FEMA Assistance Available for Eligible Disaster-damaged Wells and Septic Systems

SACRAMENTO, Calif.- Residents who lost access to water through their private wells or had damage to their septic system caused by the severe winter storms may be eligible for financial assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.
The 14 counties designated for this assistance program are: Butte, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Mendocino, Mono, Monterey, Nevada, San Benito, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, Tulare and Tuolumne.

Damage to wells and septic systems must have been caused by severe storms, straight- line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides between Feb. 21 and July 10, 2023.
For private wells and septic systems, FEMA may provide assistance or reimbursement for the cost of a professional, licensed technician’s estimate of the repair or replacement of these items.
You also may receive assistance for the actual repair or replacement cost of these items not typically covered by homeowner’s insurance.

If you have applied for FEMA assistance and have not had a home inspection, you should call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (Helpline operators are available from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT daily.) If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give the FEMA representative your number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

At the time of your inspection, let the FEMA inspector know you have a private well and/or septic system that may have been damaged by the storm.
If the damage is determined to be caused by the disaster, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance. 

If you have already had an inspection and damage to the well or septic system wasn’t reported, contact the FEMA Helpline to receive instructions about how to amend your application.

For the latest information on California’s recovery from the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, visit FEMA.gov/disaster/4699. You may also follow twitter.com/Cal_OES, facebook.com/CaliforniaOES, @FEMARegion9/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

jasmine.fields Thu, 09/07/2023 - 16:06

Guam Residents May Still Have Time to Appeal a FEMA Decision

Those who applied for disaster assistance due to damages from Typhoon Mawar may still have time to appeal their initial FEMA decision. If you received a letter from FEMA saying that the information you provided is incomplete, or that you are ineligible for disaster assistance, you have the right to appeal the decision within 60 days of the date on the letter.

An appeal is a written request to review your file again and consider any additional information you’ve provided that may affect the decision. If it has been longer than sixty days since you received your decision letter, please include why your appeal is late.

Your FEMA letter tells you why your request for disaster assistance was denied. It could be because of something as simple as missing information. Providing the necessary information or documentation may help you qualify for a FEMA grant. If you don’t agree with the amount of the grant you received, providing receipts or written quotes showing you had additional damage may allow you to receive a larger grant.

 

Writing your letter

An appeal must be filed in the form of a signed letter from the applicant, within 60 days of the date on the decision letter. Be sure to include the following in an appeal:

• Explanation of why you disagree with FEMA’s decision.
• Your nine-digit registration number (printed on every page.)
• FEMA disaster declaration number – DR-4715 (printed on every page.)
• Don’t forget to sign and date your letter.
• Include any information requested by FEMA and supporting documentation.

FEMA will review your appeal and any documentation you have provided to make a new determination within 90 days. Sometimes another inspection will be conducted, if a second inspection is required it may be conducted by a different inspector. If more information is needed, FEMA will contact you.

Once the appeal has been reviewed a determination will be made on your appeal. If someone else files the appeal for you, you must also submit a signed statement giving that person authority to represent you.

For more information on the FEMA appeals process, including instructions in American Sign Language, watch the video series FEMA Answers: Questions on the Appeals Process.

 

How to send your appeal letter and documents

You can set up a FEMA online account and upload documents online. Visit Disasterassistance.gov, click on “Check Your Application and Log In” and follow the directions.

You can also send your letter via mail to:

Appeals Officer

National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055

Finally, you can fax your letter to 800-827-8112, with a cover sheet addressed to: Attention - FEMA Appeals Officer.

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

Follow FEMA at 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 Thu, 09/07/2023 - 15:35

Renters Can Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Idalia

TALLAHASSEE – Renters in 14 Florida counties who sustained losses from Hurricane Idalia can apply for federal disaster assistance. The counties are Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee and Taylor.

FEMA Individual Assistance is available to renters, including students. Federal grants can 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 personal property, transportation, moving and storage, medical and dental, funeral assistance, child care assistance, other essential items.

To apply, 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 an accessible video on assistance to renters, visit Renters may be eligible for federal help.

