Más Centros de Recuperación por Desastre de FEMA inician operaciones durante la semana del 18 de diciembre y se anuncia cierre temporal de todos los centros durante los días festivos

CHICAGO – Tres Centros de Recuperación por Desastre temporales más de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) abrirán la semana del 18 de diciembre para ayudar a los sobrevivientes del desastre ocurrido en el Condado Cook a iniciar su recuperación tras las severas tormentas e inundaciones del 17 y 18 de septiembre. Los centros estarán ubicados en Harvey, South Holland y South Shore (direcciones y horarios a continuación).

Además, todos los Centros de Recuperación por Desastre estarán cerrados desde el sábado 23 hasta el lunes 25 de diciembre y desde el sábado 30 de diciembre hasta el lunes 1 de enero.

Especialistas de FEMA y de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) estarán presentes en el centro para ayudar a los sobrevivientes a solicitar asistencia federal por desastre, cargar documentos, informarse sobre cómo hacer su propiedad más resistente a los desastres. Para encontrar el centro más cercano, visite la página de FEMA Localizador de DRC.

Los Centros de Recuperación por Desastre temporales estarán ubicados en:

South Holland             
South Holland Public Works ​
155 W. 162nd​ St.
South Holland, IL 60473
Horario: todos los días de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.*
Inicia operaciones el lunes 18 de diciembre
*Cierra temporalmente el sábado 23, domingo 24 y lunes 25 de diciembre
Cierra permanentemente el viernes 29 de diciembre

South Shore                
Chicago Public Library - South Shore Branch ​
2505 E. 73rd St.
Chicago, IL 60649
Horario: todos los días de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.*
Inicia operaciones el martes 19 de diciembre
*Cierra temporalmente el sábado 23, domingo 24 y lunes 25 de diciembre
Cierra permanentemente el viernes 29 de diciembre

Harvey             
Thornton Township High School, District 205 
Building T107 
249 E. 151st St.
Harvey, IL 60426
Horario: todos los días de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.*
Inicia operaciones el jueves 21 de diciembre
*Cierra temporalmente el sábado 23, domingo 24 y lunes 25 de diciembre
Cierra permanentemente el viernes 29 de diciembre

En estos centros se ofrece asistencia en otros idiomas distintos del inglés, incluido el Lenguaje de Señas Americano, y materiales traducidos. Las ubicaciones de los Centros de Recuperación por Desastre se eligen por su accesibilidad, con el objetivo de llegar al mayor número de personas posible. 

No es necesario visitar un Centro de Recuperación por Desastre para solicitar asistencia de FEMA. Para solicitar la asistencia sin visitar un centro, llame a la línea de ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362, visite DisasterAssistance.gov/es, o descargue la aplicación móvil de FEMA. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión como el servicio de retransmisión por video (VRS, por sus siglas en inglés), el servicio telefónico subtitulado u otros, deberá facilitar a FEMA el número de dicho servicio cuando solicite asistencia.

Para más información sobre las operaciones de recuperación por desastre en Illinois, visite www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4749. La fecha límite para solicitar asistencia de FEMA es el 19 de enero de 2024.

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La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin discriminación por motivos de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del idioma inglés o situación económica. Se brindará acomodo razonable, incluyendo traducción e intérpretes de Lenguaje de Señas Americano a través del Servicio de Retransmisión de Vídeo, para garantizar una comunicación eficaz con los solicitantes con dominio limitado del inglés, discapacidades y necesidades funcionales y de acceso. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sido víctima de discriminación, llame al número gratuito de FEMA al 800-621-3362. Si utiliza un Servicio de Retransmisión de vídeo, servicio de teléfono subtitulado u otro, brinde a FEMA su número asignado para ese servicio. 

larissa.hale Sáb, 16/12/2023 - 21:23

Be Alert to Fraud After a Disaster

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Disaster survivors should be aware that con-artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after a disaster. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.

If a FEMA Inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.

