FEMA Approves More Than $11 Million in Federal Funding for the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $11 million for the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) for debris removal operations undertaken to remove debris deposited throughout Kentucky by last summer’s severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

Following the devastating flood event, debris removal, part of FEMA’s Public Assistance program, became a critical mission to help address the immediate threat to the general public’s health and safety as well as to property. 

“Every disaster is unique and brings its own set of hurdles to overcome, particularly with debris,” said KYEM Director Jeremy Slinker. “The challenges we faced in this response was unlike any we had ever faced before. I am proud and thankful for the many partners that had a hand in helping Eastern Kentucky.”

Approximately 31,749 tons of vegetative debris, 22,359 tons of construction and demolition debris, 6,805 tons of sand/soil/mud, 2,586 of hazardous leaning trees and seven hazardous hanging limbs were removed from waterways and public property. 

Debris was removed to eight permitted temporary debris staging and reduction sites, and then hauled to a final disposal site. (The total amount of debris was approximately the size of a football field).

FEMA approved $11,305,017 for KYEM to utilize for contract services for conducting debris removal and debris monitoring activities.

FEMA Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program. Due to of the magnitude of damage from this storm, President Biden authorized a cost share reimbursement of 100% federal funding for this project. All work and costs were between Aug. 8 and Sept. 6, 2022. 

FEMA’s Federal Co-ordinating Officer, John Brogan, said, “In keeping with our mission, this initiative responded to Kentuckians’ plight and helped local communities on their road to 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. 

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/24/2023 - 16:40

Community Disaster Resilience Zones Build Resilience Nationwide, Create New Opportunities for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Benefits

WASHINGTON -- Last month, FEMA announced the designation of 483 community census tracts as Community Disaster Resilience Zones (CDRZ), as directed by Congress in the Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act of 2022. Natural disasters and the most severe effects of climate change disproportionately impact communities that are least able to prepare for, and recover from, those harms. To counter this, the Act directed FEMA to take a data-based approach to designate and assist communities that are most at-risk and in-need with respect to natural disasters and climate impacts. 

Communities designated as CDRZ can receive increased financial and technical assistance to plan and implement resilience projects. For example, CDRZ are eligible for Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant funds at an increased federal cost share of up to 90% (relative to the baseline of up to 75%). Designated communities are prioritized to receive BRIC Direct Technical Assistance as well as Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA) assistance to support their BRIC project proposals. Designated communities do not have to submit a cost-effectiveness narrative for BRIC project proposals that have a total cost of $1 million or more and qualify for BCA assistance. Finally, each state and the District of Columbia are eligible for a $2 million BRIC allocation for eligible activities such as project scoping, updates or creating hazard mitigation plans, or adopting and enforcing building codes. In this grant cycle, FEMA is designating nearly 20% of the total BRIC allocation, including $400,000 per state, to be applied to applications submitted from designated zones. 

FEMA is hosting two informational webinars, on October 25 and October 31, for the public to learn more about the vision for the Community Disaster Resilience Zones, the designation methodology and future opportunities for partnership and investment. 

To make its initial designations, FEMA coupled data from its National Risk Index with the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool developed by the White House Council on Environmental Quality. Communities within 2020 census tracts were designated as CDRZ if (1) their composite National Risk Index - Risk Index Scores ranked in the top 50 nationally or in the top 1% within their state, and (2) they were identified as disadvantaged by the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool. The initial set of designations will endure for five years, and additional designations for Tribal and territorial designations will be announced later this year.

The CDRZ designations also provide a common framework for federal agencies to work with external stakeholders to collectively build resilience in our nation’s most at-risk communities. See what leaders representing key stakeholder groups are saying about the importance of the CDRZ designations:

American Institute of Architects (AIA): Lakisha Woods, Executive Vice President & Chief Executive Officer. “The American Institute of Architects commends FEMA for designating the first 483 Community Disaster Resilience Zones. While the impact of natural disasters continues to increase in both frequency and severity, AIA is committed to advancing resilient building design through all available channels and offers a range of resources, research and expertise. Architects play a crucial role designing resilient strategies to help communities prepare for and recover from catastrophic events. AIA is proud to have worked with Congress to get the Community Disaster Resilience Zone Act passed. We look forward to working with FEMA to ensure the communities selected receive the support necessary to prepare for the next disaster.”

