Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice on Maui Through Sept. 23

HONOLULU – As Maui residents prepare to repair, rebuild and retrofit their homes after the Aug. 8 wildfires, FEMA has teamed up with the Home Depot in Kahului to provide free information and tips on how to make homes stronger and safer.

FEMA specialists are available to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from disasters. Most information is aimed at general contractors or those who wish to do it for themselves.

The specialists will be available 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 13 to Sept. 23, except Sundays, at this location: 

The Home Depot

100 Pakaula Street

Kahului, HI 96732

 

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov and fema.gov/disaster/4724. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema.

martyce.allenjr Thu, 09/14/2023 - 01:05

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Making Several Stops in Dixie County

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

• Suwannee Baptist Church, 23103 SE Hwy 349, Suwannee, FL 
  • Wednesday, 9/13, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursday - Saturday, 9/14 to 9/16, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Jena Pentecostal Holiness Church 5335 Co Rd 358, Steinhatchee, FL
  • Sunday, 9/17, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Monday - Wednesday, 9/18 to 9/20, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Butler Douglas Memorial Park, 244 8th Ave W, Horseshoe Beach, FL
  • Thursday 9/21, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday - Sunday, 9/22 to 9/24, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Currently open fixed sites:

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

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… Wed, 09/13/2023 - 21:51

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Columbia, Jefferson Counties

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

Locations: 

• Columbia County: Lake City Reporter, 180 E Duval Street in Lake City, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Jefferson County: Jefferson County Library, 375 S Water Street in Monticello, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun

Additional open fixed sites:

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

There are also several Mobile Centers helping with applications. Other services may be limited at these locations:

• Levy County: Cedar Key Fire Station parking lot, 489 1st St. in Cedar Key, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. to 
  5 p.m. Sat-Sun
• Pasco County: Hudson Library, 8012 Library Rd. in Hudson, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Tues, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wed-Thurs, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fri-Sat, closed Sun

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… Wed, 09/13/2023 - 21:21

FEMA is Hiring – Visit a Job Fair Sept. 14-17 on Maui

HONOLULU – FEMA is hiring! Join the team that helps people in need before, during and after disasters.

FEMA is seeking writers, liaisons, planners, historic preservation and geospatial information specialists, and digital communications specialists, to name a few. Many FEMA employees began their careers in emergency management, helping their communities recover from a disaster.

Four job fairs will be held Sept. 14—17 in Kahului, Lāhainā and Wailuku, where you can fill out a paper application or use a kiosk to apply online. You can get advice about writing your resume and ask questions about salary and benefits. Bring enough resumes to apply for multiple positions.

The dates and locations of the job fairs are:

Thursday, Sept. 14

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kāko‘o Maui Resource Hub

 70 E. Ka‘ahumanu Avenue 

Kahului, HI 96732

Friday, Sept. 15

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Lāhainā Civic Center

1840 Honoapi‘ilani Highway

Lāhainā, HI 96761

Saturday, Sept. 16 and Sunday, Sept.17 

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Maui Ocean Center

192 Mā‘alaea Road

Wailuku, HI 96793

These temporary positions on Oʻahu and Maui start as 120-dayappointments and may be extendedup to one year. Benefits include sick leave, health insurance and up to 11 paid holidays.

To see all open positions, visit usajobs.gov, type keywords “localhire” and enter“Hawaii” for the location. Detailed information is provided for each position, including pay and benefits. All applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma.

FEMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov and fema.gov/disaster/4724. Follow FEMA on social media:@FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema.

zella.campbell Wed, 09/13/2023 - 20:47

Disaster Recovery Centers to Change Their Saturday Hours

Effective September 16, Disaster Recovery Centers across Vermont will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

The centers will continue to operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday until further notice.

If you were affected by Vermont’s July 7-17 storms, visit a center to get in-person help from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Specialists can help you apply for assistance, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

The centers are located at:

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

Wardsboro Town Hall
99 Main St.
Wardsboro, VT 05355

kimberly.keblish Wed, 09/13/2023 - 20:16

Essex County Now Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

Government agencies, private nonprofits and houses of worship in Essex County can now apply for FEMA to reimburse their costs to remove debris and restore infrastructure damaged in Vermont's July floods.

