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How to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance
DENTON, Texas – Homeowners and renters in the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Lincoln and Otero counties, that were displaced by the recent South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding that began June 17, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
Disaster assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. MT daily. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
If you are applying for FEMA assistance, and are staying with friends, family or at a shelter due to mandatory evacuations, please note, you will have an opportunity to specify that the extent of your home damage is unknown when applying for disaster assistance and you can update the status of your home when it’s safe to return.
When you apply for assistance, please have the following information ready:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your Social Security number
- A general list of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible.
FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
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/4795. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Tue, 06/25/2024 - 22:22Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Leon County
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The State of Florida and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Leon County, to provide one-on-one help to people affected by the May 10 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes. The center will remain open until further notice.
Location:
LeRoy Collins Leon County Library
200 West Park Avenue
Tallahassee, Florida 32301
Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
The center will be closed on Thursday, July 4.
No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center.
Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.
In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. 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. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Aug. 19, 2024.
Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4794. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
david.heckard Tue, 06/25/2024 - 19:57FEMA Teams Visit Local Neighborhoods to Help Flood Survivors
DES MOINES, Iowa – FEMA teams will begin visiting shelters and neighborhoods in Clay, Emmet, Lyon, Plymouth, and Sioux counties on Tuesday, June 25 to help survivors of record flooding in northwest Iowa.
FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will work in coordination with state and county emergency management. DSA Teams will be in impacted counties and visiting shelter locations. Additionally, DSA teams will be assisting residents in Adams, Cedar and Jasper counties. They were added to the disaster declaration for damage for severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred from May 20-31.
FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance.
The teams help survivors apply with FEMA and address immediate and emerging needs. They also provide application status updates and referrals to community resources.
FEMA staff can easily be identified by their federal photo identification and FEMA clothing. Residents are encouraged to ask for official photo ID before providing personal information.
How to Apply with FEMA
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
- Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Download and use the FEMA app
- FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis.
- 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
Types of FEMA Assistance Available
FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the recent flooding. Every homeowner and renter who suffered damage is encouraged to apply.
Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid and may include:
- Serious Needs: Money for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
- Displacement: Money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a rental unit.
- Home Repair or Replacement: Money to help you repair or replace your home damaged by the disaster. The money can also help with pre-existing damage to parts of your home where the disaster caused further damage.
- Rental Assistance: Money you can use to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster.
- Personal Property: Money to help you repair or replace appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster. This can also include money for books, uniforms, tools, medical equipment and other items required for school or work, including self-employment.
- Child Care: Money to help you pay for increased or child care expenses caused by the disaster.
- Transportation: Money to help you repair or replace a vehicle damaged by the disaster when you don’t have another vehicle you can use.
- Moving and Storage Expenses: Money to help you move and store personal property from your home to prevent additional damage.
FEMA Home Inspections
FEMA housing inspectors are working in Iowa, inspecting damage reported by people who have applied with FEMA. Inspectors will call or text to make an appointment before coming to a home. They will display official photo identification. If the official ID is not visible, it’s OK to ask to see it. This helps prevent fraud.
Apply with FEMA Whether You Have Insurance or Not
- Everyone with disaster damage should apply whether they have insurance or not.
- If you have homeowners, renters, or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. Please stay in close contact with your insurance agency.
- FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.
tiana.suber Tue, 06/25/2024 - 19:16FEMA Supports $11 Million Flood Reduction Infrastructure Project in Historic North Carolina Community
Project under Justice40 initiative providing benefits to disadvantaged communities.
WASHINGTON -- A historic, flood-prone North Carolina community will become more resilient as a result of FEMA approving an $11.2 million grant.
Princeville, located below the Tar River, has experienced repetitive flooding since it was incorporated by freed slaves in 1885. During Hurricane Floyd in 1999, the Princeville levee failed and the town was submerged. In some areas the water rose 23 feet and took 10 days to recede. The levee does not fully wrap around the town and may not fully protect the community from future significant flooding.