American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA): Michael Richmond-Crum, Director, Personal Lines & Counsel. “As the primary trade association for home, auto and business insurers, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association and our members are deeply committed to overcoming the challenges that devastating catastrophes present to our nation. We believe the changing landscape of catastrophic events, and the impact they are having across the world and within the United States, demands immediate innovative solutions at all levels of government to improve resiliency and protect communities. Location and community-oriented programs such as the Community Disaster Resilience Zones Program, which is intended to improve resilience through federal and public-private resource partnerships are a needed and vital component to a holistic national response to the changing natural catastrophe landscape. APCIA and its members believe that these designations are an essential component of national efforts to adapt and respond to the ongoing and increasing risk of property loss to catastrophic events and to improve the nation’s resiliency to those events.”

Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies (AMWA): Tom Dobbins, Chief Executive Officer. "AMWA appreciates the efforts of FEMA to effectively implement the Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act of 2022 by updating the National Risk Index and considering processes to designate and assist community disaster resilience zones. As large, metropolitan drinking water agencies, AMWA’s members consistently prepare for and respond to natural disasters. AMWA supports FEMA’s commitment to designate and prioritize funding for communities with demonstrated vulnerability to major disasters and values the agency’s engagement in helping utilities and communities reduce the impacts of climate change and other natural hazards."

BuildStrong Coalition: Natalie F. Enclade, Executive Director. “The BuildStrong Coalition applauds the FEMA's decision to prioritize the need for disaster mitigation and resilience investments as a core component of the national conversation on resilient infrastructure and communities. We are committed to supporting and working with the entire resilience community to draw down disaster costs and losses, shifting federal dollars away from reactive and ballooning disaster spending and toward research-backed, proactive investment in disaster resilience. The BuildStrong Coalition and its members stand ready to discuss our recommendations and assist in the implementation of the CDRZ Act.”

Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP): Patricia McIlreavy, President and CEO. “The Center for Disaster Philanthropy commends FEMA’s identification of Community Disaster Resilience Zones. At CDP, we recognize that the most marginalized and systemically discriminated against communities, families and individuals are the ones who suffer the most after a disaster. We are also clear that there are no “natural disasters.” Rather, disasters occur when there is an intersection of natural or technological hazards, including severe weather events, with an at-risk population. The release of these designations is a solid first step at identifying those areas that house U.S. populations needing support – before, during and after a disaster. For philanthropy, this is an opportunity to direct investment to mitigation, adaptation and preparedness activities to reduce the impact of the climate crisis. Designated zones allow funders to clearly identify pockets of their communities requiring higher levels of investment. CDP looks forward to learning more as the implementation progresses and to supporting philanthropic entities engaged in responding in designated zones.”  

Coastal States Organization (CSO): Derek Brockbank, Executive Director. “With the currently unprecedented level of federal investment in building climate resilience, it is important that federal programs work to complement one another in order to best provide support to communities in need. CSO lauds the goal of these designations and in using the National Risk Index to target federal support to communities most in need of assistance for resilience-related activities and assist communities in understanding their risk to natural hazards. CSO staff stand ready to engage with FEMA on sharing information with our members across the coastal states and territories.”

 

Geos Institute: Tonya Graham, Executive Director. “We appreciate the forward-thinking nature of this initiative and its potential to create transformational change for at-risk communities across our nation. FEMA's partnership approach to designating and supporting communities that receive CDRZ designations bodes well for the initiative's long-term success. It is exciting to see this scale of investment in creating a resilient nation.”

Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Michael Newman, General Counsel. “Building a disaster resilient nation means recognizing that some populations may have a need for additional resources and that’s not a deterrent, yet an opportunity to use tax dollars responsibly. At the IBHS, we know that severe weather disrupts lives, displaces families and drives financial loss. The perils we study are part of the natural world in which we live, but social and economic disasters can occur when these perils meet human populations that live or work in harm’s way.  We commend FEMA for the creation of the Community Disaster Resilience Zones to ensure that effective mitigation efforts are not a luxury just for those with financial means, yet a reality for all. Providing a framework where communities can work together to collectively build resilience in our nation’s most vulnerable areas is a solution, we all can – and should – support.” 

International Code Council: Dominic Sims, Chief Executive Officer. “The International Code Council applauds FEMA’s ongoing commitment towards bolstering community resilience by implementing the CDRZ Act. CDRZ-designated communities have the greatest disaster risk and the fewest resources to build their community resilience. As the private sector becomes more focused on enhancing the resilience of the built environment in CDRZ communities, the Code Council stands prepared to help provide a coordinated set of solutions of modern, consensus-based, hazard-resistant building codes and to ensure that any community interested in pursuing code adoptions or updates has strong code enforcement protocols that will ultimately make these communities safer.”