If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application. 

If you do wish to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the Helpline will assist you in creating a new application.

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by the Dec. 9, 2023, severe storms and tornadoes. They carry official identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. 

Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. 

Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. FEMA inspectors will have your FEMA application number.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department. Consumers may also file a fraud complaint with the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office here: File a Complaint (tn.gov).

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving FEMA’s disaster relief operations, you can report this to FEMA or DHS. You may request confidentiality or register your complaint anonymously at:

• FEMA Fraud Branch, email: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.
• DHS Office of Inspector General, online through their allegation form (Recommended), call: (866) 720-5721, fax: (202) 254-4297, or write to: DHS Office of Inspector General / MAIL STOP 0305, Attn: Office of Investigations – Hotline, 245 Murray Lane SW, Washington, DC 20528-0305.

If you suspect identity theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov. 

sandra.habib Sat, 12/16/2023 - 13:25

FEMA Teams Working in Tennessee

ATLANTA – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are going door-to-door in Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery and Sumner County neighborhoods to help individuals apply for FEMA assistance.

Using mobile technology, personnel can help survivors apply for assistance, update a FEMA application, and answer questions about federal assistance. 

Team members wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service. If you suspect fraud or fraudulent activity, call your local police or sheriff’s office or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

It is not necessary to wait to apply for assistance. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

For information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, fema.gov/disaster/4751. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Sat, 12/16/2023 - 13:20

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Severe Storms

ATLANTA –Tennessee homeowners and renters in Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery and Sumner counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by the severe storms on Dec. 9, 2023, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with temporary lodging, basic home repair costs or other disaster-caused needs.

There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

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.

Residents with homeowners, renters or flood insurance should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If the policy does not cover all disaster expenses, policy holders may be eligible for federal assistance.

Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

sandra.habib Sat, 12/16/2023 - 13:15

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Rockingham County, New Hampshire

Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Rockingham County, New Hampshire. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place. Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods.

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around December 19, 2023. The affected communities in Rockingham County, New Hampshire are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register.

Residents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect. 

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. 
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:

• FEMA Map Service Center 
• Preliminary Map Products Download Page 
• Flood Map Changes Viewer 

For more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

adrien.urbani Fri, 12/15/2023 - 19:04

6 Months After June Storms, $6 Million and Counting in Support

MADISON, Miss. Six months after the June 14-19 severe storms and tornadoes in Mississippi, federal support is assisting homeowners, renters, businesses and local governments with recovery. More than $6 million in federal support has been approved by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for homeowners, renters and businesses. In addition, FEMA is working in the affected communities to provide Public Assistance grants to local governments.

Assistance for Individuals and Households

• As of Dec. 11, more than $3 million in FEMA grants have been approved for renters and homeowners in Jackson and Jasper counties. 
• More than $2.5 million in Housing Assistance that helps pay for uninsured home repairs, home replacement and rental assistance for short-term lodging.
• More than $433,000 in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for uninsured personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs.
• FEMA’s Call Out/Enhanced Applicant Services team identified and contacted survivors who were challenged by the application and appeals process. Team members completed more than 900 interviews with applicants, resulting in grants that they might not have gotten otherwise.

Disaster Loans from the SBA

As of Dec. 10, the SBA has approved more than $3.8 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners and businesses. These flexible loans can help supplement insurance settlements and FEMA grants.

• More than $3.4 million in home loans.
• More than $367,000 in business loans.

Public Assistance

As of Dec. 11, more than $690,000 has been approved for six projects, with more than $1.7 million for nine projects pending approval. 

