ciidanka Injeneerada Mareyanka (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) waxay ku hawlan yahiin dhismaha goobaha FEMA ee Dagmooyinka Jackson, Lincoln, Marion iyo Linn.

Ilaa iminka, 265 qoys oo ka badbaaday musiibada kana tirsan shanta dagmo ee xaqa u yeeshay ayaa loo ogoladay in ay qaataan Guryaha Ku Meel Gaarka Tooska ee FEMA (FEMA Direct Temporary Housing) iyo in ka badan 100 dadka ka badbaaday musiibada iyo qoysaskooda ayaa iminka la siiyay shattiyada guryaha ay sida ku meelgaarka ah FEMA u bixisay.

Brograamka Kaalamada Dadweynta FEMA (FEMA’s Public Assistance Program), kaasoo kaalmeeyo dawladaha gobolka, deegaanka, qabiilka iyo noocyo ka mid ah ururada aan fa'iidada raadinin ee gaarka loo leeyahay in ay ka jawaabaan kana soo kabsadaan musiibooyinka waaweyn ama degdegyada waxay qaadeen in ka badan $159 malyan xagga hagaajinta hoos timaado brograamka PA. Maalgelintaan waxay bixisaa kharashka ku baxa dhaqaajinta qashinka, hababka badbaadinta degdegga ee badbaadiyo nolosha, iyo hagaajinta dhismaha dadweynaha.

Iskuduwidda Badbaadinta ka Dhexeyso Wakaaladaha (Interagency Recovery Coordination)

Qorshaha Ka Soo Kabsiga Musiibada Gobolka Oregon (State of Oregon’s Disaster Recovery Plan) wuxuu tilmaamay todobo ka mid ah Hawlaha Taageerada Ka Soo Kabsiga (Recovery Support Functions) (RSF) si leysugu duwo meelaha laga helo kaalmada, mid kastana ay hoggaamiso wakaalad ka tirsan gobolka la magacaabay, taageerana ka helo iskaashato badan oo ka soo jeeda gobolka iyo federaalka. Maamulka Degdegga Oregon (Oregon Emergency Management) wuxuu hoggaamiyay Kooxdaan Ka Soo Kabsiga Istraatijiyada Mideysan (Integrated Strategic Recovery Team) ee wakaaladaha gobolka iyo federaalka, kuwa taageera ka soo kabsiga dabka ka kaca deegaanka.

In ka badan 24 gobol iyo 10 iskaashatada federaalka ayaa ku midoobay dadaal ay ku kaalmeyaan dawladaha deegaanka ee ku sugan xaaladda ka soo kabsiga iyo qorsheynta si ay u adeegsadaan ilaha gobolka, federaalka iyo kuwa bixiya deeqda si loo maalgeliyo qorsheynta dib u dhiska bulshada iyo mashaariicda ka soo kabsiga musiibada. Shaqaalaha Qorsheynta Bulshada iyo Dhismaha Awoodda waxay mideyeen dagmooinka iyo bulshada si ay u bixiyaan kaalmo ku beegan iyaga.

Intaas kaddib, bulshada deeqda bixisa iyo kuwa aan raadinin fa'iidada waa qeyb ka tirsan habka dhismaha bulshada, waxay haystaan ilo iyo kaalmada farsamada ay ku taageeraan mashaariicda ka soo kabsiga deegaanka iyo kaalmada laga geysto dhismaha awoodda. Xariir ayaa lala samayay in ka badan 10 mu'asasaad, waxaa la aqoonsaday kala hor marinta kabsiga muhiimka ah iyo fursadaha maalgelinta, iyo isku xernaanta maalgeliyeyaasha iyo kuwa u baahan ilaha.

Ka Soo Kabsiga Muhiimka ah ee Oregon (Oregon Recovery Highlights)

• FEMA waxay dhamaystirtay fattashaadda burburka 6,993 guri.
• Brograamka Adeegyada Sharciga Musiibada (Disaster Legal Services Program) waxaa laga dhigay mid la heli karo si looga jawaabo su'aalaha sharciga ee laga soo qaatay dadka ka badbaaday dabka. Dadkii ka badbaaday musiibada waxay weli ka fa'iideysan karaan adeegaan internetka oregondisasterlegalservices.org, ama wac 800-452-7636 ama 503-684-3763, Isniin ilaa Jimco, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Ciidanka Maamulka Wasakhda Oregon (Oregon Debris Management Task Force) waxay sii waddaan nadiifinta dambasta dabka aan kharash laguu soo dallicin iyo qashinka dhamaan guryaha iyo ganacsatada sideed dagmo ay saamaysay dabkii ka kacay Sateembar, kana mid ah beeraha guryaha lala guuro, guryaha labaad, ganacsatada, iyo dhismooyin kale. 
• Gobolka Oregon wuxuu deeq ka helay dawladda federaalka, in ka badan $6.3 malyan oo lagu bixiyo adeegyada Maamulka Kiiska Musiibada (Disaster Case Management) lana siiyo muwaadiniinta Oregon uu dabka saameyay. Deeqdaan waxay xoojisaa gobolka in uu kiciyo Brograamka Maamulka Kiiska Musiibada (Disaster Case Management Program), taasoo bixisa maalgelin iyo kaalmada farsamada si loo hubiyo habka bdlshada oo idil in la kaalmeeyo ama dadka ka badbaaday musiibada lagu xero adeegyada deegaanka.
• Iyadoo iskuduwid sokke la samayso Ku Xad Gudubka Maadada (Substance Abuse) iyo Maamulka Caafimaadka Madaxa (Mental Health Administration), FEMA waxay bixisay in ka badan $3.8 malan iyadoo kaashaneysa Adeegyada Degdegga La-Tallinta Shiddada (Crisis Counselling Immediate Services) iyo Brograamyada Adeegyada Caadiga (Regular Services Programs) si loo kaalmeeyo dadka iyo bulshada ka soo kabsata saamaynta madaxa ay musiibooyinka ku leeyahiin iyagoo kaashada xariirka ku saleysan bulshada iyo adeegyada waxbarashada. Khadka Telefoonka Kaalmada Ammaanka+Xoogga (Safe+Strong) waxaa heli kara caruurta iyo qaangaarka labadaba ee ka hortagga dhibka, murugada ama calaamadaha kale ee la xariira niyad jabka musiibada. Bogga internetka waxaa laga helo ilao lacag la'aan iyo qarsoodi ah oo lagu taageero dadka ka badbaaday musiibooyinka ee ku sugan geediga ka soo kabsiga. Si aad u heshid kaalmo, wac 800-923-4357 ama booqo https://www.safestrongoregon.org/wildfire.  
• Dhamaan fariimaha musiibada FEMA waxaa lagu bixiyaa todobo luqad oo lagu tilmaamay in ay ka jiraan Oregon: Isbanish, Shiino, Jabaniis, Korean, Fietnamees, Soomaali, iyo Ruush, oo dheeraad ku ah Ingiriisi iyo Luqadda Calaamadda Mareykanka (American Sign Language). Shirarka dadweynaha waxaa diyaar ku ah dad ku hadla labo luqad. 
• Nambarka kaalmada telefoonka lacag la'aanta 800-621-3362 waxaa kaloo taageera ku-takhasuseyaal ku hadla todobadaas luqad iyo luqado kale oo dheeraad ah, iyo adeegyada tarjamada tooska waxaa heli kara dhamaan arjiileyaasha soo waca FEMA.