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, 09/07/2023 - 15:11

Johnson Disaster Recovery Center to Close September 8

WILLISTON, Vt. — The Johnson Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 6 p.m., Friday, September 8, 2023. The center is currently open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at this location:

Northern VT University -- McClelland Hall 
131 College Hill Road
Johnson, VT 05656

Other recovery centers remain open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday):

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

FEMA operates Disaster Recovery Centers based on where they are needed most. FEMA works closely with state and municipal partners in determining those sites. Once a location begins to see a significant drop in application visits, FEMA and the state coordinate on determining the closing date.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). 

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits, and provide information about rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

You don’t need to visit a DRC 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 (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 12, 2023.

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 at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

For the latest information on Vermont’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion1, the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA, or Vermont Emergency Management on Twitter at twitter.com/vemvt and on Facebook at facebook.com/VermontEmergencyManagement.

kimberly.keblish Thu, 09/07/2023 - 15:06

Puerto Rico’s Recovery Underway with Hazard Mitigation Support

The projects include a new gravity storm sewer system for Caño Martín Peña communities

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supports the development of project with mitigation measures that address a resilient preparation for Puerto Rico in the face of future atmospheric events. Hazard mitigation is any sustainable action that reduces or eliminates future disaster risks to people and property. 

Under the agency, the island benefits from two programs for these funds: projects with mitigation measures under the Public Assistance program (PA); and projects under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).

“Due to the impacts that climate change continues to present worldwide, it is important that Puerto Rico’s infrastructure is prepared to withstand the effects of future natural disasters and thus reduce long-term risks for communities. The projects with mitigation measures seek to break the cycle of these damages, either by reconstruction or by repeated damages,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.

The impact of flooding in communities is one of the damages that FEMA seeks to address in the infrastructure’s reconstruction. This is the case of the gravity storm sewer system project for the northern part of the Israel and Bitumul communities in San Juan, under HMGP. FEMA approved over $3.6 million for the first phase of the project, which will provide a new sanitary sewer system for 367 homes in the northern area of Israel and Bitumul and separate the sanitary sewers discharge from the storm sewer system. 

Carlos Muñiz Pérez is the Urban Planning and Infrastructure Manager for the ENLACE Project, the organization that coordinates the channeling and dredging of the Martín Peña Channel and the redevelopment of the eight communities that surround it, with the active participation of its residents and community organizations. Muñiz Pérez explained that addressing the sanitary system through the storm sewer project will prevent continuous discharges into the channel, which will improve the quality of the water and will also make the dredging project viable.

“That you are able to, in a flood event, leave your house the next day, be able to go to work, be able to go to a doctor’s appointment, all of that has a positive economic impact for the residents. It is basic infrastructure, which perhaps many of us have, but in the communities along the channel there are still residents who do not have that infrastructure”.

For the president of Bitumul and Israel’s Community Action Board, Evelyn Quiñones Ortiz, “the mitigation project, the dredging project, will give us life. That is what we want: quality of life, to improve.” The community leader also indicated that a maintenance plan at the community level will be vital to preserve the land after the restoration of the channel. 

Other Hazard Mitigation Projects

Nature-based solutions (NBS) are part of the tools that FEMA uses to mitigate hazards. NBS are planning, design and engineering practices that weave natural features or processes into their construction. 

Within the NBS are Articulated Cement Blocks (ACB), which are used for various bridge and highway projects. These blocks control erosion and support soil stabilization with a more cost-effective and environment-friendly vision. ACBs can even be filled with sediment, which helps restore vegetation.

The bridge in the Vara de Perro sector in Guayanilla will benefit from this measure. Over $271,000 —under Hurricane María Public Assistance — were earmarked specifically to install these blocks at the entrance, exit and under the bridge to prevent future damage to the structure from erosion.

Meanwhile, also under Public Assistance funds, other nature-based solutions will be worked on the bridge on the PR-378 in the Maravilla Norte neighborhood in the municipality of Las Marías. Over $390,000 will allow the installation of what are known as green gabions, revetments that filter water, allow its regular flow and reduce erosion. The green gabions can also be filled with vegetation to adapt to the natural environment.

To date, FEMA has allocated nearly $1.8 billion in mitigation measures for Hurricane María projects under the Public Assistance program; and over $250 million in other projects of the HMGP program, which seek mitigation solutions for Puerto Rico’s infrastructure. 