This amendment makes Essex County eligible for two additional categories of FEMA’s Public Assistance program: debris removal, and permanent repairs to public infrastructure including roads, bridges, buildings, parks and utilities. The county is already eligible for reimbursement of emergency protective measures it took to prevent damage during the storms.

Eleven other counties are also eligible for all categories of Public Assistance – Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor – while emergency protective measures can be reimbursed statewide.

To learn more or apply, email Vermont Emergency Management at ADM.2023floods@Vermont.gov or visit their website at Home Page | Vermont Emergency Management.

kimberly.keblish Wed, 09/13/2023 - 19:42

One Year After: Hurricane Fiona Survivors Awarded Over $646 Million in Disaster Assistance

San Juan, Puerto Rico — FEMA awarded over $646 million in Individual Assistance (IA) grants to survivors, since Hurricane Fiona made landfall in Puerto Rico almost a year ago. More than 740,000 households have received disaster assistance funding to repair and rebuild damaged homes.

“It’s been a year since Hurricane Fiona hit Puerto Rico and we have had a close and direct working relationship with federal agencies and the Biden-Harris Administration, including FEMA in particular. We have been working together for the well-being of the residents of our Island and the results are evidence by the disbursement of approximately $646 million of Individual Assistance to 740,000 households, as well as other funds allocated for permanent work in our infrastructure. I reiterate my gratitude to FEMA and know that we will continue this collaborative work on the reconstruction of Puerto Rico”, Governor, Pedro R. Pierluisi said.

To further address the needs of underserved communities during Hurricane Fiona recovery efforts, FEMA implemented an equity-based outreach program called Enhanced Applicant Services, where IA specialists completed thousands of targeted callouts to survivors who required additional support to successfully navigate the IA program. As a result of this survivor-centric plan, over $14.7 million have been approved in disaster assistance for people who may have been found ineligible.

“When survivors apply for disaster assistance, sometimes they may overlook important documentation that is required for the qualification process. This innovative approach demonstrates our commitment to helping survivors recover from Hurricane Fiona, providing eligible individuals and families the opportunity to continue advancing their recovery,” said DuWayne Tewes, Federal Coordinating Officer for Hurricane Fiona.

IA Specialists reached out to survivors whose applications lacked documentation, such as proof of ownership and occupancy, or populations who required additional support, including people with access or functional needs, people 65 years of age or older, with zero or low income, or those who may have difficulty understanding and advancing through the recovery process.

In addition to completing targeted call outs, FEMA applied lessons learned and broadened the scope of documentation that is accepted to prove home ownership, identity, and prove that the survivor was living in the home at the time of the disaster. This allowed residents who lacked standard documentation to qualify for assistance.

FEMA continues to contact survivors with questions related to their disaster application. If an applicant receives one of these messages via phone call, text message or email, they should call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

# # #

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 Wed, 09/13/2023 - 17:08

ICYMI -- FEMA, TSA Share Public Service Announcement Encouraging Travelers to Make a Plan and be Disaster-Ready

WASHINGTON -- Ahead of what is projected to be another busy holiday travel period, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and TSA Administrator David Pekoske joined together and distributed a new public service announcement (PSA) yesterday, asking travelers to make a plan and be prepared before traveling. 

The PSA was distributed at federalized airports nationwide to air on airport security checkpoint monitors. To further emphasize travel preparedness, TSA and FEMA also hosted a press conference at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, where they officially unveiled the PSA.

In the PSA, Secretary Mayorkas, and Administrators Criswell and Pekoske, encourage travelers to make preparations before embarking on their travels, which include checking with their airport and airline, packing items they might need during an emergency and ensuring their family’s safety while on vacation or traveling for work.

 

POOL FOOTAGE AVAILABLE: For pool footage from the press conference, please contact fema-new-desk@fema.DHS.gov

“The Department of Homeland Security works day-in and day-out to keep the American people safe, but we cannot do it alone,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “Everyone has a role to play when it comes to staying safe, especially when traveling. Natural disasters and emergencies could happen at any time, so it is important to be prepared.” 