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Waxaa la heli karaa kaalmada looga kabsado musiibada iyadoo aan la fiirinin isirka, midabka, diinta, asal qaran, jinsiga, da'da, itaal darrida, aqoonta Ingiriisiga ama xaaladda dhaqaalaha. Haddii adiga ama qof aad taqaanid la takooray, wac telefoonka lacag la'aanta FEMA 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Kuwa isticmaala adeegga Laliska (Relay service) sida telefoonka-fiidiyowga, InnoCaption ama CapTel waa in ay FEMA la socodsiiyaan nambarka loo siiyay adeeggaas. Waa in ay la socdaan in telefoonada FEMA laga soo diri karo nambar aan la aqoonin. Waxaad heli kartaa hawlwadeno ku hadla luqado badan. (Riix 2 si aad u heshid Isbanish).

Dadka ka badbaaday musiibada ay waxyeelada ka soo gaareen dabka Oregon iyo dabaylaha tooska u dhaca waxay kaloo heli karaan kaalmo ku kooban qofka oo yareysa khasaarada si loo hagaajiyo iyo si dib loo dhiso lana sugo ammaanka iyo xoojinta laga helo Ku-takhasusaha Khasaarada ee FEMA. Si aad u heshid macluumaad ku saabsan sida dib loo dhiso ammaanka loona xoojiyo ama loo ogaado halista fattahaadda cusub kuna xigta dab ka kacay meel kuu dhaw, email u dir FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov, kaddibna waxaa kuu soo jawaabi doono Ku-Takhasusaha Yareynta Halista FEMA (FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialist) kana jawaabi doono su'aalaha ay qabaan dadka ka badbaaday. Marka aad dib u dhiseysid, la xariir sarkaalka dhismaha deegaanka iyo maamulaha dhulka fattahaadda si aad u heshid hoggaamin.

Waxaad Gobolka FEMA 10 (FEMA Region 10) kala socotaa Twitter iyo LinkedIn si aad u heshid wararkii ugu dambeyay iyo booqo FEMA.gov si aad u heshid macluumaad badan.

Himilada FEMA waxay tahay in la kaalmeeyo dadka ka hor inta aan lala kulmin musiibada, inta ay socoto, iyo kaddib.

 

issa.mansaray Fri, 03/05/2021 - 21:56

FEMA Supports Vaccine Distribution: COVID-19 Response Update

WASHINGTON -- Additional federally supported community vaccination centers are set to open next week in Chicago and Greensboro, North Carolina, with more center openings scheduled for Atlanta and Cleveland in the coming weeks.  

In the ongoing battle against COVID-19, FEMA continues working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public officials to engage community and faith-based organizations, helping reach underserved, hesitant and historically marginalized groups. 

Partnering with the CDC, the U.S. Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) launched the Health Center COVID-19 Vaccine Program. The program is being rolled out incrementally at select HRSA-funded health centers that specialize in caring for hard-to-reach and disproportionately affected populations. Initial health centers chosen for this program include those serving a large volume of at least one of the following populations: 

• Individuals experiencing homelessness. 

• Public housing residents. 

• Migratory and seasonal agricultural workers. 

• Patients with limited English proficiency. 

Ensuring the equitable distribution of vaccines is a FEMA priority. The agency continues working with state partners to locate community vaccination centers where they will be able to do the most good for the most vulnerable populations. More than 500 community vaccination centers are now operating nationwide, and 70 mobile vaccination centers are also serving communities across the nation.  

FEMA has achieved President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.’s goal of establishing 100 federally supported community vaccination centers in 30 days, and starting next week, vaccine allocations to states, tribes and territories will increase to 15.2 million. 

FEMA also continues providing live on-demand American Sign Language interpreters at all federally supported community vaccination centers. The service is available every day of the week during each center’s hours of operation.  

FEMA has now provided more than $4.13 billion for expenses related to COVID-19 vaccination at 100% federal cost share. These funds cover critical supplies, staffing, training and transportation needs that support increased vaccination efforts. 

Ensuring Equitable Vaccine Access 

FEMA has civil rights advisors and disability integration specialists in each of FEMA’s 10 regions to advise state, local, tribal and territorial governments and other partners. Additional disability integration advisors and civil rights advisors are deploying to support these efforts.    

FEMA established a Civil Rights Advisory Group to proactively consider and promptly resolve civil rights concerns and help ensure equity in the allocation of scarce resources including future vaccine allocation. FEMA published “Ensuring Equitable Vaccine Access” to define FEMA’s commitment to equity and describe the Civil Rights Advisory Group. 

FEMA developed a Civil Rights Checklist to assist state, tribal and territorial partners in understanding and fulfilling their obligations to provide access to vaccine-related programs, activities and services in a nondiscriminatory manner. The agency is also coordinating translation and interpretation services. 

Vaccine Guidance 

Find vaccine updates in your community and more information from your local health department to confirm if you can get a vaccine. You can find a list of places where adults can get a vaccine. Visit FEMA.Gov for detailed information on FEMA’s vaccination support efforts.  

The Ad Council partnered with COVID Collaborative’s scientific advisory group and the CDC on a campaign “It’s Up to You” to build public confidence in the COVID-19 vaccines. Community based organizations and other trusted messengers are sharing GetVaccineAnswers.org and DeTiDepende.org to help people feel confident and prepared to get vaccinated once a vaccine is available to them. A free public health toolkit is available online, and CDC also has online tips for building vaccine confidence,  

FEMA is committed to ensuring everyone who wants a vaccine can get one. To learn more visit Vaccine Support | FEMA.gov. 

 

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 03/05/2021 - 21:32

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Idaho to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in areas affected by straight-line winds on Jan. 13, 2021. 

The President’s action makes federal funding available to state, tribal 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 straight-line winds in the counties of Benewah, Bonner, Kootenai and Shoshone.

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

Thomas J. Dargan has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

mashana.davis Fri, 03/05/2021 - 01:08

Determination Letters Can Help You Find Disaster Assistance Answers

DENTON, Texas – Oklahoma homeowners and renters in the 16 counties designated for individual assistance who sustained damage may now apply for disaster assistance with FEMA.

