FEMA Advances Accessibility: Policy Change Provides Over $117 Million to Disaster Survivors for Cleaning and Sanitizing Homes

WASHINGTON -- This week, FEMA announced over $117 million was provided to survivors in additional assistance due to a policy update which expanded cleaning and sanitizing assistance following a disaster. Because of the policy update, more than 391,000 additional applicants have been able to get financial help.

Under the Clean and Sanitize Assistance (CSA) program, if a survivor received minor damage to their home, but was able to live in the home, FEMA may be able to provide up to $300 to help prevent additional losses and to protect the health and safety of the survivor’s home. This assistance is for eligible homeowners and renters and can be used to pay for supplies or a service to clean up.

In August 2021, under the leadership of FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, the agency implemented these policy changes to help simplify the disaster assistance process and provide greater equity to all disaster survivors.

“The Clean and Sanitize Assistance program is yet another critical resource FEMA provides to help protect the health and safety of people recovering from disasters,” said Administrator Criswell. “FEMA is using every tool at our disposal to ensure that all people affected by disaster, including those from low-income and underserved communities, are better able to access the resources they need to stay safe and protect their home.”

As a result of this initiative, over $31 million in additional cleaning and sanitizing assistance has gone to Hurricane Ian survivors, and over $59 million in additional assistance has been distributed to survivors of Hurricane Fiona.

To qualify for the CSA Program, one must meet the following criteria:

• An occupancy verified by FEMA
• A pre-disaster primary home located in a designated county, parish or municipality for Individual Assistance
• The inspection noted that clean-up actions are needed or have been taken (for renters)
• Damage that is not covered by one's insurance
• The primary residence had disaster damage but is still safe to occupy

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 12/13/2022 - 17:00

What to Do if your home is still inaccessible due to Hurricane Ian

BRANDON, Fla. – Some Florida homes are still inaccessible due to hurricane-damaged roads, rising water, fallen trees and other storm-related issues - especially in and around Sanibel Island. If you cannot access your primary residence due to storm damage you may be eligible for FEMA rental assistance.

If you live in one of the 26 counties designated for federal disaster assistance and have not already applied for FEMA assistance, you should call FEMA to apply The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

If flooding, damage or debris prevent a FEMA housing inspector from reaching a damaged residence, the inspector will notify FEMA. It’s important you call the FEMA Helpline once your home is accessible.

To be eligible for temporary rental assistance:

• You must first apply with FEMA.
• The home must be your primary residence.
• The home is either destroyed, uninhabitable or inaccessible as a result of Hurricane Ian.
• Insurance proceeds does not fully cover additional living expenses and/or home repairs.

If you need to apply for federal disaster assistance, go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET., or visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). Several DRCs are operating throughout Florida’s disaster-damaged counties. To find one close to you, go online to: DRC Locator or floridadisaster.org, or text DRC along with your zip code to 43362.

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… Tue, 12/13/2022 - 15:09

More Public Meetings Added, Online Option Still Open for Comments on Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act

SANTA FE, New Mexico – The Hermit’s Peak/Canyon Fire Assistance Act provides compensation for those impacted by the fire. Compensation may cover eligible losses, including personal injury, loss of property, business loss or financial loss.

FEMA’s Interim Final Rule guides the claims process and describes necessary documentation, evaluation criteria and compensation available for those impacted by the fire and subsequent flooding. The rule also provides additional guidance for appeal rights, arbitration and judicial review.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is holding six meetings in the most heavily impacted communities to collect public comments. Each meeting runs from 5:30-7 p.m. MT. Doors open at 5 p.m. so attendees can sign up to speak. Two meetings have already been held in Las Vegas and Mora and each city will host a second meeting. Additional meetings have been added in Peñasco and Angel Fire.

Dec. 15, 2022, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT Old Memorial Middle School 947 Legion Drive, Las Vegas, NM 87701

Jan. 4, 2023, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT Peñasco Independent School Complex 13 School Road, Peñasco, NM 87553

Jan. 5, 2023, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT Mora High School 10 Ranger Road, Mora, NM 87701

Jan. 9, 2023, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT New Mexico Bank & Trust Community Room 1 First National Place Angel Fire, NM 87710

These meetings will include an overview of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Regulations and allow members of the public to provide verbal comments for the record. The meetings will not serve as a forum for questions and answers.

The meetings will be staffed by English and Spanish speakers and American Sign Language interpreters.

Submit Comments Online Through Jan. 13, 2023

In addition to the providing feedback in person at the meetings, the public can also submit comments online. The public comment period of 60 days, which started Nov. 14, runs through Jan. 13, 2023.

To submit a comment online, go to regulations.gov/document/FEMA-2022-0037-0001 and click the word “Comment” in the box on the left at the top of the page. To review all Federal Notices about the Act, visit regulations.gov/ and then put FEMA-2022-0037 in the search bar at the middle of the top of the page to find all notices by the docket number.

For step-by-step instructions on submitting comments in-person or online, visit fema.gov/hermits-peak and go to the Resources section.