This grant will fund the build out of infrastructure on a 53-acre green field in Edgecombe County outside of the Tar River floodplain on higher ground. The infrastructure includes stormwater management, wastewater collection, water distribution and electric power systems to support new housing and civic services for Princeville residents.
“Many economically disadvantaged communities like Princeville were built in places more vulnerable to flooding and critical resilience actions are needed to increase residents’ protection,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This is why funding is so important to make the town withstand nation’s costliest natural hazard, flooding, that is only becoming more devastating due to climate change. Through the Justice 40 initiative, FEMA and the Biden-Harris Administration are making sure flood-prone communities like Princeville have more access to the necessary resources to become resilient.”
The funding comes from the first funding cycle of FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program in 2020. The program funds projects that protect people and infrastructure in communities like Princeville from natural hazards and the effects of climate change.
The project qualifies as a Justice40 project, a Biden-Harris Administration initiative that aims to provide 40% of federal climate grants to disadvantaged communities through various FEMA programs. Project obligations like the one in Princeville -- located in a disadvantaged community -- help the administration meet this goal.
Disadvantaged communities like Princeville have been marginalized and overburdened by pollution and underinvestment. Increased funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is helping FEMA direct money toward more communities like Princeville so they can develop projects to better withstand the growing climate threat.
Last year, FEMA announced more than $1.2 billion -- 71% -- in BRIC national competition selections and approximately 53% of all BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance selections -- $1.6 billion -- will benefit disadvantaged communities. FEMA expects to announce the next round of funding selections later this summer.
FEMA is providing 90% of the cost share at $10.1 million and the remaining 10% will be funded by the state of North Carolina.
Visit FEMA’s YouTube channel to access a video about Princeville’s resiliency story.
amy.ashbridge Tue, 06/25/2024 - 18:04Renters May Be Eligible for FEMA Assistance
OKLAHOMA CITY – Renters whose home or personal property was damaged in the back-to-back April and May storms, floods and tornadoes may be eligible for FEMA assistance.
FEMA’s Individual Assistance grants are available for eligible renters, including students, as well as homeowners. These grants, which do not have to be repaid, can help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs, including:
- Rent while you are displaced – which can be used for a house, apartment, recreational vehicle or manufactured home
- Money to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a rental unit
- Repair or replacement of appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster
- Money for books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment
- Repair or replacement of a vehicle
- Medical, dental, childcare, moving and storage and funeral expenses
To apply for FEMA assistance:
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
- Go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center for in-person help. To find the center closest to you, visit fema.gov/drc. Centers are currently open at:
- Early Childhood Learning Center, 401 S. 10th St., Barnsdall, OK 74002
- Bartlesville High School, 1700 Hillcrest Dr., Bartlesville, OK 74003
- Murray County Extension Office, 3490 Highway 7 West, Sulphur, OK 73086
(The Extension Office is the smaller building at this address.)
Renters should not overlook the long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which is the primary source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. As of June 18, 2024, the SBA has offered more than $3.87 million to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters affected by these storms. To contact the SBA:
- Go online to MySBA Loan Portal
- Call the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955
- Email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov
- Visit the SBA’s Business Recovery Center at Mary Parker Memorial Library, 500 W. Broadway Ave., Sulphur, OK 73086
For additional information on how renters can access federal disaster funds, go to FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance (youtube.com).
For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776 or fema.gov/disaster/4791. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, 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-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
martyce.allenjr Tue, 06/25/2024 - 16:56Renters May Be Eligible for FEMA Assistance
OKLAHOMA CITY – Renters whose home or personal property was damaged in the back-to-back April and May storms, floods and tornadoes may be eligible for FEMA assistance.
FEMA’s Individual Assistance grants are available for eligible renters, including students, as well as homeowners. These grants, which do not have to be repaid, can help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs, including:
- Rent while you are displaced – which can be used for a house, apartment, recreational vehicle or manufactured home
- Money to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a rental unit
- Repair or replacement of appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster
- Money for books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment
- Repair or replacement of a vehicle
- Medical, dental, childcare, moving and storage and funeral expenses
To apply for FEMA assistance:
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
- Go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center for in-person help. To find the center closest to you, visit fema.gov/drc. Centers are currently open at:
- Early Childhood Learning Center, 401 S. 10th St., Barnsdall, OK 74002
- Bartlesville High School, 1700 Hillcrest Dr., Bartlesville, OK 74003
- Murray County Extension Office, 3490 Highway 7 West, Sulphur, OK 73086
(The Extension Office is the smaller building at this address.)