The counties are Canadian, Carter, Cherokee, Comanche, Cotton, Hughes, Jefferson, Le Flore, McIntosh, Oklahoma, Okmulgee, Osage, Pittsburg, Stephens, Tulsa, and Wagoner.

After applying for assistance, if you received a letter from FEMA that says you’re ineligible for help or that there is “no decision,” read the letter carefully. FEMA may need additional information from you to continue processing your application. If you have insurance and are applying for federal assistance, you must file a claim with your insurance provider. If applicable, you will need to provide a copy of your insurance settlement approval or denial letter.

A few common reasons for being determined ineligible or receiving “no decision” include:

• You are insured. You must provide a copy of your insurance settlement approval or denial letter to FEMA. If your insurance settlement is insufficient to meet your disaster-related needs, you may be eligible for federal assistance. Contact FEMA to provide any additional information or documentation.

• You reported no home damage or minimal damage when you registered with FEMA. If you reported your home had no disaster-related impacts, but later discover new or additional damages to living areas, contact FEMA to let them know. Documentation from a local official or contractor supporting your appeal may help you prove that your home has suffered impacts to its habitability.

• Proof of occupancy. When FEMA is unable to verify the occupancy of your primary residence, you may need to provide documentation, such as utility bills, a bank or credit card statement, phone bill, pay stubs, a driver’s license, state-issued ID card or voter registration card showing the damaged dwelling’s address.
• No initial rental assistance. You indicated to the inspector that you were not willing to move while your damaged home was being repaired. This made you ineligible for FEMA temporary rental assistance. If you later found further damage to your home or your housing needs have changed, contact FEMA as soon as possible to update your housing status and explain why you have a need to relocate.
• No communication with FEMA. If you missed an inspection and did not follow up with FEMA, your assistance could be affected. Make sure that FEMA has your contact information. If you are unable to meet with an inspector as planned, let FEMA know.
• Your home is safe to occupy. FEMA housing assistance typically only covers costs to make your home habitable. Damage to non-essential space, landscaping or spoiled food is not covered by FEMA grants.

If you have questions or need to speak about your eligibility status, call 800-621-3362, open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., CDT. Multilingual operators are available.

Applicants can appeal a FEMA determination, to do so, you need to submit supporting information along with a letter describing in detail the reason (or reasons) you are appealing.

You should include your full name, FEMA application number and disaster number, pre-disaster primary residence address and current phone number and address on all submitted documents. You can find the application and disaster number printed on page 1 of your determination letter.

You can submit your appeal and any associated documentation by:

1. Uploading your documentation online at disasterassistance.gov.
2. Mailing your documents and letter within 60 days of receiving your determination letter to the address below. Your letter with accompanying documents must be postmarked within 60 days of the date on your letter from FEMA regarding your eligibility.

FEMA National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055

3. Faxing your information to 800-827-8112.

Survivors should register online at disasterassistance.gov. If you cannot register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

thomas.wise Thu, 03/04/2021 - 20:54

FEMA Announces Cost Share Adjustment for Two Tribal Communities

WASHINGTON -- Acting FEMA Administrator Bob Fenton announced today that on March 3, 2021, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available for both the Cahuilla Band of Indians and the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians.

The President authorized an increase in the level of federal funding for Public Assistance projects undertaken as result of severe weather events in February 2019.

On March 26, 2019, La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians received a major disaster declaration for storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides during the period of Feb. 14-15, 2019. 

On March 28, 2019, the Cahuilla Band of Indians received a major disaster declaration for severe storms and flooding on Feb. 14, 2019. 

Federal funding was originally available to each community for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation at 75% of the total eligible costs.         

Under the President's order Wednesday, the federal share for Public Assistance was increased to 90% of the total eligible costs.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 03/04/2021 - 20:47

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of North Carolina to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Eta from Nov. 12- 15, 2020.

The President's action makes federal funding available to the state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Eta in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Beaufort, Burke, Caldwell, Davidson, Davie, Duplin, Edgecombe, Hertford, Iredell, Robeson, Rowan, Sampson, Stokes, Wilkes, Wilson and Yadkin counties.

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

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

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 03/04/2021 - 19:40

Oregon Wildfires: Federal Dollars, State Collaboration Help Affected Communities on the Road to Recovery

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Office of Emergency Management and FEMA continue their commitment to help Oregon disaster survivors, businesses and communities rebuild and recover from last year’s devastating wildfires. To date nearly $262 million in federal assistance has flowed into households and communities.

Dollars Help Communities Recover

As of March 2, FEMA has approved more than $34.8 million in individual assistance for homeowners and renters affected by Oregon wildfires. These federal dollars provide support to survivors in eight counties approved for FEMA Individual Assistance: Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, and Marion.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has provided more than $59 million in low-interest disaster loans to 542 businesses, homeowners and renters.

3,091 Oregon residents have been approved for housing assistance grants totaling nearly $27.9 million. Of those, 538 homeowners received the maximum grant for housing assistance ($35,500).

In addition, more than $6.9 million in other needs assistance has been approved to help homeowners with personal property and transportation losses, funeral expenses and other serious disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other sources.

Additionally, FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing Mission is providing temporary housing solutions for qualified survivors in the communities of Jackson, Lane, Lincoln, Linn and Marion Counties,

Currently, these temporary housing units, either RVs or Manufacturing Housing Units (MHUs) are being placed on pads leased in several Jackson County commercial sites.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is also constructing sites for FEMA in Jackson, Lincoln, Marion and Linn Counties.

To date, 265 survivor families are approved to receive FEMA Direct Temporary Housing in the five eligible counties and more than 100 survivors and their families are currently licensed into FEMA-provided temporary housing.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, which helps state, local, tribal, territorial governments and certain types of private nonprofit organizations respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies has obligated more than $159 million for repairs under the PA program. This funding helps cover costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures and restoring public infrastructure.

Interagency Recovery Coordination

The State of Oregon’s Disaster Recovery Plan establishes seven Recovery Support Functions (RSF) to coordinate areas of assistance, each led by a designated state agency and supported by multiple state and federal partners. Oregon Emergency Management is leading this Integrated Strategic Recovery Team of state and federal agencies supporting local wildfire recovery.

More than 24 state and 10 federal partners are unifying efforts to aid local jurisdictions in recovery capacity and planning to leverage state, federal and donor resources to fund community rebuild planning and disaster recovery projects. Community Planning and Capacity Building staff are integrating with counties and communities to provide targeted assistance.

In addition, the philanthropic and nonprofit community is an integral part of the community rebuild process, with resources and technical assistance available to support local recovery projects and help build capacity. Connections have been made with more than 10 foundations, identifying critical recovery priorities and funding opportunities, and linking the funders to those in need of resources.

