Disaster Damage from the September Storms and Flooding? Apply for Federal Assistance

CHICAGO - Cook County residents affected by the severe storms and flooding of September 17- 18, 2023, may now call or go online to register for disaster assistance from FEMA.  

If you have insurance coverage, first file a claim. If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, contact FEMA by going online to disasterassistance.gov, downloading the FEMA app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. When calling the FEMA Helpline, multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). 

Federal assistance may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.

Have the following information ready when you register with FEMA: 

• 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 (or the social security number of a minor child in your household, if you’re applying on their behalf).
• 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

 
When registering, one member of a household needs to comply with citizenship criteria. That means a minor child who is a citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen can have a parent or guardian who is not eligible apply for assistance on the child’s behalf.   

Getting help to those who need it most is our priority. Recovery teams will be out soon in the neighborhoods affected by the disaster to provide one-on-one support to individuals. Recovery centers will also be opening for individuals to get additional in-person help. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4749. 

                                                                                 ###

 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 via Video Relay Service 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.

nicole.wilson Wed, 11/22/2023 - 16:00

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of California to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Hilary, Aug. 19-21, 2023. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Hilary in Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Riverside and Siskiyou counties.

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

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

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 11/22/2023 - 02:11

Comal County, Texas, Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on May 8, 2024, for Comal County, Texas. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps. 

Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. 

By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.

• To use the live chat service, visit floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 877-FEMA MAP (877-336-2627) or send an email to 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.

alexa.brown Tue, 11/21/2023 - 19:44

FEMA Announces Vanguard Executive Crisis Leaders Fellowship Program for Top Emergency Managers

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that the agency has a new opportunity for emergency managers to apply to the 2024 class of the Vanguard Executive Crisis Leaders Fellowship. The fellowship is for executive-level leaders to explore conceptual frameworks in crisis leadership and address disruptive changes in emergency management.

The Vanguard Fellowship, launched in January 2022, brings together 25 executive leaders from federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, academic, philanthropic, non-profit and private sector entities for two week-long engagements to collaborate on new and emerging challenges facing crisis leaders. This is the program's sixth class. 

“Emergency management is a team sport and emergency managers rely on our networks to solve complex problems, respond quickly and support the needs of survivors and communities,” said Administrator Criswell. “The Vanguard Fellowship brings together the brightest minds in the field to share experiences, understand different perspectives, foster thought leadership and build connections needed to tackle the challenges of disaster preparedness, response and recovery. I encourage all emergency managers to apply to be part of our 2024 cohorts.”

Throughout the two-week fellowship, participants meet with influential experts both within and outside of emergency management to hear their crisis leadership stories and lessons learned, and to discuss and assess the challenges ahead. Through sharing their own stories and an examination of the challenges they each face, fellows form a lasting, meaningful network and forge supportive bonds with alumni that become a resource as they face evolving challenges into the future.

Vanguard Executive Crisis Leaders Fellowship applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To be considered for the 2024 cohort, applications must be received by Dec.15, 2023. 

To ensure a diversity of participation, the program takes a hybrid approach to filling each cohort, accepting self-nominations, alumni recommendations and direct recruitment of proven crisis leaders. Applications are evaluated on the depth and breadth of direct experience leading through a crisis from an executive-level emergency management position. Read additional information about the program and application requirements.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 11/21/2023 - 19:38

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

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Illinois to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding that occurred Sept. 17-18, 2023. 

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cook County.

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

Waddy Gonzalez has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for 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 Mon, 11/20/2023 - 22:37

FEMA Releases First Ever Post-Disaster Equity Guide for Local Officials Rebuilding Communities

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has published “Achieving Equitable Recovery: A Post-Disaster Guide for Local Officials and Leaders,” a first of its kind framework to help rebuild communities in a more accessible, inclusive and equitable manner.  This document provides guidance for local leaders and officials to understand, prepare for and execute their leadership responsibilities to promote equity, create accountability, establish an inclusive recovery planning process and recover from disasters while rebuilding long-lasting inclusivity. 

“From day one of my tenure, I have asked our agency to put the needs of the diverse communities we serve first. This has meant finding new, creative ways to better support these communities as they recover and rebuild after a disaster strikes,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This new guide offers fresh insights and strategies for local officials and leaders to ensure the work they are doing to rebuild their communities is done with inclusivity, accountability and equity top of mind.”

This guide supports local officials and leaders in their efforts to identify needs, establish critical partnerships, leverage new opportunities, conduct strategic public engagement and make a strong case for recovery in an equitable manner. The guide is organized around eight goals focused on approaches to engaging and identifying the needs of all community members and ensuring a more accessible, inclusive and equitable recovery planning process. 

This is just the latest example of how FEMA puts people first in its program and policies. In September, Administrator Criswell and NAACP President Derrick Johnson signed an agreement outlining ways in which the two organizations will work together to help people before, during and after disasters, building on the first agreement that was signed by the two organizations in 2013. Since the start of this Administration, FEMA made significant changes to the Individual Assistance application process, leading to over 158,000 survivors receiving assistance who would have previously been ineligible. This has resulted in more than $926 million in additional assistance for survivors. In FEMA’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, the agency is committed to a goal of “Instilling Equity as a Foundation of Emergency Management.” 