Milken Institute: Dan Carol, Senior Director, Climate Resilient Infrastructure Initiative. “We strongly believe that the designation of Community Disaster Resilience Zones provides an opportunity to direct much‐needed focus and resources to high‐need communities while incentivizing best practices and innovative finance at the local level. Through our 10,000 Communities Initiative and Community Infrastructure Center, the Milken Institute is actively working with partners to help underserved rural and urban communities access project development capital and technical assistance so that they can build their most critical community infrastructure projects and strengthen local economic resilience. Many disadvantaged communities lack the ability to respond to emergencies due to insufficient economic resources. Investment in hazard mitigation presents an opportunity to help communities build economic resilience, not only in facilitating their ability to respond to natural hazards but also in their overall well‐being. Implementing the CDRZ offers a very promising new channel for leveraging these efforts to de‐risk community infrastructure and thereby attract additional public, private, impact and philanthropic capital to areas most affected by extreme weather and climate change.”

National Association of Counties: Matthew Chase, Executive Director. “When disasters strike, county officials and emergency responders play a critical role in both the immediate response and long-term efforts to help our communities and residents recover. FEMA’s new Community Disaster Resilience Zones will facilitate equitable access to critical federal resources before, during and after disasters by identifying jurisdictions with the greatest risk and providing targeted assistance. We thank FEMA for including counties in the CDRZ implementation process and look forward to the continued partnership to make our communities more resilient.”

National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC): Jimi Grande, Senior Vice President, Federal and Political Affairs. “As a leading voice on the critical importance of increasing resiliency and improving pre-disaster mitigation techniques across the country, the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies is pleased to see FEMA designate the first 483 Community Disaster Resilience Zones to further increase our nation’s resiliency in the face of natural disasters that continue to increase in both frequency and severity. For more than a decade, NAMIC has played an instrumental role on Capitol Hill in educating Congress about the need for mitigation and the benefits of proactive loss prevention policies. NAMIC is proud to have played an active role in seeing the CDRZ Act signed into law late last year, and we look forward to FEMA completing the full implementation process. We are excited to continue this effort, working with Congress to increase resiliency and improve mitigation in our nation’s communities, saving lives and taxpayer dollars.”

National Housing Conference: David M. Dworkin, President and CEO. “Establishing Community Disaster Resilience Zones are a critical step in our efforts to fortify the most vulnerable communities against the escalating threats of natural disasters and extreme weather events, exacerbated by the ongoing challenge of climate change. Community Disaster Resilience Zones enhance national disaster resilience by directing federal, public, and private resources towards the most vulnerable and underserved jurisdictions ensuring these communities are not left behind in the face of natural disasters. With Community Disaster Resilience Zones, communities are empowered with the tools and resources they need to build a stronger, more resilient future, reducing the burden of disaster recovery and creating a safer, more equitable tomorrow."

National Institute of Building Sciences: JQ Yuan, Vice President of Engineering. “As natural disasters grow more frequent and destructive, our nation is experiencing an urgent need to improve community resilience, especially for those having high vulnerability to disasters and with limited resources. The concept of the Community Disaster Resilience Zones initiative aims to address the unique challenges faced by these communities by providing them with targeted support and resources to enhance their disaster resilience. Once Community Disaster Resilience Zones are determined, FEMA and partner agencies can make a designated effort to provide grants, funding opportunities and tools to help streamline the funding opportunities from both public and private sectors. The National Institute of Building Sciences applaud the leading effort by FEMA in implementing this important framework.”

National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC): Diane Yentel, President and CEO. “As climate-change influenced disasters become more common and severe, the effort to mitigate potential harms and increase community resilience is an absolute necessity. For this reason, NLIHC and the Disaster Housing Recovery Coalition (DHRC) endorsed the Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act of 2022 and are pleased that FEMA is working to implement the new program. By ensuring community input, appropriate targeting of funding and robust technical assistance, this initiative can assist in ensuring the lowest-income and most marginalized communities receive the assistance they need to implement resilience and mitigation measures in advance of future disasters.”

National Special Districts Coalition: Cole Arreola-Karr, Federal Advocacy Director. “The National Special Districts Coalition applauds the initial Community Disaster Resilience Zones designations as a solid step for the nation’s most vulnerable localities to mitigate against disaster. Special districts provide services in many hazard-prone communities and are no stranger to disaster, but too often lack resources to take on mitigation plans on their own until after its too late. We look forward to CDRZ’s further implementation for better access to critical mitigation resources for special districts and others serving at-risk communities.”

