FEMA Launches Web Page to Dispel Myths, Address Rumors and Answer Frequently Asked Questions Related to Hawaii Wildfires

After a disaster, rumors and myths can harm disaster survivors by causing confusion and can even prevent people from seeking assistance. 

To address this problem, FEMA recently launched a rumor control and frequently asked questions web page to keep survivors of the Hawaii wildfires aware of rumors and scams, and to help them better understand the federal disaster assistance programs and processes.

FEMA’s rumor page and Hawaii Wildfire web page are designed to help survivors, their families and communities access official information from trusted sources. We are encouraging all people to help stop the spread of rumors by doing three easy things: 

1. Find trusted sources of information. 
2. Share information from trusted sources. 
3. Discourage others from sharing information from unverified sources. 

FEMA’s rumor page addresses common myths specific to the federal response to the Hawaii wildfires, including: 

One rumor claims that if survivors apply for disaster assistance, FEMA may confiscate their property or land. This is completely false. The truth is that applying for disaster assistance does not grant FEMA or the federal government authority or ownership of your property or land.

Another rumor alleges that FEMA and the Red Cross are confiscating donations for Hawaii wildfire aid. The truth is that FEMA is coordinating donations with numerous nonprofit and voluntary organizations, including the Red Cross. After disasters, large quantities of donated items can actually hinder disaster response efforts because it takes time and effort to sort donations. By coordinating efforts with nonprofits, FEMA and its partners can determine how to distribute these items effectively and efficiently. Learn more about volunteering and donations.

The page will be updated as we identify rumors or frequent questions that need to be addressed to help survivors get the information and assistance they need.  

For more information on the Hawaii wildfires, visit FEMA.gov. 

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 08/17/2023 - 20:03

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Essex County, Massachusetts

Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Essex County, Massachusetts. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

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

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around August 28, 2023. The affected communities in Essex County, Massachusetts are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register.

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

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

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

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:

• FEMA Map Service Center 
• Preliminary Map Products Download Page 
• Flood Map Changes Viewer 

More information:

Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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

adrien.urbani Thu, 08/17/2023 - 18:40

How to Identify a FEMA Home Inspector

FEMA home inspectors are working in Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties to assist with disaster recovery efforts following July’s severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

FEMA inspectors carry an official FEMA photo ID. If a badge is not visible, ask the inspector to show it to you.

FEMA inspectors will already have your nine-digit registration number and will never ask for money.

After you apply for FEMA assistance, FEMA may call you to schedule an appointment to inspect the damage to your home. FEMA staff may call from an unknown or restricted phone number – it’s important to answer so your application can move forward.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector: FEMA inspectors are not authorized to collect your financial information or ask for your Social Security number.

If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used to apply without your knowledge. Inform the inspector you did not apply, so a request to stop further processing of the application can be submitted.

If you suspect identity theft, please visit IdentityTheft.gov.

If you have questions about whether someone is representing FEMA, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you call.

To report a potential scam, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, email StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.

To watch an accessible video about FEMA home inspections, visit FEMA Accessible: Home Inspections - YouTube

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 08/17/2023 - 15:53

FEMA Awards Over $12 Million to the Instituto Psicopedagógico de Puerto Rico

The institution offers support services to adults with intellectual disabilities

San Juan, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $12.4 million to the Instituto Psicopedagógico de Puerto Rico (IPPR) for permanent work to its structure due to damage from Hurricane María. 

The organization with headquarters in Bayamón has offered services to youth, adults and seniors for nearly 75 years. The IPPR tends to participants with diagnosis such as intellectual disability, Down syndrome, autism and cerebral palsy, among other health conditions.

“The IPPR manages to address specific needs of a population that requires great care. Having strengthened facilities is crucial for their safety and to guarantee the quality of life of those participants. The agency is well aware of the work that the institute performs and we remain committed to supporting its repairs until the project is completed,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.

Aside from their residential services, the Instituto Psicopedagógico has a teaching center, where independent living workshops are provided to 108 people. The facility has an emergency room with clinical staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Graduated nurses, a doctor, a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist are part of the 122 employees who serve this population.

The organization’s executive director, Elba Castellanos, explained that the government provides disability services until the age of 21; that is when the IPPR comes to care for the population that currently fluctuates between the ages of 22 and 91. For her, one of the institute’s significant accomplishments is that the participant’s parents are at ease because their children receive the care they need. “Additionally, by not giving them limits, our participants surprise us. The more independent they are, the better for their wellbeing and overall health.”

Castellanos stressed that it is important to preserve the IPPR because they are the only entity in Puerto Rico that provides assistance and accommodation to its participants at all times. 