Earlier this year, FEMA hosted a series of 60-minute webinar sessions to provide an overview of the draft guide and gather feedback from whole community partners. Much of that feedback was incorporated in the final document.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 11/20/2023 - 19:41

FEMA Awards KYEM More than $20.8 Million for Storm Related Debris Removal

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved $20,835,364 to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to reimburse the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) for the costs of emergency protective measures taken following the 2022 Eastern Kentucky Floods.

During the incident period, severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides deposited debris throughout Kentucky. This created an immediate threat to property, and the health and safety of the public. 

As a result, KYEM used contractors to remove debris throughout Eastern Kentucky. Approximately 813 tons of vegetative debris, 102,660 tons of construction and demolition debris, 1,764 tons of white goods debris and 298 tons of E-waste debris were removed from roads and public property, including right of ways.

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.

FEMA’s 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 and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

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.

FEMA’s 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 100 percent of the eligible costs for work conducted during a continuous 30-day period of the Commonwealth’s choosing within the first 120 days of the disaster declaration.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 11/20/2023 - 16:57

Disaster Recovery Centers Holiday Closures and Permanent Closures

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Three Disaster Recovery Centers will be permanently closing this week, starting Monday, Nov. 20.

Sites Permanently Closing:

• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, 32628, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat, closing at the end of the day on Tuesday, Nov. 21 
• Hillsborough County: Desoto Park Trail Roundabout, 2617 Corrine St., Tampa, 33605, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Fri, closing at the end of the day on Tuesday, Nov. 21
• Charlotte County: Mid County Regional Library, 2050 Forrest Nelson Blvd., Port Charlotte, 33952, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Fri, closing at the end of the day on Tuesday, Nov. 21 

All Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed starting Wednesday, Nov. 22 until Sunday, Nov. 26., in recognition of the Thanksgiving holiday. Normal hours of operation will resume on Monday, Nov. 27.

The below sites will reopen after the holiday break and operate until the last day to apply for disaster assistance on November 29,2023.

• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, 32066, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Fri, closed Saturday and Sunday
• Madison County: Suite 693G, 705 E Base St., Madison, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Taylor County Mobile Registration Intake Center: Taylor County Sports Complex, 1685 US-19 S, Perry, 32347, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC and do not have to reside in that county.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities and have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

It is not necessary to visit a center. Survivors can apply by calling 800-621-3362, going online at disasterassistance.gov, or using the FEMA mobile app. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

Deadline to apply is November 29, 2023.                                     

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. 

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.

###

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

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.

virginia.case2 Mon, 11/20/2023 - 14:23

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for U.S. Virgin Islands

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the U.S. Virgin Islands to supplement the territory’s response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from elevated levels of lead and copper in the water supply beginning on Oct. 25, 2023, and continuing.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives, protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe on the island of St. Croix.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program will be provided for water, other necessary related items such as filters and testing and technical assistance necessary to identify and address immediate threats to public health and safety for 90 days from the start of the incident period. 

Ms. Lai Sun Yee has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

erika.suzuki Sun, 11/19/2023 - 17:25

FEMA Continues to Hire for the Illinois Disaster Recovery Team

CHICAGO – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an immediate need to employ residents to work as temporary local hires to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts. Local hire employees are local residents who aid in the recovery of their community. FEMA encourages you to apply for this exciting opportunity!

Currently we are hiring for the following local hire position. The job announcement will expire on Nov. 23, 2023, so apply soon! To learn more about the types of positions and their roles in FEMA, please visit FEMA Cadres.

Morton Grove

• Interagency Recovery Coordination Community Planning Capacity Building Manager USAJOBS - Job Announcement

Most temporary local hires are employed through a streamlined hiring process. A local hire’s term of employment is up to 120 days, though it may be extended in 120-day increments. Visit the link above for additional information, including job responsibilities and compensation.

FEMA is an equal opportunity employer. Salaries are comparable to local pay rates.

Conditions of Employment:

You must be a U.S. citizen to be considered for this position.
You must successfully pass a background investigation.
Selective Service registration is required for males born after Dec. 31, 1959.
Review job announcements for additional conditions of employment.

To see other FEMA career postings, visit fema.gov/careers.

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728.

                                                                          ###

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 via Video Relay Service 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 (including 711 or Video Relay).

darrell.habisch Fri, 11/17/2023 - 20:07

Tulong Pederal Lumampas ng $375 Milyon for Cook County

CHICAGO – Ang tulong pederal sa mga residente ng Cook County na naapektuhan ng matinding bagyo at pagbaha noong Hunyo 29 – Hulyo 2 ay lumapas na ng $375 milyon. Itong halaga ay kinabibilangan ng mga gawad ng FEMA na higit sa $280 milyon na Pang-Indibidwal at Pansamabahayan na mga gawad para sa tulong sa pag-upa, pondo sa pagkukumpuni at pagpapalit, at iba pang mga gawad na tumutulong sa pagpalit ng personal na pag-aaari at magbigay ng bayad sa pag-imbak at pangangalaga ng bata. Bilang karagdagan sa mga gawad ng FEMA mayroong higit sa $96.6 milyon sa mababang-interes na pautang sa sakuna ng Small Business Administration (SBA o Administrasyon ng Maliliit na Negosyo) para sa mga may-ari ng bahay at negosyo.