Oregon Recovery Highlights

• FEMA completed damage inspections of 6,993 homes.
• The Disaster Legal Services Program was made available to answer legal questions from wildfire survivors. Survivors can still take advantage of this service online oregondisasterlegalservices.org, or call 800-452-7636 or 503-684-3763, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• The Oregon Debris Management Task Force has continued to provide no-cost wildfire ash and debris cleanup for all homes and businesses in the eight counties affected by the disastrous September wildfires, including mobile home parks, second homes, businesses, and other structures. 
• The State of Oregon has received a federal grant for more than $6.3 million to provide Disaster Case Management services to Oregon citizens affected by the wildfires. This grant empowers the state to launch a Disaster Case Management Program, supplying funding and technical assistance to ensure a whole community approach to providing or connecting disaster survivors to local services.
• In close coordination with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, FEMA has provided more than $3.8 million through the Crisis Counselling Immediate Services and Regular Services Programs to assist individuals and communities in recovering from the psychological effects of disasters through community-based outreach and educational services. The Safe+Strong Helpline is available for children and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety or other disaster-related depression-like symptoms. The website offers free and confidential resources to help wildfire survivors on the journey to recovery. For help, call 800-923-4357 or visit https://www.safestrongoregon.org/wildfire.  
• All FEMA disaster messaging has been provided in seven languages identified as prevalent in Oregon: Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Somali, and Russian, in addition to English and American Sign Language. Bilingual speakers have been available for public meetings. 
• The toll-free disaster assistance helpline, 800-621-3362 is also supported by specialists in those seven languages and additional languages, and live translation services are available to all applicants who call FEMA.

                                                              ###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish)

Disaster survivors affected by the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds can also get personalized mitigation advice to repair and rebuild safer and stronger from a FEMA Mitigation Specialist. For information on how to rebuild safer and stronger or to inquire as to your new flood risk following a fire near you, email FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov, a FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialist will respond survivor inquiries. When rebuilding check with your local building official and floodplain administrator for guidance.

Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit fema.gov for more information.

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

 

jassiel.oliveromelo Thu, 03/04/2021 - 19:00

Improvements to Roads and Bridges in Puerto Rico Are Underway

Coamo and Ponce are among the municipalities with completed projects

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — The improvements to thousands of road and bridge projects in Puerto Rico will be accomplished with millions in funding allocations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Some of these permanent repairs have already been completed as a result of $729 million earmarked for municipalities. In addition, in the past 60 days, the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP, by its Spanish acronym) was allocated close to $37 million for these purposes. 

These obligations provide the basis for road reconstruction works such as asphalting, stabilizing retaining walls and replacing guardrails.

“Having roads in good condition is vital for residents, transportation commerce and the safety of all. The completed projects in our municipalities are important milestones that mark a recovery that is moving forward,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

The municipality of Coamo already completed some of the repairs for its roads with the help of over $1.7 million in federal funding. Nearly 25 streets, rural roads, and alleys have been repaired to the benefit of some 3,000 families. The projects include nearly $796,000 for various repairs in Callejón Bravo, Callejón Los Gandules, Urbanización Miraflores and Parque Las Flores, and over $232,300 to repair three streets in Los González Sector. About 60 of the municipality’s projects across different categories are under construction or in the bidding process.

“We have focused on the rural projects, which are the ones that were damaged the most. Residents of Los Gandules received a lot of water, as well as the Callejón Bravo neighborhood, which are subject to mountain water runoff from the surrounding hills. The fourth mile was restored, and this project has already been completed,” said Coamo Mayor Juan García Padilla.

Likewise, the municipality of Ponce has completed construction work on 15 municipal roads through obligations of over $513,000. Among them, Sector El Collado, which is home to approximately 60 families.

Among the 78 municipalities, Utuado is the municipality with the highest number of projects approved for permanent repairs to road infrastructure, with 256 projects approved for $53.6

million. The allocations include funds to repair Highway #140 to Jayuya and another road that leads to the Caonillas Lake. These roads provide access to seven neighborhoods that are home to nearly 7,000 families from the towns that were most damaged during Hurricane María: Bo. Tenuan I, II and III, Don Alonso, Caonillas, Mameyes, Limón, Paso Palmas, Las Palmas and Barrio Jaucas. Also, these roads provide access to schools, water distribution systems, Caonillas Lake, Cañón Blanco and a health center.

To date, the Agency has approved nearly $967 million for more than 2,100 road and bridge repair projects across the island that sustained damage from Hurricanes Irma and Maria.

For her part, the secretary of the Department of Transportation and Public Works, Eileen M. Vélez Vega, said that these funds are very important to address the needs of Puerto Rico's state roads. “Road safety is our priority and we will work as a team with federal agencies and mayors for the benefit of drivers who use our roads.”

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), stated that “we are in direct communication with mayors and agency officials such as DTOP to ensure that permanent works projects are expedited. Meanwhile, we are moving forward with changes in COR3 processes to continue offering the required assistance without so much bureaucracy related to the reconstruction of the Island, but always fulfilling federal requirements.”

[VIDEO] To learn more about the reconstruction efforts on the roads in Coamo, click here.

For more information on Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on our social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 03/04/2021 - 11:36

FEMA Supports Vaccine Distribution: COVID-19 Response Update

WASHINGTON -- FEMA continues working to ensure anyone who wants a vaccine can get one, offering live on-demand American Sign Language interpreters for the deaf and hard of hearing community at all federally supported community vaccination centers. The service is available every day of the week during each center’s hours of operation.  

FEMA is working to speed up vaccinations by supporting states as they open community vaccination centers across the country. Additional FEMA supported pilot community vaccination centers are opening today in:

• Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando and Tampa, Florida.
• Albany, Buffalo, Rochester and Yonkers, New York.

Additional centers will open next week in Chicago and Greensboro, North Carolina.

FEMA continues providing critical support with personnel, supplies and funding, establishing or expanding more than 450 community vaccination centers nationwide. Additionally, 55 mobile vaccination centers are also serving communities across the nation.

In addition to Pfizer and Moderna, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is being delivered to three federal pilot community vaccination centers in California, Florida and Texas this week.

FEMA has now provided more than $4.02 billion for expenses related to COVID-19 vaccination at 100% federal cost share. These funds cover critical supplies, staffing, training and transportation needs that support increased vaccination efforts.

Even as FEMA remains focused on supporting vaccination distribution efforts, the agency continues supporting multiple disasters, including the disaster declarations for Texas and Oklahoma winter storms. FEMA has awarded more than $46.6 million dollars to Texan survivors and over $192,000 to Oklahoman survivors. This assistance can help with temporary housing and home repairs as well as other resources to help eligible individuals and business owners start the recovery process.

