Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Austin and Harris Counties August 27

AUSTIN – Disaster Recovery Centers will open in Austin and Harris Counties Aug. 27 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center locations: 

Wallis Community Center

6810 Guyler Street

Wallis, TX 77485

 

San Jacinto College - Generation Park

13455 Lockwood Rd, (Bldg. 2, Rm G2-125)

Houston, TX 77044      

Disaster Recovery Centers operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday–Saturday, closed Sunday. Any DRC can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26–June 5 storms and flooding. To find a center location near you, go to fema.gov/drc.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Residents in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

To shorten wait times, before going to a DRC homeowners and renters can:

• Go online to disasterassistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App  for mobile devices.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

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

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Mon, 08/26/2024 - 23:14

Disaster Recovery Centers to Open in Albert Lea and Worthington

ST. PAUL – FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers will open Tuesday, August 27, 2024, to help residents kickstart their recovery after the severe storms and flooding of June 16 – July 4. 

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Minnesota and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

These centers will be open at the following location, days and hours:  

Albert Lea Fire Rescue 
417 S. Newton Avenue 
Albert Lea, MN 56007
Hours: Mon. – Sat. 7:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Closed Sundays and Mon. Sept 2, for the Labor Day holiday.

JBS Field House 
700 2nd Avenue
Worthington, MN 56187
Hours: Mon. – Sat. 7:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Closed Sundays and Mon. Sept 2, for the Labor Day holiday.

Additional recovery centers will be opening in other impacted counties soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may visit any center for assistance.

Assistance in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials are available at these centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available at all centers. 

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797.  

kimberly.keblish Mon, 08/26/2024 - 22:18

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Plainfield

A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is now open in Plainfield, at Goddard College from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The joint DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between Plainfield, the state of Vermont and FEMA, will have disaster assistance specialists available to help disaster survivors apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

The DRC is located at:

Goddard College

123 Pitkin Road

Plainfield, VT 05667

Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

You do not need an appointment to visit a DRC.

There is also a DRC open in Barre at Barre Auditorium, 20 Auditorium Hill, Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

FEMA specialists and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which can provide low-interest disaster loans to survivors, will be on hand at all DRCs to discuss available assistance. 

Those affected by the disaster do not have to visit a DRC in order to apply. Survivors can also register in one of the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. The FEMA website is accessible and includes language translation options. 
• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
• Download FEMA’s Mobile App. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 1-833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

adrien.urbani Mon, 08/26/2024 - 21:05

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Hamilton and Levy Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Hamilton and Levy counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby. 

Center locations:

Hamilton County

Court House Annex/Chamber of Commerce 

1153 NW U.S. Highway 41

Jasper, FL 32052

Open 4 p.m.–8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday-Sunday until further notice

 

Levy County

Inglis Town Hall
135 Highway 40 W
Inglis, FL 34449

Open 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday until further notice

 

To find other center locations for Hurricane Debby go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Homeowners and renters in Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Florida and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination

on the grounds of race, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English

proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA

Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Office of Civil

Rights can be contacted at FEMA-OCR@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

 

Gaynell.Tinsey Mon, 08/26/2024 - 20:19

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

FRANKFORT, KY. – Kentucky disaster survivors who applied for FEMA assistance following the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email. 

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. Please read it carefully, because it will include the amount of funds you will receive for specific types of assistance, and important information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.

Applicants who receive a letter stating they are not eligible for assistance may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage;
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider;
• Proof of identity;
• Proof of occupancy;
• Proof of ownership;
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.

If you have questions about your letter, call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.

A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, accessible and functional. FEMA considers the following factors in the home inspection:

• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC).
• Access and exits, including privately-owned roads, privately-owned bridges and privately-owned docks.
• Blocking, leveling and anchoring of a mobile home, and reconnecting or resetting its sewer, water, electrical, oil, and fuel lines and tanks.
• The exterior of the home is structurally sound, including the doors, roof and windows.
• The electricity, gas, heat, plumbing, sewer or septic systems function properly.
• The interior’s livable areas are structurally sound, including the ceiling and floors.
• The home is capable of functioning for its intended purpose.
• There is safe access to and from the home.

FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance. FEMA assistance only provides funds for basic work to make a home habitable, including items such as toilets, a roof, critical utilities, windows and doors.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, you may appeal. It must be submitted within 60 days of the date of the decision letter.