“We want people to be safe when they travel and be prepared for emergencies,” Administrator Criswell remarked. “I encourage you to visit Ready.gov to learn about how you can prepare yourself and your family. And remember to download the free FEMA app and get alerts and warnings for up to five locations in the United States. I also encourage you to share this important PSA with your family and friends.”

Preparedness is important for TSA as well. The agency screened 264 million passengers during the summer travel season, which was a record number of travelers for the period. At the same time, extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and severity nationwide.  

“Transportation security might not immediately come to mind when you think of disaster preparedness, but travel readiness is an important part of being prepared,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “Our hope is that passengers who make their way through security screening see this PSA on an airport monitor, and are reminded about the importance of being prepared for their travel that day and future travel by ensuring they do not have any prohibited items in their carry-on bag. We also encourage travelers enroll in TSA PreCheck® and arrive early for what we are projecting to be another busy holiday travel season.”

The PSA specifically outlines three easy steps everyone can take to be prepared before they travel:

1. Assess your needs. Whether needing to keep your medications cool or getting help with an assistive device, it’s important to understand what you’ll need in an emergency.
2. Engage your support network. Enlist a trusted friend or neighbor to watch your home while you’re away. 
3. Make a plan. From planning your travel route to understanding the risks you might face in the places you visit, it’s important to understand what you’ll need and what you’ll do when a disaster or emergency happens when you travel. 

When travelers are packing their bags and any items they may need in their emergency kit, it is important they check the TSA.gov “What Can I Bring” tool.  For other questions on items to bring, they may also reach out to AskTSA by texting TRAVEL or 275-872, tweeting @AskTSA on X or sending a Facebook message to AskTSA. 

This PSA is just one of the many initiatives FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are taking this National Preparedness Month to ensure people across the country are ready when disasters, man-made and natural, strike. 

To learn more about National Preparedness Month and steps you and your family can take to prepare, please visit: https://www.ready.gov/september. 

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 09/13/2023 - 15:17

Georgians Should Be Alert to Fraud After Hurricane Idalia

ATLANTA — Hurricane Idalia survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft scams after a disaster. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors. In other instances, imposters may pretend to be officials of FEMA or other government agencies.

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

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

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

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by Hurricane Idalia in Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties. They carry official FEMA identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. 

Scams

• Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. 
• Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. FEMA representatives will have your nine-digit FEMA application number.
• Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information. 
• If you think you may have been the victim of a scam or price gouging, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department or contact the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 404-651-8600 or 800-869-1123.
• If you suspect identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov.  

For information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738. Follow FEMA on Twitter at @femaregionIV / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.. 

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

neily.chapman Wed, 09/13/2023 - 14:52

Federal Support for June Tornadoes Recovery: $3.8 Million and Counting, Renters and Homeowners May Still Apply

MADISON, Miss. – One month after the major disaster declaration for the June 14 -19 severe storms and tornadoes in Mississippi, $3.8 million and counting in federal support has been approved by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). FEMA expects the amount to increase as more people apply.

As of Sept. 12, more than $1.7 million in FEMA grants have been approved for renters and homeowners in Jackson and Jasper counties. This includes:

• More than $1.4 million in Housing Assistance that helps pay for uninsured home repairs, home replacement and rental assistance for short-term lodging. 
  • More than $788,000 in Repair Assistance -- grants to help with basic repairs to a disaster-damaged primary residence.
  • More than $361,000 in Rental Assistance -- grants to rent alternate housing while an applicant is displaced from their disaster-damaged primary residence.
• More than $290,000 in Other Needs Assistance -- grants to help pay for uninsured personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs.

The SBA has approved more than $2.1 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses. These flexible loans can help supplement insurance settlements and FEMA grants.

Added together, federal recovery support for households now totals more than $3.8 million.

Application Period Remains Open

Homeowners and renters in Jackson and Jasper counties whose homes and property were damaged by the storms can continue to apply for federal assistance:

• by going to disasterassistance.gov
• or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.

The FEMA helpline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with language translation services available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits. Applications will be taken through Oct. 11, 2023.

