FEMA and Utah Release Unreinforced Masonry Risk Reduction Strategy Guide for Local Communities

DENVER – Nearly one year after the damaging earthquake centered around Magna, FEMA and the state of Utah are releasing a strategy to address the risks posed to unreinforced masonry structures. The document, Wasatch Front Unreinforced Masonry Risk Reduction Strategy, provides guidance to Utah communities on how to identify their own risk and then take steps to address it.

The five recommendations made in the strategy include the Unreinforced Masonry School Risk Reduction Program, Retrofit Program Focused on Government-Owned Unreinforced Masonry Structures, Statewide Unreinforced Masonry Risk Reduction Program, Utah State Construction Code Enhancements, and Utah State Construction Code – Local Amendments. The full document will be available online at www.fema.gov.

Unreinforced masonry was a common building material throughout Utah up until seismic building codes became more prevalent in the 1970s.  These brittle brick buildings do not incorporate the reinforcing steel required by modern building codes. There are an estimated 140,000 such structures across the state. They encompass a wide variety of buildings, from individual homes, to businesses, to schools and houses of worship. Such structures can more easily succumb to the movement and shaking during an earthquake, posing a threat to building occupants as well as individuals outside in close proximity to the structures.

The Wasatch Front Unreinforced Masonry Risk Reduction Strategy is a direct result of an earthquake summit in Salt Lake City in June 2019. The overarching goal includes accelerating statewide progress on mitigation of unreinforced masonry structures. The purpose of the summit was to raise awareness about the risk of unreinforced masonry buildings, identify mitigation opportunities and brainstorm funding solutions. More than 100 participants from across the public and private sectors participated in the two-day event. One need identified by participants included a resource guide for local communities to use and implement solutions.

FEMA and the state of Utah recognize the importance of mitigation in reducing exposure to future losses from disasters. The interagency National Mitigation Investment Strategy— published in August 2019 — was developed to help the nation be more intentional about setting resilience and mitigation investment priorities to benefit the whole community., The Wasatch Front Unreinforced Masonry Risk Reduction Strategy was selected as a pilot project for this national effort in recognition of Utah’s acknowledgement of a serious seismic risk and dedication to finding a solution.

While this product was developed for communities across the Wasatch Front, it also is replicable. Its collaborative approach is intended to support and guide the development of unreinforced masonry risk reduction programs across the United States. The strategy has been written to provide state and local policymakers with a clear list of actions to take as soon as possible, through policy and with budgeting, legislation, and executive actions, as appropriate. Implementation of the suggested actions will help to make our communities more resilient and save lives and property in the process.

Brian.Hvinden Thu, 03/18/2021 - 18:25

FEMA Continues Community Outreach Efforts to Combat Vaccine Inequity in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA – On March 3rd, 2021, FEMA Region 3, along with the City of Philadelphia, its federal partners, and volunteer organizations, opened a mass vaccination site at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The goal of opening this site was to provide Philadelphia residents with a centralized location to receive their COVID-19 vaccination. The site’s central location in Philadelphia, buoyed by robust public transportation access, allows for residents from across the city to access the site. As designed, the Pennsylvania Convention Center vaccination site has the capability to vaccinate 6,000 Philadelphia residents per day. These doses are in addition to the weekly allocation given to the City of Philadelphia and not taken from the city’s allotment.

Before and during the planning process, FEMA Region 3, in conjunction and consultation with our partners, have adopted an aggressive strategy to promote the first step in receiving a COVID-19 vaccine: Registration. Along the way, FEMA Region 3 and its partners recognized that we could do more to address vaccine inequity as it pertains to doses delivered at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Through our support of such a new large-scale effort, and meeting the urgency of the moment, we have learned a lot and understand how to pivot accordingly. We recognized that our process was not a perfect one and our strategy needed to change to better reflect the diversity of Philadelphia. Because of that, for a 6-day period beginning on March 17th and running through March 22nd, the Pennsylvania Convention Center site began to accept walk-up appointments from Philadelphia’s 22 most underserved zip codes. Approximately 3,000 doses a day are set aside for walkup appointments.

Still, FEMA Region 3 and our partners recognized that we could do more. And, we have. FEMA Region 3 began a first-in-the-nation type outreach campaign to address vaccine inequity in Philadelphia. This issue is not native to Philadelphia, and we understand that, but it is paramount that we do all we can to get this right.