FEMA and Other Federal Agencies Are Supporting Vaccination Centers

FEMA has now deployed 1,992 staff across the nation to support the vaccination mission. On Feb. 5, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas activated the DHS Surge Capacity Force (SCF) for vaccination support operations. The SCF is composed of federal employees from other federal agencies to augment FEMA’s workforce. As of March 2, 108 SCF members are deployed to support vaccination efforts.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is supporting future planning for community vaccination centers using their subject matter experts, alongside FEMA and state assessments teams, assessing potential new center locations and providing contracting capability to establish new centers.

The U.S. National Guard Bureau is providing 1,652 vaccinators to 697 vaccination centers.

Additionally, 1,323 interagency vaccinators and 1,316 clinical staff have deployed to support states, tribes and territories. More than 500 additional vaccinators and clinical staff are awaiting assignment.

The U.S. Coast Guard deployed 34 members to Hawaii, New Jersey and Oklahoma to support vaccination services.

Department of Defense Vaccine Support teams are in California, New Jersey, New York and Texas. Additional teams are scheduled to arrive in Florida, Pennsylvania and the U.S. Virgin Islands this week.

Ensuring Equitable Vaccine Access

FEMA has civil rights advisors and disability integration specialists in each of FEMA’s regions to advise state, local, tribal and territorial governments and other partners. Additional disability integration advisors and civil rights advisors are deploying to support these efforts.   

FEMA established a Civil Rights Advisory Group to proactively consider and promptly resolve civil rights concerns and help ensure equity in the allocation of scarce resources, including future vaccine allocation. FEMA published “Ensuring Equitable Vaccine Access” to define FEMA’s commitment to equity and describe the Civil Rights Advisory Group.

FEMA developed a Civil Rights Checklist to assist state, tribal and territorial partners in understanding and fulfilling their obligations to provide access to vaccine-related programs, activities and services in a nondiscriminatory manner. The agency is also coordinating translation and interpretation services.

The U.S. Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) partnered with the CDC to launch the Health Center COVID-19 Vaccine Program. The program is being rolled out incrementally at select HRSA-funded health centers that specialize in caring for hard-to-reach and disproportionately affected populations.

Initial health centers chosen for this program include those that serve a large volume of at least one of the following populations:

• Individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Public housing residents.
• Migratory and seasonal agricultural workers.
• Patients with limited English proficiency.

HRSA will regularly update the list of health centers participating in the program and additional health centers invited to participate. 

Additional Vaccination Programs

 FEMA is taking steps to build the infrastructure so it can adapt when vaccine supply is more readily available.

In addition to community vaccination centers, federally allocated vaccines continue to be administered across the country via:

• The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, which is a partnership between the federal government, states and territories, and national and independent pharmacy networks across the United States.
• Federally Qualified Health Centers such as community health centers.
• Federal entities, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Indian Health Service.

Vaccine Guidance

Find vaccine updates in your community and more information from your local health department to confirm if you can get a vaccine. You can find a list of places where adults can get a vaccine. Visit FEMA.Gov for detailed information on FEMA’s vaccination support efforts.

The Ad Council partnered with COVID Collaborative’s scientific advisory group and the CDC on a campaign “It’s Up to You” to build public confidence in the COVID-19 vaccines. Community based organizations and other trusted messengers are sharing GetVaccineAnswers.org and DeTiDepende.org to help people feel confident and prepared to get vaccinated once a vaccine is available to them. A free public health toolkit is available online.

The CDC Vaccine Task Force and Data Analysis & Visualization Task Force launched the CDC COVID Data Tracker Vaccinations Trends page. This page includes vaccination trends over time in the United States and for the Federal Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program.

Additionally, the CDC Vaccine Task Force is rolling out vaccine confidence consultations for interested jurisdictions. To request this service, interested jurisdictions can send an email to confidenceconsults@cdc.gov. CDC also has online tips for building vaccine confidence,

zella.campbell Wed, 03/03/2021 - 21:45

Good Karma in Delaware

PHILADELPHIA – The next big auto race at Dover International Speedway (DIS) is scheduled for Friday, May 14, 2021. But it’s the race to get Delaware residents vaccinated against COVID-19 that has kept the speedway parking lot abuzz and full this past week. Full of federal and state personnel staff eager to serve and saturated with vaccine recipients grateful for the lifesaving shot. Together, it has created a recipe for good will, while generating an invitation for good karma.

“Dover International Speedway is pleased to have hosted this vaccination event,” said Mike Tatoian, Speedway president and CEO. “We know how much COVID-19 has impacted this community, and the nation as a whole, and it is crucial that we all do our part to boost our public health numbers.” We thank all of the personnel who managed and executed the drive-thru lines carefully, efficiently and in a very friendly manner throughout this process. The collaboration and coordination that took place between the various agencies is a model that should be emulated throughout our country – it was simply impressive!”

The location officially opened on Sunday, February 21, 2021, as the first federally run vaccination site in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 3. In partnership with the state of Delaware, residents in need of second dosages of the Moderna or Pfizer COVID vaccine enjoyed the luxury of a drive-thru site.

Make no mistake, the selection of DIS for this unprecedented mission had everything to do with need, speed, efficiency, and proximity. Centrally located, travel to the site could be completed in just over an hour from the furthest state locations. Yet, its these very attributes that made working this mission personally satisfying for both FEMA personnel deployed to support and welcoming for those in need of the vaccine.

Catharine Fan, a retired (28 years) Police Sergeant with the Philadelphia Police Department and relative newcomer to FEMA, works daily as the Disaster Operations Team Lead, with Hazard Mitigation for Region 3. Fan deployed to Delaware to support the COVID-19 vaccination mission, serving as the Assistant Screener Task Force Leader- responsible for the accuracy of registration documents. Fan, who is Chinese American; was able to assist when a Chinese couple expressed a need for language help in line for vaccination.  

“It was very comforting to this couple that we spoke the same language,” Fan said.  “She expressed to me her gratitude for not only seeing a friendly face, but an appreciation for someone who understands the culture. They wanted to take me out to lunch,” said Fan with a smile.  Fan agrees, in their culture; helping this elderly couple was her duty. A duty not just to herself, but one that honors her own family.  “It was simply good karma,” Fan said. 

To date, the Delaware Department of Education has worked to help vaccinate more than 4,000 K-12 personnel and roughly 700 childcare providers.

“We are extremely grateful for this partnership with FEMA, Delaware Emergency Management (DEMA), Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) and Dover International Speedway enabling us to provide second doses to thousands of Delawareans and first doses to childcare providers,” said Delaware Division of Public Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “I want to thank the commitment and professionalism all of those who have spent countless hours supporting Delaware this past week, in making the experience for our residents so positive.  Even as more people are vaccinated in the coming months, we urge residents not to let your guards down.  Keep masking up, staying distant, washing your hands, and getting tested on a regular basis.”

