The Barre Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 6 p.m. Thursday, November 9.

The center is currently open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday (closed Saturday and Sunday) at:

Alumni Hall Building
Third Floor
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641

Vermonters can visit the center to get in-person help regarding disaster assistance. Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to help upload documents, answer questions and guide you through the appeals process.

You can get help without visiting the center: go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Language translation is available; 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 call.

In light of decreased demand from Typhoon Mawar survivors, the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 is now open 19 hours daily, with revised hours from 9 p.m. (ChST) to 4 p.m. (ChST) the following day, effective immediately.

Guam residents who registered with FEMA for disaster assistance after Typhoon Mawar are encouraged to stay in contact with FEMA to resolve issues, provide updates on their applications or submit new information.

Applicants changing addresses, phone numbers or banking information should notify FEMA immediately. Missing or erroneous information could result in delays in receiving assistance.

Callers to the FEMA Helpline should refer to the nine-digit number they were issued at registration. This number is on all correspondence applicants receive from FEMA and is a key identifier in tracking assistance requests.

Survivors can also call the helpline to:

• Update insurance information.
• Receive information on the home inspection process.
• Add or remove the name of a person designated to speak on your behalf.
• Find out if FEMA needs more information about your claim.
• Update FEMA on your housing situation.
• Learn how to appeal an eligibility determination.
• Get answers to other questions about your applications.

In addition to calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, applicants may also update their information the following ways:

• Online at disasterassistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA mobile app.

For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit our website.

Follow FEMA at X (previously known as Twitter) and Facebook.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $3.6 million to the State of Connecticut to reimburse it for the cost of paying overtime to public safety staff during the pandemic.

A Public Assistance grant of $3,590,225 will go to the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services & Public Protection (CTDESPP) for the cost of paying employees overtime to staff the state’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) between March 2020 and June 2022.

439 CTDESPP employees worked a total of 27,893 hours of overtime in the identification, coordination, scheduling and deployment of available resources across the state to implement mitigation, preparedness and response measures to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist to the State of Connecticut 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 over $906 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Floridians who applied for assistance from FEMA should stay in touch with the agency to update application details with any new information. Missing or outdated material could delay an application.

Information that may need to be updated could include:

• Your current housing situation, phone number or mailing address.
• Adding or removing the name of a person designated to speak for you.
• Adding or changing names of household members and number of people living in the home.
• Changes in your application for FEMA assistance.
• Correcting or verifying home and property damage.
• Updating your payment preference.

To update your information you can create an account at DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the Helpline at 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. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

When contacting FEMA be sure to refer to the nine-digit application number you were issued when you applied. This number is included in all correspondence you receive from FEMA.

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.

CHICAGO — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities available through the Public Assistance (PA) or Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP) programs. Calhoun and Logan counties were recently deemed eligible for PA assistance. HMGP remains available statewide. 

A public notice for the current disaster recovery mission is attached and posted on the following website: Disaster Public Notice: FEMA-4728-DR-IL | FEMA.gov.

This public notice addresses the agency’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged by the June 29 – July 2 severe storms and flooding in Illinois. This public notice concerns activities that may affect historic properties, activities that are located in or may affect wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain, and critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. The notice describes the agency’s legal requirement to include the public in its evaluation of proposed activities’ impact to or by floodplains and wetlands, and effects on historic resources. 

This may be the only public notice provided regarding these FEMA actions. Information about assistance projects may be obtained by submitting a written request to the Regional Administrator, DHS-FEMA Region V; 536 South Clark St., Chicago, IL 60605. The information may also be obtained by calling: (312) 408-5500, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. Comments should be sent in writing to the Regional Administrator, at the above address, within 30 days from October 26, 2023.

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

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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 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).

Today is the final day for Vermont residents affected by July’s severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides to apply for FEMA assistance.

The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. tonight, October 31.

If you had storm-related expenses and live or own a business in Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham or Windsor County, FEMA assistance can provide grants and U.S. Small Business Administration loans to help cover housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.

To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. 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.