FEMA Region 3, in preparation for and in response to vaccine inequity in Philadelphia, has done the following:

• The process began by involving Philadelphia City Government, namely, Philadelphia City Council. FEMA Region 3 arranged for walkthrough’s for City Council members so they could see the operation first-hand. City Council, diverse by its own nature, took us up on that offer and have been a working partner to address concerns of their communities ever since.
• FEMA Region 3 began a comprehensive media campaign to get the word out through radio, print, and television. FEMA Region 3 has carefully picked media outlets based off their audience, their reach to underserved communities, and their reach in general. To date, we have done interviews with all major television stations, arranged for walkthroughs with reporters, addressed media inquiries from print reporters, and conducted 14 radio interviews, played across 11 stations, to include delivery in both Spanish and Haitian-Creole.
• FEMA Region 3 implemented a first-in-the-nation “Street Team” to walk the pavement and to date have engaged more than 240 businesses throughout the city’s most underserved and most populated neighborhoods. From corporate chains to corner stores, our vaccine interest flyer can be seen hanging in the windows of the most important small businesses in our communities. On that flyer is a QR Code that folks can scan with their phone that will send them directly to the Philadelphia vaccine registration website.
• FEMA Region 3 established a first-in-the-nation geographic-specific Speaker’s Bureau so that neighborhoods in Philadelphia that want answers get answers directly from FEMA employees that live in their community. To date, we completed eight (8) Speaker’s Bureau events, confirmed seventeen (17) upcoming events, and are working with more than 50 other Registered Community Organizations or community leaders interested in an event or receiving vaccination information and tool kits. To date, 282 community organizations have received tool kits to share information with their community on the safety, efficacy, and facts about the COVID-19 vaccine. At these events, FEMA Region 3 has called community members who could not attend in-person and assisted with their vaccine registration over the phone.
• FEMA Region 3 has developed public service announcements (PSA’s) which have been run by our partners over radio and are in development with two of Philadelphia’s professional sports teams. Additionally, FEMA Region 3 is working with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on paid media opportunities.
• Recognizing that social media is a platform used by many, FEMA Region 3 has been chronicling Philadelphia’s vaccine journey through video and pictures and telling those stories over social media.

While some may see the above as merely bullet points on a news release, those working on the ground are lucky enough to hear the stories of those who finally, for the first time in nearly a year, feel safe, who feel that the return to normalcy is within reach. These mere bullet points have resulted in countless human stories to include the following few examples:

• A woman shared a story with a team member at a community event FEMA Region 3 helped put together. The woman shared that she lost 14 friends and family members due to COVID over the last year. The woman was so stressed that she had a heart attack and was in the hospital for six days. She hasn’t seen her mom in South Carolina in two years. She got her first shot at the Convention Center and is looking forward to her second shot so she can finally reunite with her family.
• A woman at a community event shared a story about how exhausted she was after climbing the SEPTA stairs to get the vaccine at the Convention Center. She questioned whether she made the right decision. As she proceeded to the Convention Center, she was approached by a member of the staff who helped and escorted her to her vaccine. She was happy with her decision to go.
• One gentleman said he was amazed at the organization and professionalism at the convention center. When he saw the line wrap around the building, he questioned if he should wait in it.  After deciding it was the right decision, he was shocked that it only took 30 minutes to get his vaccine. Another women said she left her home at 7:15pm for her vaccination shot and was putting the key back into her front door at quarter to nine. She went on to say how pleased she was with the experience and said never thought she’d be home that quickly.

And there are more.

• Acting FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator Janice Barlow offered the following: “FEMA Region 3 continues on with one goal in mind: The fair and equitable access to a COVID-19 vaccine for all, especially those in our underserved communities throughout Philadelphia. We will continue to conduct outreach, continue our mission, and continue to work with our partners in this effort to course-correct when needed.”
• As we conduct this once-in-a-generation effort to vaccinate Americans, we can all play a part. We can be good neighbors and help those who are confronted with access issues. We can help register our family members for their COVID-19 vaccine. And, for those of us who have gone through the vaccination process, we can tell our stories to help alleviate concerns about safety and process.

Together, we can beat this.

Caption - FEMA Region 3 employees from Philadelphia speak with the Northwood Civic Association to assist residents in completing the city’s vaccine interest form.

Caption - A FEMA Region 3 employee from Philadelphia meets with a local business owner while distributing flyers with information regarding the city’s vaccine interest form and registration process.

Caption - A FEMA Region 3 employee from Philadelphia provides a tour of operations at the Center City Vaccination Center to Philadelphia community leaders.

gabriel.lugo Thu, 03/18/2021 - 16:27

FEMA Provides An Additional $14.3 Million To Colorado For COVID-19 Response

DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided $14.3 million in additional funding for COVID-19 response efforts in Colorado. To date, FEMA has provided more than $401 million in Public Assistance funding for COVID-19 response in Colorado. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 28, 2020.