The letter from FEMA will include additional information on the types of documents needed if you choose to appeal FEMA’s initial decision. The documents apply specifically to the decision made. 

For example, if you are appealing for additional assistance to help repair your home, you will want to provide FEMA with any receipts, bills or repair estimates received for the repairs needed to your home as a result of the disaster. 

With your decision letter, FEMA will also provide an Appeal Request Form that may be used to help provide additional information, if you choose to provide additional information. 

Your appeal may be submitted to FEMA by fax or mail, or online if you have a FEMA online account. To set up a FEMA online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions. 

• By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
• By fax: 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA

To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.

gerard.hammink Mon, 08/26/2024 - 18:47

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Barre

A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be available in Barre starting Sunday, August 25th. The DRC will be open Sunday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The joint DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between Barre, the state of Vermont and FEMA, will have disaster assistance specialists available to help disaster survivors apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

The DRC is located at:

Barre Auditorium

16 Auditorium Hill

Barre, VT 05641

Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

You do not need an appointment to visit a DRC.

FEMA specialists and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which can provide low-interest disaster loans to survivors, will be on hand to discuss available assistance. 

Those affected by the disaster do not have to visit a DRC in order to apply. Survivors can also register in one of the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. The FEMA website is accessible and includes language translation options. 
• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
• Download FEMA’s Mobile App. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 1-833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

adrien.urbani Mon, 08/26/2024 - 14:24

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for New York

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available for the state of New York to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe storm and flooding from Aug. 18-19, 2024.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of catastrophe.

Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding for Suffolk County.

Lai Sun Yee has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

erika.suzuki Mon, 08/26/2024 - 00:34

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for Montana

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available for the state of Montana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by straight-line winds that occurred on July 24, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the straight-line winds in Missoula and Powell counties. 

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

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

amy.ashbridge Fri, 08/23/2024 - 20:49

Minnesota Survivors: Stay in Touch with FEMA

ST. PAUL – Minnesotans who applied for federal assistance may need to follow-up with FEMA and provide more information or documents to move their application forward. Those who still need help recovering after the June 16 – July 4 storms and flooding and haven’t yet applied, still have time to do so too.

Applicants with Insurance

If you applied with FEMA and reported having insurance for the damage to your home, you will need to submit the insurance settlement or denial letter to FEMA. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by other sources.  

Applicants Appealing an Initial FEMA Decision

Read your FEMA letter carefully: it will provide additional information on what to submit if you choose to appeal FEMA’s decision. You have 60 days from the date of your letter to do so.

You may submit documents to FEMA in many ways. 

• Online: Use your FEMA online account. To set up a FEMA online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions. 
• By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
• By fax: 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA
• In-person: Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. Find a center here: fema.gov/DRC.

Reminder: Application Deadline is September 27, 2024

For those who haven’t applied and need recovery help, start the application process by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

Be sure to apply before the September 27 deadline. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797.

kimberly.keblish Fri, 08/23/2024 - 20:20

Get Repair, Rebuilding, Flood Insurance Advice in Alamogordo

Maybe you have already begun fixing-up the damage to your home in the wake of the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding. Or maybe you have no idea of even where to begin. 

As New Mexicans are recovering from the disaster, FEMA has teamed with Foxworth & Galbraith Home Improvement Center in Alamogordo to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by the fires and floods stronger and safer. 

FEMA specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work. 

Residents with fire- or flood-impacted homes will pick up tips on re-building smart, strong and safe to prevent future damage. Smart building includes mitigating damage against floods, strong winds and even tornadoes. Attendees will learn how such simple mitigation measures as elevating electrical and heating systems and anchoring fuel storage tanks can provide protection against severe conditions, and much more. Bring your questions.

In addition, FEMA Hazard Mitigation insurance specialists from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will be on hand to answer questions about flood insurance.

These experts will be available Monday, Aug. 26, through Saturday, Aug. 31, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at:

Foxworth & Galbraith Home Improvement Center
2318 N White Sands Blvd.
Alamogordo, NM 88310

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 08/23/2024 - 20:00

DHS Announces Funding Allocations for Fiscal Year 2024 Preparedness Grants

WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced final allocations of nearly $724 million in six Fiscal Year 2024 competitive preparedness grant programs. This includes $454.5 million in funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, an increase of $149.5 million from Fiscal Year 2023, which will provide critical funding for faith-based groups and others to prevent and protect themselves from the heightened threat environment we face today. 