29 counties and one tribal nation were approved for Public Assistance: 

• Adams 
• Amite 
• Attala 
• Claiborne 
• Copiah 
• Covington 
• Franklin 
• Greene 
• Holmes 
• Humphreys 
• Itawamba 
• Jackson 
• Jasper 
• Jefferson 
• Jefferson Davis 
• Jones 
• Lawrence 
• Leake 
• Madison 
• Mississippi Choctaw Indian Reservation
• Neshoba 
• Newton 
• Perry 
• Rankin 
• Scott 
• Simpson 
• Smith 
• Warren 
• Wayne 
• Yazoo

 

FEMA’s Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program that aids state, local, tribal and territorial governments, and certain types of nonprofit organizations impacted by declared disasters. FEMA works with local and state officials to provide reimbursement for eligible work including debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to infrastructure and other structures.

For the latest information on recovery from the June tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4727.

 

melanie.barker Fri, 12/15/2023 - 18:10

Preliminary Flood Maps for Allen Parish, Louisiana, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of Village of Reeves and unincorporated areas of Allen Parish, Louisiana.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Allen Parish serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv 
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 12/15/2023 - 17:27

FEMA Awards Over $1.1 Million to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital for COVID Response Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.1 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital for the cost of steps taken to protect patients, staff and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,118,066 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School in Boston for the cost of purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) and other materials between March and August 2020.

Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital purchased N95 respirators, medical gloves, surgical masks, medical gowns, coveralls, face shields, plexiglass and ventilators, as well as contracting for physician services for training, administrative duties, and non-billable patient care.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $2.6 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 12/15/2023 - 15:45

FEMA Awards Nearly $3.2 Million to Boston Public Health Commission for COVID Testing Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $3.2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the cost of providing testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,189,657 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the cost of contracting for mobile COVID-19 testing units between July 2022 and May 2023.

That included setting up local testing sites, test registration, interpreter services, educational resources and performing 19,484 COVID-19 PCR tests and providing test results. 

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Boston Public Health Commission with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $2.6 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 12/15/2023 - 15:43

FEMA Working Through the Holiday Season for Hurricane Idalia Survivors

Home for the holidays has a much greater meaning for those affected by Hurricane Idalia. For this reason, FEMA will continue to work through the holiday season to support eligible survivors in their process to identify potential short-term, long-term, and permanent housing solutions.

Because each survivor’s situation is unique, FEMA evaluates each application individually and helps eligible survivors identify the best available housing solution to meet their individual needs.

FEMA continues to make progress. The direct housing team continues to rollout manufactured housing units and travel trailers. Many units have been “licensed in,” which means families have been given the keys and taken possession of their long-term temporary home, and survivors will continue to be licensed-in throughout the holidays.

Applicants should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure the disaster assistance process stays on track. Missing or incorrect information could result in delays in receiving assistance. Applicants can update contact information, report additional home damage or a delay in insurance claims in the following ways:

• Call toll-free 800-621-3362, the telephone line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages.
  • An updated holiday schedule for the help line will be announced when it is available.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or;
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
• If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

thomas.wise Fri, 12/15/2023 - 15:15

Centro de Recuperación por Desastre en Dolton se traslada a un lugar más amplio en el antiguo gimnasio Melanie Fitness Center

CHICAGO – El Centro de Recuperación por Desastre de FEMA en el Dolton Park District Main Field House se traslada a una ubicación fija más grande en el antiguo Melanie Fitness Center para ayudar a los residentes a iniciar su recuperación tras las tormentas e inundaciones ocurridas el 17 y 18 de septiembre.  

El centro ubicado en el Dolton Park District Main Field House cerrará a las 5 p.m. del sábado 16 de diciembre para permitir la mudanza. La nueva ubicación en el antiguo Melanie Fitness Center iniciará operaciones el lunes 18 de diciembre a las 8 a.m.

Este nuevo centro en Dolton ofrecerá a los solicitantes más espacio y una ubicación más prolongada en su comunidad para garantizar que reciban en persona la asistencia para la recuperación que necesitan en las próximas semanas. Especialistas de FEMA y de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) estarán presentes en el centro para ayudar a los sobrevivientes a solicitar asistencia federal por desastre, cargar documentos, informarse sobre cómo hacer su propiedad más resistente a los desastres y obtener respuesta a sus preguntas en persona.