The $14.3 million was provided to the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management:

• $7.8 million was provided to the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to utilize contract services to buildout St. Mary Corwin Medical Center as an Alternate Care Site (ACS) to accommodate COVID-19 patients.
• The Division used $4.6 million to provide materials for emergency medical care including, but not limited to, KN95 masks, thermometers, gloves, surgical gowns, and other medical supplies. In addition, the Division utilized contracts for sanitation services subject matter experts to provide technical assistance to the SEOC, and support staff.
• $1.9 million was provided to the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to utilize contract services to buildout St. Anthony North Health Campus by converting the 2nd and 3rd floors of the facility to accommodate COVID-19 patients in order for the facility to serve as an ACS in warm status.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding for emergency actions undertaken by communities to protect public safety, providing no less than a 75 percent federal share for eligible costs. President Biden has approved a 100 percent cost share for projects related to the pandemic response that include work completed between January. 20, 2020 and September. 30, 2021.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

minh.phan Wed, 03/17/2021 - 22:40

Prepare Now for Imminent Dangerous Storms from the Mississippi Valley to Alabama

WASHINGTON -- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center issued a high risk update for today across portions of the Mississippi Valley into Alabama due to the threat of possible strong tornadoes, hail larger than 2 inches and winds above 75 miles per hour, and a moderate risk upgrade was issued for tomorrow.

Conditions across the high-risk area are favorable for strong, long-track tornadoes. This is especially true from northeast Louisiana through northern Mississippi into northwest Alabama.

More than one round of severe storms is possible across parts of Mississippi and Alabama today during the afternoon into the overnight hours. Storms are currently ongoing across portions of western Oklahoma and are expected to continue in coverage, intensity and redevelopment as the system pushes eastward.

Now is the time to prepare for severe weather

Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If you are in the forecast areas, monitor a NOAA Weather Radio and your local news or official social media accounts for updated emergency information. Follow the instructions of state, local and tribal officials. 

Download the free FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and information so that you and your loved ones know what to do before, during and after disasters. The app provides real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources. The app is available for Apple and Android devices.

Prepare for a tornado and plan where you will go if a tornado watch is issued in your community

Storm cellars, safe rooms or basements provide the best protection. If underground shelter or a safe room is not available, put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Go to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and stay away from windows and doors.

Most injuries associated with high winds are from flying debris, so remember to protect your head.

Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible. Motor vehicles, trailers and mobile homes are not good locations to ride out a tornado. If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.

For additional severe weather tips visit Ready.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 03/17/2021 - 21:30

Allen County Residents Invited to Attend Virtual Flood Map Open House

CHICAGO – On March 24, representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in conjunction with Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will host an online flood risk information open house for Allen County. The event will be presented using the Zoom teleconferencing service and will provide residents an opportunity to review a recently completed preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and accompanying preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).

The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood information, delineate areas subject to significant flood hazards within the county, and offer information public officials may use when permitting development in the floodplain. The updated floodplain maps are limited to the portion of Allen County within the Little Miami River Watershed.

The virtual open house will be staffed by representatives from various local, state, and federal agencies who will provide information about flood risk, flood insurance, floodplain development regulations, and the floodplain mapping process. Once the maps become effective, they will be used as the basis for flood insurance as well as local flood protection regulations adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA also intends that they be used to assist planning processes and outreach efforts to increase resiliency in response to flood and storm events. Meeting information follows:

WHAT:              Allen County, Ohio Flood Risk Information Open House WHEN:             Wednesday, March 24, 2021, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. WHERE:           Visit www.zoom.com and enter the following meeting ID and passcode. This requires registering for a free Zoom account.                           Meeting ID: 992 1820 4571                           Passcode: 564400                           https://stantec.zoom.us/j/99218204571?pwd=SzhiaWhTRk1qbEpWSUFUTGtGc0U3QT09

You may also call into the meeting using one of the following telephone numbers and entering the meeting ID and passcode shown above. Long-distance charges may apply.

(301) 715-8592 (312) 626-6799 (646) 876-9923

Property owners, realtors, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the Preliminary FIRMs and FIS report can be downloaded at https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/. For more information, email the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 03/17/2021 - 20:34

FEMA COVID-19 Vaccination Update

WASHINGTON -- Today, a federal pilot community vaccination center opened in Cleveland, capable of administering 6,000 shots a day, and additional centers are set to open later this month in Atlanta and Detroit.

In support of these state vaccination efforts, FEMA and its partners continue helping establish mobile vaccination centers, including pop-up locations, to bring vaccines closer to people that need them. The mobile vaccination capability is another way FEMA is supporting communities and getting vaccine services to hard-to-reach and high-risk populations who cannot access services from larger, fixed sites.

Community vaccination centers are led by states, but may be supported by the federal government, including FEMA. Each state determines its own vaccination priority groups and procedures.

FEMA has now provided more than $4.38 billion for expenses related to COVID-19 vaccination at 100% federal cost share. These funds cover critical supplies, staffing, training and transportation needs that support increased vaccination efforts, such as today’s center opening.

FEMA uses data from CDC’s social vulnerability index and Census population data to ensure the equitable distribution of vaccines,  working with state partners to locate community vaccination centers where they will be able to do the most good for the most vulnerable populations and ensure everyone who wants a vaccine gets one.

Working with federal and local partners, FEMA has now held more than 500 mobile events, and the agency continues to partner with federal, state, local, tribal and territorial partners to support mobile vaccination centers.

