Reminder! Check Utilities and Basement for Flood Damage

CHICAGO – With the late summer heat across Chicagoland, the last thing you may be thinking about is the winter months ahead. But as temperatures drop, your furnace will become the most important appliance in your home. FEMA suggests making sure your heating systems, water heaters and other appliances that might have been damaged by the June 29 – July 2 disaster are in good working condition before the cold weather arrives. If not, you may be able to receive help from FEMA to get them working again.

And while FEMA assistance is limited to items that make your home safe, secure and habitable, households with damage to essential living spaces of a basement—including garden apartments—may also be eligible for FEMA assistance to help cover those losses.

First, you must register with FEMA. During the application process, make sure to report any disaster-related damage to your furnace, water heater, other electrical appliances and occupied, lower-level rooms. 

After registering, a FEMA inspector will need to assess your home’s damage. FEMA inspectors are trained to recognize damage caused by a disaster, but they do not decide if you will receive assistance. FEMA specialists then review each applicant’s situation on an individual basis to determine all damage and losses that may be eligible.

Check Those Utilities, Stay in Touch with FEMA

If the inspection shows the floodwaters reached your home heating systems, you should have them checked for operating safety by experienced repair personnel. FEMA grants may be available to help repair damaged furnaces or water heaters and replace those destroyed by floodwaters.

If you received a FEMA grant for repair of your furnace or water heater and later discover those items need replacing, you can use the FEMA appeal process for additional grant funds. Applicants have 60days to appeal and must submit a letter with a verified contractor’s estimate for replacement of the furnace or water heater. To learn more about FEMA’s appeal process, visit fema.gov/assistance/individual/after-applying/appeals.

Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App on your phone, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to register with FEMA is October 16, 2023.      

nicole.wilson Tue, 09/19/2023 - 16:51

Hurricane Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Cook County

ATLANTA – The State of Georgia and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Cook County to serve Hurricane Idalia survivors from Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties. 

DRCs are dedicated, accessible and established locations where specialists from FEMA’s Individual Assistance program can help survivors 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 Disaster Recovery Center is open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week at: 

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

A DRC also is in Lowndes County at:

Lowndes County Civic Center
2108 E. Hill Ave.
Valdosta, GA 31601
The operating hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. 

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

Some of the services offered at a DRC include: 

• Applying for assistance 
• Reviewing application status updates 
• Clarification of any written correspondence for FEMA
• Guidance about disaster recovery and eligibility
• Collecting and scanning new information or documents needed for case files 

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), other state and federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be available at the DRC to assist survivors. 

1. You do not need to visit a DRC to apply.

If you are unable to visit the Lowndes County DRC, you can apply to FEMA for federal assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as videorelay service (VRS), captionedtelephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance. 

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are also available for homeowners, renters, businesses and most private nonprofits to help with residential and business losses not covered by insurance.  After registering with FEMA, survivors and businesses may apply online at SBA’s secure website https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela under SBA declaration #18143. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded from sba.gov/disaster. 

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.

neily.chapman Tue, 09/19/2023 - 15:15

More than $1.1 Billion in Federal Assistance due to Hurricane Fiona

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Since last year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been consistently supporting the Government of Puerto Rico in its recovery efforts due to Hurricane Fiona, swiftly advancing federal funds. To date, more than $1.1 billion has been awarded in disaster assistance for survivors, communities and public infrastructure affected.

Disaster assistance to support Puerto Rico includes FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program with more than $646 million approved in individual and households grants to closely 740,000 applicants in Puerto Rico. Additionally, over $328 million have been obligated through the Public Assistance (PA) program, including more than $185 million allocated for emergency protective measures and over $143 million for permanent work. 

The Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro R. Pierluisi expressed that, “the assistance that the federal government has provided us, through FEMA, to continue helping our citizens is more evidence of the close collaboration and agility that we have achieved on behalf of our people, our communities, municipalities and our public infrastructure.  I thank FEMA and the Biden-Harris Administration for the work they are doing with COR3 to advance Puerto Rico's reconstruction".