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.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 09/07/2023 - 14:48

Preparedness Month Highlights Six-Year Anniversary of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Alongside Current Threat of Hurricane Lee

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – As the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) remembers the six-year anniversary of the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma, the Territory faces a new challenge with the approaching Hurricane Lee. The timing of these events underscores the importance of preparedness and serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination displayed by the USVI community in the face of natural disasters said Mark A. Walters, Coordinator of FEMA’s V.I. Caribbean Area Office.

On September 6, 2017, Hurricane Irma made landfall in the USVI, leaving a trail of destruction, and causing significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and businesses. Its impact was felt across the Territory. The recovery process has been ongoing, with the USVI making progress in rebuilding and strengthening its infrastructure, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and implementing measures to better withstand future storms.

To honor the six-year anniversary of Hurricane Irma and raise awareness about the importance of preparedness, FEMA and the USVI join the nation in observing National Preparedness Month throughout September. This annual campaign encourages individuals, families, businesses, and communities to take proactive steps to ensure their readiness in the event of emergencies or natural disasters. The theme for this year's Preparedness Month is “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” which encourages everyone, especially older adults, to become more prepared in three simple steps.

1. Assess your needs. Everyone has unique needs. There are several factors that can affect the steps you need to take to prepare yourself and those you care for. Whether you care for pets, have children, have a medical condition or a disability, it is important to know what your family will need to stay safe.
    
2. Make a plan. Once you’ve assessed your needs, you can plan for what you’d do, where you’d go and what to bring if a disaster strikes. Your emergency supply kit should include items that meet your individual needs.
    
3. Engage your support network. Get to know your neighbors because they, along with your family and friends, can be a support network before, during and after a disaster by providing emotional and practical support.

You can learn more about National Preparedness Month and hurricane preparedness at Ready.gov.

According to VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen, “This September the U.S. Virgin Islands joins FEMA in recognizing this six-year anniversary of Category 5 Hurricane Irma and the upcoming six-year anniversary of Category 5 Hurricane Maria, which both proved just how resilient our community is in the Territory. Both hurricanes tested our strength and resilience, but it also revealed the unwavering spirit that defines us as Virgin Islanders.” “Both Governor Albert Bryan, Jr. and Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach embrace September as National Preparedness Month and signed a proclamation urging Virgin Islanders to take concrete action toward furthering individuals’ preparation for emergencies and disasters, with special focus on our vulnerable older adults, especially those living alone,” said Jaschen.

While reflecting on the progress made since Hurricane Irma, FEMA and the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) remain vigilant as Hurricane Lee approaches the Lesser Antilles. The National Weather Service has issued advisories and FEMA and VITEMA urge residents and visitors to monitor the storm's progress and take necessary precautions. The government of the USVI, in collaboration with federal agencies and local organizations, is prepared to activate emergency response plans, ensuring resources and personnel are ready to address any potential impacts.

To support preparedness efforts, FEMA and VITEMA and other local agencies have organized a series of events and initiatives. These include workshops, emergency drills, public service announcements and training. Residents are encouraged to participate actively, familiarize themselves with evacuation routes, assemble emergency supplies, and develop communication plans with their families. 

FEMA and VITEMA remind residents of the key elements of emergency preparedness, including:

• Create an emergency supply kit with essential items such as non-perishable food, water, prescription medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
• Develop a family emergency plan that includes communication methods, evacuation routes, and a designated meeting point.
• Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts, emergency alerts, and official announcements.
• Secure important documents and make digital copies of vital records.
• Protect your property by securing loose objects, trimming trees, and reinforcing doors and windows.
• Sign up for Alert VI at VITEMA - Public - Sign In (everbridge.net) .

As the USVI marks the anniversary of Hurricane Irma and prepares for the potential impact of Hurricane Lee, it is critical for everyone to remain vigilant not only for Lee, but for any weather or man-made events that may disrupt our lives and community. 

delia.husband Thu, 09/07/2023 - 13:08

Disaster Recovery Center Opens to Serve Communities in the Southside of Chicago

CHICAGO – A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will open on Thursday, Sept. 7 in the Pullman area to help residents in nearby Chatham, Avalon Park and surrounding communities in the city of Chicago’s South Side kickstart their recovery after the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding. 

Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be 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 in the following location: 

Advocate Medical Group - Imani Village (Pullman) 

901 East 95th St.

Chicago, IL 60619

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 7a.m.-7p.m. Closed Sundays.

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. 

There are now six recovery centers 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, 09/07/2023 - 00:01

Grants for Cleaning Costs May Be Available for June Tornado Applicants

MADISON, Miss. – FEMA may be able to provide one-time financial assistance for cleaning costs to eligible residents of Jackson and Jasper counties whose homes were damaged by the June tornadoes.

Homeowners and renters who apply to FEMA may qualify for this Clean and Sanitize Assistance if:

• Their home was damaged, but it is still safe to live in, based on a FEMA inspection.
• For renters, if the inspection noted that cleaning was necessary or already done.
• The damage is not covered by insurance.

If an applicant already cleaned and sanitized, they may be reimbursed if they saved receipts from any supplies, materials, or paid help.

To apply, or for more information, homeowners and renters in Jackson and Jasper counties can

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 (open 24 hours daily with language translation available).
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Find the closest center by texting “DRC” and your ZIP Code to 43362.

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

sandra.habib Wed, 09/06/2023 - 14:49

FEMA Designates First Communities to Receive Targeted Assistance for Hazards Resilience

WASHINGTON – Today, FEMA is announcing the initial designation of 483 census tracts that will be eligible for increased federal support to become more resilient to natural hazards and extreme weather worsened by the climate crisis. Congress directed FEMA to make these designations in the Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act of 2022 and implement this bipartisan legislation to help build resilience to natural hazards in communities most at-risk due to climate change. 

FEMA will use Community Disaster Resilience Zones designations to direct and manage financial and technical assistance for resilience projects. For example, for federal agencies, the legislation provides additional federal cost-share for projects in designated zones. The zone designations can also help the private sector, nonprofits, philanthropies, and other non-federal partners target investments in community resilience. 

The act aims to increase resilience efforts and preventative measures designed to address underserved communities most at risk to natural hazards. Consistent with legislative direction, FEMA considered natural hazard risk from a national and state level while accounting for factors that reflect disaster impacts felt by coastal, inland, urban, suburban and rural communities. FEMA also ensured that each state has at least one Community Disaster Resilience Zone in these initial designations.

“These designations will help ensure that the most at-risk communities are able to build resilience against natural hazards and extreme weather events, which are becoming increasingly intense and frequent due to climate change,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This aligns with Congress’ direction and other FEMA initiatives to get federal support and resources to the communities that need them most.”

This initial set of designations covers all 50 states and the District of Columbia. These designations can be explored on an interactive map on FEMA’s website. Additional information on the designation methodology and criteria is available. More Community Disaster Resilience Zone designations, including tribal lands and territories, are expected to be announced in the fall of 2023.

An additional designation of zones will occur in 12-18 months based on updates to the National Risk Index, lessons learned from these initial designations, and stakeholder input. Examples of planned updates to the National Risk Index include additional data on tsunami and riverine flood risk.

This new law amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Recovery and Emergency Act to direct use of a natural hazard risk assessment index, like FEMA’s National Risk Index, to identify communities which are most at risk of the effects of natural hazards and climate change. For these designations, this methodology uses a tailored version of the National Risk Index that includes socioeconomic status, household characteristics, house type and transportation themes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Social Vulnerability Index. 

The designation methodology also advances the Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-government commitment to environmental justice by incorporating the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool, which identifies disadvantaged communities that are underserved and overburdened by pollution and climate risk.

Designated zones will have prioritized access to federal funding for resilience and mitigation projects. For example, this fall, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will make awards for the Climate-Smart Communities Initiative program funded by the Inflation Reduction Act to accelerate the pace and reduce the cost of climate resilience-building for communities across the United States. NOAA will work with communities to co-develop equitable climate resilience plans that can be readied for funding and implementation. The priority is to assist communities that are at the highest risk to climate impacts and have the most need for assistance, such as the FEMA-identified Community Disaster Resilience Zones.