For the latest information on recovery from the June tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4727. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

sandra.habib Wed, 09/13/2023 - 11:44

Whole Community Joins Effort to Help Idalia Survivors

Lake Mary, Fla.  – They are serving meals, cutting trees, offering rides, staffing shelters, mucking out homes, assisting those with access and functional needs after the storm.  

They are legion, thousands of people helping other people after Hurricane Idalia struck the Big Bend in Florida.

It happens after every disaster: The whole community comes together and gets to work. It starts with neighbors. Quickly, voluntary organizations go into action. Houses of worship offer shelter and feeding. Local partners provide food, water, cleanup supplies, hygiene kits. Private sector provides services and logistical support. All of these efforts supplement the aid that is coming from the State of Florida, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Within one week of Idalia’s landfall, 80 organizations were coordinating with the State of Florida, FEMA’s Voluntary Agency Liaisons and Volunteer Florida. Many came from other states.

“The local communities provide emergency services and recovery resources along with the state and FEMA,” said Christopher Baker, FEMA’s Voluntary Agency Liaison for Idalia. “But the voluntary agencies bring so much more, meeting needs that can’t be met by government. All of these volunteers working in Florida right now are face to face with people who have had a terrible experience. They bring comfort and help.”

Florida has a strong network of volunteers, part of Florida Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters. The network was involved from the beginning when Idalia made landfall. The network will stay involved as long as it is needed, Baker said.

To apply for FEMA assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Application deadline is Oct. 30, 2023.

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… Tue, 09/12/2023 - 21:54

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Taylor, Citrus Counties

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

Locations: 

• Taylor County:
  • Loughridge Park, W 15th St. in Perry, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
  • Steinhatchee Community Center, 1013 S Riverside Drive in Steinhatchee, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Citrus County: West Citrus Community Center, 8940 W Veterans Drive in Homosassa, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun

Currently open fixed sites:

• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19 in Cross City, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Hamilton County: Court House Annex/Chamber of Commerce, 1153 NW US Hwy 41 in Jasper, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir. in Mayo, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Levy County: Inglis Community Center, 137 Hwy 40 W in Inglis, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St. in Madison, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 
• Suwannee County: Agricultural Coliseum Exhibition Building 2, 1302 SW 11 St. in Live Oak, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun

There are also several Mobile Centers helping with applications. Other services are limited at these locations:

• Levy County: Cedar Key Fire Station parking lot, 489 1st St. in Cedar Key, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. to 
  5 p.m. Sat-Sun
• Pasco County: Hudson Library, 8012 Library Rd. in Hudson, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Tues, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wed-Thurs, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fri-Sat, closed Sun

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… Tue, 09/12/2023 - 21:00

FEMA, TSA Share Public Service Announcement Encouraging Travelers to Make a Plan and be Disaster-Ready

WASHINGTON -- Ahead of what is projected to be another busy holiday travel period, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and TSA Administrator David Pekoske joined together and distributed a new public service announcement (PSA) today, asking travelers to make a plan and be prepared before traveling. 

The PSA was distributed at federalized airports nationwide to air on airport security checkpoint monitors. To further emphasize travel preparedness, TSA and FEMA also hosted a press conference at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, where they officially unveiled the PSA.

In the PSA, Secretary Mayorkas, and Administrators Criswell and Pekoske, encourage travelers to make preparations before embarking on their travels, which include checking with their airport and airline, packing items they might need during an emergency and ensuring their family’s safety while on vacation or traveling for work.

 

POOL FOOTAGE AVAILABLE: For pool footage from the press conference, please contact fema-new-desk@fema.DHS.gov

“The Department of Homeland Security works day-in and day-out to keep the American people safe, but we cannot do it alone,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “Everyone has a role to play when it comes to staying safe, especially when traveling. Natural disasters and emergencies could happen at any time, so it is important to be prepared.” 

“We want people to be safe when they travel and be prepared for emergencies,” Administrator Criswell remarked. “I encourage you to visit Ready.gov to learn about how you can prepare yourself and your family. And remember to download the free FEMA app and get alerts and warnings for up to five locations in the United States. I also encourage you to share this important PSA with your family and friends.”

Preparedness is important for TSA as well. The agency screened 264 million passengers during the summer travel season, which was a record number of travelers for the period. At the same time, extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and severity nationwide.  