Since last May, the collaboration between FEMA, the Government of Puerto Rico and the municipalities has been obligating an average of over 114 projects per month, resulting in more than 840 obligations to date. The expectation is to have 50% of all projects obligated by the end of this month.

“Continued collaboration among the municipalities, the PR Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3) and FEMA has been essential for an effective recovery process. Close to 30% of the applicants for Fiona funds have already completed the final stage of their process with FEMA. Therefore, we continue to encourage our partners to reach out to the Agency for technical assistance, so that we can help them move all their eligible projects forward,” said DuWayne Tewes, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer for Hurricane Fiona.

To date, Jayuya and Las Piedras municipalities stand out as the municipalities with the most disaster assistance grants obligated, with 49 and 36 projects, respectively. Jayuya was obligated nearly $23 million in federal funds, while Las Piedras was awarded $15 million, for repairs to roads and bridges.

Federal assistance is also making a difference for many nonprofit organizations. Nearly $10 million was allocated to repair hurricane damage at 100 nonprofits, of which five have completed construction of their permanent projects.

Among these are Servicios de Salud Episcopales, Inc., which received over $119,000 for permanent work; Fundación Damas, Inc., a health-related group in Ponce, which was assigned over $105,000 in federal funds; and Juana Díaz Housing for Elderly, Inc., in Juana Díaz, with nearly $87,000 for repairs and more than $44,900 for mitigation measures. 

Furthermore, FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has processed 100 percent of claims and disbursed more than $4.2 million to policyholders.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved over $109 million in low-interest loans to homeowners or renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses that applied for physical damage assistance as well as businesses that suffered economic losses due to Hurricane Fiona.

# # #

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

For more information on Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane Fiona, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4671. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico page, Twitter @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol.

yuisa.rios Mon, 09/18/2023 - 16:22

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Lowndes County

ATLANTA – The State of Georgia and FEMA will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Lowndes County on Sunday, Sept. 17, to serve Hurricane Idalia survivors from Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties. 

DRCs are dedicated, accessible and established locations where specialists from FEMA’s Individual Assistance program can help survivors 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 Disaster Recovery Center will open at 12 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 17 at:

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

Once opened, the DRC will operate from 8 a.m.to 7 p.m., seven days a week. 

The deadline to apply for assistance is November 6, 2023. 

Some of the services offered at a DRC include: 

• Applying for assistance 
• Reviewing application status updates 
• Clarification of any written correspondence for FEMA
• Guidance about disaster recovery and eligibility
• Collecting and scanning new information or documents needed for case files 

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), other state and federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be available at the DRC to assist survivors.

1. You do not need to visit a DRC to apply

If you are unable to visit the Lowndes County DRC, you can apply to FEMA for federal assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as videorelay service (VRS), captionedtelephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance. 

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are also available for homeowners, renters, businesses and most private nonprofits to help with residential and business losses not covered by insurance.  After registering with FEMA, survivors and businesses may apply online at SBA’s secure website https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela under SBA declaration #18143. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded from sba.gov/disaster.

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.

neily.chapman Sat, 09/16/2023 - 18:12

Federal Aid Tops $1.7 Million in Georgia Hurricane Recovery

ATLANTA – Just over a week after President Biden designated Hurricane Idalia a major disaster in Georgia, FEMA and its federal partner, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), have approved more than $1.7 million in disaster assistance to help residents of Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties recover from the hurricane.

To date FEMA has approved more than $1.06 million in grants for Housing Assistance and Other Needs Assistance. SBA has approved over $501,900 in low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and business owners.

FEMA assistance may include funds for losses not covered by insurance due to the hurricane, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, moving and storage, medical, dental, childcare and funeral expenses. FEMA may also refer you to the SBA, which provides low-interest disaster loans to uninsured or underinsured businesses, homeowners and renters. Submitting the SBA application also allows FEMA to consider you for additional grants.