Heto ang buod ng tulong sa sakuna ng FEMA mula noong Nobyembre 15:

• Higit sa $280 milyon ang inapruba para sa pinansyal at direktang serbisyo sa mga kwalipikadong nakaligtas na nagkaroon ng walang-seguro o may kakulangan sa seguro na pangangailangan at gastos na idinulot ng sakuna. Mula sa halagang iyon, $241 milyon ang para sa tulong sa pabahay. Kinabibilangan ito ng:
  • Mga pondo para sa pansamantalang tirahan, tulad ng tulong sa pag-upa o gastos sa hotel para sa mga nakaligtas na hindi kayang tumira sa kanilgn mga bahay dahil sa labis na pagkasira na idinulot ng pagbaha sa tag-init; 
  • Mga pondo para sa pagpapaayos ng isang bahay na tinirhan ng may-ari na gawin itong ligtas, tiyak, at matitirahan; 
  • Mga pondo para tumulong sa paglipat at pag-imbak ng mga gamit pangbahay o kinakailangang personal na ari-arian;
  • Tulong pinansyal para tumulong sa mga may-ari ng bahay sa paglilinis at kalinisan ng mga bahay na mayroong kaunting pinsala;
• Ang mga natitirang pondo ay ibinayad bilang: 
• Panggastos sa medikal at dental na nauugnay sa sakuna.
  • Tulong sa pangangalaga ng bata, limitado sa walong linggo. 

Mula noong Nobyembre 14, iginawad ng U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA o Administrasyon ng Maliliit na Negosyo) ang $88.3 milyon sa mababang-interes na pautang sa sakuna sa mga may-ari ng bahay na may mga bahay na nagtamo ng malawak at magastos na pinsala na kaysa sa masasaklaw ng isang gawad ng FEMA. Iginawad din ng SBA ang higit sa $8.2 millyon sa mga pautang sa sakuna upang tulungan ang mga negosyo na makabangon muli.

Habang natapos na ang panahon ng aplikasyon, ang mga nakaligtas na nag-apply para sa tulong ng FEMA ay dapat manatiling nakikipag-ugnayan sa FEMA. Kung mayroong pagbabago sa iyong numero ng telepono, kasalukuyang address sa koreo, impormasyon sa bangko o seguro, dapat mong ibigay-alam ito sa FEMA o maaari mong makaligtaan ang mga mahalagang tawag sa telepono o liham. Magkaroon ng kamalayan na ang mga tawag sa telepono mula sa FEMA ay maaaring magmukha na magmula sa mga hindi kilalang numero. Siguraduhin mo na nasa FEMA ang iyong kasalukuyang impormasyon sa pakikipag-ugnayan at sagutin mo ang telepono dahil maaaring tumawag ang FEMA para makakuha ng karagdagang impormasyon para sa iyong aplikasyon.

1. Maaari mo ring i-update ang iyong impormasyon sa pakikipag-ugnayan sa parehong paraan na maaari mong makuha ang sagot sa iyong mga katanungan:

• Pumunta sa online sa DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Gamitin ang app ng FEMA para sa mga smart na kasangkapan.
• Tumawag sa 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Ang mga libreng-toll na numero ay bukas mula 6 n.u. hanggang hatinggabi ng lokal na oras, araw-araw. Ang mga gumagamit ng serbisyo ng relay tulad ng teleponong may bidyo, InnoCaption o CapTel ay dapat magbigay sa FEMA ng kanilang tiyak na numero ng telepono na natalaga sa serbisyong iyon.

Kapag tinawagan ka, nasa espesyalista ng FEMA ang iyong numero ng pagrerehistro sa FEMA, numero ng telepono at address ng nasirang pag-aari. Maaari nilang hingin sa iyo ang unang apat na numero ng iyong numero sa pagpaparehistro sa FEMA. Hindi sila hihingi ng pera; libre ang pag-apply para sa tulong ng FEMA. Dahil maraming nakasalalay sa pagkakaroon ng wastong impormasyon, mahalaga na maaari kang matawagan ng FEMA. Magkaroon ng kamalayan na ang mga tawag sa telepono mula sa FEMA ay maaaring magmula sa mga hindi kilalang numero. Mangyaring siguraduhin na nasa FEMA ang iyong kasalukuyang impormasyon sa pakikipag-ugnayan. 

Kung nanghihinala ka tungkol sa isang tumatawag, tawagan mo ang Linya ng Tulong ng FEMA sa 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) upang tiyakin na sinusubukan kang maabot ng FEMA. Kung gumagamit ka ng serbisyo ng relay tulad ng serbisyo ng relay sa bidyo, serbisyo ng naka-caption na telepono o iba pa, ibigay mo sa FEMA ang iyong numero para sa serbisyong iyon. 