Renters should not overlook the long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which is the primary source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. As of June 18, 2024, the SBA has offered more than $3.87 million to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters affected by these storms. To contact the SBA:
- Go online to MySBA Loan Portal
- Call the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955
- Email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov
- Visit the SBA’s Business Recovery Center at Mary Parker Memorial Library, 500 W. Broadway Ave., Sulphur, OK 73086
For additional information on how renters can access federal disaster funds, go to FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance (youtube.com).
For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776 or fema.gov/disaster/4791. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, 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-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
martyce.allenjr Tue, 06/25/2024 - 16:37FEMA ArtWorks Supported Exhibition to Open in Denver
DENVER – An upcoming art exhibition highlighting climate change and resilience will open in Denver on June 28. The exhibition is part of FEMA’s ArtWorks initiative. Three artists are featured in an upcoming exhibition investigating and sharing the stories of resilience in a changing climate. From sublime foreshadowing to documentation of the real ways natural hazards affect our lives; artists shine a light on stories of loss and resilience.
The first stop of a three-city tour, the exhibition will be at RedLine Contemporary Arts Center, 2350 Arapahoe Street, Denver from June 28 - July 28, 2024. An opening night event will be held on June 28. The exhibition will also travel to Dickinson, N.D. and to Ogden, Utah.
Documentary Photographer Tamara Susa utilizes different times of exposure to underscore that climate change happens continuously and overtime and we are all connected to the change.
Painter and Sculptor Bill Nelson’s “Fragile” brings into frame the vulnerable lands to grab our attention. As we gaze through his steel viewfinder, we are encouraged to meditate on our role as stewards of the environment.
Independent Filmmaker Emilie Upczak’s film “Silt” is a climate justice story about a Diné botanist, grieving the death of a beloved aunt, who travels to northern Mexico, where she is nourished by images of the last trip they took together traversing the Colorado River.
FEMA ArtWorks is designed to raise risk awareness and start dialogues on the value of natural hazard mitigation. It does this through partnerships between FEMA, artists, and local communities.
Brian.Hvinden Tue, 06/25/2024 - 16:23Changes Coming for Arkansas Disaster Recovery Centers
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – FEMA and the State of Arkansas have opened a new Disaster Recovery Center in Fulton County and are adjusting hours for other centers to better provide one-on-one help to Arkansans affected by the May 24-27 severe storms and tornadoes.
Residents of Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph counties can visit any open disaster recovery center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with many Arkansas departments and other community partners.
The following locations are open to anyone in the declared counties with no appointment necessary:
Baxter County - *UPDATED HOURS*
Food Bank of North Central Arkansas
1042 Highland Circle
Mountain Home, AR 72653
Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Benton County
Northwest Arkansas Community College
Becky Paneitz Student Center, SC 108
1211 SE Eagle Way
Bentonville, AR 72712
Parking available at 1202 Water Tower Road in the adjacent multi-level parking garage on levels 2 and 3
Hours: Daily 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Fulton County - *NEW LOCATION*
Fulton County Courthouse
123 South Main Street
Salem, AR 72576
Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Each center is accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and is equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). Line is open Monday-Friday 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.
Additional one-on-one support is available in Boone, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph counties by appointment only. Disaster case workers are contacting survivors who have applied for FEMA assistance through the phone number listed on their application to provide additional support and determine if an in-person appointment is needed.
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 10 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/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.
alexa.brown Tue, 06/25/2024 - 14:45Hinds County Disaster Recovery Center Moving to a New Location
MADISON, Miss. –The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and FEMA will permanently close the Mobile Disaster Recovery Center at Hinds Community College in Raymond, Miss., at 6 p.m. June 25.