To apply in person, visit the Disaster Recovery Center in Barre, where FEMA specialists can answer questions, help upload documents and refer you to resources. The center is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. It is closed Saturday and Sunday. It is located at:

Alumni Hall Building, Third Floor
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641

The center will close permanently at 6 p.m., Thursday, November 9.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers debris removal mission comes to a close as contractors completed cleanup of eligible Typhoon Mawar related debris from residential right of way in all 19 villages in Guam.

A coordinated effort among the Office of the Governor of Guam, Guam Homeland Security Office of Civil Defense, the Mayors Council of Guam, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Guam Department of Agriculture, Guam Environmental Protection Agency, Guam Department of Public Works, Environmental Chemical Corp., Pacific Federal Management and FEMA made it possible to carry out the debris removal and to support Guam residents on their recovery journey.

The Governor’s Office has made the initial request to FEMA and its partner agencies to conduct the mission. The mayors of Guam have been an indispensable resource throughout the right of way mission. The mayors provided critical information to USACE on the locations of residential roads and acted as advocates for their community. The local mayors have signed the memorandum on debris removal in all 19 villages. USACE asks that any remaining debris including ineligible and hazardous waste be disposed of properly and not be left out. Any debris remaining will be the residents’ responsibility to dispose of.

Certain forms of ineligible debris may be taken to one of the three Guam Solid Waste Authority residential transfer stations in Harmon, Hagåt and Malojloj. Transfer station operation hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday through Monday. A nominal fee is required for disposal of household trash.

Residents are urged to dispose of their solid waste properly. Illegal dumping is a violation of Guam law. In accordance with 10 GCA §51115(b), illegal dumping is subject to fines of up to $1,000 per day, per violation, along with the cleanup cost associated with the violation.

To view the Debris Mission Dashboard detailing the completed debris mission operation, visit

Guam Debris Mission DR4715 - Dashboard (PUBLIC) (arcgis.com)

For an FAQ answering common questions about the debris mission, visit

U.S. Army Corp of Engineers Debris Mission FAQ | FEMA.gov

For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, please visit our website. 

Follow FEMA at X (formerly known as Twitter) and Facebook.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

ATLANTA – As Georgia residents repair and rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia, FEMA continues to team up with local hardware stores to provide free information and tips on how to make hurricane-damaged homes stronger and safer. 

FEMA specialists will be available in Quitman, Adel and Valdosta to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work. There is no charge and reservations are not required. 

The specialists will be available on these dates and at these locations: 

Monday through Saturday, Oct. 30–Nov. 4 

Stone's Home Centers in Brooks County
1106 W. Screven St. 
Quitman, GA 31643 

Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, Nov. 6–9 

Home Depot in Lowndes County
1825 Norman Dr. 
Valdosta, GA 31601 

Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, Nov. 6–9 and Saturday Nov. 11
(not available Nov. 10 in observance of Veteran’s Day)

Adel Trading Co. Home Center in Cook County
313 West Fifth St. 
Adel, GA 31620

Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Saturday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $1.15 million for Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) for culvert repairs in Harlan County after last summer’s severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides caused culvert damage.

Following the devastating flood event, high velocity flood water oversaturated the soil on the eastbound lane of KY- 522 causing the box culvert to collapse. This occurred west of Eversole Hollow Road in Cumberland.

FEMA approved $1,156,847 for KYTC to utilize for contract services to restore the facility back to its pre-disaster function and capacity. The new 12 X 8 feet single reinforced concrete block culvert (RCBC) will replace two existing RCBC: one will be 8 X 3 feet and the other 4 x 3 feet.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation program is adding an additional 6720 cubic foot RCBC. The mitigation measure will reduce the risk of future damage by armoring the embankment to allow a greater flow of water under the roadway.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation/Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program. The federal share for reimbursement for this project is 75% and the Commonwealth share is 25%. Project costs for contract work is $1,444,875 and $97,588 for hazard mitigation projects. The total of $1,542,463 is funded at a 75% federal cost share of $1,156,847.

FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer John Brogan said, “In keeping with our mission, we are pleased that FEMA and our partners, through Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation programs, are helping local communities with their recovery.”

For more information on eastern Kentucky’s recovery from last year’s historic flooding, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Floridians who sustained loss from Hurricane Idalia have one month to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is Nov. 29, 2023.