###

Ang tulong sa pagkabawi mula sa sakuna ay magagamit nang walang pagsasaalang-alang sa lahi, kulay, relihiyon, nasyonalidad, kasarian, edad, kapansanan, kasanayan sa Ingles, o pang-ekonomiyang katayuan. Ang makatwirang akomodasyon, kabilang ang pagsasalin ng wika at tagapagsalin ng American Sign Language (wikang pasenyas ng Amerika) gamit ang Serbisyong Relay ng Bidyo ay magagamit upang masigurado ang epektibong komunikasyon sa mga aplikanteng may limitasyon sa kasanayan sa Ingles, kapansanan, daanan at functional na pangangailangan. Kung ikaw o ang isang kakilala mo ay may diskriminasyon, tumawag sa FEMA nang libreng-toll sa 800-621-3362 (kabilang ang 711 o Relay ng Bidyo).

darrell.habisch Fri, 11/17/2023 - 15:06

المساعدة الفيدرالية تجتاز 375 مليون دولار لمقاطعة كوك

شيكاغو – تجاوزت المساعدات الفيدرالية المقدمة لسكان مقاطعة كوك المتضررين من العواصف والفيضانات الشديدة التي حدثت في الفترة من 29 يونيو/حزيران إلى 2 يوليو/تموز 375 مليون دولار. يتضمن هذا المبلغ منح الوكالة الفيدرالية لإدارة الطوارئ (FEMA) التي تزيد قيمتها عن 280 مليون دولار في شكل منح فردية وأسرية للمساعدة في الإيجار وتمويل التصليح والاستبدال ومنح الاحتياجات الأخرى التي تساعد في استبدال الممتلكات الشخصية وتوفير مدفوعات التخزين ورعاية الأطفال. بالإضافة إلى FEMA، هناك أكثر من 96.6 مليون دولار في شكل قروض منخفضة الفائدة لإدارة الأعمال الصغيرة (SBA) في حالات الكوارث لأصحاب المنازل والشركات.

فيما يلي لمحة سريعة عن المساعدة المقدمة من FEMA اعتبارا من 15 نوفمبر/تشرين الثاني:

• تمت الموافقة على أكثر من 280 مليون دولار للخدمات المالية والمباشرة للناجين المؤهلين الذين كانت لديهم احتياجات ونفقات ضرورية غير مؤمن عليها أو غير مؤمن عليها بشكل كاف بسبب الكارثة. ومن هذا المبلغ، تم تخصيص 241 مليون دولار للمساعدة في مجال الإسكان. هذا يتضمن:

  • أموال للإسكان المؤقت، مثل المساعدة في الإيجار أو تكاليف الفندق للناجين الذين لا يستطيعون العيش في منازلهم بسبب الأضرار الجسيمة التي سببتها فيضانات الصيف،

  • أموال لإصلاح منزل يشغله مالكه مما يجعل المنزل آمنا ومأمونا وصالحا للسكن،

  • أموال للمساعدة في نقل وتخزين السلع المنزلية أو الممتلكات الشخصية اللازمة،

  • المساعدة المالية لمساعدة أصحاب المنازل في تنظيف وتعقيم المنازل التي لحقت بها أضرار طفيفة،

• تم صرف باقي الأموال على النحو التالي:

  • تكاليف طبية أو تكاليف طب أسنان منسوبة إلى الكارثة.

  • مساعدة في رعاية الأطفال، وتقتصر على ثمانية أسابيع.

اعتبارا من 14 نوفمبر/تشرين الثاني، منحت SBA 88.3 مليون دولار في شكل قروض منخفضة الفائدة للكوارث لأصحاب منازل تعرضت منازلهم لأضرار واسعة النطاق ومكلفة أكثر مما يمكن تغطيته بمنحة من FEMA. منحت SBA أيضا أكثر من 8.2 مليون دولار من قروض الكوارث لمساعدة الشركات على الوقوف على أقدامها مرة أخرى.

مع أن فترة التقديم قد انتهت، يجب على الناجين الذين تقدموا بطلب للحصول على مساعدة من FEMA أن يداوموا على اتصال بـ FEMA. إذا كانت هناك تغييرات في رقم هاتفك أو عنوانك البريدي الحالي أو معلوماتك المصرفية أو التأمينية، فيجب عليك إخبار FEMA وإلا فقد تفوتك مكالمات هاتفية أو مراسلات مهمة. انتبه إلى أن مكالمات هاتفية من FEMA قد تبدو وكأنها تأتي من أرقام مجهولة. تأكد من أن FEMA لديها معلومات الاتصال الحالية الخاصة بك وقم بالرد على الهاتف، حيث قد تتصل FEMA للحصول على مزيد من المعلومات لتطبيقك.

يمكنك أيضا تحديث معلومات الاتصال الخاصة بك بنفس الطرق التي يمكنك من خلالها الإجابة على أسئلتك:

• انتقل عبر الإنترنت إلى DisasterAssistance.gov.

• استخدم تطبيق FEMA للأجهزة الذكية.

• اتصل بالرقم 3362-621-800 (7585-462-800 للمعوقين سمعا). الأرقام المجانية مفتوحة من الساعة 6 صباحا حتى منتصف الليل بالتوقيت المحلي طوال أيام الأسبوع. يجب على أولئك الذين يستخدمون خدمة ترحيل مثل هاتف الفيديو أو إنوكابشن، InnoCaption أو كابتل، CapTel تزويد FEMA برقم هاتفهم المحدد المخصص لتلك الخدمة.