El nuevo centro en Dolton estará ubicado en: 

Dolton             
Antiguo Melanie Fitness Center
14900 Greenwood Rd.
Dolton, IL 60419
Día de apertura: lunes 18 de diciembre
Horario: lunes a sábado de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m. (el centro estará cerrado durante los días festivos del 23 al 25 de diciembre y del 30 de diciembre al 1 de enero)

En estos centros se ofrece asistencia en otros idiomas distintos del inglés, incluido el Lenguaje de Señas Americano y materiales traducidos. Las ubicaciones de los Centros de Recuperación por Desastre se eligen por su accesibilidad, con el objetivo de llegar al mayor número de personas posible. En todos los centros hay estacionamientos accesibles. 

Ya están abiertos varios centros de recuperación. Para encontrar el centro más cercano, visite la página de FEMA Localizador de DRC. 

No es necesario visitar un Centro de Recuperación por Desastre para solicitar asistencia de FEMA. Para solicitar la asistencia sin visitar un centro, llame a la línea de ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362, visite DisasterAssistance.gov/es, o descargue la aplicación móvil de FEMA. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión como el servicio de retransmisión por video (VRS, por sus siglas en inglés), el servicio telefónico subtitulado u otros, deberá facilitar a FEMA el número de dicho servicio cuando solicite asistencia.

Para obtener más información sobre la operación de recuperación del desastre en Illinois, visite www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4749. La fecha límite para solicitar asistencia de FEMA es el 19 de enero de 2024.     
 
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La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin importar la raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés ni la situación económica. Acomodos razonables, incluso traducción e intérpretes de Lenguaje de Señas Americano mediante servicio de retransmisión de video, estarán disponibles para garantizar una comunicación efectiva con los solicitantes que no tengan un buen dominio del inglés, discapacidades y necesidades funcionales y de acceso. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sido objeto de discriminación, llame a la línea libre de cargos de FEMA al 800-621-3362. Si usted usa un sistema de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión por vídeo (VRS), servicio telefónico con subtítulos u otros servicios, debe proveerle a FEMA el número para ese servicio.

larissa.hale Jue, 14/12/2023 - 23:45

Dolton Disaster Recovery Center Moves to Larger Location at Former Melanie Fitness Center

CHICAGO –The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in the Dolton Park District Main Field House is moving to a larger, fixed location at the Former Melanie Fitness Center to help residents kickstart their recovery after the September 17 - 18 storms and flooding.  

The center in the Dolton Park District Main Field House will close at 5 p.m. Saturday, December 16 to allow for the move. The new location at the Former Melanie Fitness Center will open at 8 a.m. Monday, December 18. 

This new Dolton center will offer applicants more space and a longer-term site in their community to ensure they receive the in-person recovery support they need in the weeks ahead. Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be there to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, learn about ways to make their property more disaster resistant and get their questions answered in person.

Details for the new Dolton center are as follows: 

Dolton             
Former Melanie Fitness Center
14900 Greenwood Rd.
Dolton, IL 60419
Opening day: Monday, Dec. 18 
Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Saturday (closed Dec. 23 – 25 and Dec. 30 – Jan. 1 for the holidays)

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

Additional recovery centers will be opening soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA’s DRC Locator. 

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

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4749. The deadline to register with FEMA is January 19, 2024.     
 
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

larissa.hale Thu, 12/14/2023 - 23:16

FEMA Awards Over $5.5 Million to Cambridge Health Alliance for COVID Staffing Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $5.5 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Cambridge Health Alliance and Cambridge Public Health Commission for the cost of contracting for additional staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $5,540,343 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the Cambridge Health Alliance for the cost of contracting for temporary staff to respond to the surge in patents caused by pandemic between April and June 2021.