Find out where, when and how to get a vaccine in your community and get more information from your local health department and a list of places where adults can get a vaccine. Visit FEMA.Gov for information on FEMA’s vaccination support efforts.

Learn more about the efforts to make the vaccine available to all on FEMA.gov.

Ohio Governor Visits Cleveland Community Vaccination Center

Cleveland -- Ohio Governor Mike DeWine (left) discusses the Cleveland community vaccination site opening with Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick.

FEMA photo by Dominick Del Vecchio

FEMA Regional Administrator Visits Cleveland Vaccination Center

Cleveland -- Acting FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator checks in with vaccine recipients at the Cleveland community vaccination center.

FEMA photo by Dominick Del Vecchio

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 03/17/2021 - 20:24

Holden Beach Awarded $15.49 Million to Renourish Beaches Damaged by Hurricane Dorian

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved $15,496,802 to help the Town of Holden Beach restore sand and vegetation on the Central Reach shoreline damaged by Hurricane Dorian in 2019.

Funds for the project cover restoration of 555,000 cubic yards of beach sand and stabilization of 80,000 square yards of dune vegetation. FEMA’s share for this project is $11,622,601 and the state’s share is $3,874,201.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants for state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to reimburse the cost of debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent repair work.

Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program. FEMA reimburses applicants at least 75 percent of eligible costs and the remaining 25 percent is covered by the state. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred costs.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Dorian, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4465. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Wed, 03/17/2021 - 19:44

Department of Transportation Receives $2.39 Million for Hurricane Florence Repairs

RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina and FEMA have approved $2,392,008 to reimburse the North Carolina Department of Transportation for roadway repairs after Hurricane Florence in Robeson County.

The grant brings the total NCDOT reimbursement for Hurricane Florence-related expenses to $671,219,285. FEMA’s share for the Robeson County project is $1,794,006 and the state’s share is $598,002.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants for state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to reimburse the cost of debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent repair work.

Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program. FEMA reimburses applicants at least 75 percent of eligible costs and the remaining 25 percent is covered by the state. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred costs.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Florence, visit www.ncdps.gov/Florence and www.FEMA.gov/Disaster/4393. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

neily.chapman Wed, 03/17/2021 - 19:41

Team Rubicon Deploys Response Team to Philadelphia Vaccination Site

PHILADELPHIA – Team Rubicon, a veteran-led global disaster response organization, has deployed a response team to support the City of Philadelphia, FEMA, and other government partners at the Center City Community Vaccination Center. This site is equipped to deliver up to 6,000 doses of the lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine each day. The Philadelphia site is the first federally supported community vaccination centers in the nation to benefit from Team Rubicon’s skilled assistance.

“We are very grateful for the skill and expertise that Team Rubicon is bringing to the fight against COVID-19 in Philadelphia,” said FEMA Region 3 acting regional administrator, Janice Barlow. “Team Rubicon is an incredible organization that offers a new mission to veterans looking to continue their service. FEMA regularly works in partnership with Team Rubicon in our disaster response operations and we are really glad to be doing so again here in Philadelphia.”

More than 35 Team Rubicon volunteers, known as Greyshirts, have arrived from several states and nearby areas to provide various forms of non-clinical assistance at the vaccination center. They are filling important roles throughout the vaccination center and are directly engaged in guiding vaccination center clients through the experience, from start to finish.

“We are honored to be serving in this national life-saving mission,” said Rich Locke of Team Rubicon. “We have been in the fight against this pandemic from the beginning and we won’t stop until we beat COVID-19.”

 

To learn more about Team Rubicon’s vaccination mission visit: www.teamrubiconusa.org/vaccination

 

Team Rubicon is one of several volunteer organizations supporting the COVID-19 response in Philadelphia.

To volunteer with Team Rubicon visit: www.teamrubiconusa.org/volunteer

Philadelphia residents can also volunteer with the Philadelphia Medical Reserve Corps: www.phila.gov/services/mental-physical-health/volunteer-for-the-philadelphia-medical-reserve-corps-pmrc/

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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 Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3 

 

amanda.hancher Wed, 03/17/2021 - 18:08

W.Va. volunteer organization hosts first vaccine event of its kind in the nation

Count West Virginia’s volunteer organizations among the “firsts” in the state’s successful vaccination efforts.

West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (WV VOAD) held a mobile vaccination clinic at its state headquarters in Belle, W.Va., last Thursday that is the first VOAD-sponsored event in the country.

Supported by VOAD staff, volunteers from the West Virginia Council of Churches, Ore’s Clendenin Pharmacy, FEMA Corps and the West Virginia Joint Interagency Task Force (JIATF), including the National Guard and FEMA, the clinic administered all 100 percent of the 275 allocated doses of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine.

