West Virginia recovering 160 days after floods and landslides

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia has taken significant steps toward recovery following the April 11-12, 2024, severe storms, floods and landslides.

More than 160 days after the May 24, 2024, presidential disaster declaration, the response to help West Virginia’s disaster survivors has been marked with dedication and effort.

To date, survivors have received more than $2.9 million in federal disaster assistance for a variety of recovery purposes. 

• More than $2.1 million in grants has been approved to make essential repairs for homes to be safe, secure and functional and for a place to stay for homeowners and renters whose residences were uninhabitable. 
• More than $829,000 in grants has gone to homeowners and renters to repair and replace certain household items and for disaster-related medical and dental expenses. 
• More than $925,000 of the $2.9 million in grants approved was the result of follow-up communications from FEMA staff to help submit missing documentation and identify additional recovery needs.
• With the average grant totaling more than $7,660, West Virginians are well above the national average for disaster grant awards.
• Homeowners, renters and businesses have received more than $226,000 in low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to repair, rebuild and replace damaged property and contents. Disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other sources.
• NFIP policyholders have received more than $200,000 in claims to repair and rebuild flood-damaged property. 

But dollar amounts don’t tell the whole story.

Recovery takes the whole community to repair and rebuild better, stronger and safer. This effort is only possible when all levels of government work together and leverages the power of local media, voluntary groups, the private sector and faith- and community-based organizations to notify survivors of available assistance. 

FEMA worked closely with state and local emergency management and regional planning and development councils in identifying impacted communities in the affected counties, as well as locating disaster recovery center sites to help residents affected by the floods and landslides apply for federal assistance. Applicants at the recovery centers frequently cited word of mouth and news broadcasts leading to their visits.

“I can’t say enough about how important our relationships were with local and state partners in getting assistance to our survivors,” Deputy Disaster Recovery Manager James Young said. “The support in reaching out to individuals and affected communities has been both inspiring and instrumental in carrying out our mission”

“Recovery is a long journey, and the progress we’ve seen in these 160 days is a testament to the resilience and unity of West Virginians,” said GE McCabe, Director of the West Virginia Emergency Management Division. “The progress is only possible through the combined efforts of our federal, state, and local partners, as well as community organizations and every resident who has stepped up to help. We remain dedicated to supporting our communities every step of the way, ensuring a stronger, safer future for all impacted by these disasters.”

The following highlights recovery progress made in the 160 days since the disaster was declared and how disaster survivors and affected communities are overcoming challenges:

• Survivors in 11 counties – Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln, Marshall, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Wayne and Wetzel – were immediately eligible to apply for help under FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program. 
• Local, county and state government infrastructure and certain private nonprofit organizations in ten counties – Boone, Brooke, Doddridge, Gilmer, Hancock, Lincoln, Marshall, Ohio, Tyler and Wetzel– were eligible to receive funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program to repair and rebuild certain eligible disaster-damaged facilities. Seventy-seven projects are in development for state and local entities covering a range of public works from water infrastructure to road repair and debris removal. 
  • The PA program benefits everyone in the affected communities because essential services like roads, utilities, schools and hospitals are often restored stronger than they were before the disaster. FEMA relieves burdens of local and county governments and the state by paying 75 percent of the eligible costs. 
• More than 698 West Virginia households have registered with FEMA for assistance. 

Disaster recovery officials interacted with survivors in a variety of ways to help them recover: 

• More than 630 survivors visited six Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs). The first centers opened within days of the presidential disaster declaration. 
• At this writing, more than 660 FEMA housing inspections have been completed. 
• Teams of FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists visited more than 5,000 residences in all 11 disaster counties to encourage residents to register for help, provide recovery information and listen to their concerns. In addition, the survivor assistance teams held events with more than 800 community organizations, including faith-based groups and local governments.
• A team of specialists with Enhanced Applicant Services followed up with more than 700 survivors by phone to answer questions and provide information pertaining to their applications and their next steps.

Whole community partners continue to collaborate to find solutions to enable West Virginia’s recovery and will be here as long as it takes.

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.