“Transportation security might not immediately come to mind when you think of disaster preparedness, but travel readiness is an important part of being prepared,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “Our hope is that passengers who make their way through security screening see this PSA on an airport monitor, and are reminded about the importance of being prepared for their travel that day and future travel by ensuring they do not have any prohibited items in their carry-on bag. We also encourage travelers enroll in TSA PreCheck® and arrive early for what we are projecting to be another busy holiday travel season.”

The PSA specifically outlines three easy steps everyone can take to be prepared before they travel:

1. Assess your needs. Whether needing to keep your medications cool or getting help with an assistive device, it’s important to understand what you’ll need in an emergency.
2. Engage your support network. Enlist a trusted friend or neighbor to watch your home while you’re away. 
3. Make a plan. From planning your travel route to understanding the risks you might face in the places you visit, it’s important to understand what you’ll need and what you’ll do when a disaster or emergency happens when you travel. 

When travelers are packing their bags and any items they may need in their emergency kit, it is important they check the TSA.gov “What Can I Bring” tool.  For other questions on items to bring, they may also reach out to AskTSA by texting TRAVEL or 275-872, tweeting @AskTSA on X or sending a Facebook message to AskTSA. 

This PSA is just one of the many initiatives FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are taking this National Preparedness Month to ensure people across the country are ready when disasters, man-made and natural, strike. 

To learn more about National Preparedness Month and steps you and your family can take to prepare, please visit: https://www.ready.gov/september. 

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/12/2023 - 18:20

Biden-Harris Administration Announces First Recipients Selected to Administer Innovative Climate Resilience Loan Fund

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA is announcing that seven states and the District of Columbia will receive a combined $50 million in capitalization grants to help communities reduce vulnerability to natural hazards and disasters.

These capitalization grants, provided through the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program, and made possible by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will enable states, territories, tribes and the District of Columbia to administer revolving loan funds that will help local governments carry out hazard mitigation projects that build community climate resilience. 

“The Biden-Harris Administration, with bipartisan support in Congress, has made billions of dollars available to help build resilience nationwide, but economically disadvantaged communities can still face barriers when it comes to financing their own mitigation projects,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This innovative, new program, made possible by the President’s Investing in America Agenda, will allow states to provide low-interest loans to help communities secure the additional capital needed to fund these projects.” 

“Together with our partners, the Biden Administration is funding a powerful new, on-the-ground capability that allows communities to leverage federal capital to build resilient infrastructure.  We must harness this sort of innovative partnership to tackle increasingly frequent and severe climate-fueled disasters,” said Ali Zaidi, White House National Climate Advisor.

Local governments may use capitalization grant funding to make structures more resilient to natural hazards. This includes improving flood control, implementing changes in zoning and land-use planning needed to adapt to a changing climate, and enforcing adoption of resilient building codes. Local governments may also apply the funding to satisfy their cost-share requirement for FEMA hazard mitigation assistance grants, lessening their financial burden to implement climate resilience activities. As these loans are paid back to the states, the funding can be used to finance additional mitigation projects, providing a sustainable local source of financing for protecting communities.

The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program complements FEMA’s hazard mitigation grant portfolio to support mitigation projects at the local government level and increase the nation’s resilience to natural hazards and climate change. 

FEMA encourages applicants to develop revolving loan funds that target low-income geographic areas and underserved communities. Entities selected for awards will use funding based on their unique needs and priorities to become more resilient to natural hazards.

Today’s funding announcements were made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides $500 million to fund the Safeguarding Tomorrow program through 2026.

FEMA selected the following eight applications for the first year of funding:

• District of Columbia: $6.1 million
• Louisiana: $6.9 million
• Maryland: $6.5 million
• Michigan: $5.1 million
• New Jersey: $6.4 million
• New York: $6.2 million
• South Carolina: $6.4 million
• Virginia: $6.1 million
• FEMA will offer technical assistance through webinars, office hours, website updates and program support materials to help existing and future participants and make use of this innovative program. 
• This first year of the program will inform future funding opportunities and ensure long-term viability and success of the program at all levels. The agency anticipates releasing the next funding opportunity later this fall.   