National Wildlife Federation: Jessie Ritter, Associate Vice President, Waters & Coasts. “National Wildlife Federation strongly supports the intent of the Community Disaster Resilience Zones initiative to identify the most vulnerable communities at the frontlines of climate risks and natural hazards, to provide targeted support to maximize federal funding and technical assistance, and to reduce overall hazard risk.”

R Street Institute: Jerry Theodorou, Director, Finance, Insurance & Trade Program. "October 6, 2023, marked one month since FEMA announced 483 census tracts initially eligible to receive the CDRZ designation. This enables the communities to receive increased federal support for resilience to natural hazards and extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. The R Street Institute supports and recognizes the importance of CDRZ designations as valuable tools for communities most at-risk to enhance their resilience in the face of worsening natural hazards.”

Reinsurance Association of America (RAA): Frank Nutter, President. “Reinsurers have long advocated for improved resilience in communities across our nation, but the resilience is most acute in vulnerable communities that exist at the intersection of high risk and great need. If we do little to mitigate the exposure of these people and communities to climate and extreme weather risks, this failure may lead to uninsurable communities, leaving those very communities reliant upon disaster assistance from the federal government, which to this point, has largely been proven to be inadequate to help people fully recover.  We applaud this essential first step of implementing the bipartisan CDRZ Act, which a RAA-led coalition of over 30 national organizations championed in 2022. We can now come together in a private-public partnership to support these most vulnerable communities to increase their resilience, lower their risk and better access insurance markets.”

Resilience Innovation Hub: Richard Seline, Managing Director. “The Community Disaster Resilience Zone Act, through its designation of “Most At Risk” and “Most In Need” census tracks will encourage a necessary pivot from our less than efficient current recovery and rebuild approach to one that is purposefully focused on a new resilience risk mitigation strategy to withstand whatever the future may hold. Through these Resilience Zone designations, billions of needed investments in the so-called ‘bricks and sticks’ of our critical infrastructure - coupled with advanced technologies, equipment and data - will spark additional benefits for reducing health and well-being, food and nutrition, education and employment vulnerabilities. We WILL see communities not just survive but thrive, for this and future generations. The bipartisan Congressional support for the CDRZ Act, a visionary proposal by the nation’s reinsurance leadership to align the full measure of our Nation’s capacity in designing innovative mitigation infrastructure projects and community programs, has the power to also transform how FEMA, its peer federal departments and agencies coordinate their resources to attract additional private and philanthropic dollars, as well as unleash states and local governments to incentivize new partnerships.”

SBP: Zack Rosenburg, Co-founder and CEO.  “SBP (formerly the St. Bernard Project) has seen firsthand the negative effects of disasters, specifically in communities with limited capacity to prepare for, recover from and mitigate against them. The Community Disaster Resilience Zones will streamline assistance to communities that are at high risk for disaster but may not have the capacity to access the available funding they so desperately need. SBP applauds the innovation and creation of the CDRZ and looks forward to its success in fortifying at-risk and vulnerable communities.”

SmarterSafer Coalition: Chris Brown, Executive Director. "Community Disaster Resilience Zones exemplify the power of community-driven initiatives in building resilience and promoting a safer future for at-risk communities. These crucial lifelines for areas most vulnerable to the ravages of natural disasters are designed to ensure resources are directed to where they are needed most. As long-time proponents of investment in resiliency measures, SmarterSafer is heartened to see focused resources designated Community Disaster Resilience Zones catalyze projects to protect our vulnerable areas."

Taxpayers for Common Sense: Steve Ellis, President. “Taxpayers for Common Sense fully supports the establishment of Community Disaster Resilience Zones. This initiative offers a proactive and data-driven approach to disaster preparedness, response and recovery. By effectively allocating taxpayer funds, fostering public-private partnerships and empowering communities, we can enhance the nation’s resilience and minimize the economic and human costs of natural disasters. By prioritizing the needs of vulnerable communities, we can significantly enhance our nation’s disaster resilience and effectively allocate resources to those who need it most. This approach fosters a more responsible use of taxpayer funds, reducing waste and maximizing the benefits for communities across the country.”

Team Rubicon: Art delaCruz, Chief Executive Officer. “There is a collision between natural disasters, which continue to increase in frequency, duration, severity and cost of recovery, and populations that are disadvantaged, have fewer resources and have higher concentrations of low-income residents. In our operations, Team Rubicon can attest to the disproportionate cost to these communities and the need for increased resources to serve them. Team Rubicon applauds the creation and resourcing of Community Disaster Resilience Zones in its vision to help communities before disasters. These zones enable training and education to empower residents to protect themselves, their families and their assets. We are excited to stand shoulder to shoulder with public, private and philanthropic agencies and organizations that will provide financial and technical assistance and to serve before, during and after crises.”