Graphic FEMA support by the numbers West Virginia DR-4787

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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).

amanda.hancher Tue, 11/12/2024 - 14:15

Managing FEMA Applications and Submitting Late Applications After Registration Deadline

Tuesday November 12, 2024 is the final day for residents in Union, Lycoming, Tioga and Potter counties to apply for FEMA Assistance if they had damages on August 9 and 10 due to Tropical Storm Debby. The last day to visit and apply for assistance at the Disaster Recovery Center in the Valley Christian Church, (146 Maple Street, Westfield Penn.) is TUESDAY, NOV. 12, 2024. For those who have applied, you can continue to manage your application with FEMA. For those who have not applied yet, there are rare cases in which you may be eligible to submit a late application. The following information outlines what to do after the Tuesday November 12 deadline.

Ongoing FEMA Assistance (Post Disaster Recovery Center Closure)

Although the application deadline has passed, you can continue to update your application, submit additional documentation, and check your application status online or by phone.

• The easiest way to contact FEMA is to call the Helpline. 
  • Call toll-free 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, daily.
  • Multilingual operators are available to answer questions, update applications and assist with appeals.
• You have access to FEMA 24/7/365 on the website and mobile app.
  • Apply for FEMA assistance, update information, submit documents and file an appeal at DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • Use the FEMA Mobile App to apply and review application progress.
    1. Eligibility for Late Application

FEMA may consider a late application if extraordinary circumstances kept you from applying before the November 12 deadline.

Late Application Process

You have 60 days from the FEMA application deadline of November 12, 2024, to complete a late application. There are several ways you can submit a late application 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 7 a.m. 10 p.m. ET, daily.
  • 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, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Press 2 for Spanish or 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

Non-Federal Assistance Available

Local non-profit and private organizations may be able to offer additional assistance if you’re ineligible for federal assistance or if you didn’t receive enough assistance to cover your disaster related expenses. 

You can call 2-1-1 if you need help with:

• Childcare
• Employment
• Food
• Healthcare
• Housing
• Insurance
• Transportation, and
• Other basic needs.

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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, or economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

erika.osullivan Tue, 11/12/2024 - 13:32

A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Allendale County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.

A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Allendale County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Allendale County
James Brandt Building
398 Barnwell Highway
Allendale, SC 29810

Open Nov. 11-15 and Nov. 18-24, 8 a.m.- 7 p.m.; closed Nov. 16-17 

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply 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 many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

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

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 11/12/2024 - 13:26

FEMA Registration Deadline is Five (5) Days Away

BATON ROUGE, La. – Now is the time to apply for assistance from FEMA. The Nov. 16 deadline is just five days away for Louisiana residents with damage from Hurricane Francine who live in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes.

Survivors with a loss or damage should apply with FEMA even if they don’t have repair estimates or insurance settlements yet. To be considered, people in the impacted areas need to register with FEMA to begin the process. FEMA will work with survivors to identify what information is needed to determine eligibility.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Visit the Disaster Recovery Center in Terrebonne Parish at:

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Dr.

Houma, LA 70360

• Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The FEMA Helpline is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CDT, 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 about how to apply, visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

alexa.brown Mon, 11/11/2024 - 18:15

Rental Assistance Available for Homeowners, Renters in N.C.

RALEIGH, N.C. -- Homeowners and renters in North Carolina may be eligible for FEMA Rental Assistance if they cannot live in their homes because of damage due to Tropical Storm Helene.

FEMA Rental Assistance is a grant to provide survivors with a temporary place to live while they repair or rebuild their home. This money can be used to rent a place to live, such as a house, apartment, hotel room, RV or other options while your home is repaired, or while you look for a new place to live.

Rental Assistance can cover:

• Temporary housing while you are unable to live in your permanent residence.
• Rent, security deposits and the cost of essential utilities (gas, water and electric).
• Short-term hotel stays while you look for a place to rent.

If you are deemed eligible for FEMA Rental Assistance, the initial grant is for two months. The first step in receiving any assistance from FEMA is to apply for federal assistance. You can do this in several ways: Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via the FEMA App or by calling 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

erika.suzuki Mon, 11/11/2024 - 17:35

FEMA Offers Free Rebuilding Tips to Georgians in Lowndes County

ATLANTA -- If you are making repairs to your home after Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, you can get tips from FEMA to make your home safer and stronger.

FEMA Mitigation Specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips along with proven methods to prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also offer advice and techniques on rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. 

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster. FEMA specialists will be available during the following dates and times: 

LOCATION

Home Depot

1825 Norman Drive

Valdosta, GA 31601

TIMES AND DATES 

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily except Wednesdays

Monday, Nov. 11 through Friday, Nov. 29 (except Wednesday, Nov. 13, 20 and 27). There will be no FEMA specialists available on Thanksgiving Day. 