To date, federal funding for assistance to households, low-interest disaster loans and flood insurance includes:

• $72.7 million in FEMA grants to 34,690 households 
• $63.9 million in U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans
• $195 million in National Flood Insurance Program payments; 5,100 claims filed

FEMA specialists are going door to door in affected communities helping people apply for assistance. To date, they have visited 140,000 homes and 9,000 public spaces. Disaster Recovery Centers have received 17,500 visitors. 

If you sustained loss from Hurricane Idalia and live in Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee or Taylor counties, FEMA may be able to help. You may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses. 

Call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App for mobile devices or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The telephone 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 VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

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.

HONOLULU – If you are a survivor of the Aug. 8 Maui wildfires and you received FEMA rental assistance, make sure you stay in touch with FEMA. You may be eligible for continued rental assistance for temporary housing in any U.S.-governed location. 

FEMA pays rent for temporary housing to help you get back on your feet and have one less bill to worry about. Rent includes a security deposit for any temporary housing other than your fire-damaged residence. The initial FEMA grant covers your rent for the first two months. When that runs out, you can ask FEMA for more assistance. 

You may be able to receive FEMA rental assistance for three-month periods – up to a maximum of 18 months from the president’s major disaster declaration, or Feb. 10, 2024. Just reach out to FEMA regularly and let the specialists know you still need rental assistance for your temporary housing. 

To get started, just follow a few simple steps: 

• Contact FEMA and ask for an Application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. 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. Helpline operators can arrange interpretation in many languages.
• You may also receive in-person help from FEMA specialists at any Disaster Recovery Center. Find the one nearest you at fema.gov/DRC.
• Once you’ve completed the form, you may drop it off at any Disaster Recovery Center or mail it to FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-8055. You can also fax it to 800-827-8112 or upload it to your disaster account at DisasterAssistance.gov.

Remember, rental help is available if you update FEMA with your current contact information and housing status.

If you have not yet applied for FEMA disaster assistance, it’s not too late. You have until 11:59 p.m. (Hawaiʻi time) Thursday, Nov. 9, to apply. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline. 

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org and fema.gov/disaster/4724. 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. 

U.S. Virgin Islands -- Several houses of worship in the U.S. Virgin Islands are recipients of FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program this year. In total, about $900,000 was awarded to various houses of worship and nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. These grants will fund structural enhancements to protect these vital community institutions from security related concerns.

Working with the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) and the U.S. Virgin Islands Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VI VOAD), the FEMA Integration Team Lead, Aaron VanDoren, and FEMA’s Faith-based Preparedness Coordinator, Race Hodges, supported both organizations with growing their faith-sector network by conducting over 20-plus in-person trainings and workshops for communities of faith across the U.S. Virgin Islands beginning in early 2022. 

Relevant workshops in which this grant was promoted included multiple offerings of FEMA’s Organizations Preparing for Emergency Needs (OPEN) training, and FEMA’s Grant Writing and Organizational Preparedness workshop. 

VITEMA provided critical stewardship to prospective applicants in this process. The collaborative partnership between VITEMA, the USVI VOAD and FEMA supported the revitalization of this grant funding opportunity in the territory, leading to an important funding award for critical community organizations in the U.S. Virgin Islands. If your nonprofit organization is interested in pursuing upcoming offerings of this grant program, visit https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/nonprofit-security to learn more.

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

ATLANTA – Georgia homeowners and renters who suffered uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from Hurricane Idalia in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties, have one week left to apply for federal disaster assistance.

The deadline to apply for assistance from FEMA is Monday, Nov. 6, 2023.

Survivors may apply at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) which are dedicated, accessible and established locations where specialists from FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program help applicants face to face. Highly trained specialists assist survivors through the recovery process, explaining the types of assistance available from FEMA, such as housing and other needs assistance.

These DRCs are open through these dates:

• Lowndes County, 2108 E. Hill Ave., Valdosta is open through 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 31. 
• Brooks County, 400 E. Courtland Ave., Quitman is open through 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 2.
• Cook County, 206 East Ninth St., Adel is open through 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 6.

All DRCs are open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Sunday.