U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Chuck Chaitovitz, Vice President, Environmental Affairs and Sustainability. “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, along with our diverse coalition of business, conservation and local government stakeholders, commend FEMA for releasing the first round of Community Disaster Resilience Zones designations. This program will prioritize critical resources for high-risk and disadvantaged communities across the U.S. so they can invest in smart, modern and resilient infrastructure to mitigate future crises. The U.S. Chamber will work with our federation of state and local chambers and associations to ensure the local business community remains engaged and will share our Small and Disadvantaged Community Water Funding Roadmap so communities can access the best public and private technical assistance to pursue necessary resilience funding.”

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:29

Two More Counties Eligible for FEMA Infrastructure Assistance

CHICAGO – Calhoun and Logan counties are now eligible for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to repair damage to their infrastructure caused by the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding. The addition of these two counties brings the number of counties now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance to 21.

With this addition, federal funding is now available to state, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work, debris removal and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the disaster in Calhoun, Christian, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Hancock, Logan, Macon, McDonough, Monroe, Morgan, Moultrie, Pike, Sangamon, Scott, Vermillion, Warren and Washington counties. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program includes recovery assistance for governments and certain private nonprofits after a disaster and does not include individuals and households. FEMA’s Individual Assistance program—or federal grant funding to assist individuals and households with their recovery after the June 29 – July 2, 2023, disaster—is currently available only in Cook County.

The next step in the public assistance process is a series of applicant briefings to identify and report damage to FEMA, so project worksheets can be prepared for eligible work. FEMA provides 75 percent of the project cost to the state with other non-federal sources covering the remainder. For more information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program, visit Assistance for Governments and Private Non-Profits After a Disaster | FEMA.gov.

Additionally, all areas of the state are now eligible for hazard mitigation assistance. 

For even 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).

alexander.alba Tue, 10/24/2023 - 01:13

Time is Running Out to Apply for FEMA Assistance

CHICAGO - The deadline to apply for federal assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency is October 30 if you suffered losses from the flooding and storms that struck the state June 29 – July 2. 

Registering with FEMA is as easy as a phone call to the FEMA Hotline, 800-621-3362, or a visit to a nearby Disaster Recovery Center, which you can find at FEMA Disaster Recovery Locator. Users of a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services need to provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Survivors can also register through DisasterAssistance.gov, or on the FEMA app on their phones.

If you have already registered, you can keep in touch with FEMA via the Helpline, 800-621-3362, to change your contact information, get your questions answered or to track the progress of your application.

Whether you are a homeowner, renter or business owner, you may be eligible for a FEMA grant and/or an SBA disaster loan that may help get you on the way to recovering from disaster losses. There’s only one week left to register, and the clock is ticking. 

For additional 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). 

alexander.alba Tue, 10/24/2023 - 01:07

Repair, Rebuilding Advice from FEMA at Local Hardware Stores

ATLANTA – As Georgia residents repair and rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia, FEMA has teamed 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 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. 

The specialists will be available on these dates at this location: 

Monday through Saturday, Oct. 23-28 

True Value Hardware 
204 East Central Ave. 
Valdosta, GA 31601 

Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. There is no charge. Reservations are not required.

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.

bree-constance… Mon, 10/23/2023 - 19:48

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Making Several Stops in Levy County

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA are operating Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers in Levy County to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The center schedule is:

• Chiefland City Hall, 214 East Park Avenue in Chiefland
  • Tuesday, 10/24, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesday, 10/25 and Thursday, 10/26, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Yankeetown Town Hall, 6241 Harmony Lane in Yankeetown
  • Friday, 10/27, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 10/28 and Sunday, 10/29, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

More stops will be announced as they are confirmed.

Currently open sites:

• Citrus County: Coastal Region Library, 8619 W Crystal St., Crystal River, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Wed, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thurs-Fri, closed Sat-Sun. (closes permanently 5 p.m. Oct. 27)
• Columbia County: 180 E Duval St. Lake City, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday 
• Gilchrist County: Gilchrist County Fire Station #4, 6980 SW 70th Ave, Trenton, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oct. 17 to Oct.21
• Hamilton County: 1153 NW US Hwy 41, Jasper, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Hernando County: Hernando Public Library Branch, 9220 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday. 
• Jefferson County: Jefferson County Library, 375 S Water St., Monticello, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday, (closes permanently 6 p.m. Nov. 03)
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St., Madison, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Pasco County: Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter, 11611 Denton Ave., Hudson, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, (closes permanently 6 p.m. Oct. 28)
• Suwannee County: Memorial Field, 617 Ontario Ave SW, Live Oak, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Taylor County: Steinhatchee Community Center, 1013 S. Riverside Dr., Steinhatchee, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC, you don’t 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.

