Deadline to apply for FEMA assistance in St. Clair County, Illinois is approaching

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, IL. – Homeowners and renters affected by the July 25-28 flooding in St. Clair County have until December 22 to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. If you had property damage or losses caused by the flooding, or if you had to relocate because your apartment complex was damaged, you may be eligible for federal disaster assistance.

There are several ways you can apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

▪ Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov

▪ Download and use the FEMA mobile app to apply

▪ Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 o If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. The Helpline is open seven days a week. Press 2 for Spanish or 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

▪ Survivors may also apply in person at the following Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center - 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closing permanently Thursday, December 22 at 6 p.m.

No appointment is necessary to visit a DRC. Walk-ins are welcome. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives are available for one-on-one help and to answer questions.

Have the following information when you apply or check the status of your application: ▪ Phone number where you can be contacted

▪ Address at the time of the flooding

▪ Address where you are staying now

▪ Social Security Number of one member of the household

▪ Basic list of damage and losses

▪ Bank information if you choose direct deposit for any FEMA money you may be awarded

▪ Insurance Information if you have insurance, including the policy number

If you have homeowners or renters flood insurance, you should file an insurance claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all of your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

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 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). For disaster updates from FEMA, follow @FEMAregion5 on Twitter, and turn on mobile notifications. Visit the disaster webpage at fema.gov/disaster/4676.

For disaster updates from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), follow @ReadyIllinois on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and turn on mobile notifications. http://www.illinois.gov/iema/ continues to be a go-to, single source to help Illinois residents easily find information and disaster-related resources.

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

 

nicole.wilson Tue, 12/20/2022 - 17:04

More than $25.2 Million in Federal Assistance Provided to St. Clair County Flood Survivors

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, IL – Two months after the federal disaster declaration for the July 25 - 28 flooding, more than $25.2 million in federal funds has been provided directly to disaster survivors to aid in their recovery.

Federal assistance for survivors includes grants from FEMA and low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Policyholders in the National Flood Insurance Program have also been receiving payouts for their claims.

FEMA Individual Assistance: Homeowners and Renters

As of December 20, survivors in St. Clair County have received more than $19.5 million through funding from FEMA.

• Of that, more than $16.3 million in housing assistance grants have been approved to go directly to homeowners and renters to help pay for home repair and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• More than $3.1 million has been provided to residents to replace damaged personal property as well as expenses for transportation, medical and other disaster-related needs.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA has approved more than $4.5 million in low-interest loans for homeowners, renters and businesses to repair, rebuild and replace damaged property and contents. SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

NFIP policyholders received more than $1.1 million from claims to repair and rebuild flood-damaged property.

Disaster Survivor Assistance

FEMA disaster survivor assistance specialists canvassed the affected communities and interacted with survivors to encourage them to register for help, while providing them with recovery information and listening to their concerns.

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC)

Two DRCs hosted more than 5,000 visitors seeking assistance with their applications or other services available to disaster survivors.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

The deadline for survivors to apply for federal aid is December 22, 2022. There are several ways to apply:

• Online at www.disasterassistance.gov.
• Download and use the FEMA mobile app to apply on your smartphone or tablet
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 open seven days a week

• If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. The Helpline is open seven days a week. Press 2 for Spanish or 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

• Apply in person at the DRC location:

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center – 6755 State St., East St. Louis, IL 62203

Hours: Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m

Closes permanently on December 22, at 6 p.m.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, 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 833-285-7448.  If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the umber for that service.  Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

For disaster updates from FEMA, follow @FEMAregion5 on Twitter, and turn on mobile notifications. Visit the disaster webpage at fema.gov/disaster/4676.

For disaster updates from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), follow @ReadyIllinois on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and turn on mobile notifications. http://www.illinois.gov/iema/ continues to be a go-to, single source to help Illinois residents easily find information and disaster-related resources.