“FEMA has always been able to count on VOAD for disaster relief in everything from housing to providing necessities and comfort families in West Virginia experiencing challenging times,” said Janice Barlow, Acting Regional Administrator, FEMA Region 3. “I’m not surprised that WV VOAD is leading the way again in the nation’s vaccine effort. FEMA is honored to provide resources for VOAD’s humanitarian mission.”

With staff from the JIATF and Clendenin Pharmacy serving as vaccinators, members from participating groups served as greeters, checking in and directing vehicles down the lot for registration, data managers for inputting information into the Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS), and monitors for participants following vaccination.

“It’s really flowed well,” said Jenny Gannaway, Executive Director of WV VOAD. “Other VOADS have helped at vaccine clinics, but we’re the first to actually host. The help from the Council of Churches has been tremendous.”

Under the vaccination canopy, the Rev. Jeffrey Allen assembled vaccination kits with loaded syringes, alcohol swabs and adhesive bandages.

“I’m delighted to be a part,” he said. “I’m pleased at the turnout; we’ll have to do more. That it’s been for largely underserved communities means so much.”

The next WV VOAD vaccine clinic is set for March 25 in Belle.

Find out about WV VOAD and how you can volunteer at www.wvvoad.org or nationally at www.nvoad.org. Keep track of West Virginia’s coronavirus response at coronavirus.wv.gov. State residents can register for their COVID-19 vaccine and find local vaccination events at vaccinate.wv.gov.

Caption: Idalis Barrientos, of Beeville, Texas, helps check in participants at the mobile vaccination clinic sponsored by West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (WV VOAD) at its headquarters in Belle, W.Va., on March 11, 2021. Barrientos is a member of the AmeriCorps FEMA Corps team assigned to work at WV VOAD. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)

Caption: Rev. Jeffrey Allen, of Charleston, W.Va., assembles vaccination kits at the mobile vaccination clinic sponsored by West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (WV VOAD) at its headquarters in Belle, W.Va., on March 11, 2021. Allen is executive director of the West Virginia Council of Churches, one of the volunteer groups active with WV VOAD. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)

Caption: A vaccinator from Ore’s Clendenin Pharmacy in Clendenin, W.Va., administers the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine at the mobile vaccination clinic sponsored by West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (WV VOAD) at its headquarters in Belle, W.Va., on March 11, 2021. The event was the nation’s first VOAD-sponsored vaccination clinic. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)

amanda.hancher Wed, 03/17/2021 - 17:27

Magna Earthquake – One Year Later

DENVER –  One year after the Magna Earthquake shook Salt Lake and Davis counties, federal agencies have provided more than $3.3 million in loans and grants to help Utahns recover from the Magna Earthquake and aftershocks.  Utah received a major disaster declaration on July 9, 2020 opening the door for federal assistance.

A total of 1200 Utah households registered with FEMA for assistance with disaster related needs.  FEMA has approved more than $1 million through its Individuals & Households Program (IHP), the majority of which is going to housing assistance to help homeowners impacted by the quake make repairs or find a temporary place to live.

In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved 89 low-interest disaster loans for more than $2.3 million to aid the recovery of Utah businesses, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.

There is still time for small businesses to apply with SBA for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. The deadline to apply for an EIDL is April 9, 2021. 

Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. 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.

On Dec. 31, 2020 additional disaster assistance was approved for Salt Lake County in the form FEMA’s Public Assistance program.  The program covers eligible disaster-related debris removal, emergency protective measures, and the repair or rebuilding of public facilities such as roads, bridges, water control facilities, buildings, equipment, public utilities, parks and recreational facilities.

Public Assistance reimbursements are made on a cost-sharing basis to counties, municipalities, state, tribes and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency work and restoration of infrastructure. The federal cost share is no less than 75 percent, with the state and local applicant responsible for remaining costs.

FEMA and the Utah Division of Emergency Management are currently working with applicants to identify response and recovery efforts eligible for funding or reimbursement.  That includes conducting inspections and formulating estimates for repairs not yet completed, and reviewing invoices, receipts and other documentation for work that has already been completed. Funding assistance will be provided when project eligibility is approved and documentation verified.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 03/17/2021 - 17:14

FEMA Awards $3.89 Million for Hurricane Dorian Expenses

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has awarded grants totaling $3,892,324 for the State of Florida to reimburse applicants for the costs of beach restoration and emergency response following Hurricane Dorian in 2019. ­­­­

The FEMA Public Assistance program grants include:

Flagler County: $2,036,868 for the cost of depositing 49,544 cubic yards of engineered dune sand along 31,325 feet of shoreline on Flagler Beach.

City of Jacksonville: $1,855,456 for Fire and Rescue Department costs of labor, equipment, materials and contracts to manage the emergency operations center, maintain access to public roads by clearing downed trees and debris, respond to fires, provide critical care transport and perform 791 evacuations.

The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with the subrecipients like local and county governments.