This center will relocate and open in Bolton, Miss., at 8 a.m. June 27 to help survivors affected by the April 8-11, 2024, severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding.
Specialists from FEMA, the State of Mississippi and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, check the status of their application, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
The mobile center will now be located at:
Hinds County Public Works Department parking lot (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage)
10000 I-20 Frontage Road
Bolton, MS 39041
Opening: 8 a.m. June 27
Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The center is closed on Sunday.
In addition, the following recovery centers are already open:
Hinds County
Smith-Wills Stadium parking lot (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage)
1200 Cool Papa Bell Drive
Jackson, MS 39216
Humphreys County
Humphreys County Multipurpose Building (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage across the street from Willard Jack Trucking)
417 Silver City Road
Belzoni, MS 39038
Madison County
Karl M. Banks Emergency Services Complex (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage)
1633 West Peace St.
Canton, MS 39046
Neshoba County
Dixon Volunteer Fire Department (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage)
14800 Highway 21 South
Philadelphia, MS 39350
Scott County
The Usry Voting Precinct, District 2 Building (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage)
5335 Old Highway 80
Forest, MS 39074
All recovery centers are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Centers are closed on Sunday.
To find the location of all centers, visit fema.gov/drc. Homeowners and renters can visit any center for help.
It is not necessary to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance 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.
For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.
Gaynell.Tinsey Tue, 06/25/2024 - 14:03President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Iowa
WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Iowa to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, flooding, straight-line winds and tornadoes beginning June 16, 2024, and continuing.
The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Clay, Emmet, Lyon, Plymouth and Sioux counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures in Buena Vista, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Lyon, O'Brien, Osceola, Plymouth and Sioux counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
DuWayne Tewes has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using 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.
amy.ashbridge Tue, 06/25/2024 - 13:58More Than $1 Million Approved for April Tornado Survivors in Mississippi
MADISON, Miss. – Two weeks after a federal disaster declaration was issued for Mississippi, more than $1.3 million in FEMA assistance has been approved for survivors of the April 8-11, 2024, severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding.
These grants help pay for uninsured and underinsured losses and storm-related damage to eligible homeowners and renters across Hancock, Hinds, Humphreys, Madison, Neshoba and Scott counties. The total includes:
- More than $906,000 in Housing Assistance to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance.
- More than $476,000 in Other Needs Assistance to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs, such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare and medical and dental expenses.
Survivors have until August 9, 2024, to apply for assistance.
- How to Apply for Assistance
Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance the following ways:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download the FEMA mobile app
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in most languages. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find the location of all open centers, visit fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.
Gaynell.Tinsey Tue, 06/25/2024 - 13:33FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight the Slide Ranch Fire in Washington
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Slide Ranch Fire burning on Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation tribal land and in Yakima County, Washington.
The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 10:48 p.m. PT. He determined that the Slide Ranch Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Washington wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes and tribal cultural resources in and around the communities of White Swan and Harrah.
FMAGs 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. This 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.
In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $1,313,482 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires 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. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
mary.j.edmon Mon, 06/24/2024 - 22:17Previous FEMA Help Doesn’t Affect Eligibility
DENTON, Texas – Homeowners and renters in Lincoln County may have applied for FEMA Assistance following the 2022 wildfires, flooding, mudflows and straight-line winds, but previous FEMA assistance will not affect your eligibility for any disaster assistance resulting from the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding that began June 17.
Residents in Lincoln and Otero counties and members of the Mescalero Apache Tribe are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance if you were impacted by the recent fires that began June 17.
Disaster assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. MT daily. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, 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.
If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4795. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Mon, 06/24/2024 - 20:23Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available for Kentucky Disaster Survivors
FRANKFORT, Ky. – For residents in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley, if you had a loss of income due to the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) may provide you with much-needed help.
Even if you are self-employed, you may be eligible for DUA. DUA is available to individuals who:
- Worked or were self-employed, or were scheduled to begin work or self-employment;
- Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to the place of employment as a direct result of a disaster, which can also include the physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal, state or local government in immediate response to the disaster;
- Establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income;
- Do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits from any state;
- Cannot work or resume self-employment because of an injury as a direct result of the disaster; or
- As a result of the disaster, became the breadwinner or major support of a household because of the death of the head of the household.