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

nicole.wilson Tue, 12/20/2022 - 16:51

An Online Account Will Keep You in Contact With FEMA

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Disaster survivors who have applied for FEMA assistance are encouraged to create an online account to stay connected to FEMA throughout different phases of the registration process. Creating an online account on DisasterAssistance.gov provides quicker access to pertinent FEMA information and support, regardless of holidays, regular business hours or personnel availability.

FEMA is committed to ensure that each survivor’s recovery process continues to move forward. Therefore, applicants with online accounts can:

• Check the status of the application and inspection.

• Update personal information, such as current mailing address and phone number.

• Securely view correspondence from FEMA.

• Upload important documents such as an insurance denial or settlement letter, proof of ownership of the damaged property and proof that the property was your primary residence at the time of the disaster.

• Access a 24/7 FEMA Internet Helpdesk to resolve account issues.

• Have the ability to request an inspection under certain circumstances. It’s important to understand that you are limited to making one online inspection request per disaster.

To create or access your online account, call the Help Desk, 24/7 1-800-745-0243 or visit: www.disasterassistance.gov/help/faqs to learn more.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 12/20/2022 - 16:02

Federal Support Following Hurricane Ian Nears $4 Billion

WASHINGTON -- Nearly $3.99 billion in federal grants, disaster loans and flood insurance payments have been provided to the state of Florida and to households there to help Floridians jumpstart their recovery following Hurricane Ian.

FEMA has provided $833 million to households and $415 million to the state for emergency response, while the U.S. Small Business Administration has provided $1.28 billion in disaster loans and the National Flood Insurance Program has paid $1.46 billion in claims.

How FEMA Is Helping Floridians:

• FEMA has made individual assistance available to 26 counties in Florida. Residents in Brevard, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties are eligible to apply for Individual Assistance. Deadline for applications is Jan. 12, 2023.
• FEMA is meeting survivors where they are to help jumpstart their recoveries. Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists are going door-to-door in Florida neighborhoods to help individuals register for assistance. These teams have visited more than 334,000 homes and interacted with more than 151,000 survivors in counties designated for Individual Assistance.
• 25 Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in impacted areas, with nearly 97,700 visits by survivors.
• FEMA is providing Transitional Sheltering Assistance in 26 counties to survivors eligible for temporary hotel stays. As of today, the program is providing housing for 1,631 households with 3,974 members.
• Hundreds of FEMA inspectors have performed more than 247,000 home inspections for survivors who applied for federal disaster assistance.
• FEMA is providing temporary housing to eligible Hurricane Ian survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Lee, Sarasota and Volusia counties. FEMA approved Direct Temporary Housing Assistance to provide options for those whose homes are uninhabitable because of the hurricane. FEMA determined that rental assistance is insufficient to meet the housing need in those counties because of a lack of available housing resources. FEMA will notify applicants who are eligible for direct housing. It will take time to transport, permit, install and inspect these units before they are available. Direct Temporary Housing Assistance may be provided for up to 18 months from Sept. 29, 2022, the date of the federal disaster declaration, to March 28, 2024.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $1.28 billion in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and business owners. Business Recovery Centers are located in Collier, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee and Seminole counties.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has received more than 45,300 flood insurance claims and paid more than $1.46 billion to policyholders.
• NFIP policyholders may receive up to $1,000 to reimburse the purchase of supplies like sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber. They may also receive up to $1,000 in storage expenses if they moved insured property. Policyholders should file a claim for flood loss avoidance reimbursement, regardless of whether it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• FEMA is conducting local hiring for more than 300 jobs in Brandon, Fort Myers, Kissimmee, Orlando and Sarasota. These positions are full-time, 120-day appointments that may be extended depending on operational needs. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through USAJobs.gov.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians can file a claim for loss of income caused by Hurricane Ian by going to Disaster Unemployment Assistance - FloridaJobs.org and selecting “Apply for Hurricane Ian DUA,” visiting a local CareerSource Career Center, or calling 800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
• Low-income Florida residents recovering from Hurricane Ian may be eligible for assistance from the Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Survivors can find more information on Florida’s D-SNAP program by visiting the Florida Department of Children and Families’ Hurricane Ian Response & Recovery website.
• Operation Blue Roof installed 20,119 roofs in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. (Mission completed.)
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25, through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose renewal date is in this range should contact their agent or insurance company. FEMA also extended the proof of loss requirement for flood insurance policyholders in Florida who experienced flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days. For more information on how to file a flood insurance claim, visit How to Start Your Flood Insurance Claim.
• If you or a member of your household uses adaptive or accessibility items that were damaged by Hurricane Ian, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for those items. For homeowners, items can include an exterior ramp, grab bars and a paved pathway to the home’s entrance from a vehicle. Awards do not count toward your Housing Assistance or Personal Property maximum awards. For more information for homeowners and renters, visit Update to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 12/19/2022 - 19:09

New Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Brevard County; Three Centers to Close

BRANDON, Fla. – Brevard County will have a new disaster recovery center located at the Agricultural Center in Cocoa, Florida.

This center at 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa FL, 32926 will open on Sunday, Dec. 18 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except closed on Sunday, Dec. 25 and Sunday, Jan. 1.

Three disaster recovery centers will cease operations on Friday, Dec. 16 at 6:00 p.m.

These centers are:

Okeechobee County - Okeechobee County Library, 206 SW 16th Street, Okeechobee, FL 34974 Pinellas County - Lealman Exchange, 5175 45th St N, St. Petersburg, FL  33714 Brevard County - Cuyler Park Community Center, 2331 Harry T. Moore Ave., Mims, FL 32754

After these centers close, survivors who were affected by Hurricane Ian can still register for assistance, get updates about applications, learn about the appeals process or check the status of their application the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. The line is open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages.
• At one of FEMA’s other disaster recovery center locations

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

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

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

bree-constance… Sat, 12/17/2022 - 01:04

You May Appeal a FEMA Decision

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Residents of Puerto Rico who applied for FEMA disaster assistance and were considered ineligible or do not agree with the amount awarded, can appeal this decision. Survivors have 60 days from the date on their FEMA determination letter to submit a letter of appeal.

FEMA may consider an application ineligible for different reasons. These include missing information, insufficient proof of identity or home ownership, or if more than one person from the same household applied for assistance for the same residence.

Survivors may have qualified and received disaster assistance for damage to their homes but disagree with the amount awarded. This may occur when applicants apply for assistance and later discover additional damage that was unnoticed during the inspection.

On the other hand, a survivor may receive an insurance settlement, but the amount is insufficient to repair the damage to their home. In either case, survivors may appeal if they have information for FEMA to reconsider its decision.

How to write an appeal letter

In a letter to FEMA, the survivor must identify the decision to be appealed —ineligibility or insufficient assistance— the reasons for appeal and include documentation to support the request, such as verifiable repair estimates, contractor estimates or other supporting documentation.

The appeal submission should also include the following information:

• Applicant’s full name

• Applicant’s FEMA application number and the disaster number for Hurricane Fiona (FEMA-4671-DR-PR) on each page

• Address of the applicant’s pre-disaster primary residence

• Applicant’s current phone number and address

• Signature and date

Once the above steps are completed, upload your letter of appeal and documentation to disasterassistance.gov, fax to 1-800-827-8112 or send it by mail to:

Individuals and Households Program

National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

kimberly.keblish Fri, 12/16/2022 - 17:51

FEMA Assistance Now Available to Help Hurricane Nicole Survivors Jumpstart Their Recoveries

BRANDON, Fla. – Homeowners and renters in Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Putnam, St. Johns or Volusia counties who were affected by Hurricane Nicole will now be eligible to apply for FEMA disaster assistance due to President Joseph R. Biden’s approval of the State of Florida’s request for a major disaster declaration.