The vision for the Community Disaster Resilience Zone Act, passed with bipartisan support in December 2022, is to leverage collaboration and cross-sector coordination across all levels of government, philanthropic foundations, private non-profits, universities, the insurance industry and private businesses. 

FEMA will continue to engage the public as it refines the natural hazard risk assessment methodology to designate the zones, consults with local jurisdictions and implements post-designation support from a range of public and private resources.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/06/2023 - 14:42

Cabot Disaster Recovery Center to Close September 7

WILLISTON, Vt. — The Cabot Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 6 p.m., Thursday, September 7, 2023. The center is currently open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday).

The center is at this location:

Cabot Town Hall
3084 Main St.
Cabot, VT 05647

Other recovery centers remain open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday):

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

Northern VT University -- McClelland Hall 
131 College Hill Road
Johnson, VT 05656

Wardsboro Town Hall
99 Main St.
Wardsboro, VT 05355

FEMA operates Disaster Recovery Centers based on where they are needed most. FEMA works closely with state and municipal partners to determine those sites. Once a location begins to see a significant drop in application visits, FEMA and the state coordinate to determine the closing date.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). 

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits, and provide information about rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

You don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.govor download the FEMA 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 when you apply.

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 12, 2023.

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 at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

For the latest information on Vermont’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion1, the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA, or Vermont Emergency Management on Twitter at twitter.com/vemvt and on Facebook at facebook.com/VermontEmergencyManagement.

kimberly.keblish Wed, 09/06/2023 - 13:30

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison Counties

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Hamilton, Lafayette and Madison counties today, Sept. 6, to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The centers will remain open until further notice.

Locations:

• Hamilton County: 1153 NW US Hwy 41, Jasper, FL 32052, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, FL 32066, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St., Madison, FL 32340, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 

Previously opened:

• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, FL 32628, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents can visit any center. 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, 09/06/2023 - 13:26

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Maine to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding on June 29, 2023.

Public assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by a severe storm and flooding in Franklin County.  

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.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/05/2023 - 17:45

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms and straight-line winds on July 18-21, 2023.

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

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

Yolanda J. Jackson 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.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/05/2023 - 17:09

Montpelier Disaster Recovery Center to Close September 6

WILLISTON, Vt. — The Montpelier Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 6 p.m., Wednesday, September 6, 2023. The center is currently open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at this location:

Vermont College of Fine Arts
36 College St. 
Montpelier, VT 05602

Other recovery centers remain open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday):

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

Northern VT University -- McClelland Hall 
131 College Hill Road
Johnson, VT 05656

Cabot Town Hall
3084 Main St.
Cabot, VT 05647

Wardsboro Town Hall
99 Main St.
Wardsboro, VT 05355

FEMA operates Disaster Recovery Centers based on where they are needed most. FEMA works closely with state and municipal partners to determine those sites. Once a location begins to see a significant drop in application visits, FEMA and the state coordinate to determine the closing date.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs, and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). 

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits, and provide information about rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

You don’t need to visit a DRC 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 (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 12, 2023.

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 at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

For the latest information on Vermont’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion1, the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA, or Vermont Emergency Management on Twitter at twitter.com/vemvt and on Facebook at facebook.com/VermontEmergencyManagement.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 09/05/2023 - 16:00

Congressional Leaders Urge Residents Get Ready for Disasters This National Preparedness Month

WASHINGTON -- On Friday, FEMA’s Ready Campaign launched the 20th annual National Preparedness Month which is recognized each September.

The wildfires in Hawaii and Hurricane Idalia are a reminder of the importance for individuals, families and communities to prepare for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time. 

On Aug. 31, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. issued a National Preparedness Month proclamation, acknowledging the importance of building a nation more prepared and resilient in the face of more frequent and severe disasters the country has endured in the last few years. 

FEMA and the Ready Campaign are honored to partner with this year’s Congressional co-chairs to spread the message of preparedness. We thank this bi-partisan team for their work to keep Americans safe.

“Rising water levels, wildfires, and extreme flooding continue to take lives, put communities at risk, and cause billions of dollars in damages. National Preparedness Month is an important way to raise awareness of how families and businesses can prepare for disasters, and how FEMA resources can help everyone be more resilient.” 