About the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act: On Sept. 30, President Joe Biden signed the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act that provides $2.5 billion to compensate New Mexicans and Tribal Nations impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The funding may cover eligible loss including personal injury, loss of property, business loss or financial loss. For more information, visit fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 12/13/2022 - 15:05

FEMA Gives Free Rebuilding Advice at National Lumber and Walmart the Week of Dec. 19

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Disaster survivors who are repairing their homes after Hurricane Fiona can visit Walmart in Bayamón and Isabela and National Lumber hardware stores in Bayamón, Cidra, Fajardo, Peñuelas, Salinas and Yauco, to talk with FEMA mitigation specialists about their damage and discuss how to make homes stronger and safer during the rebuilding process.

FEMA mitigation specialists will share tips about rebuilding and protecting homes from future disaster-related damage, such as high winds and water. They will also provide information on topics such as selecting contractors, understanding flood insurance coverage and emergency preparedness. No appointment is needed.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be available at the following locations from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., December 19 – December 24:

Walmart

Walmart Bayamón

Ave. West Main 725, Suite 100

Bayamón, PR 00961

Walmart Isabela

Ave. Militar Núm. 3535, Suite 193

Isabela, PR 00662

Ferreterías National Lumber

National Lumber Bayamón

Carr. Núm. 167

Victory Shopping Center

Bayamón, PR 00959

National Lumber Fajardo

Carr. Núm. 3, Hm. 5

Urb. Baralt

Fajardo, PR 00738

National Lumber Salinas

Carr. Núm. 1, Km. 1, Hm. 8

Calle Luis Muñoz Rivera

Monserrate Mall

Salinas, PR 00751

National Lumber Cidra

Carr. Núm. 171, Km. 0, Hm. 5

Cidra Industrial Park

Cidra, PR 00739

National Lumber Peñuelas

Carr. 385, Km. 0.4

Parque Industrial PR

Peñuelas, PR 00624

National Lumber Yauco

Carr. Núm. 27

Ave. 25 de Julio, Km. 230.3

Yauco, PR 00698

 

kimberly.keblish Tue, 12/13/2022 - 12:53

Hurricane Ian Flood Insurance Payments Surpass $1 Billion, FEMA Encourages Policyholders to Take Advantage of Extended Grace Period

WASHINGTON -- More than $1.2 billion has gone to National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders to help their Hurricane Ian recovery, with over 46,000 policyholders having filed claims following the storm’s landfall.

More than $237 million of those dollars were in the form of advance payments, where policyholders could receive up to $20,000 after filing a claim. Over 10,000 policyholders received advance payments as they worked their claims.

FEMA now estimates Hurricane Ian could potentially result in NFIP claims losses between $3.7-$5.2 billion. The losses include flood insurance claims received from five states, with the majority of claims coming from Florida.

“Since Hurricane Ian made landfall, FEMA and the entire federal family have provided billions of dollars in support to help Florida recover and affected residents jumpstart their recovery,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The $1.2 billion paid to NFIP policyholders represents our continued commitment to this critical mission and underscores the importance of purchasing flood insurance. That’s why we continue to encourage Floridians who may have let their flood insurance coverage lapse to take advantage of our extended grace period and renew their coverage today by contacting their insurance company or agent.”

The NFIP announced in October that it extended the grace period to renew one’s policy from 30 days to 90 days for certain Florida policyholders in counties where Individual Assistance has been authorized. 

The 90-day extension means once the policy is renewed, if the policyholder suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian or another flood, they may file a claim. As of this release, the grace period applies to NFIP flood insurance policies with expiration dates between Sept. 13, 2022, and Oct. 23, 2022.  

This means for policyholders whose renewal date of Oct. 23, 2022, the policy may be renewed on or before Jan. 20, 2023.

Over 8,000 NFIP policyholders in Florida may still be able to renew their policy due to the grace period extension.

To maximize awareness of the grace period extension, FEMA has taken the extraordinary step of going door-to-door to notify policyholders of this opportunity, while flood insurance companies and insurance agents have also been instructed to contact their clients.

There are 26 Florida counties designated for FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program where policyholders can take advantage of the grace period. FEMA encourages all affected policyholders residing in these counties to support their recovery by renewing their expired flood insurance policies today.

Contact Your Insurance Agent or Company to Renew an Expired Policy

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period for Hurricane Ian should contact their agent or insurance company today. Policyholders who do not have their insurance agent or company’s contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance.

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 12/12/2022 - 19:52

Federal Support for Hurricane Ian Tops $3.69 Billion

WASHINGTON -- More than $3.69 billion in federal grants, disaster loans and flood insurance payments have been provided to the state of Florida and to households after Hurricane Ian to help survivors jumpstart their recovery.

FEMA has provided $814 million to households and $401 million to the state for emergency response, while the U.S. Small Business Administration has provided $1.2 billion in disaster loans and the National Flood Insurance Program has paid $1.25 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 324,000 homes and interacted with 148,000 survivors in counties designated for Individual Assistance.
• 30 Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in impacted areas, with more than 91,000 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 1,600 households with 3,906 members.
• Hundreds of FEMA inspectors have performed more than 243,000 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 $1.2 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 45,200 flood insurance claims and paid more than $1.25 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, 2022 through Oct. 23, 2022. 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, 12/12/2022 - 16:27

One Year Later, Tornado Recovery Continues to Make Progress

FRANKFORT, Ky.– On the night of Dec. 10, 2021, deadly tornadoes swept through Western Kentucky, causing an estimated $305 million in damage to homes, churches and businesses in Mayfield, Dawson Springs, Bowling Green and other communities.

In Mayfield alone – a city of 10,000 residents -- the deadly tornadoes destroyed 257 homes and damaged another 1,000, according to the city. Most of its historic town center was destroyed.