FEMA announced that additional assistance has been made available to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Nicole during the period of Nov. 7-30, 2022. Assistance for Category G costs, specifically for damaged engineered beaches and the costs to restore them, is being made available to Brevard, Duval, Flagler, Indian River, Martin, Nassau, Palm Beach, St. Johns, St. Lucie and Volusia counties. Public Assistance is also available for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damage facilities for these counties. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Hurricane Nicole Survivors, Learn How to Apply for FEMA Assistance:

FEMA will continue to work with the state of Florida to help Floridians affected by Hurricane Nicole and ensure that they have the resources they need to begin their road recovery.

Survivors can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The hotline is open, and help is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, you can provide FEMA the number for that service to receive assistance to better assist survivors with accessibility needs, FEMA developed an accessible video about how to apply and it is available here: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

Some families affected by both Hurricanes Ian and Nicole may need to apply for disaster assistance twice if they experienced damage from both hurricanes. Damage caused by multiple disasters is treated separately based on which storm caused it, even if the same property is damaged.

When creating your application, you must provide:

• Your current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your current address and your address at the time of the disaster.
• Your Social Security number.
• A general description of damage and losses caused by the disaster.
• Banking information, if you are eligible for disaster assistance and you’d like to receive funds directly deposited into your bank account.
• If insured, the types of insurance you have, and when available, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

What to do if you have insurance:

If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. While FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance, if your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

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, as well as other disaster-related expenses.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Nicole, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.

bree-constance… Thu, 12/15/2022 - 22:27

Notify FEMA About Insurance Settlements and Update Your Current Information

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Survivors of Hurricane Ian in South Carolina who have already applied for disaster assistance are encouraged to let FEMA know about any insurance settlements you receive. FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may cover damage that your insurance does not.

If you’re insured, FEMA will confirm that you have filed a claim with your insurance company. Remember when you file a claim with your insurance agent or company, find out what your policy covers. And be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work you have done to repair your home.

By law, FEMA cannot pay for expenses already covered by insurance or other sources such as crowd funding or financial assistance from voluntary agencies. However, if you filed an insurance claim and have disaster-related needs that still need to be addressed, FEMA may consider you for its Other Needs Assistance program or refer you to a state or community agency that can help.

Hurricane Ian lashed South Carolina Sept. 25 to Oct. 4. Under the president’s major disaster declaration, affected individuals and households in three FEMA-designated counties, Charleston, Georgetown and Horry, are eligible to apply for assistance. If you were among those who had damage or losses to your primary home, the application deadline is Monday, Jan. 23, 2023.

Here are some other reminders:

• If your insurance settlement is delayed longer than 30 days, let FEMA know by writing a letter and include proof that you filed a claim. Any assistance FEMA provides would be considered an advance and would have to be repaid once you receive your insurance settlement.
• If you received the maximum settlement from your insurance company and still have unmet disaster-related needs, write to FEMA and explain what your need is. Again, include documentation from the insurance company.
• If you spent the “additional living expense” provided by the insurance company and still need help with finding temporary housing, write to FEMA and explain your need. Attach documentation from the insurance company to prove you used the funds provided. Also include your permanent housing plan.

Here’s how to update FEMA with your current information:

• Log into your account at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• Fax FEMA at 800-827-8112 or send a letter to this address:
  • FEMA National Processing Service Center
  • P.O. Box 10055
  • Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 12/15/2022 - 15:52

FEMA Awards Over $1.1 Million to City of New Haven for COVID Response Expenses

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.1 million to the State of Connecticut to reimburse the City of New Haven for the cost of steps taken to protect the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,139,935 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the city for emergency protective measures undertaken between April 2020 and May 2022, including providing 2,000 meals for vulnerable homeless populations.

The city also purchased and distributed disinfectant solution, sanitizer, bleach, trigger sprayers and nitrile gloves, and rented four trailers for the storage of personal protective equipment (PPE) to support the residents affected by COVID-19 in three non-congregate shelters.