The deadline for eligible survivors to apply for assistance is 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.

neily.chapman Sat, 09/16/2023 - 18:09

Biden-Harris Administration Urges Public to Stay Alert, Stands Ready to Respond to Post-Tropical Cyclone Lee

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden Jr. approved emergency declarations for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the state of Maine, which allows for federal assistance to supplement the states’ response efforts to Post-Tropical Cyclone Lee. FEMA continues to urge those in the path of the storm to remain vigilant and listen to local officials.

The National Hurricane Center forecasts tropical storm conditions and flooding across portions of coastal New England. The strong winds are likely to lead to downed trees and power outages. For those in the path of the storm, do not underestimate the power of this storm. Remember to check on your neighbors, plan for power outages and stay safe. The effects from the storm are expected to last until Sunday, Sept. 17. 

FEMA and the Biden-Harris Administration are prepared and prepositioned to support needs that may arise. FEMA is working closely with other federal agencies and non-profit organizations to coordinate a whole-of-community response to serve residents and communities in the potentially affected areas.

FEMA deployed three Incident Management Assistance Teams, with additional teams ready to support, and Urban Search and Rescue teams are in the region to help with rescues, if needed.

The American Red Cross has prepositioned staff across Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and is prepared to provide shelter, if necessary. The Salvation Army has personnel and supplies prepared, including its “canteen” truck that provides water, comfort and hot meals for 1,200 to 2,500 people.

Stay Safe During Post-Tropical Cyclone Lee

If you are in an area that has been or is still being affected by the storm, be aware of continued risks. Residents and visitors in potentially affected areas should have a family emergency communications plan, keep their devices charged, ensure they are receiving emergency alerts and check on neighbors, especially those who are older adults or may need additional assistance.

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 9-1-1.

• Stay off the roads. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. 
• Don’t drive through flood waters. Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Do not walk or wade in flood waters. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. It may also include dangerous wildlife.
• If you have a flooded basement in your home, never attempt to turn off power or operate circuit breakers while standing in water. 
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. Consider all downed lines live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to your power or utility company.
• After a disaster, some food can spoil quickly. Throw away perishable food that has not been refrigerated or frozen properly due to a power outage, food that may have been in floodwater or stormwater, and food with an unusual odor, color or texture.
• For additional information on staying safe during and after disasters, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov. 

amy.ashbridge Sat, 09/16/2023 - 17:45

FEMA Public Assistance Now Available in 19 Illinois Counties

CHICAGO – On Sept. 15, FEMA approved Illinois’ request for 19 counties to receive Public Assistance following the severe storms and flooding event on June 29 – July 2, 2023. 

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 Christian, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Hancock, 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.    

nicole.wilson Sat, 09/16/2023 - 16:36

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Pinellas and Hernando Counties

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA opened two Disaster Recovery Centers in Pinellas County and one in Hernando County to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The centers will remain open until further notice.

Locations: 

• Hernando County: Hernando Public Library-Spring Hill Branch, 9220 Spring Hill Drive in Spring Hill, Saturday, Sept. 16, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., then 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Pinellas County: 
  • Palm Harbor CSA, 1500 16th St. in Palm Harbor, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
  • Enoch Davis Center, 1111 18th Ave. South in St. Petersburg, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Additional open fixed sites:

• Citrus County: West Citrus Community Center, 8940 W Veterans Drive in Homosassa, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Columbia County: Lake City Reporter, 180 E Duval Street in Lake City, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19 in Cross City, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon - Sat. Closed Sundays.
• Gilchrist County: Gilchrist County Library, 105 NE 11 Street in Trenton, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
• Hamilton County: Court House Annex/Chamber of Commerce, 1153 NW US Hwy 41 in Jasper, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
• Jefferson County: Jefferson County Library, 375 S Water Street in Monticello, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir. in Mayo, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Levy County: 
  • Inglis Community Center, 137 Hwy 40 W in Inglis, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
  • Cedar Key Fire Station (parking lot), 489 First Street in Cedar Key, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. to 
    5 p.m. Sat – Sun
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St. in Madison, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. 
• Suwannee County: Agricultural Coliseum Exhibition Building 2, 1302 SW 11 St. in Live Oak, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Taylor County:
  • Loughridge Park, W 15th St. in Perry, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
  • Steinhatchee Community Center, 1013 S Riverside Drive in Steinhatchee, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

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. More centers will open soon. 