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

barbara.murien… Wed, 03/17/2021 - 15:43

FEMA Provides $36 Million to Wayne County

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division announced today that $36,088,864 in federal funding has been made available to Wayne County for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 27, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to Wayne County for eligible reimbursable costs related to vaccine distribution.  The county will operate nine vaccination sites to rapidly provide available COVID-19 vaccines to individuals in the community.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will help Wayne County and the state of Michigan end this pandemic and expand availability of COVID-19 vaccines to individuals who most need them.”

“This funding will help Michigan continue its efforts to provide these safe and effective vaccines to Michigan residents,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. “We appreciate FEMA’s partnership and continued support in combatting this pandemic.”

FEMA provides funding at a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 03/17/2021 - 13:44

Millions in Funds Allocated for the National Guard to Complete Permanent Work

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — The Puerto Rico National Guard, one of the vital components during emergency situations on the island, was granted an obligation of nearly $12.7 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These funds will address eight permanent repair projects at several facilities, including its headquarters and various training centers.

Among the work to be completed are repairs at the facilities in Aibonito, Arecibo, Ceiba, Mayagüez, Ponce, San Juan, Utuado and Vega Baja. This includes the replacement of floors and walls, as well as technical aspects such as wiring systems and transformers. Likewise, the roof drains and the communication tower at the Puerta de Tierra building will be replaced.

“These funds will help maintain the high standard of service the National Guard provides us in times of emergency. By having strengthened structures, we help Puerto Rico's recovery continue to move forward through the various disasters that these brave men and women are currently supporting,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico José G. Baquero.

The National Guard has about 8,000 citizen-soldiers and airmen, and over 600 civilian employees. Its Engineering, Water Purification, Transportation, Aviation, Communications, Military Police, Medical Units, Civil Support Team, Firefighters and Boat Detachment units are activated in one way or another during emergencies.

“This obligation represents extraordinary news for the entire National Guard and the people of Puerto Rico. Hurricane María affected our infrastructure like no other atmospheric phenomenon did before,” said the Adjutant General of Puerto Rico, Major General José J. Reyes.

“While we made the necessary adjustments to minimize the impact, these funds symbolize one more step towards the normalization of our operations across the island.”

Likewise, Reyes mentioned that the impact of these funds will be of positive benefit to the surrounding communities, as these structures will allow the units to carry out their trainings more efficiently and will help maintain the value of nearby properties.

The Puerta de Tierra facilities in San Juan consist of historic buildings that were built between 1930 and 1956 and are located in an archeologically sensitive area considered as a critical habitat for some endangered species. The repairs will comply with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) criteria and other laws and regulations that apply to this type of zone. Also, due to the historic nature of the structures, the repairs will comply with state and federal regulations as well as with the endorsement of the National Historic Landmarks Program.

Of this allocation, over $915,800 is earmarked for hazard mitigation measures to prevent similar damage in the future. Some of these measures include reinforcing gutters, installing fixed window panels and replacing windows and doors with ones that are resistant to impacts and wind.

For his part, engineer Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience or COR3, said that the Puerto Rico National Guard is an important part of our law and order structure. “It acts in times of emergencies and natural disasters to safeguard the lives and property of Puerto Ricans. Through this allocation of funds by FEMA, resilient structures will be established to provide aid and services to citizens in an effective and safe manner. We at COR3 recognize the urgency of this work and will be facilitators in the reconstruction process,” said Laboy.

[VIDEO] To learn more about the reconstruction work at the National Guard facilities, click here.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 03/17/2021 - 13:07

Koochiching County Residents Invited to Attend Virtual Flood Map Open House

CHICAGO – On March 23, representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a flood map information virtual open house for Koochiching County. The virtual open house will provide county residents with an opportunity to review a recently completed Preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and its accompanying Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).

The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood (also known as the one-percent-annual-chance event) information, designate areas that are subject to significant flood hazards within the county, and offer information that public officials will use when permitting development in the floodplain.

The virtual open house will be staffed with representatives from state and federal agencies who will provide the most current information about flood risk, flood insurance, floodplain development regulations, and the process for floodplain mapping within Koochiching County. Once the maps become effective, they will be used as the basis for flood insurance as well as local flood protection regulations adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA also intends that they be used to assist planning processes and outreach efforts to increase resiliency in response to flood and storm events. Details for the Koochiching County meeting are as follows:

WHAT:              Koochiching County Flood Map Information Virtual Open House WHEN:             March 23, 2021, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. WHERE:           Virtual Zoom Meeting: visit the Koochiching County Website for the link                          (https://www.co.koochiching.mn.us/calendar.aspx) 

Property owners, realtors, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the Preliminary FIRMs and FIS report can be downloaded at https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/. For more information, email the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

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

troy.christensen Tue, 03/16/2021 - 17:48

FEMA Provides $1.5 Million to Indiana Family and Social Services Administration

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) announced today that $1,524,258 in federal funding has been made available to the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of April 3, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration for eligible reimbursable costs to establish a call center to disseminate information about COVID-19 and vaccine safety, as well as provide vaccine appointment scheduling.