Finally, New Haven provided transportation to COVID-19 testing sites for vulnerable senior populations and provided nursing support and technical assistance for 44 schools in the New Haven district and technical support for a temporary COVID-19 testing facility.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the City of New Haven with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $597 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 12/15/2022 - 14:51

FEMA Awards Nearly $21 Million to Tufts University for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $21 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Tufts University for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $20,598,197 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private university in Medford for the cost of contracting to administer 1,457,783 tests at its four campuses in the greater Boston area between August 2020 and March 2022.

The grant will also reimburse Tufts for the cost of 31,359 pool tests and courier services for 40,840 tests.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Tufts University with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 12/15/2022 - 14:47

FEMA Provides Assistance for Other Disaster-Related Needs

San Juan, Puerto Rico — FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program not only provides financial assistance to Hurricane Fiona survivors with disaster-damaged homes, but can also provide financial help to cover other necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. Through the Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program, FEMA may provide financial assistance to cover medical, dental, funeral and burial expenses, and transportation assistance.

Medical and Dental Assistance: May assist with medical or dental expenses caused by the disaster, which may include injury, illness, loss of prescribed medication and equipment, insurance co-payments, or loss or injury to a service animal.

Funeral Assistance: May assist eligible individuals and households who incur or will incur expenses related to a death or disinterment attributed directly or indirectly to a declared emergency or major disaster.

Transportation Assistance: May assist eligible individuals with the repair or replacement of a vehicle that was damaged directly by the disaster and is no longer operable or safe to drive. Cosmetic repairs such as minor dents or scratches, will not be covered. Other conditions of eligibility apply.

To be eligible for some types of FEMA assistance, individuals must first apply for a low-interest disaster loan through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Know that you are never obligated to accept a loan. 

Important Reminders:

• If you have already applied with FEMA for Housing Assistance, you do not need to apply separately for ONA.

• If you receive a letter from FEMA requesting documentation, you should quickly respond to ensure FEMA has the most updated information. Submit missing or additional documentation as soon as possible.

Survivors can apply and view the status of their application online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using FEMA’s mobile app. Individuals can also call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to discuss their case with a FEMA representative. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

For more information you can visit: Assistance for Housing and Other Needs | FEMA.gov.

 

kimberly.keblish Thu, 12/15/2022 - 13:31

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close but FEMA Help Still Available

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Disaster Recovery Centers in Charleston, Georgetown and Horry counties are closing next week but that does not mean that FEMA is leaving the state.

FEMA specialists are still available to help Hurricane Ian disaster survivors update information in your accounts and direct you to federal, state and community programs and assistance. FEMA is also continuing its work with the state and other partners to help South Carolina recover from the storm.

Regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Center operations will wrap up as follows:

• Charleston: North Charleston Public Works, 5800 Casper Padgett Way, North Charleston, SC 29406

• 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19

• Georgetown: Waccamaw Regional Recreation Center, 83 Duncan Ave., Pawleys Island, SC 29585

• 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21

• Horry: Carolina Forest Recreation Center, Multipurpose Room B, 2254 Carolina Forest Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29579

• 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22

More than 600 disaster survivors have visited the three centers to get information or referrals to programs offered by FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and other federal, state and local partners.

Even with the scheduled closings, help from FEMA is just a phone call away. Survivors can get answers from specialists at the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language. It is important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily.

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Monday, Jan. 23, 2023.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 12/14/2022 - 21:01

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Hays County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the cities of Austin, Buda, Dripping Springs, Hays, Kyle, Mountain City, San Marcos, Wimberley and Woodcreek; the Village of Bear Creek; and unincorporated areas of Hays County, Texas.

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 appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Hays County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes 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 floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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 floodsmart.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 12/14/2022 - 21:01

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration to Help Floridians Recover from Hurricane Nicole

WASHINGTON ­-- Hurricane Nicole survivors and Florida infrastructure and beaches will now be eligible for federal disaster assistance at the direction of President Biden.