In the aftermath, first responders and emergency managers, nonprofits, Commonwealth and FEMA officials rushed to the scene, making an all-out effort to assess the damage and assist to survivors.

Gov. Andy Beshear established the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, which received 150,000 donations totaling $52 million. The money went to help with recovery needs, including funeral expenses for each of the victims, construction of new homes, funding for insured and uninsured homeowners and renters and local farmers impacted by the destruction of the Mayfield Grain Co.

The governor expressed his gratitude to the individuals and organizations that donated to the fund.

“Every single donation made a difference in our rebuilding and recovery efforts,” Gov. Beshear said.

FEMA also stepped in early at the request of the governor. The tornado-stricken counties received a presidential declaration two days after the tornadoes struck. The declaration allowed residents and communities to apply for federal assistance for a variety of recovery programs.

“FEMA has been in Kentucky since the beginning, coordinating efforts with the commonwealth, and providing much needed assistance to individuals and communities,” said Federal Coordinating Officer in charge of Kentucky recovery Myra Shird. “We’ve provided dollars directly to survivors, we’ve brought technical support from our federal partners like the Army Corp of Engineers, and we’ve worked with the commonwealth to provide temporary housing to those who lost everything.”

Now, one year after the tornado disaster, families, businesses and communities are rebuilding. It’s estimated that between $50 to $100 million in insurance payments have flowed into these communities helping homeowners and businesses rebuild safer and stronger. While an additional more than $75 million in federal assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration has helped those with disaster-related needs not met by insurance or other assistance.

Federal Assistance By the Numbers

As of Dec. 2, 2022

FEMA INDIVIDUAL ASSISTANCE

Sixteen counties were designated for federal assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program: Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren.

• More than $15.9 million approved for individuals and households, including:
  • More than $11.5 million approved for Housing Assistance
  • Nearly $4.4 million approved for Other Needs Assistance, which helps to replace essential household items and other critical disaster-related needs

TEMPORARY HOUSING

 

• Currently, 55 families are participating in FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing program in six designated counties: Caldwell, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg and Warren.
  • 37 families have moved out of FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing and into their permanent housing.
• Nearly 1,600 families received temporary rental assistance from FEMA. They receive up to 18 months of rental assistance while they repair their tornado-damaged homes or find other permanent housing.

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

 

• 654 disaster loans approved for homeowners, renters, and businesses for nearly $59.8 million.
  • More than $50.6 million in home loans
  • Nearly $9.2 million in business loans

FEMA PUBLIC ASSISTANCE

Twenty-three counties are eligible for Public Assistance: Barren, Breckinridge, Bullitt, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Grayson, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Meade, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Shelby, Spencer, Taylor, Todd and Warren.

Under FEMA’s Public Assistance program, communities get help with the cost of repair, rebuilding and emergency work including reimbursements for debris removal, damaged roads and infrastructure

In total, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program has approved more than $30.6 million for Western Kentucky.

“Whenever there is a disaster the name FEMA is on the tip of everyone’s tongue, but disaster recovery is always a team effort,” said FCO Shird, “it’s local and voluntary agencies, communities and individuals. We all have a stake in this recovery. FEMA will continue to support the commonwealth to help meet their vision of what the future of these communities looks like.” As the recovery progresses, nonprofits continue to help with activities ranging from building homes to helping survivors with their critical needs such as home repairs, appliances and vehicle repair or replacement.

Here are examples of recovery efforts during the past year:

Nonprofit Organizations and Citizens’ Groups

The Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund pledged $16 million to build 300 homes in the tornado-devastated areas, and nonprofits have been tapped to help with construction. To date, 35 families have received keys to a new home built in cooperation with Homes and Hope for Kentucky, Habitat for Humanity and the Fuller Center on Housing plan.

Local long-term recovery groups have been operating in Caldwell, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg and Ohio counties as well as the City of Mayfield and the City of Bowling Green.

These groups are focused on temporary rental, utility and security deposit assistance as well as structural repairs to survivors’ homes. They may provide spiritual and emotional resources, essential appliances for homes and transportation needs for medical transportation, work and school.

One long-term recovery group, the Mayfield Graves County Long-Term Recovery Group, is organizing Home for the Holidays for tornado survivors. This program is trying to place 25 families into 25 homes by Dec. 25, 2022. The goal is to place homeless renters into permanent housing by utilizing existing vacant homes throughout the community.

“We have made a lot of progress, but our work will continue until every structure and life is rebuilt,” Gov. Beshear said. “We will continue bringing new economic promise to this area to ensure these communities have a brighter future than ever before.”

For information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Mon, 12/12/2022 - 16:17

FEMA Approves $88 Million to Dredge the Carraízo Reservoir

The project is to remove about 2.6 million cubic yards of sediment

San Juan, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the obligation of a federal share of nearly $88.7 million to dredge the Carraízo Reservoir. The project under the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) will allow a greater water reserve for a large part of the population of the metropolitan and eastern areas of Puerto Rico, particularly during drought seasons.

The dredging will entail the removal of some 2.6 million cubic yards of sediment from the reservoir and the removed material will be transferred to three dikes. The remaining water will be transferred back to the reservoir and, once dry, the sediment will be used to recover the vegetation of the area through seeds or replanting, according to the corresponding regulations.