“FEMA is very proud of what we’ve accomplished here in Dover,” said Tim Pheil, Region 3 Deputy Federal Coordinating Officer. With over 200 personnel deployed to support this mission, we were able to vaccinate 15,840 individuals. This number is a positive step toward ending this pandemic and a direct reflection of the collaboration needed to achieve it.    

"Multiple sectors worked together to create a well-executed event", said Delaware Emergency Management Agency Director A.J. Schall.  "We extend our thanks to all the partners that assisted with this week-long event; a small step closer to beating COVID-19."

Janice Barlow, Acting Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3 stated, “It is the strong partnerships with our State counterparts and other federal partners, that elevated the success of the COVID-19 vaccination site in Delaware. Although FEMA trains and prepares daily for catastrophic events, manmade and natural disasters; we understand nothing takes the place of meaningful partnerships. I’m grateful for the AmeriCorps volunteers who graciously gave of their time, our other federal partners, our state partners, and the community. Without their help, we could not have done this. Together, we will continue to overcome this pandemic, while working toward building a better future.

###

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 Wed, 03/03/2021 - 20:27

Hurricane Laura Recovery Efforts After Six Months

BATON ROUGE, La. – Six months ago, communities across 21 parishes in Louisiana experienced the devastating effects of Hurricane Laura. Neighborhoods were shattered, homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed, and lives were upended.

Day after day Louisianans continue to recover. FEMA and its partner federal agencies are still in Louisiana and will remain in the state to provide all the assistance that individuals, state and local governments are eligible to receive.

Here for the long-term, FEMA’s Interagency Recovery Coordination (IRC) team has ramped up its engagement with local, state and federal partners to help facilitate a whole community recovery. IRC has mobilized more than $1.25 million to its partner federal agencies to provide technical assistance and subject matter experts. They are working with state agencies and local communities to identify strategies, resources and timelines with the goal of helping communities recover and become more resilient.

To see some advances toward recovery that have already been made, check out the video: Hurricane Laura 6 Month Comparison - YouTube.

Hurricane Laura: By the Numbers

As of Feb 28, FEMA has assisted more than 230,000 families and hundreds of businesses in the form of Individual Assistance grants, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans and National Flood Insurance (NFIP) disbursements.

Individual Assistance

More than 226,860 households have registered with FEMA.

FEMA has put more than $226 million in the hands of 75,628 individual survivors and families, including

• More than $159 million in Housing Assistance; and  
• More than $67 million in Other Needs Assistance.

Small Business Administration

The SBA has approved more than 10,300 low-interest disaster loans totaling $592 million, including:

• 9,926 home loans for more than $547 million; and  
• 413 busines loans for more than $44 million.

Hazard Mitigation/National Flood Insurance Program

• Mitigation specialists have spoken with more than 3,500 survivors about repairing/rebuilding safer and stronger. More than 670 individuals have attended mitigation webinars on rebuilding topics.  
• More than 4,200 individuals have visited the Mitigation web page: https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lamit.  
• Flood insurance specialists have contacted over 3,000 insurance agents and over 600 real estate professionals in the Hurricane Laura-impacted area with flood-insurance and flood-risk information, claims and marketing support.    
• NFIP has closed 87% of the 1,227 claims submitted and paid more than $45 million.  
• More than 12,900 structures were inspected to see if they were substantially damaged. Substantial damage applies to a structure in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or a 1-percent-annual-chance floodplain for which the total cost of restoring a structure to its pre-damaged condition is 50 percent or more of the structure’s market value before the disaster occurred, regardless of the cause of damage.

Public Assistance

• The FEMA Public Assistance Program that assists state and local governments and certain types of private nonprofits had 428 applicants as of Feb. 25 and has obligated more than $108 million. The projected amount for recovery projects is $1.2 billion.  
• Over 22 million cubic yards of debris have been removed. That is nearly the equivalent of filling the Superdome twice.

Direct Temporary Housing:

• At its peak, the Louisiana non-congregate shelter program for Hurricane Laura sheltered 21,510 evacuees in 8,115 hotel rooms. As of Feb. 28, there are 393 individuals in 215 rooms seeking permanent housing arrangements.  
• On Oct. 15, the first household qualified for direct housing assistance was licensed in. To date, FEMA has provided accommodations to 1,187 Hurricane Laura households, with Transportable Temporary Housing Units (TTHUs) and other facilities directly leased by FEMA.  
• Originally 8,962 households were screened for Direct Housing assistance for Hurricane Laura. This included 4,541 homeowners and 4,421 renters. Many have since found permanent or longer-term housing on their own. FEMA is currently preparing to house approximately 3,000 Laura households in direct temporary housing solutions. Over one-third of the projected households have already been licensed into temporary housing solutions.  
• FEMA projects that most private and commercial site installation of TTHUs will be completed in April followed by installations in group sites constructed by FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. These are projected to open in Calcasieu and Cameron parishes later in the summer and fall months. FEMA is also continuously working with property managers to identify additional ready-to-occupy units for direct lease to house some families.

FEMA Mission Assignment to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

The USACE installed 12,977 temporary roofs on homes in southwest Louisiana as part of its Blue Roof program, funded by FEMA.

FEMA Voluntary Agency Liaisons (VALs)

In coordination with nonprofits and volunteer agencies, FEMA VALs have secured more than $350,000 in housing assistance and other needs assistance through appeals and working with individuals to help them provide required documentation.

FEMA Employees Deployed

At the peak of the disaster, 1,463 FEMA specialists worked to assist the state to respond. More than 725 FEMA members continue to support Louisiana’s Hurricane Laura recovery.

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 Wed, 03/03/2021 - 19:10

Less than One Week Left to Apply for FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council

ATLANTA – Less than one week remains for teens to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Youth Preparedness Council. All applications and supporting materials must be received by 11:59 p.m. PST, on March 7.

Students in 8th through 11th grade may apply online at community.fema.gov/applytoYPC. To apply, youth must submit a completed written or video application, two letters of recommendation, academic records, and a list of extracurricular activities. Students who apply for the national Youth Preparedness Council also will be considered for Region IV’s Youth Preparedness Council.

The Council provides an opportunity for young leaders to share their perspectives, feedback and opinions on disaster preparedness with FEMA emergency managers and grow their leadership skills. Teens are encouraged to share their academic achievements, future goals, ways they have positively influenced their communities, and any leadership experiences. Council members are selected based on their passion for preparedness and helping others, community involvement, and their aptitude for working both in a team and as a leader. New council members will be announced in May.

Formed in 2012, the Youth Preparedness Council brings together young leaders who support disaster preparedness and make a difference in their communities. During their two-year term, members will complete both local and national-level projects and share their ideas on disaster preparedness with FEMA leadership and national organizations.