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.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. 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. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Oct. 30, 2023.

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.

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

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to 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… Sat, 09/16/2023 - 15:37

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Lee beginning Sept. 15-17, 2023.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. This assistance is for Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Nantucket, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk and Worcester Counties.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program will be provided at 75% federal funding.

E. Craig Levy, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

amy.ashbridge Sat, 09/16/2023 - 15:03

Biden-Harris Administration Urges Public to Prepare for Hurricane Lee, Stands Ready to Support

WASHINGTON -- On Sept. 14, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved an emergency declaration for Maine, which allows for federal assistance to supplement the state’s response efforts ahead of potential effects from Hurricane Lee. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell spoke with the governors of Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and the leadership of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) to discuss their preparedness efforts and offer support if needed. 

The National Hurricane Center forecasts tropical storm conditions across portions of coastal New England this evening. Rainfall from the storm could produce localized urban and small stream flooding.

Residents and visitors in potentially affected areas should learn their evacuation routes now, have a family emergency communications plan, charge their devices and batteries and ensure they are receiving emergency alerts. We encourage everyone that may be affected by Hurricane Lee to check on their neighbors, especially those who are older adults or may need additional assistance.

FEMA is working closely with more than a dozen federal agencies to coordinate a whole-of-government response to serve residents and communities in the potentially affected areas. 

Federal actions include: 

• Three Urban Search and Rescue teams are staged -- two in New Hampshire and one in Rhode Island -- to provide support at the request of the states. 
• FEMA deployed three Incident Management Assistance Teams to the affected region and has supplies pre-staged in the area if needed.
• The Environmental Protection Agency has staff on the ground to assist.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is in close coordination with the states’ health departments.
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is providing the latest advisory and maritime warning updates at Hurricanes.gov.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has deployed an emergency power team to provide technical assistance and generator assessments.
• The Federal Aviation Administration is monitoring conditions carefully and is providing real-time flight updates at fly.faa.gov.
• The U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron -- “hurricane hunters” -- has been capturing key images of Hurricane Lee as it approaches New England. 
• The American Red Cross has deployed disaster teams and supplies, including 25 shelter teams and 40 emergency vehicles. Additional volunteers, emergency supplies and blood products are on standby.
• The Salvation Army has personnel and supplies prepared, including its “canteen” truck that provides water, comfort and hot meals for 1,200 to 2,500 people.

Prepare Now for Hurricane Lee 

Be prepared for flooding and power outages from Hurricane Lee.

• Gather Supplies: Supplies for your household should include food, water, medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies. 
• Evacuating: If you are in potentially affected areas, you should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a family emergency communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have plans for your family members and pets. If you have disabilities, you may need to take additional steps to plan for both your needs and that of your service animal. 
• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Get Emergency Alerts: Sign up to receive weather alerts in your community and stay updated on the latest weather news from the National Weather Service. You can also download the free FEMA App for alerts and updates. 

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 09/15/2023 - 21:17

Wardsboro Disaster Recovery Center to Relocate to Ludlow

The Disaster Recovery Center in Wardsboro (Windham County) will cease operations at 6 p.m. Monday, September 18, and relocate to Ludlow (Windsor County).

It will reopen at 8 a.m. September 20, and continue with regular hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and closed Sunday. The new address is:

Ludlow Community Center
37 Main St.
Ludlow, VT 05149

Other recovery centers remain open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and closed Sunday at the following locations: 

Waterbury Armory
294 Armory Drive
Waterbury, VT 05676

Barre Auditorium
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641

Barton Memorial Building
17 Village Square 
Barton, VT 05822

kimberly.keblish Fri, 09/15/2023 - 20:01

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Gilchrist and Levy Counties

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Gilchrist and Levy counties to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The centers will remain open until further notice.