- Chairman Gary Peters of Michigan, Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee

“Disaster can strike at any time and place, from our coastal communities to the plains of the Midwest to every corner of the United States. While we can’t predict every disaster, we can always have a plan and be prepared. September is National Preparedness Month, serving as a critical reminder that we must be ready year-round to protect our homes, communities, businesses, and loved ones from the devastation caused by disasters of all types. I encourage all Americans to take advantage of the disaster preparedness resources and guidance from FEMA and other state and local emergency officials.” 

- Chairman Sam Graves of Missouri, House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee

“Climate change is increasing extreme weather events across the nation. Recent examples include the Maui wildfires -- the worst wildfires in over 100 years -- and extreme heat that has impacted millions nationwide. Just this March, a tornado outbreak devastated communities across Mississippi, including in my district. To face this growing threat, it is imperative that the federal government works with its partners to increase preparedness for disasters at all levels of government, which includes ensuring that those who are disproportionally impacted by disasters -- including racial minorities, rural areas, low-income communities, tribes, individuals with disabilities, seniors, and children -- are included in emergency preparation, response, and recovery. I am honored to serve as Co-Chair during the 2023 National Preparedness Month and look forward to working with FEMA and DHS to ensure there is more equity in emergency management." 

- U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, Ranking Member, House Committee on Homeland Security

“From tornadoes to intense heat waves, natural disasters are becoming more frequent, more severe, and more expensive due to climate change. Seniors and minority communities are especially vulnerable. Raising awareness of their needs and having an equitable approach are vital components of disaster mitigation and recovery. National Preparedness Month provides an opportunity for people nationwide to plan, prepare, and protect their communities from future disasters. As Ranking Member of the House subcommittee that oversees FEMA, I’m proud to uplift its good work and promote its efforts to step in at such critical times to help rebuild lives shattered by disaster.” 

- U.S. Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management

“With natural disasters increasing in frequency and intensity, investments we make today in readiness and resilience will determine the outcome of our response tomorrow. In New Orleans, we have experience with extreme weather events and what I have learned from my time on the ground is that we must instill a culture of preparedness at all levels of government – while also ensuring that our response and recovery to disasters is equitable. I am proud to serve as a Co-Chair of the 2023 National Preparedness Month and look forward to working with FEMA to promote equitable disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.”

 - U.S. Rep. Troy A. Carter Sr. of Louisiana, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology

FEMA recently announced an agreement formalizing the partnership with the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. This agreement recognizes the importance of including those who provide critical support for family or friends into the conversation about emergency preparedness.

In June, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced this year’s theme: preparing older adults and their caregivers ahead of disasters. 

By emphasizing the theme, “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” Ready.gov encourages everyone, especially older adults, to become more prepared in three simple steps: 

• Assess your needs. Everyone has unique needs. There are several factors that can affect the steps you need to take to prepare yourself and those you care for. Whether you care for pets, have children, have a medical condition or a disability, it is important to know what your family will need to stay safe.
• Make a plan. Once you’ve assessed your needs, you can plan for what you’d do, where you’d go and what to bring if a disaster strikes. Your emergency supply kit should include items that meet your individual needs.
• Engage your support network. Get to know your neighbors because they, along with your family and friends, can be a support network before, during and after a disaster by providing emotional and practical support.

FEMA urges our partners, emergency managers and all those who work with and support older adult communities to access the new webpage available in English and Spanish languages at Ready.gov/older-adults and Ready.gov/es/adultos-mayores, We’ve also created a toolkit in English and Spanish with key messaging, graphics and talking points to help our partners uplift and amplify this year’s National Preparedness Month theme.

Last year, as part of FEMA’s ongoing approach to advance accessibility and cultural competency in boosting the nation’s preparedness, FEMA's Ready Campaign and the Ad Council created PSAs developed specifically to reach Black and African American communities. The year prior to that, the theme was “Prepare to Protect” and was designed to resonate with Latino communities.

 For more information on how to prepare yourself, your loved ones and your community, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/05/2023 - 15:18

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dixie County

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Dixie County today, Sept. 5, to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The center will remain open until further notice.  

Location: 

Dixie County

Dixie County Public Library

16328 SE US-19

Cross City, FL 32628

Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. More centers will open in the coming days. 