This is what you will need when you apply:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number. 
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit. 
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you are unable to locate important documentation, FEMA will help you identify other ways to verify this information.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

FEMA’s IA program is designed to help disaster survivors with basic, critical needs such as a safe, sanitary, and functional place to live while survivors look for a long-term or permanent housing solution. It is not designed to make survivors whole and is not a substitute for insurance coverage. FEMA IA cannot duplicate other sources of assistance. 

FEMA provides funds paid directly to eligible individuals and households. Financial Housing Assistance may include rental assistance, lodging expenses reimbursement, home repair assistance, and replacement assistance. 

If you are unable to apply in person, visit DisasterAssistance.gov; call 800-621-3362 Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; 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 the number for that service.

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – As two disasters occurred within a two-year span - in 2017 with Hurricane María and later during the 2020 Earthquakes - the sisters and support staff at the Hermanitas de los Ancianos Desamparados nursing homes cared for their 110 residents and even provided shelter for nearby families. 

"The home is located in a fairly elevated area and entire families came to seek refuge here," said Sister Gladys Rosario, Director of Hogar Santa Marta, in Ponce. "The sisters took in these people and provided them with food and some small mattresses so they could rest, as they spent days and nights in the parking lot and surrounding areas."

In order to help this organization provide a better place for the hundreds of residents in its care, FEMA awarded nearly $6.6 million to repair damage to three of its four nursing homes: Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet in Cupey, Hogar Santa Marta in Ponce and Hogar Nuestra Señora de la Providencia in Puerta de Tierra.

Each home offers physical, emotional and spiritual care to the elderly. "Especially to those who are most helpless, due to illness, loneliness or economic situation," Sister Rosario emphasized. "Those who have some income contribute and those who do not, contribute nothing and receive the same services."

The Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero emphasized the importance of providing funds to organizations that care for vulnerable populations. “These obligations will will improve the quality of life of the residents and will provide a stronger and safer workplace for the sisters and staff members,” Baquero said.

The funds provided by the agency - about $4.8 million - helped Hogar Santa Marta make multiple infrastructure and electrical repairs. This included hazard mitigation repairs to protect the building against high winds and water infiltration damage.

"This will definitely allow us to enjoy a safe structure, without water leaks, with recreational areas, freshly painted and attractive, brand-new shutters and appliances, as well as power generators and solar panels, which will help keep medical equipment running in case of a power outage," added Sister Rosario.

On the other hand, the Hogar Nuestra Señora de la Providencia, located in Puerta de Tierra and built in 1913, was allocated over $637,200, of which almost $56,000 went to hazard mitigation works.

Hogar Santa Marta received approval for nearly $4.8 million in Public Assistance funds for infrastructure and electrical repairs. In addition, they cover hazard mitigation repairs to protect the building against high winds and water infiltration damage. Much of this work has already been completed.

"Our population will definitely enjoy the repairs that have been made and those that are in progress. This will allow them to enjoy a safe structure, without water leaks, with recreational areas, freshly painted and attractive, brand-new shutters and electric appliances, and also power generators and solar panels, which will help keep medical equipment running in case of a power outage," added Sister Rosario.

Furthermore, the Hogar Nuestra Señora de la Providencia, located in Puerta de Tierra and built in 1913, was allocated over $637,200, of which almost $56,000 went to hazard mitigation works.

Meanwhile, the agency awarded about $1.2 million for repairs and hazard mitigation to Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet, located on Las Cumbres Avenue, Cupey. Many of the proposed construction projects have been completed, including repairs to its concrete cisterns and embankment, removal and repair of asphalt roads, and exterior infrastructure work that involved excavations to ensure the integrity of the structure.

"Our activity center's rooftop, surrounding fence, doors and windows, air conditioning units and others have been upgraded, with FEMA's help, the nursing home is improving," said Mother Superior Sister Yolanda Cueto, Director of the nursing home.

Likewise, Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Eng. Manuel A. Laboy Rivera said, "At COR3, alongside FEMA, we assist the administrators of the homes for the elderly to provide the assistance they require in the reconstruction process. For this reason, we have advanced approximately $1.2 million through the Working Capital Advance pilot program to promote permanent jobs in multiple senior housing projects. In fact, in this housing concept we are also developing projects through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provide energy resiliency, and among others."