A comprehensive environmental assessment was conducted for this project, in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), to analyze the potential impacts of these works. The assessment — developed by FEMA and PRASA personnel — was available for public review and comment for 30 days, and the agency determined that the project will not have adverse effects on the environment.

“We know that this project is vital to providing a service as essential as water, while supporting health in general and economic development. This is one of several projects that we evaluate under the environmental and historic preservation regulations, which seek to guarantee a compliant and long-term recovery,” explained Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.

The Carraízo Reservoir serves the Sergio Cuevas Water Treatment Plant, which provides service to some 492,000 consumers in the municipalities of Caguas, Gurabo, Juncos, Las Piedras, San Juan, San Lorenzo and parts of Trujillo Alto. Carraízo supplies some 90 million gallons of water per day to its customers.

PRASA Executive President Doriel Pagán Crespo said, "The dredging of Carraízo is a priority project, not only for the agency, but also for the Governor. This project seeks to increase the storage volume by approximately 528 million gallons. The planning and design process, as well as the environmental compliance process, has been one of close collaboration with FEMA and the government's Recovery Office (COR3), where we are finally seeing the accomplishments achieved. The project will have a construction cost of approximately $93 million and work will begin during the first quarter of 2023. The work will last for a period of two and a half years. We thank Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi, FEMA and COR3 for their availability and support throughout this process. I also thank all of PRASA's Infrastructure staff for their tireless work and commitment to this achievement.

The environmental assessment on Carraízo’s dredging

FEMA's Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) division provides specialized technical assistance to applicants on the historic and environmental compliance of projects. This is to ensure they are aligned with applicable federal laws and executive orders. Through this environmental assessment, the agency determined that the Carraízo dredging project does not have an adverse impact on the environment.

FEMA considered and responded substantial comments received during the public review period to inform the final decision on grant approval and project implementation. As part of NEPA’s regulatory requirements, on August 10, 2021, FEMA conducted a public meeting in the Valle San Luis urbanization community center, at the request of Municipality of Caguas and several community leaders, to address questions and concerns about the dredging project.

For the evaluation, PRASA carried out on sediment studies and documented the existing conditions of the reservoir dikes, pipeline alignment and the area surrounding the project. Sediment samples were collected and analyzed to identify potential contaminants that could spread if the sediments were disturbed or became airborne during dredging activities. The studies determined that the Carraízo sediments are non-hazardous.

“The dredging of the Carraízo Reservoir is a priority project of Governor Pedro Pierluisi's administration. We are grateful to FEMA for the obligation of these funds that make the execution of this important work feasible, which will be essential to continue strengthening the critical infrastructure of the aqueducts. Currently, PRASA has completed 35 reconstruction projects valued at $20.2 million. Meanwhile, another 41 permanent works are being developed with an investment of approximately $623.4 million. At COR3, we are working as a team with PRASA and FEMA to continue moving Puerto Rico's reconstruction forward,” said Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience of Puerto Rico.

The funding approval for the Carraízo Reservoir dredging project is possible through FEMA’s Accelerated Award Strategy (FAASt). PRASA has a budget of over $3.6 billion to plan its FAASt subprojects.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $28.7 billion in Public Assistance funds for over 10,300 projects that will support the rebuilding of a Puerto Rico resilient to future natural disasters.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 12/12/2022 - 12:44

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance if Your Home is a Boat

BRANDON, Fla. - If a boat was your primary residence before and during Hurricane Ian making landfall in Florida – and the boat sustained hurricane damage - FEMA may be able to help. Survivors living in one of the 26 counties designated for federal assistance are encouraged to apply.

You can begin your application online at DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Be ready to provide the physical and complete address of the dock or marina and the slip or mooring number, if the boat was not located on private property. 

There are multiple Disaster Recovery Centers operating throughout the impacted area. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator or floridadisaster.org, or text DRC along with your ZIP Code to 43362.

Living on a boat is a unique situation, but you may qualify for FEMA assistance. However, if you don’t provide a slip or mooring number, it may result in your application becoming attached to another boat or boats at the same address. This will cause delays in processing your application. You also cannot use a P.O. Box as your primary address, but you can use it as a mailing address.

The designated counties are 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.

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… Fri, 12/09/2022 - 21:49

Quedan dos semanas para solicitar asistencia de FEMA en el condado de St. Clair, Illinois

St. Clair County, Ill. – Los propietarios de viviendas e inquilinos en el condado de St.Clair tienen solo dos semanas para solicitar asistencia por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés), antes de la fecha límite del 22 de diciembre. Si tuvo daños a la propiedad o pérdidas causadas por las severas tormentas e inundaciones del 25 al 28 de julio, o si tuvo que mudarse porque su edificio de apartamentos sufrió daños, usted puede ser elegible para recibir asistencia federal por desastre.

Hay varias maneras de solicitar asistencia por desastre de FEMA:

• Solicite en línea, en disasterassistance.gov/es
• Descargue y use la aplicación móvil de FEMA para solicitar
• Llame a la Línea de Ayuda de FEMA 800-621-3362 para solicitar

• Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otro servicio, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. La Línea de Ayuda está disponible los siete días de la semana. Presione 2 para español, o 3 para un intérprete que hable su idioma.

• Los sobrevivientes también pueden solicitar en persona en dos Centros de Recuperación por Desastre (DRC).