During that time the Cambridge Health Alliance, a health network affiliated with Harvard Medical School and serving the communities north of Boston, increased staffing by contracting with several companies for additional staff in inpatient units, intensive care units, emergency departments, respiratory clinic, COVID testing facilities, pharmacy, and laboratory.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Cambridge Health Alliance with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $2.6 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 12/14/2023 - 15:33

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Tennessee

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes on Dec. 9, 2023.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery and Sumner counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding also is available on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance in Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery and Sumner counties.

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

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

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.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 12/13/2023 - 23:23

FEMA Awards Floyd County More than $1.6 Million for Property Acquisitions

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved two projects totaling $1,675,804 in federal funding to Floyd County for the acquisition of properties affected by the July 2022 floods in Eastern Kentucky.

Thirteen flood prone properties that were directly affected by the July 2022 flooding event will be acquired by the Floyd County Fiscal Court, demolished and turned to green space. Funds will be used to acquire these properties at fair market value pre-event, demolish the homes and remove all debris. Once demolished properties will be deed-restricted and any future open space proposals will be subject to pre-approval by FEMA.

The first project, for the acquisition of thirteen properties, totals $2,094,754. The federal share of 75% ($1,571,062) will be contributed by FEMA and the remaining non-federal share of 25% will be contributed by a combination of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, local governments and homeowners.

The second project provides funds totaling $104,738 for Floyd County to manage the acquisitions program. This award is pursuant to Section 1215 of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018, which amended Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Assistance Act, allowing Subrecipient Management Costs (SRMC) up to 5% of the total project cost, available to the subrecipient at a federal cost share of 100%.

As a condition of these grants, the relevant, commonwealth, tribal, territorial or local government must maintain the property as open space in perpetuity.

These projects will protect the community from the direct impact of severe storm events and provide a long-term solution to existing and future hazardous conditions. These acquisition and demolition projects will protect against future flooding events. Activities will be completed in strict compliance with federal, commonwealth and local rules and regulations.

The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is managed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the projects are administered by the local community. FEMA does not acquire properties directly from the property owners. Communities may offer homeowners who agree to participate in the property acquisition process the pre-flood fair market value of the property. A licensed appraiser determines the fair market value. This program is voluntary, and homeowners can withdraw from the program if they are no longer interested.

HMGP provides funding to state, local, tribal and territorial governments so they can develop hazard mitigation plans and rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities. When requested by an authorized representative, this grant funding is available after a presidentially declared disaster.

For more information on Kentucky flood recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema. 

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 12/13/2023 - 21:06

Mental Health After the Floods

After a disaster like July’s storms, it’s normal to feel stressed, anxious or overwhelmed. Here are some resources that can help.

Vermont-Specific

• Visit MentalHealth.vermont.gov/flood to find statewide resources and support, including resources for youth, older adults, people with disabilities and first responders.
• United Way’s 2-1-1 Network partners with local organizations, businesses and government agencies to provide resources including mental health care, health and community services, and more. Call 211 or visit Vermont211.org.
• Starting Over Strong VT offers free services for disaster survivors in their homes and community spaces. Outreach workers provide support and counseling, help develop coping strategies, and share resources that can help you recover. To reach them, call 211 or visit MentalHealth.vermont.gov/SOSVT.
• Pathways Vermont Support Line provides confidential, non-judgmental peer-support for Vermonters 18 and older. The line is open 24/7 – to connect, call or text 833-888-2557.
• Crisis Text Line provides free text-based mental health support and crisis intervention. Text “VT” to 741741 or visit CrisisTextLine.org.
• Farm First helps farmers and their families resolve personal and work-related challenges. Farm First counselors provide resources, professional and personal support to help you tackle stress, financial concerns, labor issues, substance use and more. Call 1-877-493-6216 or visit InvestEAP.org/FarmFirst
  • You will be asked to create a login when accessing the site for the first time – enter “farm” as the organization password.
• Vermont Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health helps people up to age 22 experiencing emotional, behavioral or mental health challenges and their families. Call 802-876-7021 or 800-639-6071.
• Also offers a list of county-specific support phone lines at Vermont Local Mental Health Crisis Support Lines & Phone Numbers (vffcmh.org).