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.

barbara.murien… Mon, 10/23/2023 - 19:36

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Collin County, Texas

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Collin County, Texas. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

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

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Oct. 23, 2023. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Jan. 21, 2024, for:

• The cities of Dallas and Plano

Comments only may be submitted through Jan. 21, 2024, for:

• The cities of Carrolton and Richardson; and the unincorporated areas of Collin County

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

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

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

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

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

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

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

Follow us at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and at linkedin.com/showcase/fema-region-6/ and like us at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Mon, 10/23/2023 - 15:40

Barre Disaster Recovery Center to Close Temporarily

The Barre Disaster Recovery Center will close temporarily at 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 25. It will reopen at 9 a.m. Monday, October 30.

The center is regularly open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (closed Sunday) at:

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

Vermonters can visit the center to get in-person help applying for 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.

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 31, 2023.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 10/23/2023 - 13:46

Two Weeks Left to Apply for Disaster Assistance from FEMA

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 two weeks left to apply for federal disaster assistance.

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

Survivors may apply at a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) 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.

The DRC locations are:

Brooks County Agriculture Building
400 E. Courtland Ave.
Quitman, GA 31643

Cook County Extension Services  
206 E. Ninth St. 
Adel, GA 31620 

Lowndes County Civic Center 
2108 E. Hill Ave. 
Valdosta, GA 31601 

All DRCs are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Closed 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. 

Applying for help is free

If you are unable to apply in person, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, 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.

bree-constance… Mon, 10/23/2023 - 12:15

Recovery Centers Opening in Harvey and Maywood

CHICAGO - Two Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open to the public Monday, October 23, 2023. The centers, jointly run by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of Illinois, will be staffed by federal and state officials ready to assist survivors in their recovery from the June 29-July 2 storms and flooding.

Harvey location:

Thornton Township High School

T107 Building

15001 Broadway Avenue

Harvey, IL 60426 

Open: Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Maywood location:

Lightford Recreation Center

809 Madison St.

Maywood, IL 60153

Open: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Illinois state agencies will be available to help homeowners, renters and business owners of Cook County apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available to them. Survivors may upload documents, learn how to make their property more disaster resistant and have their questions answered in person.

Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, large print, etc.) or a language interpreter may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the center staff for assistance. 

Recovery Centers aren’t the only way to get help from FEMA. The FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362, is staffed by multilingual operators ready to assist survivors with registrations and any other questions they have. Survivors can also DisasterAssistance.gov or the FEMA App on their phones. 

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to register with FEMA is October 30, 2023.

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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). 

alexander.alba Fri, 10/20/2023 - 23:24

Disaster Recovery Center in Jefferson County Closing

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The disaster recovery center in Jefferson County at Jefferson County Library, 375 S Water St. in Monticello will be closing permanently at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3.

The schedule until closing is 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays.

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 and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available. The deadline to apply for assistance is Nov. 29.

There are several centers still open in the area impacted by Hurricane Idalia. Residents are welcome to visit any open center, you don’t have to reside in that county. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator or floridadisaster.org, or you can text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362. 

It is not necessary to visit a center. Survivors can apply or get other assistance 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.

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.

barbara.murien… Fri, 10/20/2023 - 19:44

Claims Office pays more than $100 Million to Claimants Affected by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire

Santa Fe, NM - The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office has paid $101.11 million for claimant losses as of Thursday, October 19, 2023. Some of the most frequently requested losses that have been processed by the Claims Office include losses related to damaged homes and related infrastructure. These losses involve rebuilding access roads to homes, critical infrastructure like wells and septic systems, and funds to compensate for losses to outbuildings. The Claims Office has also distributed significant compensation for protective measures and future regrowth losses. Compensation for these losses includes purchasing flood insurance policies, removing debris/ obstructions and funds for reseeding.

The third most frequently compensated group of losses are losses experienced during the evacuation period. This category includes compensation for mileage to evacuate, food expenses, hotel stays, and food losses experienced due to evacuation and/or power outages.

Working with our federal, tribal, state and local government partners we are also addressing more complex losses related to acequias, debris removal, reforestation and rebuilding community infrastructure. Regardless of the type of loss being addressed, the Claims Office is focused on providing maximum compensation within the legal bounds of the Final Regulations. The Claims Office encourages all those who were impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding to submit a Notice of Loss. 