These allocations, together with the more than $1.25 billion in non-competitive grant funding announced earlier this year, total almost $1.98 billion in Fiscal Year 2024 to help prepare our nation against threats and natural disasters.  

The grant programs provide funding to state, local, tribal and territorial governments, nonprofit agencies and the private sector to build and sustain capabilities to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from acts of terrorism and other disasters. The total amount for each grant program is set by Congress and the allocations are made by the department through a competitive process. 

“The Department of Homeland Security is proud to work together with our federal, state, local, tribal, territorial and other partners to increase our nation’s resilience in a constantly evolving threat environment,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “The funds announced today will provide communities across the country with vital resources necessary to strengthen their security and guard against terrorism and other threats. The impact of these grants will be measured in lives saved and tragedies averted.”

Preparedness Grant Program Allocations for Fiscal Year 2024 

The following grants are competitive, with allocations announced today:  

Operation Stonegarden: Provides $81 million to enhance cooperation and coordination among state, local, tribal, territorial and federal law enforcement agencies to jointly enhance security along the United States land and water borders. 

Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program: Provides $13.5 million to eligible Tribal Nations to implement preparedness initiatives to help strengthen the nation against risk associated with potential terrorist attacks and other hazards. 

Nonprofit Security Grant Program: Provides $454.5 million to support target hardening and other physical security enhancements for nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist attack. This year, $227.25 million is provided to nonprofits in Urban Area Security Initiative-designated areas and $227.25 million is provided to nonprofits outside those designated urban areas located in any state or territory. 

Port Security Grant Program: Provides $90 million to help protect critical port infrastructure from terrorism, enhance maritime domain awareness, improve port-wide maritime security risk management and maintain or re-establish maritime security mitigation protocols that support port recovery and resiliency capabilities. 

Transit Security Grant Program: Provides $83.7 million to owners and operators of public transit systems to protect critical surface transportation and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure.  

Intercity Bus Security Grant Program: Provides $1.8 million to owners and operators of intercity bus systems to protect surface transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure. Eligible applicants receiving approval for funding requested only $1,214,968 of the $1.8 million made available this fiscal year. 

The following non-competitive grants were announced earlier this year to recipients based on a number of factors: 

State Homeland Security Program: Provides $373.5 million to support the implementation of risk-driven, capabilities-based state homeland security strategies to address capability targets. Awards are based on statutory minimums and relative risk as determined by DHS/FEMA’s risk methodology. 

Urban Area Security Initiative: Provides $553.5 million to enhance regional preparedness and capabilities in 31 high-threat, high-density areas. Awards are based on relative risk as determined by the department’s risk methodology. 

Emergency Management Performance Grant: Provides $319.55 million to assist state, local, tribal and territorial emergency management agencies in obtaining the resources required to support the National Preparedness Goal’s associated mission areas and core capabilities to build a culture of preparedness. 

Intercity Passenger Rail: Provides $9 million to Amtrak to protect critical surface transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and increase the resilience of the Amtrak rail system. Award made per congressional direction. 

Further information on preparedness grant programs is available at www.dhs.gov and www.fema.gov/grants.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 08/23/2024 - 18:54

Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams in Boone County

Aug. 23, 2024
DR-4787-WV NR-009
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News release

Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams in Boone County

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will work in Boone County neighborhoods beginning Saturday, Aug. 24, to help people apply for FEMA assistance. 

These specialists can assist homeowners and renters impacted by the storm of April 11-12, 2024, with their applications, update their records and make referrals to community partners. They tailor the information and services they provide to the individual survivor’s needs. 

Like all FEMA field personnel, these representatives carry official identification. Residents are encouraged to ask for official ID before providing personal information.