“FEMA is committed to helping our state and local partners expand access to the COVID-19 vaccine, so we can end this pandemic together,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will increase critical resources to inform the public about the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine and help people get access to it in their communities.”

“This assistance will provide Indiana even more resources to help Hoosiers understand the efficacy and safety of current vaccines while also connecting people to the resources they need to get vaccinated,” said Steve Cox, executive director for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. “FEMA and its Indiana partner agencies are dedicated to this outreach as an integral part of successfully battling this pandemic.”

FEMA provides funding at a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.

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

troy.christensen Tue, 03/16/2021 - 16:09

FEMA Awards $37 Million to Virginia for Vaccination Effort

PHILADELPHIA – FEMA has awarded more than $37 million in federal funding to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) to establish mobile vaccination units to support vulnerable population areas. These mobile units will allow the commonwealth to operate vaccination clinics initially to priority residents and then the general public. These mobile units will be able to administer up to 250 vaccinations per day. Additional costs covered include personal protective equipment, emergency medical supplies, medical storage equipment and support costs.  

“We are thankful for this award from FEMA that assists with establishing mobile vaccination units to support vulnerable population areas all around the commonwealth,” said VDEM State Coordinator Curtis Brown. “Throughout the pandemic, we have prioritized health equity, beginning with personal protective equipment and now with our vaccination efforts.” 

As of March 8, FEMA has provided more than $185 million to the Commonwealth of Virginia and over $4.27 billion to 38 states, Washington D.C., four tribes and five territories for expenses related to COVID-19 vaccination at 100% federal cost share. These funds cover critical supplies, staffing, training and transportation needs that support increased vaccination efforts. 

To register for a COVID-19 vaccination in Virginia go to http://www.vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 1-877-VAX-IN VA (1-877-829-4682), 8am – 8pm. Language translation available, TTY users dial 7-1-1.  

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

gabriel.lugo Tue, 03/16/2021 - 04:05

FEMA Advisors Available for Oklahomans Requiring Specialized Assistance

OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma — FEMA is committed to helping all Oklahoma residents who were affected by the winter storms, including anyone requiring specialized assistance. FEMA’s guidance is intended to ensure that individuals who have access and functional needs receive lawful and equal assistance before, during and after a disaster.

Survivors in 16 Oklahoma counties are eligible for federal assistance. The counties are Canadian, Carter, Cherokee, Comanche, Cotton, Hughes, Jefferson, Le Flore, McIntosh, Oklahoma, Okmulgee, Osage, Pittsburg, Stephens, Tulsa and Wagoner.

When applying for federal assistance, pay special attention to question number 24 about people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. Answer "yes" to this question if you have a disability, special needs, or another health or medical condition.

Answering “yes” is the best way to note any additional disability-related losses and/or needs such as medical support assistance, durable medical equipment repairs, or replacement of assistive technology that was lost or damaged because of the disaster. (Examples include wheelchair, scooter, walker, CPAP machine, hearing aids, eyeglasses and screen reader.)

Answering “yes” to this question will also help to identify other services for which applicants may be eligible to receive reimbursement. This video will assist you with question 24: Answering Yes to the Disability Question When Registering for Assistance.

If you need a reasonable accommodation or assistance filling out your FEMA application, please call 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should alert FEMA as to the specific number assigned to that service.

To assure fair treatment to all Oklahomans, FEMA deployed its External Civil Rights advisors to assist after the February winter storms. They are available to ensure survivors receive help and assistance without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, English proficiency and economic status.

As a part of FEMA’s commitment to the protection of civil rights, the Civil Rights Resource Line was launched to assure that Oklahomans can easily access Civil Rights Advisors to address any civil rights questions, to file or check on the status of a civil rights complaint or to process requests for reasonable accommodations when receiving FEMA services. The number to the resource line is 833-285-7448.

For more information about FEMA’s External Civil Rights advisors, visit https://www.fema.gov/about/offices/equal-rights/civil-rights.

For concerns and allegations of discrimination, please contact the Civil Rights Resource Line at 833-285-7448 or FEMA TTY: 800-462-7595 or FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov

To register for federal assistance, visit http://www.disasterassistance.gov.

If it is not possible to register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

Carmen.Castro Mon, 03/15/2021 - 14:23

FEMA COVID-19 Response Update

WASHINGTON -- Tomorrow marks the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 national emergency and the beginning of FEMA’s expanded role in the federal response. With the activation of the National Response Coordination Center last March, the agency began a year-long journey that not only challenged the strength and resilience of our nation but also that of FEMA’s 21,000 emergency managers.

A year later, FEMA continues working with state, tribal and territorial authorities to help bring this pandemic to an end. One strategy is speeding up vaccinations by supporting states as they open community vaccination centers across the country, ensuring everyone who wants a vaccine can get one.