To qualify for DUA benefits, claimants in eligible counties must show that their employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides.
How to File a ClaimAffected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-875-0442 to file their initial claim. The deadline to apply for this assistance is Aug. 12, 2024.
Homeowners and renters in the designated counties can apply for FEMA assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4782. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Mon, 06/24/2024 - 19:22Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Terrell County
AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Terrell County June 25 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by the severe storms, tornadoes, flooding and straight-line winds April 26-June 5. The center will close permanently at 7 p.m. July 3.
The center is located at:
Terrell County Courthouse
105 E. Hackberry St.
Sanderson, TX 79848
All centers operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.
Residents in Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Polk, San Jacinto, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
All 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).
Texans do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply, 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 10 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.
Deadline to apply is July 16.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations and businesses of any size. The SBA disaster loan program is designed to help survivors with their long-term recovery needs. Texans can apply for an SBA disaster loan online at SBA.gov/disaster or by calling 800-659-2955. SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at Disaster Recovery Centers throughout the affected area.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
alexa.brown Mon, 06/24/2024 - 19:22Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in Union, Polk and Pottawattamie Counties
DES MOINES, Iowa --- FEMA is opening Disaster Recovery Centers in Union, Polk and Pottawattamie counties to provide one-on-one help to people affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding this spring.
Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.
UNION COUNTY
Emergency Management Agency
705 E. Taylor St.,
Creston, IA 50801
Open 1-7 p.m. June 25
8 a.m.-6 p.m.June 26-28
POLK COUNTY
Riley Resource Group
4400 E. University Ave.,
Pleasant Hill, IA 50327
Open 1-6 p.m. June 26
8 a.m.-6p.m. June 27-29
POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY
Charles Lakin Human Services Campus – North Parking Lot
815 N. 16th St.,
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Open 1-6 p.m. June 26
8 a.m.-6p.m. June 27-29
Beginning Wednesday, June 26, all DRCs will close at 6 p.m. and will be closed on Sundays.
FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters for severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 20-31 in Adair, Adams, Cedar, Jasper, Montgomery, Polk and Story counties. FEMA funding is also available for homeowners and renters in Clarke, Harrison, Mills, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby and Union counties for the April 26-27 tornadoes and storms. Iowans can visit any open DRC for assistance if needed.
To save time, apply online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center by:
- Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
- Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Using the FEMA app
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as amplified phones, caption phones, video phones, wheelchair ramps and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.
Anyone using a relay service, such as a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA 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. Press 2 for Spanish. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
tiana.suber Mon, 06/24/2024 - 19:16Houses of Worship May Be Eligible for FEMA Help to Cover Tornado Damage
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Qualifying private nonprofit houses of worship in Arkansas may be eligible for FEMA grants to cover expenses related to the May 24-27 severe storms and tornadoes.
Grants through FEMA’s Public Assistance program may cover costs to repair or replace facilities damaged during the storms.
FEMA defines religious facilities as a church, synagogue, mosque, temple or other house of worship without regard to the religious character of the facility. No religious facility or house of worship may be excluded from this definition because leadership or membership in the organization is limited to persons who share a religious faith or practice.
Help with repairs and replacement costs may be available to houses of worship in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Fulton, Madison, Marion, Nevada, Randolph, and Sharp counties.
To be an eligible applicant, a house of worship must:
- Be owned or operated by a private nonprofit organization.
- The facility must be open to the public.
- Have been damaged by the May 24-27 severe storms and tornadoes.
- Have either not received funding or received insufficient funding after applying for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan to repair or replace a facility.
The application must include state and/or U.S. Internal Revenue Service documentation of tax-exempt status, pre-disaster charter and other documentation.
The U.S. Small Business Administration can loan to qualified houses of worship up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property. SBA can also lend additional funds to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize disaster damage from occurring in the future.
The deadline to apply for property damage is Aug. 12, 2024.
Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.