Notice of Loss forms can be found at fema.gov/notice-loss-form.pdf. Completed Notice of Loss forms can be submitted via email at fema-hermits-peak@fema.dhs.gov, or by mail to:

FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office 

P.O. Box 1329

Santa Fe, NM 87505

Claims Office locations are listed below and are open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mora Claims Office
Mora County Courthouse 
1 Courthouse Drive 
Mora, NM 87732

1. Las Vegas Claims Office 
2. 216 Mills Avenue 
3. Las Vegas, NM 87701 
4. (In Mills Plaza)

1. Santa Fe Claims Office
   1711 Llano Street, Suite E
2. Santa Fe, NM 87505
3. (Next to Mucho Gourmet Sandwich Shoppe)

For more information about the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act and the Claims Office, visit fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice. 

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The mission of the Claims Office is to compensate claimants through a simple, fast and fair claims process.

 

candace.herring Fri, 10/20/2023 - 19:29

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

LAKE MARY, Fla– Survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA after Hurricane Idalia will receive a letter from FEMA explaining the status of your application.

If the applicant is found eligible for assistance, the letter will explain the amount of assistance FEMA provided and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds. 

If the applicant is found ineligible, read the letter carefully because it will explain the reason for denial and what may be needed to submit with an appeal letter.

The FEMA application is a process, and we want to make sure survivors receive all the assistance they are eligible for.

Survivors may only need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue processing the application. Examples of missing documentation or required actions may include:

• Insurance Settlement or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy 
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.
• Completing your SBA Loan Application

Questions about your letter can be answered by calling the disaster assistance help line at 800-621-3362.

Survivors who disagree with the decision of ineligibility, or with the amount or purpose of assistance approved can appeal FEMA’s determination. The appeal process is explained in the letter. 

For an accessible video on the FEMA eligibility letter go to, FEMA Accessible: Understanding Your Letter - 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.

barbara.murien… Fri, 10/20/2023 - 19:28

Disaster Legal Services Available to Maui Survivors

HONOLULU – Unexpected legal issues may arise after a disaster that can leave individuals and families devastated. If you are facing legal issues resulting from the August wildfires on Maui, you can get legal advice.

Disaster Legal Services are now available to low-income, elderly and other vulnerable residents who were affected by the high winds and wildfires and are unable to afford their own lawyer.

You may call the Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi’s toll-free lines at 808-536-4302 or 800-499-4302. Lines are open from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. 

Hotline callers can receive help with legal issues including:

• FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration and other public assistance financial benefits including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and disaster unemployment
• insurance claims
• home repair contracts and property insurance claims
• price-gouging, scams or identity theft
• mortgage-foreclosure and home-ownership issues 
• landlord/tenant problems
• replacement of wills and other vital documents destroyed in the fires
• disability-related access to federal, state and local disaster programs.

Hotline partners cannot help in all cases, including cases where a settlement could include legal fees or an award. Free legal advice may be accessed online at https://hawaii.freelegalanswers.org/.

The Disaster Legal Services program is a service provided in partnership with FEMA, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, Hawaiʻi State Bar Association, and the Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi.

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.

scott.reuter Fri, 10/20/2023 - 02:58

FEMA is Still Hiring for the Illinois Disaster Recovery Team

CHICAGO - Are you interested in helping your neighbors and community recover from the June 29-July 2 storms and floods that devastated Cook County? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an immediate need to employ Cook County residents to work from the offices in Springfield and Morton Grove, IL as temporary local hires to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts. Local hire employees are local residents who are part of the disaster recovery team aiding in the recovery of the community and their fellow citizens. 

For its offices in Morton Grove, FEMA is looking to hire one Accountable Property specialist, two Information Technology specialists, one External Affairs Program Liaison specialist and one External Affairs Creative specialist. For its Springfield offices, FEMA needs two IT specialists and one Accountable Property specialist. Visit the links for additional information, including job responsibilities and compensation:

Information Technology Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/754587500Deadline: 10/22/2023Accountable Property Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/754741300 Deadline: 10/23/2023External Affairs Program Liaison Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/755029100Deadline: 10/24/2023External Affairs Creative Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/755026200Deadline: 10/23/2023

The announcements will close at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the noted deadline dates OR at 11:59 pm EST on the day the application limit is received, whichever comes first. 

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.

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

1. 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. The deadline to register with FEMA for disaster assistance is October 30, 2023.