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

lunes a viernes: 8 a.m. a 6 p.m.

sábado: 9 a.m. a 3 p.m., cerrado los domingos

Caseyville Village Hall 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

lunes a sábado, 9 a.m. a 3 p.m., cerrado los domingos

Cierra permanente el viernes, 16 de diciembre a las 3 p.m.

No se necesita cita previa para visitar un DRC. Las personas sin cita son bienvenidas.

Tenga la siguiente información disponible al solicitar o verificar el estado de su solicitud:

• Número de teléfono donde pueda ser contactado
• Dirección de la propiedad donde ocurrieron los daños por inundación
• Dirección donde se aloja actualmente
• Número de Seguro Social de un miembro del hogar
• Lista básica de daños y pérdidas
• Información bancaria, si elige depósito directo para recibir dinero de FEMA
• Información del seguro, si está asegurado, incluyendo el número de póliza

Si tiene seguro de propietario, inquilino o seguro de inundación, debe presentar una reclamación lo antes posible. FEMA no puede duplicar los beneficios por pérdidas cubiertas por el seguro. Si su póliza no cubre todos sus gastos por los daños, usted puede ser elegible para asistencia federal.

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o estatus económico. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sufrido discriminación, llame a FEMA al número gratuito 833-285-7448. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otros, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. Hay operadores multilingües disponibles (presione 2 para español y 3 para otros idiomas).

Para actualizaciones de FEMA, síganos en Twitter @FEMAregion5, y active las notificaciones móviles (enlace en inglés). Visite la página web del desastre en www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4676

Para actualizaciones sobre desastres de la Agencia para el Manejo de Emergencias de Illinois (IEMA), siga a @ReadyIllinois en Twitter, Facebook e Instagram y active las notificaciones móviles. http://www.illinois.gov/iema/ continúa siendo una fuente única para ayudar a los residentes de Illinois a encontrar información y recursos relacionados con el desastre fácilmente. (enlaces en inglés)

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

nicole.wilson Fri, 12/09/2022 - 15:28

Two weeks left to apply for FEMA assistance in St. Clair County, Illinois

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ill. – Homeowners and renters in St. Clair County have just two weeks left to apply for FEMA disaster assistance before the Dec. 22 deadline. If you had property damage or losses caused by the July 25-28 severe storms and 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 to apply
• 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 two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC).  

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and closed on Sundays

Caseyville Village Hall 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

Monday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and closed on Sundays

Closing permanently Friday, Dec. 16 at 3 p.m.

No appointment is necessary to visit a DRC. Walk-ins are welcome.

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 Fri, 12/09/2022 - 15:18

Centro de Recuperación por Desastre en Caseyville, Illinois cierra el 16 de diciembre

St. Clair County, Ill. – El Centro de Recuperación por Desastre (DRC por sus siglas en inglés) en Caseyville cerrará permanentemente el viernes, 16 de diciembre. Las personas afectadas por las inundaciones del 25 al 28 de julio en el condado de St. Clair pueden aún visitar el Centro de Recuperación de Caseyville hasta las 3 p.m. del 16 de diciembre.

Caseyville Village Hall 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

lunes a sábado, 9 a.m. a 3 p.m., cerrado los domingos

Cierra permanentemente el viernes, 16 de diciembre

Los sobrevivientes del desastre también pueden visitar el Centro de Recuperación en East St. Louis, hasta el 22 de diciembre.

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

lunes a viernes: 8 a.m. a 6 p.m.,

sábado: 9 a.m. a 3 p.m., cerrado los domingos

Cierra permanentemente el jueves, 22 de diciembre

No se necesita cita previa para visitar un DRC. Las personas sin cita son bienvenidas. En los Centros de Recuperación, especialistas de FEMA y de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios de EE. UU. (SBA) brindan información sobre los servicios disponibles, explican los programas de asistencia y ayudan a los sobrevivientes a completar o verificar el estado de sus solicitudes.

La fecha límite para solicitar asistencia de FEMA es el 22 de diciembre.

Hay varias maneras de solicitar:

• Solicite en línea, en disasterassistance.gov/es
• Descargue y use la aplicación móvil de FEMA para solicitar
• Llame a la Línea de Ayuda de FEMA 800-621-FEMA (3362) para solicitar

• Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otro servicio, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. La Línea de Ayuda está disponible los siete días de la semana. Presione 2 para español, o 3 para un intérprete que hable su idioma.

• Los sobrevivientes también pueden solicitar en persona en cualquier DRC que esté operando.

Tenga la siguiente información disponible al solicitar o verificar el estado de su solicitud:

• Número de teléfono donde pueda ser contactado
• Dirección de la propiedad donde ocurrieron los daños por inundación
• Dirección donde se aloja actualmente
• Número de Seguro Social de un miembro del hogar
• Lista básica de daños y pérdidas
• Información bancaria, si elige depósito directo para recibir dinero de FEMA
• Información del seguro, si está asegurado, incluyendo el número de póliza

Si tiene seguro de propietario, inquilino o seguro de inundación, debe presentar una reclamación lo antes posible. FEMA no puede duplicar los beneficios por pérdidas cubiertas por el seguro. Si su póliza no cubre todos sus gastos por los daños, usted puede ser elegible para asistencia federal.

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o estatus económico. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sufrido discriminación, llame a FEMA al número gratuito 833-285-7448. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otros, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. Hay operadores multilingües disponibles (presione 2 para español y 3 para otros idiomas).