All applicants – even if they must wait for an SBA loan decision -- are encouraged to make a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) as soon as possible by contacting their local emergency management office. Some activities regarding Emergency Work that was performed in preparation or response to the storm may be eligible without or while pending an SBA decision. The deadline to file an RPA is within 30 days of your county being designated in the declaration.
Other Resources:
Houses of worship administrators can contact their county emergency management office for more information on how to submit a FEMA request for Public Assistance.
- Public Assistance Policies - Official guidance, policies, news advisories and related publications that govern the program include:
- Public Assistance Program & Policy Guide (version 4 applicable to emergencies and major disasters declared on or after June 1, 2020.)
- Public Assistance Program Delivery Guide (draft document published September 2022.)
- Video: https://youtu.be/JgHWcA5LnOc .
- Web page: Assistance for Governments and Private Non-Profits After a Disaster | FEMA.gov
- Procurement Guide: Purchasing under a FEMA Award: Resources for Private Nonprofits and Religious Organizations
- Downloadable FEMA Fact Sheet: Public Assistance: Private Nonprofit Eligibility Factsheet (fema.gov)
- Downloadable FEMA Fact Sheet: Mitigate Disaster Damage with FEMA Public Assistance
FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Crews in Communities
OKLAHOMA CITY – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews are going door-to-door in Blaine, Caddo, Custer, Delaware, Jackson, Mayes, Muskogee and Rogers counties to meet with residents affected by the May 19-28 storms and tornadoes.
These crews can help you apply for FEMA assistance, identify needs and make connections with local, state, federal and voluntary agencies. They can also:
- Provide flyers explaining how to apply for assistance
- Check the status of an application and make minor changes
- Contact community groups, faith-based organizations and businesses that can distribute information about disaster assistance
- Identify organizations providing recovery-related services or resources
- Gather information about impacts to communities
- Share civil rights and disability integration resources to ensure equal access
FEMA staff carry a badge with their photograph, and will never ask for money. If you meet people offering assistance, ask to see their ID before giving any personal information.
To apply for FEMA assistance:
- Apply with a Disaster Survivor Assistance crew
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
- Call 800-621-3362
- Download the FEMA App, or
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center – for locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc
For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4791. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, 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-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
alexa.brown Mon, 06/24/2024 - 18:31FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires
DENTON, Texas – New Mexico homeowners and renters who sustained damage from the South Fork and Salt Fires that began June 17, 2024, and continuing may be eligible for disaster assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.
Currently, affected individuals and households in the Mescalero Apache Tribe and Lincoln County may be eligible for assistance. Disaster assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
FEMA’s assistance offers benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors when needed the most. In addition, FEMA’s new simplified Individual Assistance process and expanded eligibility allows New Mexicans access to a wider range of assistance including for serious needs.
Assistance Available
- Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) provides funding for households to cover important items like water, food, first aid, breast-feeding supplies, infant formula, diapers, personal hygiene items, fuel for transportation or other emergency supplies for eligible households.
- To qualify for SNA, you must be displaced, need shelter or have other emergency costs due to the disaster on your application.
- Displacement Assistance (DA) provides people with up-front funds to assist with immediate housing options of their choice, to keep people housed. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options.
Serious Needs Assistance and Displacement Assistance are both funded after a completed inspection confirms eligibility.
Apply to FEMA
New Mexico residents can apply to FEMA in several ways including online at DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mountain time. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
Additional Assistance and Benefits
- Streamlined Application Requirements so people can apply to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and FEMA assistance at the same time.
- Support for Underinsured People to help with aspects of home repair that insurance companies won’t cover, but they can’t afford on their own.
- Simplified Assistance for Entrepreneurs by providing self-employed people with some initial financial support to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment to help them land on their feet.
- Ex.: computers if you are a gig worker, lawnmower if you are a landscaper
- Expanded Habitability Criteria to help people make their homes safer and cleaner post-disaster and so they can repair all aspects of their home post-disaster.
- Previously, if a home had a leaky roof pre-disaster, that area of the home wouldn’t qualify.