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/12/2023 - 15:56

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Emergency preparedness exercise scheduled for the Limerick Generating Station

PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise at the Limerick Generating Station. The exercise will occur during the week of September 25, 2023, to assess the ability of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”

Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions. The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise. 

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 4:00 p.m. on September 28, 2023. The meeting will be conducted in-person at the Marriott Courtyard Philadelphia Valley Forge/Collegeville, 600 Campus Drive, Collegeville, PA 19426. Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC.

At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:

MaryAnn Tierney

Regional Administrator

FEMA Region 3

615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106

 

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program. 

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

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

charles.elison Tue, 09/12/2023 - 14:24

Two Months Later, Recovery from July Storms Well Underway

Two months after the federal disaster declaration for the state of Vermont following July’s severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, more than $54.7 million in federal assistance has been provided by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) directly to Vermonters to aid in their recovery. 

The funds include grants from FEMA, payouts from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the SBA.

Individual Assistance

Residents of nine Vermont counties are eligible to apply for Individual Assistance: Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor. Homeowners and renters whose homes and property were damaged by the storms have until October 12, 2023, to apply.

As of September 11, Vermont’s recovery assistance includes:

• More than $17.7 million in FEMA’s Individual and Households Program grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in the nine designated Vermont counties. These grants help residents pay for uninsured and underinsured storm-related losses, including:
  • More than $16.2 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
  • More than $1.5 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property, replacement and other serious storm-related needs such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid $18.3 million in claims for policyholders.
• SBA has approved more than $18.6 million in 394 long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and cover economic injury. The deadline to apply for an SBA loan for physical damage is October 12, 2023. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 15, 2024.
• Of the 13 Disaster Recovery Centers operated by the state and FEMA to provide one-on-one assistance to survivors, four centers currently remain open in Washington, Orleans and Windham counties. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday. Locations are:
  • 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
  • Wardsboro Town Hall, 99 Main St., Wardsboro, VT 05355
• To date, there have been 2,922 survivor visits to Disaster Recovery Centers. 

Recovery specialists from the state, FEMA, and SBA provide information on available services, explain assistance programs, and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance. No appointment is necessary to visit – walk-ins are welcome. 

FEMA sent Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams to storm-affected neighborhoods in every designated county. These teams traveled door-to-door, visiting homes, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to help residents apply, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies for additional support. DSA personnel interacted with more than 12,500 residents and visited more than 19,400 households and 1,070 businesses to help survivors apply for assistance. The teams have also assisted survivors at county fairs, farmers markets and other events.

FEMA is working to remove barriers to assistance, ensuring all survivors have equal access to disaster aid and resources. FEMA offers help in many languages through our Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Public Assistance

FEMA’s Public Assistance program reimburses counties, the state and certain nonprofits for eligible costs of disaster-related debris removal, emergency protective measures and repair and replacement of disaster-damaged facilities such as roads, bridges, public utilities, including water treatment and electrical plants, government buildings and parks. 

All Vermont counties have been designated for some form of Public Assistance:

• All counties have been designated for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.
• Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor counties have been approved for debris removal, emergency protective measures – including direct federal assistance – and restoration of disaster-damaged facilities.

Vermont Emergency Management hosted five applicant briefings across the state to provide information on the Request for Public Assistance process with support from FEMA Public Assistance from July 31 to August 4. More than 200 people attended the five briefings.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

FEMA often refers disaster survivors to SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan. 

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster-recovery funds for survivors. SBA offers long-term, low-interest disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters to help them build back better, stronger and more resilient.

Disaster loans can be used to make building upgrades or property improvements that eliminate future damage and can save lives.

SBA established three Business Recovery Centers for residents to meet with SBA representatives and find out how a low-interest disaster loan can help them recover. One remains open at the Engel & Völkers Okemo Building, 126 Main St., Ludlow, VT 05149. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (closed Sunday).

To apply, visit the SBA’s website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov or call 800-659-2955.