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne.

larissa.hale Mon, 11/11/2024 - 15:37

Two Weeks Left for Vermonters to Apply for Federal Assistance

Vermonters affected by July’s severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides have two weeks to apply for federal disaster assistance, which may include FEMA grants to repair homes and replace property or low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The application deadline is November 25, 2024.

For the storms that took place July 9-11, residents in the designated counties of Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orleans and Washington are eligible to apply. For the July 29-31 storms, those in the designated counties of Caledonia, Essex and Orleans can apply. 

Vermonters affected by both July storms must submit separate applications for each event. 

Survivors who had loss or damage should apply with FEMA even if they don’t have repair estimates or insurance settlements yet. To be considered, people in the affected areas need to register with FEMA to begin the process. FEMA will work with survivors to identify what information is needed to determine eligibility.

For those who would like to speak to a disaster recovery specialist face-to-face, two Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Vermont. These centers are located at the Hinesburg Town Hall (10632 Route 116) and the Lyndon Public Safety Facility at 366 Main Street. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday. Closed Sundays.

Residents don’t need to visit a DRC to apply to FEMA. Here are three ways to apply: 

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 

Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in your time zone), seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw..

Download FEMA’s Mobile App

To Apply to SBA:

• Apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at sba.gov/disaster
• Call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. 
• For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the SBA Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new SBA Disaster loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, SBA remains committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

adrien.urbani Sun, 11/10/2024 - 16:59

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Lafayette County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Lafayette County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricanes Helene and Debby. Survivors of Hurricane Milton can also be served by the center.

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers.

Center location:

Lafayette County

Mayo Community Center

150 NW Community Circle

Mayo, FL 32066

9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday-Sunday. All Disaster Recovery Centers are closed Monday, Nov. 11 for Veterans Day. 

To find other center locations 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 are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, 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.

wesley.lagenour Sun, 11/10/2024 - 15:16

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Seminole County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Seminole County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Milton. Survivors of Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Debby can also be served by the center. 

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers.

Center location:

Seminole County

Seminole State College Automotive Center
100 Weldon Blvd. 
Sanford, FL 32773
Hours: 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday. All Disaster Recovery Centers are closed Monday, Nov. 11 for Veterans Day.

To find other center locations 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 are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, 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.

wesley.lagenour Sun, 11/10/2024 - 15:09

FEMA Extends Deadline to Apply for Helene Assistance

RALEIGH, N.C. -  The deadline for North Carolinians in 39 counties to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance after Tropical Storm Helene has been extended to Jan. 7, 2025.

Homeowners and renters in the following counties may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for serious needs, displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Forsyth, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lee, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Nash, Polk, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Surry, Swain, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, Yadkin and Yancey counties, along with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians of North Carolina, with losses from Tropical Storm Helene. 

Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, which is the quickest way to apply. Survivors can also apply using the FEMA App on mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. The Helpline is open every day, and help is available in most languages. Those who use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, should give the FEMA representative their number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

krystin.ventura Sat, 11/09/2024 - 23:02

New Hours for the Disaster Recovery Center in Mitchell County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Bakersville is no longer open Sundays after coordination with the Mitchell County government and a review of current needs in the community.  

The new hours of operation are:

Mitchell County Senior Center
152 Ledger School Road
Bakersville, NC 28705
Open: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest option is to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA App. You may also call FEMA at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more. To find additional DRC locations, 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. 

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

Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  

krystin.ventura Sat, 11/09/2024 - 22:18

Statement from FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell on Employee Misconduct

WASHINGTON -- More than 22,000 FEMA employees every day adhere to FEMA’s core values and are dedicated to helping people before, during and after disasters, often sacrificing time with their own families to help disaster survivors. Recently, one FEMA employee departed from these values to advise her survivor assistance team to not go to homes with yard signs supporting President-elect Trump. This is a clear violation of FEMA’s core values and principles to help people regardless of their political affiliation. This was reprehensible. 

I want to be clear to all of my employees and the American people, this type of behavior and action will not be tolerated at FEMA and we will hold people accountable if they violate these standards of conduct.

We take our mission to help everyone before, during and after disasters seriously. This employee has been terminated and we have referred the matter to the Office of Special Counsel. I will continue to do everything I can to make sure this never happens again. 

luther.wills-dudich Sat, 11/09/2024 - 22:09

You Can Appeal Your FEMA Decision

BRISTOL, Va.— If you’ve recently received a determination letter from FEMA regarding your disaster assistance application and you disagree with the decision or assistance amount, don’t worry—you have the right to appeal.