Locations: 

• Gilchrist County: Gilchrist County Library, 105 NE 11 Street in Trenton, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
• Levy County: Cedar Key Fire Station (parking lot), 489 First Street in Cedar Key, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat – Sun.

Additional open fixed sites:

• Citrus County: West Citrus Community Center, 8940 W Veterans Drive in Homosassa, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Columbia County: Lake City Reporter, 180 E Duval Street in Lake City, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19 in Cross City, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon - Sat. Closed Sundays
• Hamilton County: Court House Annex/Chamber of Commerce, 1153 NW US Hwy 41 in Jasper, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
• Jefferson County: Jefferson County Library, 375 S Water Street in Monticello, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir. in Mayo, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Levy County: Inglis Community Center, 137 Hwy 40 W in Inglis, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St. in Madison, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
• Suwannee County: Agricultural Coliseum Exhibition Building 2, 1302 SW 11 St. in Live Oak, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• Taylor County:
  • Loughridge Park, W 15th St. in Perry, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
  • Steinhatchee Community Center, 1013 S Riverside Drive in Steinhatchee, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

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. More centers will open soon. 

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.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. 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. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Oct. 30, 2023.

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.

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

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to 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, 09/15/2023 - 15:01

Ten Key Facts to Know About Federal Disaster Assistance

Federal assistance can help Vermonters recover from the July 7-17 severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides. Here are ten facts to know about the help that may be available to you:

1. You won’t be taking money away from someone else by applying. FEMA will distribute funds to every eligible applicant regardless of how many people apply.
2. FEMA assistance is available to homeowners and renters, including owners and renters of mobile homes.
3. Eligible homeowners and renters will receive FEMA assistance as grants that do not have to be repaid. 
4. You can apply for FEMA assistance before your insurance claim processes. However, once you receive a settlement, make sure to report it to FEMA. FEMA can’t duplicate benefits from other sources, so we need to see what your insurance covers before we can process your application.
5. FEMA assistance is nontaxable, and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal or state benefits. 

6. You can ask questions and get in-person help applying for assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center. Four centers are currently open: 

   • Washington County: Waterbury Armory, 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676
   • Washington County: Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
   • Orleans County: Barton Memorial Building, 17 Village Square, Barton, VT 05822
   • Windham County: Wardsboro Town Hall, 99 Main St., Wardsboro, VT 05355

   For the latest locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

7. If your insurance is delayed by 30 days or more and you need money to relocate immediately, FEMA may be able to help. 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 call. Unlike normal FEMA grants, this type of assistance must be repaid once you get your insurance.
8. If your car was damaged by the disaster, you may be eligible for money to repair or replace it. Apply with FEMA first, then, if referred, submit a U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan application to determine eligibility. 
9. If FEMA refers you to the Small Business Administration, you should apply. SBA’s long-term, low-interest disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds – and applying allows FEMA to evaluate you for more types of aid. SBA may be able to increase your loan amount by up to 20 percent of your damage so you can make improvements to make your home safer. To learn more, visit SBA.gov/disaster.
10. Calling 211 or applying for assistance through another organization or agency does not automatically register you with FEMA. To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

kimberly.keblish Fri, 09/15/2023 - 14:25

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

WASHINGTON­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of New Hampshire to supplement recovery efforts affected by severe storms and flooding from July 9-17, 2023.

Public assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms and straight-line winds in Belknap, Carroll, Cheshire, Coos and Sullivan counties.

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

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

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/15/2023 - 13:37

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Maine

WASHINGTON­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Maine to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Lee from Sept.15-17, 2023.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the storm on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, protect property and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of catastrophe statewide.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the effects of the storm. Emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care, including evacuation and sheltering support, will be provided at 75% federal funding statewide.