عند الاتصال بك، سيحصل متخصصو FEMA على رقم تسجيل FEMA الخاص بك ورقم هاتفك وعنوان الممتلكات المتضررة. قد يطلبون منك الأرقام الأربعة الأولى من رقم تسجيل FEMA الخاص بك. لن يطلبوا مال. لا توجد رسوم للتقدم بطلب للحصول على مساعدة من FEMA. مع الاعتماد الكبير على الحصول على معلومات صحيحة، فمن المهم أن تتمكن FEMA من الاتصال بك. انتبه إلى أن المكالمات الهاتفية من FEMA قد تبدو وكأنها تأتي من أرقام مجهولة. الرجاء التأكد من أن FEMA لديها معلومات الاتصال الحالية الخاصة بك.

إذا كنت تشك في أحد المتصلين، فاتصل بخط مساعدة FEMA على الرقم800-621-3362  (للمعوقين سمعا 800-462-7585) للتحقق من أن FEMA هي من تحاول الوصول إليك. إذا كنت تستخدم خدمة ترحيل مثل خدمة ترحيل فيديو أو خدمة هاتف مزودة بتعليق أو غيرها، فامنح FEMA رقمك الخاص بهذه الخدمة.

###

تتوفر المساعدة في حالات الكوارث بغض النظر عن العرق أو اللون أو الدين أو الجنسية أو الجنس أو العمر أو الإعاقة أو إتقان اللغة الإنجليزية أو الوضع الاقتصادي. ستتوفر التسهيلات المعقولة، بما في ذلك الترجمة والمترجمين الفوريين للغة الإشارة الأمريكية عبر خدمة ترحيل الفيديو لضمان التواصل الفعال مع المتقدمين ذوي الكفاءة المحدودة في اللغة الإنجليزية والإعاقات واحتياجات الوصول والوظيفية. إذا تعرضت أنت أو أي شخص تعرفه للتمييز، فاتصل بالوكالة الفيدرالية لإدارة الطوارئ (FEMA) على الرقم المجاني 800-621-3362   (ما في ذلك 711 أو خدمة الفيديو).

darrell.habisch جمعة, 11/17/2023 - 14:41

Disaster Recovery Centers Closing for Thanksgiving Holiday

LAKE MARY, Fla. – All Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed starting Wednesday, Nov. 22 through 
Sunday, Nov. 26 in recognition of the Thanksgiving holiday. Help will remain available by calling 800-621-3362. 

Normal hours of operation will resume on Monday, Nov. 27. 

Currently open sites:

• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, 32628, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday 
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, 32066, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Fri, closed Saturday and Sunday
• Madison County: Suite 693G, 705 E Base St., Madison, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday

 

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC and do not have to reside in that county.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

It is not necessary to visit a center. Survivors can apply by calling 800-621-3362, going online at disasterassistance.gov, or using the FEMA mobile app. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

Deadline to apply is November 29, 2023.

                                            

virginia.case2 Fri, 11/17/2023 - 14:04

FEMA Awards Mayfield Electric & Water More than $1.9 Million for Tornado Related Expenses

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved $ 1,917,941 to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to help the Mayfield Electric & Water Systems (Mayfield EWS) defray the costs of emergency protective measures taken following Dec. 2021 tornadoes.

During the incident period, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and E4 tornadoes caused widespread and prolonged electric power outages in the city of Mayfield, Graves County, Kentucky. This created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public. As a result, Mayfield EWS sustained damages to water, sewer, and electrical lines throughout multiple locations. In response, the applicant will utilize contract labor to restore the electrical and water system back to its pre-disaster design, function, and capacity within the existing footprint. 

Mayfield EWS will use these funds to remove and replace 65,548 linear feet (LF) of service conductors and related hardware, 27,436 LF of primary conductor and related hardware, 398 electric meters and related hardware, 226 pole-mounted light fixtures, 329 additional hardware components, 67 crossarms, 222 poles of various sizes, and 223 each of transformers of various sizes.

Funding for this Public Assistance project is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, reimbursing 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.

FEMA’s Public Assistance 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 and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

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.

FEMA’s Public Assistance 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 Public Assistance projects for this disaster is 90 percent of the eligible cost. The commonwealth determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 10 percent) is split with the sub-recipients like local and county governments.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 11/16/2023 - 20:38

La asistencia federal supera los $375 millones para el condado Cook

CHICAGO - La asistencia federal de FEMA para los residentes del condado Cook afectados por las inundaciones y tormentas ocurridas del 29 de junio al 2 de julio ha superado los $375 millones. Esta cantidad incluye subvenciones de FEMA por más de $280 millones como parte del programa de Individuos y Familias para asistencia de alquiler, financiamiento de reparaciones y reemplazos, y subvenciones para otras necesidades que ayudan a reemplazar bienes personales y facilitan pagos de almacenamiento y cuido de niños. Además de las subvenciones de FEMA, hay más de $96.5 millones en préstamos por desastre a bajo interés de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) para propietarios de viviendas y empresas.