Appeals are a common part of the assistance process. FEMA may require more information or supporting documentation from the applicant in order to approve the application or approve additional types of assistance. The process does not end when you get your FEMA letter.

Keep the following in mind when preparing an appeal: 

• Carefully read your determination letter.
• Act quickly: appeals must be filed within 60 days from the date on the determination letter.
• Keep an organized record of your documentation to submit with your appeal.

If applicants have questions regarding their determination letter or how to appeal, they may call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 with questions. If applicants use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service, or other communication services, they should be ready to provide their service number.

Applicants can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) where FEMA staff can talk you through your FEMA letter. For example, FEMA Individual Assistance Specialists can provide personalized support by looking at your letter, helping you upload additional documents to your application, and discussing your next steps. To find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.  

To learn more about what should go in an appeal, please visit How to Appeal a FEMA Individual Assistance Decision | FEMA.gov. 

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov.

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page, fema.gov/disaster/4831 and 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. 

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. 

melissa.wiehenstroer Sat, 11/09/2024 - 16:34

Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in Beaufort, Edgefield, Lexington Counties

Three Disaster Recovery Centers will open in Beaufort, Edgefield and Lexington counties to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Beaufort County
Burton Wells Recreation Center 
1 Middleton Recreation Drive 
Beaufort, SC 29906
Open Nov. 10-13, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.  

Edgefield County
Edgefield Scout Hut Building
312 Penn St.
Edgefield, SC 29824
Open Nov. 10-18, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. 

Lexington County
Batesburg-Leesville Fire Station 
537 W. Church St.
Batesburg, SC 29006
Open Nov. 10-22, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. 

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply 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 many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

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

kwei.nwaogu Sat, 11/09/2024 - 16:30

Disaster Recovery Center to Close in Catawba County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Conover will close permanently 7 p.m. Nov. 12, but North Carolinians still have many options for in-person help at the other 24 open DRC locations throughout the state.   

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more. To find additional DRC locations, 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. 

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

Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA App. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

barbara.murien… Sat, 11/09/2024 - 15:03

Terrebonne Disaster Recovery Center to Close on Veteran’s Day

BATON ROUGE, La. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Terrebonne Parish for those affected by Hurricane Francine will be closed Monday, Nov. 11 for Veteran’s Day

The center will return to its normal hours of operation on Tuesday, Nov. 12 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is located at:

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Dr.

Houma, LA 70360

Residents in all nine parishes can visit the DRC to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center. 

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

You do not have to visit a center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.

Additional options when applying include:

• 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.

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

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

alexa.brown Sat, 11/09/2024 - 14:02

Direct Temporary Housing Approved for Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton Survivors in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, FL. – At the request of the State of Florida, FEMA approved Direct Temporary Housing Assistance, which may be provided to eligible applicants to meet their temporary housing needs. 

FEMA is providing three forms of Direct Temporary Housing Assistance to eligible applicants in 13 counties: Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Okeechobee, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee and Taylor.

• Multi-Family Lease and Repair allows FEMA to enter into lease agreements with owners of multi-family rental properties and to make repairs or improvements to those properties to provide temporary housing to applicants.
• Direct Lease utilizes existing ready-for-occupancy residential property leased for use as temporary housing for eligible applicants, and, if necessary, these units can be modified or improved to provide reasonable accommodations for eligible applicants and any household members with a disability and others with access and functional needs.
• Transportable Temporary Housing Units are readily fabricated dwellings such as travel trailers or mobile homes. These dwellings are purchased by FEMA and provided to eligible applicants for use as temporary housing for a limited period.

Applicants do not need to apply for direct temporary housing. Applicants will be notified by FEMA of their eligibility.

Direct temporary housing takes significant time to implement and is not an immediate solution for a survivor's interim and longer-term housing needs. The process involves ordering, transporting, site preparation, installation, inspection, permitting and utility hookup, among other steps.

Applicants who are displaced from their homes and currently staying in hotels may continue to participate in the state’s non-congregate sheltering program and FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance for immediate housing needs. FEMA also is providing displacement assistance, rental assistance and other financial help for those who cannot remain in their homes. These options remain FEMA’s primary means of helping survivors. 