William F. Roy has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/15/2023 - 13:16

Renters Can Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Idalia

ATLANTA —Renters in Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties who sustained losses from Hurricane Idalia can apply for federal disaster assistance. FEMA Individual Assistance grants are available to renters, including students, to help pay for temporary housing. The initial rental grant is for a one-month or two-month period and can be reviewed for further assistance.

Renters may also qualify for a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for uninsured essential personal property losses and other disaster-related expenses. These may include: 

• Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks, or school supplies.
• Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required by the self-employed.
• Primary vehicles.
• Uninsured or out-of-pocket medical, dental, childcare, moving and storage expenses.

To apply, 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 your number for that service.

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

For an accessible video on assistance to renters, visit, Renters May Eligible for Federal Help. 

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.

neily.chapman Thu, 09/14/2023 - 18:04

FEMA Urges Public to Prepare Ahead of Hurricane Lee, Pay Attention to Local Officials

WASHINGTON -- FEMA encourages residents and visitors in Hurricane Lee’s path to prepare now and follow the instructions of local officials. Anyone in the forecast path of the storm should monitor local weather alerts for updates and evacuate immediately if told to do so.

Residents and visitors in potentially affected areas should learn their evacuation routes now, have a family emergency communications plan, charge their devices and batteries, ensure they are receiving emergency alerts and check on their neighbors, especially those who are older adults or may need additional assistance. 

The National Hurricane Center has issued hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge watches for several areas in New England. Hurricane conditions and coastal flooding are possible in portions of eastern Maine and life-threatening storm surge flooding is possible in portions of southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod and Nantucket.

Now is the time to prepare:

• Get Emergency Alerts: Make sure to sign up to receive weather alerts in your community and stay updated on the latest weather news from the National Weather Service. 
• Gather Supplies: Have enough supplies for your household. Include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or weeks.
• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Evacuating: If you are in potentially affected areas, you should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a family emergency communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have plans for your family members and pets. If you are a person with disabilities, you may need to take additional steps to plan for both your needs and that of your service animal. 
• Flood insurance: Residents should review their National Flood Insurance Program policy. It can cover and reimburse certain actions residents take to minimize damage to their homes and belongings before a flood.

FEMA encourages everyone to visit www.Ready.gov or www.Listo.gov to learn more about how to be prepared and how to protect yourself and your loved ones during emergencies. Make sure your family, friends and neighbors understand the potential affects Hurricane Lee could bring to your area.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 09/14/2023 - 15:55

Reconstruction Projects in Municipalities: A Cornerstone of the Recovery

Six years after Hurricane María, the 78 towns have reconstruction projects obligated

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – There are already close to $4 billion that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has earmarked for over 6,400 projects that are supporting the recovery of all the municipalities of Puerto Rico. 

In 2023, the agency allocated over $296.8 million for 434 projects to this sector, which represents more opportunities to promote the local economy.

“Six years after Hurricane María, more and more projects have already completed their reconstruction or will soon begin construction. We are excited to witness how these works already have a positive impact in the communities and how the municipal development contributes to Puerto Rico’s recovery,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero. 

One of the completed projects that is already contributing to the socioeconomic development of the municipalities is the Cueva María de la Cruz Historic Park in Loíza. In addition to enjoying the archaeological findings in the cave, visitors can participate in bomba, beekeeping and turban-making workshops. In fact, the cave is home to one of the largest bee sanctuaries in the Caribbean.

Loíza resident Raúl Ayala is one of the local artisans who benefits from this reconstruction. For years, Ayala has created masks from dried coconut, which are part of the celebration of the traditional Santiago Apóstol festivities in the municipality.

Following an allocation of over $349,000, the municipality was able to work on repairs to the María de la Cruz Cave facilities, as well as the kiosks and the cave museum.

Moving into the central part of the island, the residents of Naranjito benefit from reconstructed roads, such as the Los Martínez Road. Nearly $848,000 were allocated for a retaining wall, gutters and other mitigation measures that help control erosion and improve the transportation of around 40 families.