In addition to the registration opportunity offered by recovery teams, survivors can register for assistance by:

• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. Find one by calling 800-621-3362 or going online to fema.gov/drc. The Boone County center opens Friday, Aug. 23, and is located at:

Boone County Disaster Recovery Center

Madison City Hall

255 Washington Ave.

Madison, WV 25130

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

• Applying online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

By registering with FEMA, survivors may qualify for federal disaster assistance such as money for:

• Renting a temporary place to live.
• Essential home repairs not covered by insurance.
• Disaster-related needs not covered by insurance — such as medical, dental, transportation, funeral expenses, moving and storage fees, personal property loss and childcare.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses of all sizes (including landlords), homeowners, renters, and private non-profit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance. Low-interest disaster loans help fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged real estate and personal property.  Economic injury disaster loans are available to businesses and private non-profits to assist with working capital needs. 

Applicants can apply online at sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

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).

issa.mansaray Fri, 08/23/2024 - 14:54

Farmers, Ranch Hands May Be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky farmers and ranch hands whose tools or equipment were damaged by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides may be eligible for disaster assistance. FEMA assistance is available to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment and items required for employment or for self-employment.

Coverage for Tools and Equipment

Family-owned farms typically have a variety of equipment needed to conduct business. These include, but are not limited to, tractors, plows, seeders or planters, harvesters, sprayers, hay balers and utility vehicles. These items are all potentially eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if the applicant can show that they were damaged by the disaster, the applicant does not have another working item that can meet this need, and the loss of the item was not covered by insurance. Crops and livestock are not “tools and equipment” because they are the products of a farming operation, whereas tools and equipment are the means of production.

Ranch hands may be eligible for assistance to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment not covered by insurance when they can show these items are required by their employer.

Assistance is based on a need to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment, items required by an employer as a condition of employment or required for education. This includes disaster-damaged tools and equipment, or other items required for a specific trade or profession, NOT provided or supplied by the employer.

Many of these items have substantial costs, but it is important to remember that assistance for uninsured or underinsured occupational tools is limited to the maximum amount of Other Needs Assistance an applicant may receive. Additional assistance to help meet these needs may also be available from the Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

• Visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, visit fema.gov/drc.
• Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download and use the FEMA app.
• FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

gerard.hammink Fri, 08/23/2024 - 14:27

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Rolling into Christian, Knox and Warren Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Three mobile Disaster Recovery Centers will open in Christian, Knox and Warren counties to assist Kentuckians who experienced loss from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. 

These Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers will be available for a limited time at the following locations.

• Christian County (Mobile DRC): Hopkinsville Public Works Complex, 705 North Main St., Hopkinsville, KY 42240. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday, Aug. 26-31.   
• Knox County (Mobile DRC): Redline Fire Truck Sales, 14453 North US25E, Corbin, KY 40701. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern Time Friday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 30.
• Warren County (Mobile DRC): Sugar Maple Square Shopping Center, 1347 KY 185, Bowling Green, KY 42101. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern Time Friday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 30.
• Clay County (Mobile DRC): Clay County Community Center, 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962. Working hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Eastern Time. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 23.

 In addition, six other Disaster Recovery Centers are also open: 

• Caldwell County (DRC): Caldwell County Emergency Operations Center, 102 Northfield Drive, Princeton, KY 42445. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Calloway County (DRC): Calloway County Fairground, 211 Fairground Road, Murray, KY 42071. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Friday through Saturday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 24.
• Greenup County (DRC): Flatwoods Senior Center, 2511 Reed St., Flatwoods, KY 41139. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Hopkins County (DRC): Madison Square Shopping Center, 114 Madison Square Drive, Madisonville, KY 42431. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Muhlenberg County (DRC): Muhlenberg County Training Center, 61 Career Way, Central City, KY 42330. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Trigg County (DRC): Trigg County Emergency Operations Center, 39 Jefferson Street Cadiz, KY 42211. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 24.

FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.

Kentucky homeowners and renters in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky. FEMA representatives will help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. 

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available to assist survivors.

Other Ways To Apply for FEMA Assistance

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

gerard.hammink Fri, 08/23/2024 - 14:01

FEMA Opening Disaster Recovery Center in Union County

SIOUX FALLS – FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center on Friday, August 23 at 1:00 p.m. Central Time in North Sioux City, South Dakota to provide one-on-one assistance for people affected by the recent severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain disaster assistance programs, help people complete or check the status of applications for federal assistance, and get information on additional resources offered by the State of South Dakota.