To date, FEMA has awarded over $1.2 billion for about 1,100 permanent construction projects in private, nonprofit facilities throughout Puerto Rico, including long-term care facilities and nursing homes.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet, San Juan, PR

San Juan, Puerto Rico (October 17, 2023) – FEMA allocated nearly $6.5 million for repairs to elderly homes of the organization Hermanitas de los Ancianos Desamparados in San Juan and Ponce affected by Hurricane María. That figure includes nearly $1.2 million to Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet for repairs to its four-story building located in Cupey and nearly $500,000 for hazard mitigation measures. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez Rivera

Hogar Santa Marta, Ponce, Puerto Rico

Ponce, Puerto Rico (October 17, 2023) – FEMA approved nearly $4.8 million in Public Assistance funds for infrastructure and electrical repairs to Hogar Santa Marta. The funds include $2.5 million for work to protect the building from high winds and water infiltration damage in future events. Many of the proposed construction projects have been completed. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez Rivera. 

HONOLULU – If a boat was your primary residence and it was damaged as a result of the Aug. 8 wildfires on Maui, FEMA may be able to help you recover some of those losses.

Living on a boat comes with a unique set of challenges. Live-aboard permits and parking fees, harbor and mooring fees are just a few of the expenses unique to primary residency aboard a boat.

To receive FEMA disaster assistance, you must be prepared to provide the physical and complete address of the dock or marina and the slip or mooring number if the boat is not located on private property. Not providing a slip or mooring number may result in your FEMA application becoming attached to another boat or boats at the same address. And that oversight could cause delays in processing your application.

Also, you cannot use a post office box as your primary address, but it can be used as a mailing address.

Maui survivors are encouraged to apply for federal disaster assistance by Thursday, Nov. 9, if a boat is your primary residence. Here are the ways to apply: 

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app
• Call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. 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. Helpline operators are available from 1 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, and they speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6
• You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center for updates about your FEMA application or answers to your questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov)

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org and fema.gov/disaster/4724. 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. 

HONOLULU – Two weeks are left for homeowners and renters to apply for FEMA disaster assistance if you had damage or losses to your property from the Aug. 8 wildfires on Maui. You may also apply for a disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration, a FEMA partner in Maui’s recovery.

The deadline to apply is Thursday, Nov. 9, for both federal agencies. Recovery programs require that you register for FEMA disaster assistance before you can be considered for those programs, so it’s important to sign up soon.

Disaster survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage or losses to their primary homes, personal property and vehicles before applying for FEMA assistance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid and FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits. 

The American Red Cross has played a prominent role in the response to the Maui wildfires. The Red Cross is providing financial assistance, temporary housing in hotels and other services, including assisting survivors who are not eligible for some FEMA programs. You may schedule an appointment at RedCross.org/HIhelp, speak to a Red Cross representative at a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).

FEMA’s Individual Assistance program is designed to help you with basic, critical needs such as a safe, sanitary and accessible place to live. Assistance includes rental assistance, lodging expenses reimbursement, and home repair and replacement assistance. 

To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. 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. Helpline operators are available from 1 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, and they speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

American Sign Language video on how to apply. You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get answers to your questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov).

FEMA works closely with the U.S. Small Business Administration, which provides low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses. Some applicants may be referred to the SBA to apply for a disaster loan. Homeowners may borrow up to $500,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $100,000 to repair or replace personal property.

For SBA disaster assistance, you may apply online and download applications at https://www.sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. Applicants may also receive information by calling SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. 

For SBA applicants who are deaf, hard-of-hearing or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services. Completed applications may be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org and fema.gov/disaster/4724. 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. 

CHICAGO – You can’t believe your eyes! FEMA sent you a determination letter that says you are not currently approved for federal disaster assistance even though your home was damaged in the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding. What do you do now? Appeal! 

An appeal is a written request to FEMA to review your file again. It is also an opportunity for you to provide new or additional information not previously submitted that may affect the decision. You have the right to appeal any decision by FEMA regarding your application for Individual Assistance, such as your initial eligibility decision, the amount or type of assistance provided to you, late applications, or requests to return money.