The mayor of the municipality, Orlando Ortiz Chevres, explained that Hurricane María caused great damage to the Los Martínez Road, “to the point that there was a big landslide that endangered the safety of the residents. This project is important because it connects the Los Martínez sector with road PR-5. 

Meanwhile, for the west of the island, one of the works that was recently completed is the Abrahonda bridge in the municipality of San Sebastián. The bridge connects highways PR-451 and PR-4451 and provides a more direct route between the Guacio neighborhood and downtown San Sebastián.

Elson Alemán, a resident of the community, explained how the neighbors witnessed the reconstruction process. He also explained that the previous bridge — washed away by the Guajataca River during Hurricane María — was a fairly low one, about four feet above the water. “The difference is like from heaven to earth. The residents take about 45 to 50 minutes to go down to San Sebastián and around here it takes 10 or 15 minutes.”.

Following the allocation of about over $5.1 million, the road was reconstructed by raising it with a single-span bridge that remains above flood levels. The new bridge was built in accordance with new building codes and is expected to last 100 years. 

Other municipalities that stand out for the agency’s allocations are Añasco, which has $280 million for 139 projects; Yabucoa, with over $103 million for 70 projects; Utuado, with $107 million for 350 projects; and Barranquitas with over $88 million for 185 projects.

Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said: “Fulfilling our commitment to speed the reconstruction of projects led by the municipalities, COR3 implemented various initiatives to guide the execution of currently over 4,150 permanent works whose obligations near $1.9 billion. An example of the initiatives directed towards making the execution of projects possible is the development of the Working Capital Advance pilot program, which advances up to 50 percent of the amount awarded by FEMA for the municipalities to begin their reconstruction activities.”

To date, FEMA has awarded over $31 billion for nearly 10,800 Public Assistance projects directed towards the reconstruction of a more resilient Puerto Rico.

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.

Naranjito, PUERTO RICO (November 21, 2021) – The residents of Naranjito benefit from reconstructed roads, such as the Los Martínez Road. Nearly $848,000 were allocated for a retaining wall, gutters and other mitigation measures that help control erosion and improve the transportation of around 40 families. Photo Fema / Eduardo Martínez Rivera

San Sebastián, PUERTO RICO (August 18, 2023) – One of the works that was recently completed is the Abrahonda bridge in the municipality of San Sebastián. Following the allocation of about over $5.1 million, the road was reconstructed by raising it with a single-span bridge that remains above flood levels. Photo FEMA/ Francisco Rodríguez Burns

 

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 09/14/2023 - 15:04

It’s Important to Submit an SBA Loan Application

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Applicants for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Idalia may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and asked to submit an application for a disaster loan.

It is important to submit the loan application as soon as possible. If the application is approved, applicants are not obligated to accept an SBA loan but failure to return the application may disqualify them from other possible financial assistance from FEMA and State of Florida.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. SBA offers long-term, low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and certain private nonprofit organizations. 

SBA disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other resources. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. They may discover they were underinsured for the deductible, labor and materials required to repair or replace their home.

Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $500,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $100,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

Survivors may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. For business owners, SBA is operating two Business Recovery Centers at Cedar Key Community Center and Suwannee County Chamber of Commerce in Live Oak.

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… Thu, 09/14/2023 - 14:00

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Calumet City

CHICAGO – A temporary FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will open in Calumet City on Thursday, Sept. 14 in the Calumet City Public Library to help residents kickstart their recovery after the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding. 

Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, learn about ways to make their property more disaster resistant, and get their questions answered in person.

The center will be open through Sept. 21 in the following temporary location:  

Calumet City               

Calumet City Public Library​

660 Manistee Ave.​

Calumet City, IL 60409

Hours: 7a.m. – 5p.m. Sept. 14  

               7a.m. – 7p.m. Sept. 15 – 21, 2023 

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

Multiple recovery centers are now open. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA’s DRC Locator. 

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

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to register with FEMA is October 16, 2023.      

nicole.wilson Thu, 09/14/2023 - 02:59