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 Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Tue, 09/05/2023 - 14:27

Million-Dollar Allocation from FEMA to the Department of Correction to Repair its Facilities

The funds will also benefit training and work programs for inmates

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $24.5 million for permanent repairs to the facilities of the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation (DCR) due to damage caused by Hurricane María.

The funds will address damage to correctional institutions, as well as structures where inmates receive rehabilitation services.

“As the agency responsible for providing custody and rehabilitation to the correctional population, the Department needs facilities that allow its staff to provide quality services. The agency’s funding seeks to support the standards of the correctional system, while preserving the health and safety of inmates, employees and visitors,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.

The Guayama Correctional Complex, which guards about 1,200 inmates, is one of the DCR’s main projects. The facilities have over $11.3 million for roof treatment to prevent leaks, acrylic domes to protect equipment against wind pressure, replacement of the air conditioners and solar panels, and surge protectors for the electric gates, among other work. Repairs will consider mitigation measures for future atmospheric events.

According to DCR Secretary Ana I. Escobar Pabón, the damage to these structures after Hurricane María affected educational, medical, recreational, religious and socio-penal services. Escobar Pabón reported that, now that these funds have been allocated, the DCR will begin the development of its projects together with the Puerto Rico Infrastructure Financing Authority (AFI, in Spanish) and the Puerto Rico General Services Administration (GSA).

“FEMA’s funds allow us to provide continuity to the services and programs offered by the DCR to the confined population and employees. Meanwhile, these funds help us to immediately address the consequences of an atmospheric event in a correctional system and thus comply with the standards regulated by law,” said the secretary.

Another award for the Department is for the Arecibo Correctional Institution in the Florida neighborhood, which has over 200 inmates. Following an allocation of nearly $2.4 million, most of the work will focus on repairs with mitigation measures: they will reinforce the fences and waterproof the roof — to mitigate the impact of flying debris and prevent leaks from heavy rains — and install voltage surge protectors for electrical equipment.

Repairs to the Training and Labor Program Facilities

The DCR secretary explained that occupational workshops are the most welcoming programs for inmates, as they provide them with self-sufficiency and allow them to reintegrate into the community once they have served their sentence.

Along with this need, FEMA also awarded funds to the DCR for the Training and Work Program building in Bayamón. The program offers training and business development, with an emphasis on cooperative, self-management and employment organizations. Workshops include woodworking, upholstery, sewing, car washing, and solid waste collection, among other services.

The agency’s figure of about $250,000 will cover repairs to the woodworking and welding areas. Part of the work will mitigate damage to the structure by anchoring the exhaust fans and sealing the roof to protect it from impacts due to flying debris.

For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said, “I am confident that these important projects that will give resiliency to the infrastructure of the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation at the island level, will soon begin their implementation. As I recently expressed to the DCR secretary, our commitment at COR3 is to continue working together with her team, joining efforts to advance these and other reconstruction projects.”

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.

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 09/04/2023 - 10:39

Pinellas County Eligible for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Homeowners and renters who sustained losses from Hurricane Idalia in Pinellas County can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance.

Pinellas County joins Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Pasco, Suwannee and Taylor counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused expenses.

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… Sun, 09/03/2023 - 20:48

Additional Florida Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Columbia, Gilchrist, Hernando, Jefferson, Madison and Pasco counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Idalia. 

Individuals and households who sustained losses from Hurricane Idalia in Columbia, Gilchrist, Hernando, Jefferson, Madison and Pasco counties can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance.

These counties join Citrus, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Suwannee and Taylor counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, sevendays a week.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused expenses.

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.

neily.chapman Sat, 09/02/2023 - 20:45

Be Alert to Fraud After Hurricane Idalia

ATLANTA – Disaster survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft 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.

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, please 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 want 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.

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by Hurricane Idalia in Florida. They carry official 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. 

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 inspectors will have your FEMA application number.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information. 

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department or contact the Office of the Attorney General by calling 866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or visit myfloridalegal.com. 

If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at:  StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: 202-212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.

If you suspect identity theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov. 

neily.chapman Sat, 09/02/2023 - 13:49