To learn more about the Youth Preparedness Council and the application process, visit ready.gov/kids/youth-preparedness-council.

neily.chapman Wed, 03/03/2021 - 14:52

FEMA Awards More Than $1.5 million for COVID-19 Non-Congregate Sheltering in Vermont

 

REGION 1  - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $1,565,869 to the Vermont Agency of Administration for costs incurred for Non-Congregate Sheltering in locations throughout the state.  These locations include Holiday Inn in South Burlington, Econo Lodge in Montpelier and Motel 6 in Brattleboro.

Non-congregate sheltering is a widely used practice for housing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  It is necessary to keep people/family separated from one another, especially in indoor environments, and is primarily used for promoting physical distancing and reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

The grant awarded to Vermont Agency of Administration is paid through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Grant Program, which is paid at 100 percent to eligible state and local governments, tribal nations and certain non-profit entities to assist with approved costs associated with responding to and recovering from disasters.

“We are pleased to provide this grant to the Vermont Agency of Administration to help them manage the financial demands that they are experiencing as a result of COVID-19,” said Paul Ford, Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating  Officer who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England.  “FEMA’s Public Assistance program is essential to keeping communities safe while responding to the COVID-19 pandemic throughout New England”, Ford concluded.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance Program can be found 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, 03/02/2021 - 20:34

FEMA Supports Vaccine Distribution: COVID-19 Response Update

WASHINGTON -- FEMA continues its push to speed up vaccinations across the country, supporting states as they open additional community vaccination centers this week. In addition to Pfizer and Moderna, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be delivered to three federal pilot community vaccination centers in California, Florida and Texas, helping to bring this unprecedented pandemic to an end.  

FEMA continues increasing vaccine allocations to states, tribes and territories, ensuring everyone who wants a vaccine can get one. Using data from CDC’s social vulnerability index, the agency is partnering with state leaders to identify community vaccination centers where they will be able to do the most good for the most vulnerable populations.

Today, a community vaccination center -- with the capacity to vaccinate up to 6,000 people per day -- will open in Philadelphia. FEMA is working with state governments to open additional sites this week in:

• Duval, Hillsborough, Miami and Orange counties in Florida.
• Albany, Erie, Monroe and Westchester counties in New York.

Two additional centers will open next week: one in Chicago and one in Greensboro, North Carolina. In the last two weeks, FEMA has helped open pilot centers in major metropolitan areas in California, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas.

FEMA has now provided more than $4.02 billion for expenses related to COVID-19 vaccination at 100% federal cost share, establishing or expanding more than 450 vaccination centers nationwide.  Additionally, 47 mobile vaccination centers continue serving communities across the nation.

Even as FEMA remains focused on supporting vaccination distribution efforts, the agency continues supporting multiple disasters, including the disaster declarations for Texas and Oklahoma winter storms. To date, FEMA has awarded more than $41.6 million dollars to eligible Texan survivors and over $158,300 to eligible Oklahoman survivors. This assistance can help with temporary housing and home repairs as well as other resources to help eligible individuals and business owners start the recovery process.

FEMA and Other Federal Agencies are Supporting Vaccination Centers

FEMA has deployed 1,948 staff across the nation to support the vaccination mission. On Feb. 5, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas activated the DHS Surge Capacity Force for vaccination support operations. The surge force is composed of federal employees from other federal agencies to augment FEMA’s workforce.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is supporting future planning for community vaccination centers using their subject matter experts, alongside FEMA and state assessments teams, assessing potential new site locations and providing contracting capability to establish new centers. The U.S. National Guard Bureau is providing 1,198 vaccinators to 409 vaccination centers.

Department of Defense Vaccine Support teams are in California, New Jersey, New York and Texas. More teams are scheduled to arrive in Florida, Pennsylvania and the U.S. Virgin Islands this week.

Additionally, 1,151 interagency vaccinators and 1,272 clinical staff have deployed to support states, tribes and territories. More than 700 additional vaccinators and clinical staff are awaiting assignment.

Enduring Equitable Vaccine Access

FEMA is committed to the equitable distribution of vaccines and has civil rights advisors and disability integration specialists in each of FEMA's regions to advise state, local, tribal and territorial governments and other partners. Additional disability integration advisors and civil rights advisors are deploying to support these efforts.   

FEMA established a Civil Rights Advisory Group to proactively consider and promptly resolve civil rights concerns and help ensure equity in the allocation of scarce resources, including future vaccine allocation. FEMA published “Ensuring Equitable Vaccine Access” to define FEMA’s commitment to equity and describe the Civil Rights Advisory Group.

FEMA also developed a Civil Rights Checklist to assist state, tribal and territorial partners in understanding and fulfilling their obligations to provide access to vaccine-related programs, activities and services in a nondiscriminatory manner. The agency is also coordinating translation and interpretation services.

Additional Vaccination Programs

FEMA continues taking steps to build the infrastructure so it can adapt when vaccine supply is more readily available.

In addition to community vaccination centers, federally allocated vaccines continue to be administered across the country via:

• The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, which is a partnership between the federal government, states and territories, and national and independent pharmacy networks across the United States.
• Federally Qualified Health Centers such as community health centers.
• Federal entities, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Indian Health Service.

Vaccine Guidance

Find vaccine updates in your community and more information from your local health department to confirm if you can get a vaccine. You can find a list of places where adults can get a vaccine and visit FEMA.gov for detailed information on FEMA’s vaccination support efforts.

The Ad Council partnered with COVID Collaborative’s scientific advisory group and the CDC on a campaign “It’s Up to You” to build public confidence in the COVID-19 vaccines. Community based organizations and other trusted messengers are sharing GetVaccineAnswers.org and DeTiDepende.org to help people feel confident and prepared to get vaccinated once a vaccine is available to them. A free public health toolkit is available online.

The CDC Vaccine Task Force and Data Analysis & Visualization Task Force launched the CDC COVID Data Tracker Vaccinations Trends page. This page includes the overall trends of vaccinations over time in the United States and for the Federal Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program.

Additionally, the CDC Vaccine Task Force is rolling out vaccine confidence consultations for interested jurisdictions. To request this service, interested jurisdictions can send an email to confidenceconsults@cdc.gov. CDC also has online tips for building vaccine confidence.  

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 03/02/2021 - 20:09

First-in-the-Nation Joint Community Vaccination Centers on Target After Two Weeks

OAKLAND, Calif. — Two weeks into a groundbreaking, first-in-the-nation initiative, more than 168,000 Californians have received their first shot of the two-shot series, at Community Vaccination Centers (CVC) and their Mobile Vaccination Clinics (MVC), which are hosted by community and faith-based organizations to microtarget the hardest hit and hardest-to-reach communities. These CVCs opened in Oakland and Los Angeles with the help of local, state and federal government partners, in addition to faith-based organizations, nonprofits and the private sector.