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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).

alexander.alba Thu, 10/19/2023 - 23:56

FEMA Assistance Tops $304 Million for Cook County

CHICAGO – Federal assistance to Cook County residents affected by the June 29 – July 2 severe storms and flooding has topped $304 million. This amount includes FEMA grants of more than $235 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. Complementing the FEMA grants is more than $69 million in Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans for homeowners and businesses.

Here is a snapshot of the FEMA disaster assistance as of October 19:

• More than $235.3 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, $200.9 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 child care, limited to eight weeks. 

As of Oct.18, the U.S. Small Business Administration had awarded $64.8 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 $4.2 million in disaster loans to help businesses get back on their feet.

Survivors should receive the help for which they are eligible. If you have not yet contacted FEMA, be sure to apply for assistance by Oct. 30:

1. Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
2. Use the FEMA mobile app. 
3. Call the disaster assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 
4. Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The centers serve as one-stop shops for survivors who need one-on-one help. Survivors can visit any center for assistance. To find center locations and current hours, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. 
    

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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). 

alexander.alba Thu, 10/19/2023 - 23:36

One Week Left to Request FEMA Public Assistance

HONOLULU – Nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, that had losses caused by the Maui County wildfires and high winds have one week – until Wednesday, Oct. 25 – to submit a Request for Public Assistance from FEMA. 

Not only physical damage is covered under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Nonprofit organizations in Maui and Hawaiʻi counties may also submit a Request for Public Assistance to be reimbursed for eligible costs associated with protection of infrastructure.

The Public Assistance program provides grants to government agencies as well as private nonprofits for debris removal, emergency protective services and community infrastructure damaged or destroyed by the Aug. 8 wildfires and high winds. 

For private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, the application process depends on whether a private nonprofit is classified as offering critical services or non-critical, essential social services.

Private nonprofits that provide critical services, such as health-care facilities and utilities, can apply directly to FEMA for funding. Some private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, that are classified as providing non-critical, essential social services must first apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. 

Nonprofits do not have to wait for a decision from SBA in order to apply to FEMA.

Houses of worship and other nonprofits are encouraged to submit a Request for Public Assistance under FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program. The deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 25. For more information, contact Public Assistance Lead Brian Fisher of the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency at Brian.J.Fisher@hawaii.gov. You may also call him at 808-518-7985.

If a house of worship or other nonprofit offering non-critical, essential social services is turned down for an SBA loan, or if the loan amount does not cover the cost of all repairs, FEMA may be able to help. FEMA may provide funds to pay for what SBA or insurance did not cover. 

Examples of critical services include water, sewer and electrical systems; private schools providing primary or secondary education; or institutions of higher education. Examples of non-critical essential services include educational enrichment activities, supervised care and daycare services, residential services for people with disabilities, assisted living and low-income housing, homeless shelters and rehabilitation service, and community and performing arts centers.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and https://www.sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema.

scott.reuter Thu, 10/19/2023 - 21:41

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Hilary from Aug. 19 - 21, 2023.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal government 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.

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

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 Thu, 10/19/2023 - 15:16

Ludlow Disaster Recovery Center to Close October 21

The Ludlow Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 21.

The center will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at this location:

Ludlow Community Center
37 Main St.
Ludlow, VT 05149

Vermonters can visit a center to get in-person help applying for 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.

When the center closes, FEMA will still be here to help. Visit us at DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call 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 call.

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 31.

One other center will remain open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (closed Sundays):

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

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 10/19/2023 - 14:37

Federal Disaster Assistance to Georgia Tops $10 Million

ATLANTA – Six weeks after President Joe Biden signed a major disaster declaration following the Aug. 30 landfall of Hurricane Idalia, a total of more than $10.167 million in federal assistance has been approved for supporting the recovery of Georgia survivors.  

Here are the numbers:

To date, more than $2.807 million in FEMA Housing Assistance has been approved for eligible homeowners and renters in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties. The funding will help pay for hurricane-related damage, including home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing. 

Another FEMA program called Other Needs Assistance has approved more than $471,800 to help cover the cost of storm-related personal property replacement, moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, medical and dental expenses.  

In addition, FEMA’s federal partner in disaster assistance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), has approved 152 long-term, low-interest disaster home loans, nine business disaster loans, and three economic injury loans (EIDL) for business working capital, totaling more than $6.888 million.

The state of Georgia and FEMA operate Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) which provide one-on-one assistance to survivors. To find the closet one, visit fema.gov/drc. Homeowners and renters can visit any center for assistance. To date, DRCs have been visited by 2,057 survivors.

How to Apply to FEMA

You can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw. 

The last day to apply for FEMA assistance is Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. 

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.

bree-constance… Thu, 10/19/2023 - 13:50