Para actualizaciones de FEMA sobre desastres, siga a @FEMAregion5  en Twitter y active las notificaciones móviles. Visite la página web del desastre en www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4676.

Para actualizaciones sobre desastres de la Agencia para el Manejo de Emergencias de Illinois (IEMA), siga a @ReadyIllinois en Twitter, Facebook e Instagram y active las notificaciones móviles. http://www.illinois.gov/iema/ continúa siendo una fuente única para ayudar a los residentes de Illinois a encontrar fácilmente información y recursos

 

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

nicole.wilson Fri, 12/09/2022 - 14:34

Disaster Recovery Center in Caseyville, Illinois Closes December 16

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ill. – The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Caseyville will close permanently on Friday, Dec. 16.  People affected by the July 25 - 28 flooding in St. Clair County can still visit the Caseyville Recovery Center through Dec. 16 at 3 p.m.

Caseyville Village Hall – 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

Monday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and closed on Sundays 

Closes permanently on Friday, Dec. 16

Disaster survivors can also visit the Recovery Center in East St. Louis, through Dec. 22.

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

Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3p.m. and closed on Sundays

Closes permanently on Thursday, Dec. 22 

No appointment is necessary to visit a DRC. Walk-ins are welcome. At the Recovery Centers, specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are providing information on available services, explaining assistance programs and helping survivors complete or check the status of their applications.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is December 22.

There are several ways to apply:

• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download and use the FEMA mobile app to apply
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to apply

• 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 any open DRC.

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 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 Fri, 12/09/2022 - 14:29

Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Hiring Local Residents

SANTA FE, New Mexico – The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is hosting two job fairs to fill available job openings.

Job seekers can visit a job fair on December 14, 2022 in Santa Fe, NM, or December 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, NM, and speak directly with recruiters to learn about the positions.

Positions are full-time, in-person and will support individuals, businesses and organizations impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The duty stations for these positions will be in Las Vegas, NM, Mora, NM, or Santa Fe, NM. The annual pay ranges from $55,169 to $123,675.

Wednesday, Dec. 14 – Santa Fe Job Fair

Santa Fe Community Convention Center

201 W Marcy Street

Santa Fe, NM 87501

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 15 – Las Vegas Job Fair

Old Memorial Middle School

947 Legion Drive

Las Vegas, NM 87701

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Job Titles of Open Positions

• Chief Ombudsman (Advocate)
• Navigator
• Claims Representative
• Inventory Management Specialist
• Supply Management Specialist
• Public Affairs Specialist
• Mobile Communications Office Vehicle Operator

Additional information about the duties of each position can be found at fema.gov/fact-sheet/hermits-peakcalf-canyon-claims-office-now-hiring.

Candidates for all positions must be able to represent the Claims Office with integrity and compassion. They must also have customer service experience and strong organizational, written and verbal communication skills. And, they must have demonstrated experience completing high quality work within assigned timeframes.

Here are things to know about for the job fair:

• Interviews may be conducted on site, or you may be asked to participate in an interview later.
• Bring enough copies of your resume to share for each job you want to apply for.
• Bring a valid driver’s license or Social Security card or passport.
• Applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older and possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes finger printing and credit check.
• Employees must participate in direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment.

If you are unable to attend in person, you can learn about the positions at fema.gov/fact-sheet/hermits-peakcalf-canyon-claims-office-now-hiring. You can also email your resume to: fema-hermits-peak-jobs@fema.dhs.gov.

Positions are open until filled.

About the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act: On Sept. 30, President Joe Biden signed the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act that provides $2.5 billion to compensate New Mexicans and Tribal Nations impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The funding may cover eligible loss including personal injury, loss of property, business loss or financial loss. For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/disaster/current/hermits-peak.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 12/08/2022 - 16:53

Volusia County Approved for Direct Temporary Housing Assistance

BRANDON, Fla. – Volusia County is now approved for FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Assistance for Hurricane Ian survivors.

Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Lee and Sarasota counties are the other counties currently approved for Direct Temporary Housing Assistance, which provides options for eligible survivors whose homes are uninhabitable because of the hurricane.

FEMA determined that rental assistance is insufficient to meet the housing needs in those counties because of the lack of available housing resources.

FEMA will notify survivors who are eligible for direct housing. It will take time to transport, permit, install and inspect these units before they are ready to occupy.

The Direct Housing Program Provides Three Primary Options:

• Multi-Family Lease and Repair, where FEMA enters into a lease agreement with the owner of multi-family rental properties and makes repairs to provide temporary housing for survivors.
• Transportable Temporary Housing Units, including travel trailers and mobile homes.as a travel trailer or manufactured home.
• Direct Lease, which is leasing existing ready-for-occupancy housing.

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.

Direct Temporary Housing Assistance takes significant time to implement and is not an immediate solution for a survivor's interim and longer-term housing needs. Additionally, not all survivors impacted by the disaster will be eligible for direct housing. It is important that partners at all levels – local, state, other federal, nonprofit and private sector – work together to fill potential gaps.

Survivors who have applied to FEMA for assistance do not need to reapply to be eligible for Direct Temporary Housing Assistance. If you haven’t yet applied, you can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. The application deadline is January 12, 2023.