FEMA announced today that additional assistance has been made available to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Nicole during the period of Nov. 7-30, 2022. Assistance for Category G costs, specifically for damaged engineered beaches and the costs to restore them, is also being made available to the state of Florida.

This critical assistance for survivors and state infrastructure is in addition to the over $3.69 billion the Biden-Harris Administration has provided to the State of Florida in response to Hurricane Ian, including $814 million FEMA has put directly into the hands of survivors to help jumpstart their recovery. FEMA has also provided more than $1.2 billion dollars to National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders to date.

FEMA will continue to work with the state of Florida to help survivors recover from Hurricane Ian, while also ensuring that those affected by Hurricane Nicole have the resources they need to begin their road recovery.

Assistance for Hurricane Nicole can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster, and will be available to affected individuals in Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Putnam, St. Johns and Volusia counties.

Federal funding is also 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 Hurricane Nicole in Brevard, Duval, Flagler, Indian River, Martin, Nassau, Palm Beach, St. Johns, St. Lucie and Volusia counties.

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

Affected survivors can apply for disaster assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Thomas J. McCool has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

FEMA will continue to work with the state of Florida.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 12/14/2022 - 17:54

FEMA Awards Over $2.7 Million To Maine Medical Center for Covid-19 Expenses

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2.7 million to the State of Maine to reimburse Maine Medical Center in Portland for the added costs of operating safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,741,060 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the 637-bed teaching hospital and flagship facility for MaineHealth for steps taken to protect staff, patients and the public between May 2021 and March 2022.

The hospital purchased disinfectant supplies; personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N95 respirator masks, safety glasses, shoe covers, gowns and gloves; and ventilator circuits and filters for use in patient treatment.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Maine Medical Center with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

So far, FEMA has provided almost $179 million in Public Assistance grants to Maine to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:16

FEMA Awards Almost $11 Million to Boston Public Health Commission for COVID-19 Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $11 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the costs of providing testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $10,661,026 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the commission for contracting to set up and operate multiple community-based testing sites around the city between January and June 2022, providing 72,318 tests to the public.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Boston Public Health Commission with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided nearly $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:13

FEMA Awards Almost $2.2 Million to Cape Cod Hospital for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $2.2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Cape Cod Hospital for the costs of purchasing test kits and supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,169,504 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the non-profit regional medical center located in Hyannis for purchasing various testing products between October and December 2021, including 220,135 test kits from Hologic, 24,120 test kits from Fisher Scientific Company, and 1,800 test kits from McKesson Medical Surgical, Inc.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Cape Cod Hospital with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:11

FEMA Awards Over $1.8 Million to Williams College for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.8 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Williams College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,827,926 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private liberal arts women’s college in Northampton for the cost of contracting to administer 119,447 tests between January and June 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Williams College with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:09

FEMA Awards Almost $6.7 Million to Mass. College of Pharmacy and Health Science for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $6.7 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $6,674,333 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private health sciences university headquartered in Boston for the cost of contracting to administer 322,759 tests at its Massachusetts facilities between July 2020 and July 2022.

The tests were used to promote the safe opening and operation of facilities at the Boston Campus’ Matricaria/White Building, the Worcester Campus’ Lincoln Square Academic and Student Center, and Worcester Campus’ Mechanic Street Building.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:07

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Chesterfield County

PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Chesterfield County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.

The 90-day appeal period started on December 12, 2022. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that 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.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting Christopher Workman, Inspections and Floodplain Manager, at (804) 796-7106 or email WorkmanC@chesterfield.gov.

The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/08aCSy.

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; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. 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 and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Chesterfield County Flood Mapping Milestones

• April 28, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• June 14, 2021 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• July 22, 2021 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• June 30, 2022 — Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• On December 12, 2022 – Appeal Period started.
• February 2024* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

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If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.  

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

charles.elison Tue, 12/13/2022 - 20:13