- Make Accessibility Improvements to help people with disabilities improve their living conditions by making their homes even more accessible than they were pre-disaster.
- Streamlined Temporary Housing Assistance Applications by reducing documentation requirements for applicants who need to extend their stay in FEMA-supported temporary housing.
- Simplified the Process for Appeals so people who wish to appeal FEMA’s decisions will no longer need to provide a signed, written appeal letter to accompany the supporting documentation.
- Computer Assistance for people who need to repair or replace disaster-damaged computers.
Rental Assistance for Temporary Housing
If you suffered damage to your primary residence, FEMA may be able to provide rent for a temporary place to live while you are displaced. Rental assistance is intended to cover monthly rent, security deposit and cost of essential utilities such as electricity and water.
Major Repairs and Out-of-Pocket Expenses
FEMA’s Individuals and Household Program assistance is intended to help jumpstart your recovery. Here are some examples of basic needs:
- Home Repair Assistance may be provided to homeowners to repair the structural parts of your home. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance ways. FEMA may also reimburse for the actual cost to repair or replace your furnace, private well and septic system that was damaged or destroyed by the disaster.
Even if you applied for federal assistance previously for other disasters in New Mexico, you can still apply to FEMA for assistance following the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire. Previous events include the New Mexico Wildfires Flooding, Mudflows and Straight-line Winds disaster declared May 4, 2022, and the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire which continues to accept Notice of Loss forms through its Claims Office.
For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4795. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Mon, 06/24/2024 - 17:45Deadline to Start a Claim with Claims Office is Nov. 14, 2024
SANTA FE, N.M. — Per the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act (“Act”), the deadline to submit a Notice of Loss (NOL) is November 14, 2024, to receive compensation for damages from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire (“Fire”). The NOL is the first step in the claims process. To receive compensation for losses, individuals, households, businesses, and other entities must submit a NOL to the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office (“Claims Office”) to initiate the claims process.
Anyone who sustained damages due to the Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to submit a NOL to begin the process to receive compensation for their losses. The NOL collects claimant contact information, a general description of losses, and information about other benefits such as insurance, grants, or loans. After submitting an NOL, the Claims Office will assign a Navigator to support the claimant through the claims process.
“Our mission is to compensate those who were impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire to the fullest extent allowable by law,” said Jay Mitchell, Director of Operations at the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “The only way we can provide compensation is if those who experienced damages come forward and submit a Notice of Loss to begin the process. It is imperative to take this step before the congressional deadline of November 14, 2024.”
Anyone who experienced damages who does not submit an NOL before the congressional deadline will no longer be eligible to apply for compensation through the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Assistance Act. Claims will continue to be processed and paid out after the November 14 deadline.
“We will continue our work to process claims and pay out compensation well past November,” said Mitchell. “After we receive the NOL, our Navigators work with claimants to compile the documentation into a Proof of Loss needed for the review process to make a determination.”
Damages that are compensable under the Act are more extensive than traditional FEMA disaster assistance. Even if a household did not sustain direct damage from the fire, they may be eligible for compensation for other expenses such as evacuation, lost wages, or even hosting an evacuee. To see more compensable damages, visit the Claims Office fema.gov/hermits-peak.
NOLs can be submitted via the mail, email, or in person:- Mail a NOL to:
Attention – FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office
P.O. Box 1329
Santa Fe, NM 87504
- Email a NOL to: fema-hermits-peak@fema.dhs.gov
- Or visit our webpage for information about the Claims Office fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak/contact-us to submit an NOL in person.
- Download the NOL form here: fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_hpcc-notice-of-loss-form-english-exp-11.30.2026.pdf
The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. At the time of publication, the FEMA Claims Office has paid $849 million to claimants.
Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to visit any one of our three Claims Offices. Visit fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak/contact-us for locations and hours. Questions and concerns can also be addressed by calling your claim Navigator or the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133. The deadline to submit a Notice of Loss is November 14, 2024. Compensation through the Claims Office is not taxable income and will not impact eligibility for other federal benefits including social security or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.
erika.suzuki Mon, 06/24/2024 - 17:43Pages