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… Thu, 12/08/2022 - 16:52

Las subvenciones por desastre de FEMA no afectarán el Seguro Social ni otros beneficios

St. Clair County, Ill. – Recibir asistencia federal por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) no afectará otros beneficios federales que los sobrevivientes de Illinois puedan recibir.

Las personas afectadas por las inundaciones de julio en el condado de St. Clair que se inscriban con FEMA podrían tener preguntas sobre si los fondos de FEMA pudieran ocasionar la pérdida de pagos federales que reciben.

Las subvenciones por desastre de FEMA no son ingresos tributables. El aceptar una subvención de FEMA no afectará su elegibilidad para el Seguro Social, Medicare, Medicaid, beneficios del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP) y otros programas federales de asistencia social y benéficos.

Las subvenciones por desastre ayudan a los sobrevivientes a pagar por la vivienda temporal, reparaciones esenciales al hogar, reemplazo de propiedad personal esencial y otras necesidades graves relacionadas con el desastre que no están cubiertas por el seguro u otras fuentes.

Hay varias maneras de solicitar asistencia por desastre de FEMA:

• Solicite en línea, en disasterassistance.gov/es
• Descargue y use la aplicación móvil de FEMA para solicitar
• Llame a la Línea de Ayuda de FEMA 800-621-FEMA (3362) para solicitar

• Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otro servicio, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. La Línea de Ayuda está disponible los siete días de la semana. Presione 2 para español, o 3 para un intérprete que hable su idioma.

• Los sobrevivientes también pueden solicitar en persona en dos Centros de Recuperación por Desastre (DRC).

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

lunes a viernes: 8 a.m. a 6 p.m., sábado: 9 a.m. a 3 p.m., cerrado los domingos

Cierra permanentemente el jueves, 22 de diciembre

Caseyville Village Hall 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

lunes a sábado, 9 a.m. a 3 p.m., cerrado los domingos

Cierra permanentemente el viernes, 16 de diciembre

No se necesita cita previa para visitar un DRC. Las personas sin cita son bienvenidas.

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o estatus económico. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sufrido discriminación, llame a FEMA al número gratuito 833-285-7448. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otros, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. Hay operadores multilingües disponibles (presione 2 para español y 3 para otros idiomas).

Para actualizaciones de FEMA, síganos en Twitter @FEMAregion5, y active las notificaciones móviles (enlace en inglés). Visite la página web del desastre en www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4676

Para actualizaciones sobre desastres de la Agencia para el Manejo de Emergencias de Illinois (IEMA), siga a @ReadyIllinois en Twitter, Facebook e Instagram y active las notificaciones móviles. http://www.illinois.gov/iema/ continúa siendo una fuente única para ayudar a los residentes de Illinois a encontrar información y recursos relacionados con el desastre fácilmente. (enlaces en inglés)

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

nicole.wilson Thu, 12/08/2022 - 16:14

FEMA Disaster Grants Won’t Affect Social Security, Other Benefits

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ill. – Receiving federal disaster assistance from FEMA will not affect other federal benefits that Illinois survivors may receive.

People affected by the St. Clair County July flooding who register with FEMA may have questions about whether funds from FEMA might cause them to lose other federal payments they receive.

FEMA disaster grants are not taxable income. Accepting a FEMA grant will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and other federal welfare and entitlement programs.

Disaster grants help survivors pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property replacement and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.

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 to apply
• 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 one of the Disaster Recovery Centers:

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and closed on Sundays

Closing permanently Thursday, December, 22

Caseyville Village Hall 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

Monday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and closed on Sundays

Closing permanently Friday, December, 16

No appointment is necessary to visit a recovery center. Walk-ins are welcome.

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 Thu, 12/08/2022 - 14:18

Stay in Touch with FEMA

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Applying for disaster assistance with FEMA is an ongoing process that begins when you submit your application and requires that you stay in touch. FEMA may need to contact you and a missed call, or an unanswered letter could delay getting help.

Follow up on your application and notify FEMA of changes to your mailing address, phone number, email address and if you receive an insurance settlement or discover additional damage. FEMA may call you to schedule an inspection if you reported damage to your home or may send you a letter if your application has missing or incomplete information.

There are three ways to get answers to your FEMA questions or update your application:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov

• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. 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.

• Downloading FEMA’s mobile app.

You can appeal a FEMA decision

After your application has been reviewed, you will receive a letter from FEMA. If your application was deemed ineligible or you were approved for assistance but disagree with the amount, you have the right to appeal.

For example, you may find that the amount awarded is insufficient because your insurance settlement was less than expected, or you discovered additional or hidden damage after the initial inspection. Or perhaps your application was deemed ineligible because of insufficient or missing information. All of these scenarios may be appealed by sending a letter to FEMA with documentation to support your claim.

If you cannot be present during a home inspection, you can arrange for a third-party that is at least 18 years old to act on your behalf to meet a FEMA inspector on-site, by completing a written consent form. This document is a legal agreement that allows that person to provide and receive information from FEMA on your behalf, including updates or follow ups on your disaster assistance case.

Survivors of Hurricane Fiona who were unable to apply for disaster assistance during the 60-day standard registration period may still be considered for disaster assistance by submitting a late application.

To be considered, you must complete a registration and write a letter specifying the circumstances that prevented you from registering for assistance within the regular application period. Circumstances may include illness, hospitalization or disability of the applicant, death of an immediate family member or personal business travel.