Nationwide

• Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7 crisis counseling and emotional support for disaster survivors, run by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Call 800-985-5990 – press 2 for Spanish – visit samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline, or text “TalkWithUs” for English or “Hablanos” for Spanish to 66746. Help is available in over 100 languages through interpreters; for American Sign Language, call with a videophone-enabled device, or visit the website and click “ASL Now.”
• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers help 24/7 for people in crisis, and for those worried about a loved one. Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for English or 988lifeline.org/es for Spanish.
  • 988 partners:
    • The Trevor Project support for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults: call 866-488-7386, text 678678 or visit TheTrevorProject.org/get-help
    • Veteran’s Crisis Line call 988 and press 1, text 838255 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

adrien.urbani Wed, 12/13/2023 - 18:42

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Amherst County, VA

PHILADELPHIA-- FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Amherst County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period. 

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. 

The 90-day appeal period will begin on Dec. 14, 2023. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. 
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator: Stewart Tyler Creasy, Director of Community Development, at stcreasy@countyofamherst.com. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer FEMA Region 3 Mitigation Mapping and Data.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone, toll-free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov. 

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Amherst County Flood Mapping Milestones

• Sept. 9, 2022 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• Feb.28, 2023 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• March 22, 2023 – Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• Dec. 14, 2023 –Appeal Period starts.
• March 2025* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.) 

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov. 

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

Follow us on “X” at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

erika.osullivan Wed, 12/13/2023 - 14:39

Beware of Rental Scams Offering Too-Good-to-be-True Prices

HONOLULU – Online classified advertisements are luring Maui wildfire survivors with false offers of available rental units, and people are learning too late that the cash they paid for a security deposit went to a scammer instead.

Disaster survivors should be aware that scammers try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after a disaster. They solicit assistance for disaster survivors by phone, email, letter or face-to-face.

Be suspicious of prices that are too good to be true and never pay with cash or digital currency. To avoid falling victim to a scam, talk to specialists at the FEMA Helpline (800-621-3362) and American Red Cross representatives at the Lahaina Disaster Recovery Center.

In the latest scam, wildfire survivors find apartments in online ads that include pictures of the units. When contacted, the advertisers ask for a meet-up at a local Maui business and suggest the person interested in the apartment bring cash. In return, the apartment seeker is given an official-looking lease that proves to be worthless. The person who received the security deposit is not the landlord and doesn’t own the unit.

If you believe you or a loved one has been the victim of a scam, report it immediately to the Maui Police Department at 808-244-6400. Consumers may also file a fraud complaint with the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs’ hotline at 808-587-4272, Option 7.

If you suspect fraud of any kind related to disaster assistance or you have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, report it to the FEMA Fraud Investigations and Inspections Division at FEMA-OCSO-Tipline@fema.dhs.gov or call 866-223-0814.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. 

scott.reuter Tue, 12/12/2023 - 18:54

FEMA Approves $1.8 Million in Disaster Recovery Funds for City of Hazard

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved $1,802,054 to reimburse the City of Hazard for the costs of permanent repairs following the 2022 Eastern Kentucky Floods.

During the incident period, severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides caused damage to the Black Gold Circle drainage system. 

In response to the event, the City of Hazard utilized city materials and contractors to restore the system back to pre-disaster condition.

Funding for this Public Assistance (PA) project is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. PA funds reimburse eligible applicants for the cost of debris removal; life-saving emergency protective measures; and the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged facilities like buildings, roads and utilities.

The FEMA PA grant program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop project worksheets and scopes of work. Following approvals by FEMA and KYEM, FEMA obligates funding for the project.