An appeal should be filed in the form of a signed letter within 60 days of the date on the determination letter. In the appeal, explain why you disagree with the decision. Be sure to include the following: 

• Applicant’s full name, current address and the address of the damaged dwelling.
• Applicant’s 9-digit FEMA registration number, found at the top of the determination letter (on every page).
• Any relevant documentation that supports your request, e.g., contractor estimates, rent checks, insurance correspondence, inspection reports, photographs of damage, receipts.
• FEMA disaster declaration number, DR-4728-IL (on every page). 
• Applicant’s signature and the date.

If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party. Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.

Mail your appeal letter to:

FEMA Individuals & Households Program
National Processing Service Center
P. O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

Appeal letters and supporting documentation can also be uploaded to your account on DisasterAssistance.gov, or you can fax it to 800-827-8112.

Being turned down for assistance may be disappointing but read the letter carefully and all the way through. You may find there’s an easy fix for your dilemma – a missing signature, an incomplete address or a missing document.

If you need help and want to talk with a FEMA representative, visit any Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Find a center at FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Locator. 

Remember, FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides financial assistance to eligible individuals and households affected by a disaster who have uninsured or underinsured disaster-related expenses. FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance, nor can it return the survivor to their pre-disaster condition. Federal assistance from FEMA only provides funds for temporary housing and basic repairs for a home to be safe, sanitary, and functional. 

Additional disaster assistance can be sought from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which offers eligible homeowners, renters and businesses disaster loans at low interest rates. Contact SBA through its Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955  or visit https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance/physical-damage-loans. 

The deadline to apply to FEMA for federal assistance is October 30. While the application period is closed after that date, FEMA will continue to receive and process appeals and assist applicants with questions. For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit https://fema.gov/disaster/4728.

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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 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). 

ATLANTA – If you are experiencing feelings of hopelessness or stress as a result of Hurricane Idalia, you can get free crisis counseling from FEMA.  

FEMA has made the free help available to residents of Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and FEMA have activated a Disaster Distress Helpline or you can call or text 800-985-5990. This free crisis support service is available all day every day for Georgia residents experiencing emotional distress or mental health problems caused or aggravated by Hurricane Idalia or her aftermath.   

The helpline staff may provide confidential counseling and other needed support services, or, immediately connect callers to trained professionals from the nearest participating crisis counseling center.   

When calling, Spanish-speakers can press “2” for bilingual support. Callers can connect with counselors in more than 100 other languages via third-party interpretation services by indicating their preferred language to the responding counselor. A videophone option for American Sign Language users is also available by calling 800-985-5990 from a videophone-enabled device or via an “ASL Now” link at samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline.  

Survivors may also call Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225 for emergency crisis support. 

To apply for FEMA assistance, survivors who live in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn or Lowndes county can visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for other languages. Residents may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance. For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.   

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending over $26 million to the State of New Hampshire and Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital to reimburse them for costs incurred responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

One Public Assistance grant of $24,410,106 will go to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services for the cost of staffing a network vaccination sites for the public.

The state contracted with On-Site Medical Services for personnel to run 5 fixed and 93 mobile vaccine sites state-wide, which provided distribution and administration of vaccinations to approximately 36,727 homebound individuals, school staff, and other vulnerable individuals. The cost of the vaccines was not included. 

A second Public Assistance grant will provide $1,770,931 in federal funding to Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital for the cost of setting up a testing system for the Hanover-based hospital’s staff and patients, part of the Dartmouth Health system.

Mary Hitchcock purchased just over 30,000 antigen test kits as well as equipment for processing the tests inhouse. The hospital also contracted Cronin and Company for the creation and dissemination of various public service announcements regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist to the State of New Hampshire and Mary Hitchcock Memorial 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 $286 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.4 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse it for the costs of renting and operating warehouse space during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Public Assistance grant of $1,388,922 will go to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services for the cost of renting and operating warehouse space to stockpile and distribute vaccines, testing kits and other supplies used to protect the public between April 2020 and July 2022.

The costs also included a large capacity refrigerator, one-gallon pumps, 6-yard waste management containers and removal service, inventory management software, coolers, printer toner, and work stools.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist to the State of New Hampshire 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 $286 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.