The letter should include your name, registration number, disaster number and the last four numbers of your social security number. You should also include documents that support your explanation, such as estimates from contractors or insurance settlements.

kimberly.keblish Thu, 12/08/2022 - 12:32

Asistencia Continua de Vivienda Provisional

St. Clair County, Ill. – Los sobrevivientes del desastre que no pueden vivir en sus hogares dañados debido a las inundaciones de julio en el condado de St. Clair, pueden ser elegibles para recibir asistencia continua de alquiler. Los solicitantes pueden pedir una solicitud de Asistencia Continua de Vivienda Provisional llamando a la línea de ayuda de FEMA, al 800-621-3362.

Para ser elegible para la asistencia continua de vivienda provisional, los sobrevivientes deben cumplir con las siguientes condiciones:

• Se les otorgó asistencia inicial de alquiler y la usaron como estaba previsto. La subvención inicial cubre un periodo de dos meses.
• No pueden regresar a su vivienda previa al desastre porque está inhabitable, no tiene acceso a esta, o no está disponible debido a las recientes inundaciones.
• No pueden pagar una vivienda sin asistencia.
• No reciben asistencia de vivienda provisional de ninguna otra fuente.
• Están desarrollando un plan de vivienda a largo plazo o permanente, o pueden demostrar algún progreso en el proceso de hacerlo.

Los solicitantes deben presentar los siguientes documentos con la solicitud llenada:

• Ingresos antes y después del desastre para los miembros del hogar mayores de 18 años.
• Prueba de gastos de la vivienda antes del desastre (copia del contrato de alquiler y facturas de servicios públicos, seguro de inquilino, estados de cuenta hipotecarios, impuestos sobre bienes inmuebles, seguro de la vivienda, etc.)
• Prueba de gastos de la vivienda después del desastre (copia actual del contrato de arrendamiento o alquiler, firmado por el solicitante y el arrendador).

El formulario de solicitud y documentos justificativos deben devolverse a FEMA mediante una de las siguientes maneras:

• Súbalas a la cuenta de desastres del solicitante, en DisasterAssistance.gov/es
• Envíelas por correo postal a FEMA, PO Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
• Envíelas por fax, al 800-827-8112
• o visite su Centro de Recuperación por Desastre más cercano para completar o enviar la solicitud

Las ubicaciones de los Centros de Recuperación son:

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center - 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

lunes a viernes: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

sábado: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Cerrado los domingos

Cierra permanentemente el jueves, 22 de diciembre.

Caseyville Village Hall - 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

lunes a sábado: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Cerrado los domingos

Cierra permanentemente el viernes, 16 de diciembre

FEMA evaluará la solicitud de asistencia continua de alquiler para determinar si el solicitante es elegible. Es importante que los solicitantes mantengan a FEMA al día con su información de contacto y el estado de vivienda.

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o estatus económico. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sufrido discriminación, llame a FEMA al número gratuito 833-285-7448. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión de video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otros, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio. Hay operadores multilingües disponibles (presione 2 para español y 3 para otros idiomas).

Para actualizaciones de FEMA, síganos en Twitter @FEMAregion5, y active las notificaciones móviles (enlace en inglés). Visite la página web del desastre en www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4676

Para actualizaciones sobre desastres de la Agencia para el Manejo de Emergencias de Illinois (IEMA), siga a @ReadyIllinois en Twitter, Facebook e Instagram y active las notificaciones móviles. http://www.illinois.gov/iema/ continúa siendo una fuente única para ayudar a los residentes de Illinois a encontrar información y recursos relacionados con el desastre fácilmente. (enlaces en inglés)

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

nicole.wilson Wed, 12/07/2022 - 22:29

Continued Temporary Housing Assistance

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ill. – Disaster survivors who are unable to live in their damaged homes due to the July flooding in St. Clair County may qualify for continued rental assistance. Applicants can request an application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

To be eligible for continued temporary housing assistance, survivors must meet the following conditions:

• They were awarded initial rental assistance and used it as intended. The initial award covers two months.
• They are unable to return to their pre-disaster residence because it is uninhabitable, cannot be accessed or is not available due to the recent flooding.
• They cannot pay for housing without assistance.
• They are not receiving temporary housing help from any other source.
• They are developing a longer-term or permanent housing plan or can demonstrate progress toward one.

Applicants should submit the following documents with the completed application:

• Pre- and post-disaster income for household members 18 and older.
• Proof of pre-disaster housing costs (copy of lease and utility bills, renter’s insurance, mortgage statements, real estate taxes, home insurance, etc.)
• Proof of post-disaster housing costs (copy of current lease or rental agreement signed by the applicant and the landlord).

The application form and supporting documents should be returned to FEMA in one of the following ways:

• Upload them to applicant’s disaster account at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Mail them to FEMA, PO Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
• Fax them to 800-827-8112
• Or visit your nearest Disaster Recovery Center for filling out or submitting the application

Recovery Center locations are:

Clyde Jordan Senior Citizen Center - 6755 State Street, East St. Louis, Illinois 62203

Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Closed on Sundays

Closes permanently on Thursday, Dec. 22 

Caseyville Village Hall - 909 South Main Street, Caseyville, Illinois 62232

Monday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Closed on Sundays

Closes permanently on Friday, Dec. 16

FEMA will evaluate the request for continued rental assistance to determine if the applicant is eligible. It is important for applicants to keep FEMA updated with their contact information and housing status.

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 Wed, 12/07/2022 - 22:24