He aquí un vistazo de la asistencia por desastre de FEMA hasta el 15 de noviembre:

• Se aprobaron más de $280 millones para servicios financieros y directos a los sobrevivientes elegibles que tenían necesidades y gastos necesarios no asegurados o insuficientemente asegurados provocados por el desastre. De esa cantidad, $241 millones se destinaron para asistencia de vivienda. Esto incluye:
  • Fondos para vivienda provisional, como ayudas de alquiler o gastos de hotel para los sobrevivientes que no puedan vivir en sus casas debido a los excesivos daños causados por las inundaciones del verano; 
  • Fondos para la reparación de una vivienda ocupada por el propietario que hará que la vivienda esté segura, protegida y habitable;
  • Fondos para prestar asistencia en el traslado y almacenamiento de bienes del hogar o bienes personales que se necesiten;
  • Asistencia financiera para asistir a los propietarios en la limpieza y desinfección de viviendas mínimamente dañadas;
• Los fondos restantes se desembolsaron como:
  • Gastos médicos o dentales atribuibles al desastre.
  • Asistencia para el cuido de niños, limitada a ocho semanas. 

Hasta el 14 de noviembre, SBA ha adjudicado $88.3 millones en préstamos a bajo interés a propietarios cuyas viviendas habían sufrido daños más graves y costosos de los que podían cubrirse con una subvención de FEMA. SBA también concedió más de $8.2 millones en préstamos por desastre para asistir a las empresas a volver a ponerse en pie.

Aunque el periodo de solicitud ha finalizado, los sobrevivientes que hayan solicitado la ayuda de FEMA deben seguir en contacto con FEMA. Si hay cambios en su número de teléfono, dirección postal actual, información bancaria o de seguros, por favor, hágaselo saber a FEMA para que podamos actualizar su expediente. Tenga en cuenta que las llamadas telefónicas de FEMA pueden parecer venir de números no identificados. Asegúrese de que FEMA tiene su información de contacto actualizada y conteste al teléfono, ya que FEMA puede estar llamando para obtener más información para su solicitud.

1. Puede actualizar su información de contacto de la misma manera que puede obtener respuesta a sus preguntas:

• Visite DisasterAssistance.gov/es.
• Utilice la aplicación móvil de FEMA en su teléfono móvil.
• Llame al 800-621-3362 (TTY al 800-462-7585). La línea telefónica gratuita opera de 6 a.m. hasta la medianoche, hora local, los siete días de la semana. Quienes utilicen un servicio de retransmisión como un videoteléfono, InnoCaption o CapTel deberán facilitar a FEMA su número de teléfono específico asignado a ese servicio.

Cuando lo llamen, los especialistas de FEMA tendrán su número de registro de FEMA, número de teléfono y dirección de la propiedad dañada. Es posible que le pidan los cuatro primeros dígitos de su número de registro de FEMA. No le pedirán dinero; no hay que pagar nada por solicitar la asistencia de FEMA. Dado que depende en gran medida de que la información sea correcta, es importante que FEMA pueda comunicarse con usted. Tenga en cuenta que las llamadas telefónicas de FEMA pueden parecer venir de números no identificados. Asegúrese de que FEMA tiene su información de contacto actualizada. 

Si sospecha de alguien que llama, llame a la Línea de Ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) para verificar que FEMA está intentando ponerse en contacto con usted. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión por vídeo (VRS, por sus siglas en inglés), el servicio telefónico subtitulado u otros, deberá facilitar a FEMA el número de dicho servicio. 

###

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin tener en cuenta la raza, el color, la religión, la nacionalidad, el sexo, la edad, la discapacidad, el dominio del inglés o la situación económica. Se dispondrá de 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 (incluido el 711 o el Servicio de Retransmisión de vídeo). 

darrell.habisch Jue, 16/11/2023 - 20:27

Federal Assistance Tops $375 Million for Cook County

CHICAGO – Federal assistance to Cook County residents affected by the June 29 – July 2 severe storms and flooding has topped $375 million. This amount includes FEMA grants of more than $280 million in Individual and Households grants for rental assistance, repair and replacement funding, and other needs grants that help replace personal property and provide storage and childcare payments. In addition to FEMA grants there are more than $96.5 million in Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans for homeowners and businesses.

Here is a snapshot of the FEMA disaster assistance as of November 15:

• More than $280 million was approved for financial and direct services to eligible survivors who had uninsured or under-insured necessary needs and expenses triggered by the disaster. Of that amount, $241 million was for housing assistance. This includes:
  • Funds for temporary housing, such as rental assistance or hotel costs for survivors who cannot live in their homes because of too much damage caused by the summer flooding; 
  • Funds for repair of an owner-occupied home that will make the home safe, secure and habitable;
  • Funds to assist with moving and storage of household goods or needed personal property;
  • Financial assistance to assist homeowners in cleaning and sanitizing minimally damaged homes;
• The remaining funds were disbursed as: 
• Medical or dental costs attributable to the disaster.
  • Assistance for childcare, limited to eight weeks. 

As of Nov.14, the U.S. Small Business Administration had awarded $88.3 million in low interest disaster loans to homeowners whose homes suffered more extensive and costly damage than could be covered by a FEMA grant. SBA also awarded more than $8.2 million in disaster loans to help businesses get back on their feet.

While the application period has ended, survivors who have applied for FEMA assistance, should still keep in touch with FEMA. If there are changes in your telephone number, current mailing address, banking, or insurance information, you should let FEMA know or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers. Make sure that FEMA has your current contact information and answer the phone as FEMA may be calling to obtain more information for your application.

1. You can also update your contact information in the same ways you can get your questions answered:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA app for smart devices.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free numbers are open from 6 a.m. to midnight local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.