The FEMA PA program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

The federal share for this Public Assistance project is 75 percent of the eligible costs with the remaining 25 percent coming from other sources.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 12/12/2023 - 15:49

ICYMI -- Administrator Criswell Highlights FEMA Efforts at the White House Tribal Nations Summit

WASHINGTON -- On Dec. 7, FEMA leaders attended the White House Tribal Nations Summit. They were joined by more than 300 Tribal Nation leaders and representatives from agencies across the government. 

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell delivered remarks that highlighted FEMA’s efforts to improve Tribal Nations’ access to the agency’s resources. “Today, I am proud to reflect on the progress we’ve made over the past year to build the FEMA that Indian Country needs and deserves,” said Administrator Criswell. “Together we’ve made incredible strides -- but we still have a lot of work to do to make sure that we at FEMA are living up to our treaty and trust responsibilities.”

During her remarks, the Administrator outlined policy changes, clarifications and updates that support Tribal Nations, including:

Clarification of Public Assistance Eligibility

Roads on tribal lands that were either built or maintained by the Bureau of Indian Affairs or the Department of Transportation are eligible to be repaired through FEMA’s Public Assistance programs. This clarification removes a roadblock that left many Tribal Nations unable to access their homes and businesses after a disaster. 

Simplifying Damage Assessments

When traditional tribal residences and tribal ceremonial buildings are damaged, Tribal Nations will now be able to self-certify the damage assessment and scope of work for restoring those traditional structures. This will allow FEMA to more accurately account for damage and to repair traditional and ceremonial structures on tribal lands, such as pueblos, long houses and more. 

Respecting Tribal Sacred Sites

FEMA is working to ensure that Tribal Nation data and coordinates of culturally sensitive locations, remains confidential. The agency will do this by no longer requiring photos, site maps or specific location details of damage done to tribal sacred sites.

Increasing Tribal Nation Input

FEMA plans to include more Tribal Nation input on recovery polices by increasing their participation in Public Assistance Working Sessions and Steering Committees. The agency will also work to hire more staff from Indian Country, while also increasing tribal-specific training for FEMA staff. 

Launch of FEMA’s Tribal Affairs Hub

Administrator Criswell announced the launch of the first FEMA Tribal Affairs Hub, where Tribal Nations can learn more about FEMA grants, tribal disaster declarations, register for trainings and more.

Reminder of Upcoming Tribal Nation Training

Registration is open for the 9th Annual Tribal Nations Training Week (TNTW) at FEMA’s Center for Domestic Preparedness taking place March 9-16, 2024. In 2022, more than 200 leaders, emergency managers and responders from more than 70 Tribal Nations participated in the 8th Annual TNTW. The TNTW is only open to non-federal employees who work for Tribal Nations and Indian Health Service staff.

During the Summit, the Administrator, National Tribal Affairs Advocate Kelbie Kennedy and National Tribal Affairs Advisor Jay LaPlante hosted a closed-door nation-to-nation conversation and breakout session with tribal leaders. 

Discussion topics ranged from building Tribal Nation resiliency long term, updating the tribal disaster declarations, access to FEMA grants, fire suppression in Indian Country, translating emergency messaging into Native languages and more. 

The following senior FEMA leaders participated in the breakout:

• U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell;
• Associate Administrator for Response and Recovery Anne Bink;
• Public Assistance Division Director Robert Pesapane; 
• Chief Financial Officer Mary Comans;
• Assistant Administrator of the Grants Program Directorate Pamela Williams;
• National Continuity Programs Associate Administrator Michael George;
• Director of External Affairs Justin Knighten; and
• Associate Administrator of Mission Support Eric Leckey.

Watch the proceedings of the White House Tribal Nations Summit, including the administrator’s full remarks.

View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="50408" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/73d12cdc36061958e03cc25ad2d93f86.jpg?itok=9NMJ492X" alt="undefined" class="image-style-large" />Tribal leaders meeting with FEMA Administrator Criswell and National Tribal Affairs Advocate Kelbie Kennedy (center). luther.wills-dudich Mon, 12/11/2023 - 21:55