“Thanks to the vaccines and the steps we continue to take to control the spread of COVID-19, we are drawing closer to the season when we can return to the places we enjoy and create more memories with people we care about,” said Acting FEMA Administrator Bob Fenton. “While we join those who mourn, we also want to look forward to the future.”

The future includes funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which appropriates $50 billion to FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), covering costs associated with major disaster declarations, including the ongoing battle against COVID-19. President Biden signed the plan into law yesterday, providing relief to address the continued impact of the pandemic on the economy, public health, state and local governments, individuals and businesses.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $4.28 billion for expenses related to COVID-19 vaccination at 100% federal cost share. These funds cover critical supplies, staffing, training and transportation needs that support increased vaccination efforts.

FEMA and its interagency partners continue to stand up and provide support to additional vaccination centers daily, actively engaging state, tribal, territorial, local and nonprofit partners to ensure all individuals have the information to decide whether they want a vaccine, know the steps to get one and have access to one.

Federal pilot community vaccination centers are due to open in Detroit, Cleveland and Atlanta in the coming weeks.

Community vaccination centers are led by states, but may be supported by the federal government, including FEMA. Each state determines its own vaccination priority groups and procedures.

 FEMA rose to last year’s unprecedented challenge in responding to the historic pandemic, coordinating with state, local, tribal and territorial governments, federal agencies, voluntary organizations and private sector partners. Some of these projects include:

• Project Airbridge, which secured and distributed crucial PPE in the early days of the pandemic
• Administering Lost Wages
• Responding to an extended hurricane season and widespread western fires
• Providing billions of dollars worth of support to disaster survivors and communities

FEMA is committed to the equitable distribution of vaccines. Find out where, when and how to get a vaccine in your community and get more information from your local health department and a list of places where adults can get a vaccine.

Visit FEMA.gov for information on FEMA’s vaccination support efforts.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 03/12/2021 - 23:56

FEMA Pandemic Assistance to Region 8 States Tops $1.4 Billion

DENVER – In the year since a National Emergency Declaration was issued for the Coronavirus Pandemic, FEMA Region 8 has provided more the $1.4 billion in assistance to states and tribal nations; nearly $32 million of that amount has directly supported state or local vaccination clinics. Region 8 encompasses the states of Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming along with the 29 federally recognized tribal nations within those boundaries.

Along with the national emergency declaration issued March 13, 2020, major disaster declarations were subsequently issued for all 50 states, the District of Columbia and all federal territories.  This opened a variety of FEMA funded assistance programs.  FEMA has provided assistance to state, tribal and local governments via its Public Assistance program and through mission assignments of other federal agencies to provide needed resources.  The agency assisted individuals directly through the Lost Wages program, which supplemented unemployment assistance, and also supported mental health efforts by funding state Crisis Counseling programs.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding for emergency actions undertaken by communities to protect public safety, including vaccination clinics, providing at least a 75-percent funding share for eligible costs. Remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and local applicants for assistance. President Biden approved a 100-percent cost share for projects related to the pandemic response that include work completed between Jan. 20, 2020, and Sept. 30, 2021.

The agency also may direct other federal agencies to provide assistance in response to specific requests from the states.  Multiple states have received assistance include funding for National Guard actions completed under Title 32 activations supporting in variety of roles.  There also have been funds provided for work by the Army Corps of Engineers for development of alternate care sites, Forest Service Incident Management teams, and for the deployment of medical staff or resources from the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services and Veterans Affairs.

FEMA provided support to the states through the crisis counseling program.  States developed program using existing local mental health providers, with FEMA providing funding assistance to deliver the services.

Another source of assistance directly to individuals came via the Lost Wages program.  Following an executive order, FEMA was able to provide states with funding to augment unemployment assistance by an additional $300 a week.  The assistance was available for the period of July 26 through September 6.

Table 1: FEMA COVID Response Assistance to Region 8 States

Location Mission Assignments Public Assistance Lost Wages Crisis Counseling Total Colorado  $116,671,599  $387,444,768  $431,076,540  $9,642,265  $958,909,806 Montana  $25,133,679  $8,316,932  $48,739,412  $1,642,155  $84,242,704 North Dakota  $41,754,224  $57,526,978  $37,554,426  $1,062,965  $138,263,640 South Dakota  $23,270,112  $0 $0  $823,884  $24,673,175 Utah  $48,898,305  $57,738,128  $91,893,941  $3,823,992  $203,564,425 Wyoming  $1,063,000  $380,044  $16,124,790  $0   $17,812,665 Total  $256,790,919  $511,406,850  $625,389,109  $16,995,260  $1,427,466,415

(As of March 11, 2021)

FEMA continues to support state, tribal and local pandemic response efforts.  The agency has liaisons deployed to support all six states in the ongoing vaccination efforts.  FEMA Region 8 also is closely coordinating with federal agency partners to assist our communities with recovery efforts in the post-pandemic period.

jordana.fyne Fri, 03/12/2021 - 21:46