When calling you, FEMA specialists will have your FEMA registration number, telephone number and address of the damaged property. They may ask you for the first four digits of your FEMA registration number. They will not ask for money; there is no charge to apply for FEMA assistance. With so much riding on having the correct information, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers. Please make sure that FEMA has your current contact information. 

If you are suspicious about a caller, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to verify that FEMA is trying to reach you. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

###

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 via Video Relay Service 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 (including 711 or Video Relay). 

darrell.habisch Thu, 11/16/2023 - 20:20

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Fluvanna County, VA

PHILADELPHIA-- FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Fluvanna 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 Nov. 16, 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.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator - Douglas Miles dmiles@fluvannacounty.org. 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.

An Open House will be held on Tuesday, December 5th from 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at the Fluvanna County Administration Building in the Morris Conference Room, 132 Main Street Palmyra, VA 22963. This meeting will provide an opportunity for community members to review the Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps and discuss floodplain management and flood insurance questions with local, state, and federal officials. Please call Fluvanna County at (434)-591-1910 and ask to speak with Valencia Porter-Henderson or e-mail us at planning@fluvannacounty.org with any meeting questions.

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.

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. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Fluvanna County, Virginia Flood Mapping Milestones

• May 13, 2022 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• Nov. 30, 2022 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• Feb. 13, 2023 – First Community Coordination and Outreach meeting.
• Nov. 4, 2023 – Second Community Coordination and Outreach meeting.
• Nov. 16, 2023 –Appeal Period starts.
• January 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 the FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov. 

 

###

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 Thu, 11/16/2023 - 17:59

ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Unveils New Tribal Strategy Progress Report at National Congress of American Indians Convention

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, speaking to more than 2,000 tribal leaders and emergency managers at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 80th Annual Convention, unveiled FEMA’s first of its kind 2023 Tribal Strategy Progress Report and announced the opening of registration for the ninth annual Tribal Nations Training Week, to be held in March 2024.

“We are creating tailored strategies to ensure Tribal Nations have the tools they need to help tribal citizens before, during and after disasters,” said Criswell.

Leveraging FEMA’s National Tribal Strategy, which re-defined how FEMA can better meet the needs of Tribal Nations, the Progress Reportprovides a synopsis of how FEMA has been helping build Tribal Nation capabilities and capacity. These efforts include increasing in-person engagement with Tribal leaders in Indian Country and at FEMA headquarters in a manner that acknowledges tribal sovereignty and educating and improving the FEMA workforce that serves Indian Country.  

In her remarks to NCAI, Administrator Criswell affirmed FEMA’s commitment to equity and meeting the climate resilience and preparedness needs of all communities.  One important aspect of this work is FEMA’s update of the Tribal Disaster Declarations Guidance. Upon its creation, the Guidance provided Tribal Nations with the long overdue tribal pathway to request their own Presidential Disaster Declarations. It expedites federal funding and helps Tribal Nations recover from disasters more effectively and efficiently. 

During 2023, FEMA has held nine government-to-government tribal consultations and tribal listening sessions across Indian Country specifically focusing on this critical tribal resource. These sessions, both in-person and virtual, provided FEMA with feedback to rework the Guidance so that it better meets the needs of Tribal Nations. FEMA is also working to update the Tribal Mitigation Planning Policy Guide.

Administrator Criswell also announced the opening of registration for FEMA’s ninth annual Tribal Nations Training Week. The training will be held March 9-16, 2024, at FEMA’s Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Alabama.  For nearly a decade, FEMA has provided no-cost, in-person training for tribal leaders, tribal emergency managers, communications, information technology, grants, health care staff and even Indian Health Services staff. In 2023, 215 students from 77 Tribal Nations attended, and FEMA seeks to increase participation for 2024.

The 2023 Tribal Strategy Progress Report and accompanying Fiscal Year 2023 FEMA Tribal Engagement Map are available on the FEMA Tribal Affairs web page.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 11/16/2023 - 16:47

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Two Years Later: FEMA Makes Advancements for Climate Resiliency Across Region 3

PHILADELPHIA –In the two years since President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), FEMA has taken significant steps to build a more resilient nation. In FEMA Region 3, several communities have benefited from the increase in funding this law provides. 

With funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, FEMA has infused extra money into existing grant programs and announced initiatives to find creative ways to reduce disaster impacts and minimize future disaster costs. The historic legislation provides nearly $7 billion over five years for these actions across states, local communities, tribes, territories and the District of Columbia.

“President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has empowered FEMA to take bold actions to enhance resiliency against growing climate threats,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “In the past two years, this infusion of money has allowed the agency to invest in creative programs to ensure communities across the country can build the resilience they need to be prepared to withstand the increasing threats of hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, extreme heat, storms, flooding and other events driven by climate change. As we continue this forward momentum, we encourage more communities to seize these opportunities and apply for this transformational funding.”

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Impact in FEMA Region 3:

Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA Region 3 is in the process of funding over 50 mitigation projects throughout Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, DC, and Delaware. These grants will fund hazard mitigation plans, studies to support future mitigation, and the construction of mitigation projects. More than $27 million from the BIL is being provided in federal grant dollars to support this work. 