FEMA’s Commitment

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

kimberly.keblish Tue, 09/12/2023 - 14:20

Couldn’t Apply with FEMA? Late Applications Must be Received by Sept. 26

The deadline for Guam residents to apply for federal assistance due typhoon Mawar was July 28, 2023. But what if you were hospitalized, or off island and unable to apply? In rare cases survivors may be eligible to submit a late application to FEMA. The deadline to submit a late application, is Sept. 26, 2023

 

Eligibility

FEMA accepts late applications if extraordinary circumstances kept you from applying before the original deadline. Interested residents who have not applied due to extenuating circumstances can still apply. FEMA will require a signed letter explaining the reason for the late application, including supporting documents that clearly state why you could not apply during the application period.

This may include:

• Record of hospitalization, illness, or disability of the applicant or an immediate family member;
• Death of an immediate family member;
• Proof of personal or business travel that kept the applicant out of the area for the full application period; or
• Evidence of unique disaster-specific circumstances.

 

Late Application Process

Guam residents have until Sept. 26 to complete a late application for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. There are several ways to submit a late application for disaster assistance:

• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Download and use the FEMA mobile app; or
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

 

After Applying, Mail, Fax or Upload Supporting Documents

Valid documentation explaining the reason for a late application must be submitted within 60 days from the date the late application was completed. All supporting documents must be signed and dated and include the applicant’s nine-digit FEMA application number along with the disaster number (DR-4715-GU). 

Documents can be mailed to: 

FEMA National Processing Service Center,

P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

Or faxed to: 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA

To upload documents online: To set up an online account or upload documents, go to DisasterAssistance.gov and click on “Check Your Application and Log In” then follow the directions. 

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

Follow FEMA on Twitter and Facebook.

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

robert.barker Tue, 09/12/2023 - 14:00

FEMA Approves Additional Georgia Counties for Public Assistance

ATLANTA – FEMA has added 25 counties in Georgia to last week’s presidential disaster declaration for assistance, under FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program. In his major disaster declaration of Sept. 7, President Biden declared Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties eligible for federal Individual Assistance as well as Public Assistance funding for debris removal and emergency services. These three counties are also included in the PA amendment. 

Under the amendment, Public Assistance funding is now available, on a cost-sharing basis, to eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, in these additional counties affected by Hurricane Idalia on Aug. 30: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bulloch, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Echols, Emanuel, Jeff Davis, Jenkins, Lanier, Pierce, Screven, Tattnall, Thomas, Tift, Ware and Wayne. 

PA provides help to communities impacted by Idalia to cover a full range of measures, including debris removal, life-saving emergency protective services and restoration of public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, dams and public parks and recreation facilities.

neily.chapman Tue, 09/12/2023 - 12:24

How to File Flood Insurance Claims After Hurricane Idalia

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Florida homeowners with insurance policies covered by the National Flood Insurance Program are urged to file claims as soon as possible. Advance payments may be available for some policyholders.

Policy holders should call their insurance agent or provider and initiate the claim even if they do not have all necessary documentation because they had to leave the property after the storm.

Homeowners with damage from both wind and flood will need to file two separate claims: a homeowner’s insurance claim and a flood insurance claim. They should let adjusters for each policy know of the claim filed with the other policy.

If filing a flood claim, ask about advance payments. You may be eligible for an advance payment of up to $5,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster. Your insurer will need to confirm covered flood damage to your property and may request additional documentation to support the amount of the advance. 

Policy holders may also be eligible for an advance payment of up to $20,000 if they have photos and/or videos depicting damage and receipts validating out-of-pocket expenses related to the flood loss, or a contractor’s itemized estimate.

If the flood insurance policy recently expired, ask your agent if you are still within a renewal grace period. You may be able to pay in full to renew and be covered for a loss during that time. 

The Standard Flood Insurance Policy does not cover expenses for code compliance unless the loss qualifies for Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage. Speak to your adjuster or insurer for more information.

The NFIP has additional information on floodsmart.gov/how-do-i-start-my-flood-claim for documenting your damage, re-entering safely, and rebuilding stronger, and where to go if you need additional assistance.  

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… Tue, 09/12/2023 - 11:37

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Wyoming to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding on June 15, 2023.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, 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 flooding in Natrona County.

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

Jon. K. Huss 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.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/11/2023 - 23:43