The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA mobile App or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand calls to FEMA’s helpline are experiencing delays because of the increased volume due to multiple recent disasters. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, 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. 

After survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, FEMA contacts households that may qualify for one of the three housing options to conduct a pre-placement interview to determine whether the applicant needs direct housing and, if so, what type of housing. This determination is based on the size and needs of the household, including any people with disabilities or other access or functional needs.

The State of Florida and FEMA are coordinating with municipalities and counties regarding local ordinances, permitting, zoning, transportation requirements, setbacks, utility connections and inspections. When installation is complete and the unit passes an occupancy inspection, it is ready for use. At that point, the applicant will sign a license-in agreement to occupy the unit.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. 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.

sixto.valentin… Fri, 11/08/2024 - 21:36

Biden-Harris Administration Shares Florida Recovery Progress One Month After Hurricane Milton

More than $2.1 billion approved for Florida following 2024 hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton 

WASHINGTON –The Biden-Harris Administration has maintained unwavering support to Florida after three catastrophic hurricanes, Debby, Helene and Milton, made landfall in a two-month period. In the month since Milton made landfall, a total of $2.1 billion in FEMA assistance has been approved for Florida’s hurricane recovery. Assistance has included $931.7 million in awards directly to survivors, helping them pay for housing repairs, personal property replacement and other recovery efforts. Additionally, over $1.18 billion in grants have been approved to support local and state governments for recovery efforts such as debris removal and emergency protective measures. This funding continues to increase daily. 

All of Florida’s power and cellphone service have been restored to pre-storm levels as a result of the federal family’s state, tribal and local partners working with the private sector. Thanks to their efforts, along with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Energy, close to 100% of power has been restored to impacted areas.

“Today marks 30 days since Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The storm challenged us to balance a new response with an ongoing recovery—ensuring no survivor from either storm was left behind. It took immense coordination—and the entire federal family, at the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, will continue to lean forward to support Floridians impacted by Debby, Milton or Helene.”

Hurricane Milton made landfall just two weeks after Hurricane Helene. The hurricane affected several other Southeastern states resulting in presidential disaster declarations for Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

FEMA was ready to support Florida’s immediate needs for all three hurricanes that impacted the state. FEMA had staff embedded in the state emergency operations centers prior to Hurricane Debby in August to facilitate state and federal coordination to the response of all three storms. 

“Thanks to the federal family working with our emergency management partners across all of government and the private sector, Florida has taken enormous steps in a short period of time to recover from these three events,” said Administrator Criswell. “Support for survivors is one of the Biden-Harris Administrations top priorities and we will continue to support Floridians for as long as it takes.”

FEMA remains on the ground in Florida as part of this long-term commitment for the state’s recovery. There are 19 Disaster Recovery Centers open where survivors can visit to receive in-person help from various state and federal agencies. There are also 460 Disaster Survivor Assistance team members going through affected neighborhoods to connect with survivors where they are about their needs and guide them to available federal resources.

More than 72,000 National Flood Insurance Program policyholders who had flood damage from Debby, Helene and Milton in Florida have filed claims. As of today, policyholders have received approximately $894 million to repair their properties and replace contents. 

Assistance for survivors is still available. Information on applying for assistance if you were affected by multiple storms is available in a FEMA Fact Sheet. FEMA encourages people to apply for assistance in all affected states at DisasterAssistance.gov, by using the FEMA App, or by calling 1-800-621-3362. People can also receive in person application assistance at a local Disaster Recovery Center. Center locations can be found at FEMA.gov/DRC.  

More information can be found on FEMA.gov.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 11/08/2024 - 21:26

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Brevard County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Brevard County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Milton. Survivors of Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Debby can also be served by the center. 

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers. 

Center location:

Brevard County

UF/IFAS Ag Center
3695 Lake Drive
Cocoa, FL 32926
Hours: 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday-Sunday. 

To find other center locations 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 are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, 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.

sixto.valentin… Fri, 11/08/2024 - 21:16

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Buncombe County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Saturday, Nov. 9, in Asheville (Buncombe County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene. The DRC located in Cane Creek Pool will close Nov. 8 as FEMA staff will transition to the new DRC in Asheville. 

The Buncombe County DRC is located at:  

Asheville Mall (Former Gap Store)
3 S. Tunnel Road
Asheville, NC 28805 
Hours of Operation; 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.  

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

To find additional DRC locations, 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 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA App. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

barbara.murien… Fri, 11/08/2024 - 20:39