A few highlights include:

• Home Elevations in the City of Norfolk (Virginia): Through FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program, the City of Norfolk will receive nearly $775,000 to elevate seven homes throughout the city. By elevating their homes, property owners will have better protection from future flooding and lower flood insurance rates. 

 

• DC Water & Sewer Pump Station Improvements (District of Columbia): DC Water and Sewer Authority will receive $816,000 through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program to complete critical upgrades to their Deane Avenue Stormwater Pump Station, which regularly experiences outages due to flooding. The project will consist of installing a new generator and floodproofing mechanisms that will protect the pump station and keep it operational during future storms.

 

• Public Drinking Water and Wastewater Database Development (Delaware): The Delaware Department of Safety & Homeland Security will receive nearly $435,000 through the BRIC program to fund the data collection project that will look at the drinking and wastewater systems throughout the state and how to protect them from future hazards such as contamination, flooding and public health epidemics. 

 

• City of Philadelphia’s 21st Street Sewer Capacity Improvements (Pennsylvania): The City of Philadelphia will receive $5.4 million to increase the 21st Street sewer conveyance capacity. The 21st Street sewer plays a critical role in conveying wastewater and stormwater from schools, parks, residences, community facilities, and streets. Increasing the capacity of the sewer to convey wastewater and stormwater runoff will reduce the risk of flooding that damages properties and impacts human life and safety. 
  
   
• Maryland Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (Maryland): The state of Maryland will receive $70,000 to help cover the costs of updating their State Hazard Mitigation Plan. A Hazard Mitigation Plan outlines risks and vulnerabilities faced by Marylanders and offers ideas and recommendations for protecting and improving resilience in the state. These plans are updated every five years and make the state eligible for FEMA disaster grant funding.

“The projects above are great examples of how our states and the District of Columbia have benefited from the increased FEMA funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “We’re always excited to see how our state and local partners are finding new ways to become more resilient and protect themselves from future hazards. With application periods currently open for several of our grant programs, we encourage local municipalities to work with their State Hazard Mitigation Officers to apply.”

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding for Other FEMA Programs

In addition to the BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided funding for a number of FEMA programs that are taking decisive action to tackle the climate crisis and strengthen resilience nationwide, including in underserved and disadvantaged communities.

The agency will make available $1 billion over four years in State and Local Cybersecurity Grants to support strong cybersecurity practices for states, local communities, tribes and territories. In August, FEMA announced about $375 millionfor the next funding cycle.

$733 million over five years is available for the Rehabilitation of High Hazard Potential Dams program and the National Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Program to help state, territorial and local governments take action to address high hazard potential dams that pose dangers to life and property if they fail. On Nov. 2, FEMA announced a total $211 million for the two programs comprised entirely of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.

$500 million over five years is available for the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund program . This program provides capitalization grants to states, eligible federally recognized tribes, territories and the District of Columbia to establish revolving loan funds. These low-interest loans allow jurisdictions to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters and foster greater community resilience. FEMA made the first selections for this new program this summer. The agency anticipates releasing the next funding opportunity later this year.

For more information about FEMA programs funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, please visit here.

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

###

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 Thu, 11/16/2023 - 16:22

FEMA Obligates More than $8 Million to East Harlem Flood Project

NEW YORK—An East Harlem public housing development is the recipient of a FEMA grant to make it more resilient to flooding threats.

Clinton Houses will receive more than $8.3 million for a stormwater resiliency project funded through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program’s FY21 funding cycle. The project aims to reduce the effects of extreme rainfall events in the low-income housing community.

The Clinton Houses and its surrounding streets—a critical shelter and transportation lifeline for East Harlem—have been subject to persistent stormwater flooding. Extreme rainfall events are becoming more frequent, more disruptive and more dangerous to the community.

The project will control flooding through nature-based detention and retention basins capable of managing nearly 1.8 million gallons of rainfall runoff. The project will also address extreme heat through multi-functional open spaces. 

“In New York City, we are seeing an increase in extreme rainfall events which are severely impacting our communities,” said FEMA Region 2 Administrator David Warrington. “Thanks to FEMA’s BRIC program, we can implement innovative solutions to help mitigate impacts, especially in disadvantaged and underserved communities. Clinton Houses, a low-income public housing development in East Harlem, is just one example of how we are leveraging nature-based solutions to reduce risk and benefit the community in many other ways.” 

“This project reaffirms our commitment to sustainability – building resilience before disasters is a critical step toward making our communities safer for future generations,” RA Warrington added.

For more information on other BRIC funding selections, visit FEMA.gov.

The Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 Initiative aims to deliver 40% of overall benefits to projects like Clinton Houses through various FEMA programs. Project obligations like Clinton Houses—located in a disadvantaged community with the highest concentration of public housing developments in Manhattan—help the administration meet this goal. 

Disadvantaged communities like East Harlem have been marginalized and overburdened by pollution and underinvestment. Increased funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help FEMA direct money toward more communities like this so they can better withstand the growing climate threat facing communities like East Harlem.

The law provides nearly $7 billion to help communities proactively reduce their vulnerability to flood, hurricanes, drought, wildfires, extreme heat and other climate-fueled hazards. The current BRIC funding announcement of $1 billion benefits from $400 million in BIL funds.

To learn more about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, visit FEMA.gov. 

###

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

gina.callaghan Thu, 11/16/2023 - 16:12