The goal of establishing these CVCs is an ongoing effort to expand the rate of vaccinations in an efficient, effective and equitable manner. This joint partnership also has an explicit focus on making sure that communities with a high risk of COVID-19 exposure and infection are not left behind and have access to these lifesaving vaccines.

“These joint state-federal sites demonstrate how we can provide more opportunities for vaccination to the hardest hit communities and ensure everyone who wants a vaccine can get one. We will continue to prioritize vaccinations at these sites to make sure that communities with a high risk of COVID-19 exposure and infection are not left behind,” said Mark Ghilarducci, Director of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.

Vaccines administered at CVCs are provided by the federal government directly and combined with what California receives to distribute throughout the state. Standard vaccine delivery for state allocations has increased every week.

The federal government is covering all state, local, tribal and territorial costs through FEMA’s Public Assistance program to pay for critical supplies, staffing, training and transportation expenses supporting increased vaccination efforts.

“Because of the Coordinated efforts among government and non-profit partners, tens of thousands of individuals are better protected against COVID-19 after receiving the vaccine at community vaccination centers,” said Tammy Littrell, FEMA Acting Regional Administrator. “As we continue to work together and members of the public register for appointments and follow local guidelines, several hundred thousand more individuals will safely receive vaccinations.”

Both CVCs offer drive-thru, walk-up and mobile vaccination options to address the diverse needs in the community. The walk-up (or pedestrian site) option works especially well for those who use public transit or bicycles. The line moves quickly, and typically you can get a shot and leave within minutes.

Those interested in getting a vaccination at one of these sites must make an appointment via myturn.ca.gov or by calling 833-422-4255. Appointments are required and follow the California Vaccination Guidelines.

The CVC response in California employs a Whole-of-Government approach, involving more than 1,600 individuals, including California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services staff, private sector and federal agency vaccinators, California Air National Guard troops, FEMA staff, plus local, state and federal public health and emergency personnel, among others. Hundreds of Californians have already been hired locally to participate in the effort, with more coming on board weekly.

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

ricardo.zuniga Tue, 03/02/2021 - 19:19

FEMA Approves Nearly $72 Million for New Hampshire COVID-19 Costs

REGION I –New Hampshire will receive $71,894,605 from FEMA to reimburse costs incurred by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to source, purchase, store and distribute Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for entities throughout the state in the wake of COVID-19. 

The state expense ensured PPE resources were received in a timely manner to complete life safety operations jurisdiction wide. The equipment went to hospitals, healthcare workers and first responders, defined as emergency public safety, fire, law enforcement, emergency response, emergency medical, and related personnel that may interact with individuals infected with, or suspected to be infected with COVID-19. PPE sourced included N95 and other filtering respirators, surgical masks, gloves, protective eyewear, face shields, and protective clothing such as surgical gowns.

During the incident period of January 20, 2020 through December 31, 2020, COVID-19 created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the general public requiring emergency response and protective measures.  In response, DHHS, under the direction of the state, acted to source and distribute PPE for entities throughout New Hampshire.

Funding to support these life safety actions is awarded through FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant program which reimburses states, municipalities and communities for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations. Grant applications are submitted from the state, which coordinates the process with local governments. 

“The support of FEMA financially is just one of the many ways we work together with New Hampshire while responding to the COVID pandemic,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England.

FEMA obligates funding for this project directly to the state of New Hampshire.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found 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, 03/02/2021 - 18:11

State, FEMA Continue Work on Mississippi Zeta Recovery

Federal funding totals $42.3 million

BILOXI, Miss. – The deadline for individuals and households to apply for FEMA disaster assistance has passed, but work on Mississippi’s recovery from Hurricane Zeta continues. More than 3,900 individuals and households have received disaster assistance from FEMA.

Survivors in George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson and Stone counties who applied with FEMA can check the status of their applications, ask questions and get information in several ways:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA App for smartphones
• Call 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central time. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.

Survivors who were unable to apply before the deadline and who can provide justification for late registration may contact FEMA and request consideration for disaster assistance.

As of March, $42.3 million in federal grants, loans and flood insurance payments have been approved for homeowners, renters and businesses in the five counties. This includes:

• $13.9 million in FEMA grants for 3,941 individuals and households.
• $17.9 million in disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for 648 businesses, homeowners and renters.
• 821 National Flood Insurance Program claims filed; $10.5 million paid to policyholders.

FEMA continues to coordinate with the State of Mississippi on reimbursement for emergency services, debris removal and repair or replacement of damaged public infrastructure, and for funding to mitigate against losses from future storms.

For more information about Hurricane Zeta recovery in Mississippi, visit the FEMA disaster webpage at https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4576 or the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency webpage at https://www.msema.org/zeta/.

felicia.jordan Tue, 03/02/2021 - 16:35

Lincoln City: FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Site Opens

SALEM, Ore – FEMA has begun moving Manufactured Housing Units (MHUs) onto a newly constructed site in Lincoln City that will provide temporary housing to qualified Lincoln County wildfire survivors and their families.

In addition to Lincoln County, FEMA’s Direct Housing mission is providing temporary housing for qualified disaster survivors in Jackson, Lane, Linn and Marion Counties in sites like the one in Lincoln County. Housing units are chosen by FEMA based on the survivor family composition and needs, as well as to ensure that requirements for access or functional needs are met.

To date, 106 survivors and their families have been licensed-in to temporary housing units from FEMA. These units are placed in established RV parks or in FEMA constructed group sites.

Currently, 264 qualified families are scheduled to receive FEMA Direct Temporary Housing in the five counties. The current number of qualified families fluctuates as survivors have located alternate temporary or permanent housing on their own.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish)

Disaster survivors affected by the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds can also get personalized mitigation advice to repair and rebuild safer and stronger from a FEMA Mitigation Specialist. For information on how to rebuild safer and stronger or to inquire as to your new flood risk following a fire near you, email FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov, a FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialist will respond survivor inquiries. When rebuilding check with your local building official and floodplain administrator for guidance.

Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit fema.gov for more information.

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

jassiel.oliveromelo Tue, 03/02/2021 - 01:25

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Craighead County, Arkansas

DENTON, Texas – New preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Craighead County, Arkansas. Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The new flood hazard information from FEMA has been generated in coordination with local community, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review has already taken place.

The 90-day appeal period began on Feb. 26, 2021. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. 

Appeals/comments may be submitted through May 27, 2021, for:

• Cities of Bay, Bono, Brookland, Caraway, Cash, Jonesboro, Lake City, Monette; Town of Egypt, and the unincorporated areas of Craighead County.

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Change Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com. 

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Carmen.Castro Mon, 03/01/2021 - 21:51