 

Disaster Recovery Center Location: 

North Sioux City (Union County) – FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

305 S Derby Lane

North Sioux City, SD 57049

Hours of operation: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week

More locations in affected areas will open in the coming weeks. To search for Disaster Recovery Centers, visit www.fema.gov/drc.

As of August 22, 2024, FEMA has approved more than $1.4 million in assistance to individuals for the South Dakota disaster recovery.

 

How to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Residents can apply for disaster assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center, or in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
• Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362) anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Central Time seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as assistive listening devices, resources for low vision, and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.

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.

anthony.mayne Thu, 08/22/2024 - 22:52

Disaster Recovery Centers in Cherokee, Emmet and O’Brien Counties to Close

The Disaster Recovery Centers in Cherokee and Emmet counties will close permanently on Wednesday, August 28 at 6 p.m. The DRC in O’Brien County will close permanently on Friday, August 30 at 6 p.m.

The DRCs are located at:

Cherokee County

Cherokee County Emergency Management

(Formerly the Cherokee County Work Services Bldg.)

322 Lake St., Suite B

Cherokee, IA 51012

Emmet County

St. Patrick's Church - Gym

903 Central Ave.

Estherville, IA 51334

O’Brien County

City of Sheldon

Community Services Center

416 Ninth St.

Sheldon, IA 51201

 

Help is still available by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362).

Residents may visit any of the open DRCs listed below:

 

Buena Vista County

Sioux Rapids 

Municipal Pool

201 Eighth St.

Sioux Rapids, IA 50585

 

Clay County

Spencer City Hall – Council Chambers

101 W. 5th St.

Spencer, IA 51301

 

Dickinson County

Dickinson County Expo Bldg. meeting room.

1602 15th St.

Spirit Lake, IA 51360

 

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

Palo Alto County

Iowa Lakes 

Community College

3200 College Dr.

Emmetsburg, IA 51334

 

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

Stay in Touch with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download and use the FEMA app
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)

Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

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. For Spanish, press 2. 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.wise Thu, 08/22/2024 - 22:50

FEMA Needs Your Current Contact Information

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– After you apply for federal disaster assistance, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers. Make sure that FEMA has your up-to-date contact information.

If there are changes in your phone number, current address, banking or insurance information, please let FEMA know as soon as possible or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence.

FEMA may need to call some survivors in Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee,  Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties to continue processing their application for assistance after Hurricane Debby. FEMA also may contact some survivors to obtain more information for their application.

You can update your contact information in several ways: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free. Don't believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 08/22/2024 - 19:13

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Lafayette, Suwannee Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Lafayette and Suwannee counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby. 

Center locations:

Lafayette County

Mayo Community Center

150 NW Community Circle

Mayo, FL 32066

Open 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

 

Suwannee County

Hale Park

215 Duval St. NE

Live Oak, FL 32064

Open 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

 

To find other center locations for Hurricane Debby go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Homeowners and renters in Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Florida and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 08/22/2024 - 19:09

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Wyoming’s House Draw Fire

DENVER – This morning, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the House Draw Fire burning in Johnson County, Wyoming.

FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request this morning and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the House Draw Fire was threatening 60 homes and 150 residents, who were under an evacuation order. The fire started on August 21 and has burned more than 165,000 acres.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. 

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

minh.phan Thu, 08/22/2024 - 16:44

Kentuckians Have One Month Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following May 21-27 Storms

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Homeowners and renters in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties who experienced damage or losses caused by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides have one month to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is Sept. 22, 2024.

How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

• Visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, visit fema.gov/drc.
• Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA mobile app.

FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.

If eligible, FEMA disaster assistance may include financial assistance for temporary housing while survivors are unable to live in the primary home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to homeowners to help repair or replace disaster caused damage or loss to their primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicle, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other pre-approved miscellaneous items.

Applicants who wish to apply for disaster assistance should have the following information ready for their registration: Social Security number; pre-disaster address of the primary residence; name of all occupants of the pre-disaster household, types of insurance coverage; current telephone number and mailing address; bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of financial assistance, if eligible.

Survivors should keep their contact information updated with FEMA as the agency may need to call to schedule a home inspection or get additional information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and is not intended to compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA at x.com/femaregion4and at facebook.com/fema.

To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.

sandra.habib Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:42