“If our facilities are not resilient, the lives of our participants are at risk. Many of them can’t move, some are bedridden, some can't follow instructions. That is why this allocation from FEMA is so important, because we will be able to have these facilities as the population with intellectual disabilities needs and as the population deserves,” said the executive director.

Fifteen of IPPR’s buildings and their exteriors deteriorated following the cyclone’s effects. IPPR’s executive manager, Jorge García Ortiz, explained that María’s impact affected the participant’s routine, even when the institution had caretakers and nurses that made the arrangements to protect and keep them stable. The occupational therapy building collapsed and the staff had to move various patients because of the damage to the rest of the infrastructure.

 Agency funds have already allowed for the replacement of some of the electrical equipment, and one of the buildings will be replaced as part of the pending work. Some of the services will be temporarily relocated to trailers; and roofs, walls and windows will be replaced, as well as drainpipes, generators, lighting and other electrical components. Mitigation funds within this award will waterproof the infrastructure and reinforce it to prevent wind damages.

García Ortiz said that the work relationship with FEMA staff has been one of constant communication and comprehension of the institution’s needs. “FEMA funds are a historic step towards the reconstruction of our facilities. All the repairs will take into consideration the needs of the elderly population with intellectual disabilities. Our goal is to protect them and provide service continuity, while the IPPR evolves in the services and surroundings that they offer for their physical and emotional wellbeing.” 

For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “this obligation is the result of the teamwork between COR3, Instituto Psicopedagógico officials and FEMA. Now, this institution which performs important social work, has at its disposal the request of the first advance of funds through the Working Capital Advance pilot program so that the execution of this permanent work begins. In COR3, we will continue to support them in the process.”

People interested in contributing to IPPR can call to visit the Bayamón facilities and make their contributions. Castellano explained that the IPPR receives all types of help, whether monetary donations or volunteer work. He also urged people to follow their social networks to learn about the activities that the organization carries out. 

To date, FEMA has awarded over $30.9 billion for nearly 10,800 Public Assistance projects aimed at rebuilding a more resilient Puerto Rico.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 08/17/2023 - 14:11

Cook County Disaster Survivors: Beware of Disaster Fraud

CHICAGO – Fraudulent activity typically increases after disasters. Con artists may try to get money from you or ask for your personal information to try and steal your identity. If your home or personal property was damaged in recent storms and flooding, be careful when giving out your personal information.

Remember, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and other federal and state disaster workers will never ask for money and never require payment in any form.

Applications

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 this happens, 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. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. The Helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application.

​​​​​​​Disaster-Related Scams

FEMA teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas affected by the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding. Always ask to see I.D. FEMA personnel always have an official identification badge.

Be careful 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 already have your FEMA application number. If you’re unsure, contact the FEMA Helpline to verify a FEMA call or visit is legitimate.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors do not collect or ask to confirm your personal financial information.

Take Action

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department. 

If you have knowledge of fraud or scams involving FEMA’s disaster relief operations, you can report this to FEMA:

• Email: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov
• Phone: 866-223-0814
• Mail: 400 C Street SW, Suite &SW-1009, Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.

To report and get help recovering from identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov.

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

  

# # #

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

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585

nicole.wilson Thu, 08/17/2023 - 13:45

FEMA Representatives Coming to Affected Neighborhoods in Jackson and Jasper Counties

MADISON, Miss. – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams and FEMA-contracted home inspectors will be working in storm-affected neighborhoods in Jackson and Jasper counties following the major disaster declaration for the June 14-19 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes.

Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams

FEMA is meeting survivors where they are, in their communities, to help them continue their recovery. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are going door-to-door in neighborhoods throughout Jackson and Jasper counties to help residents who want to apply for federal assistance.

Using mobile technology, DSA personnel can help applicants complete their disaster assistance applications or update an existing FEMA application. They also can answer questions about federal assistance.  DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. If a badge is not visible, ask them to show it to you. They will not ask for money.

It is not necessary to wait for a DSA visit to apply. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-3362, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Home Inspections

FEMA-contracted home inspectors also will be in neighborhoods, but they will call applicants first to schedule a home inspection. FEMA inspectors do not wear FEMA attire, but they will have an official “FEMA Contractor” photo ID. If a badge is not visible, ask the inspector to show it to you.

FEMA inspectors will have your nine-digit FEMA registration number. They never ask for money. They will not ask for bank account information or a Social Security number.

Other disaster recovery personnel, including representatives for insurance companies or other government agencies, may be in your neighborhood. They are not associated with your application for FEMA disaster assistance. If you have questions whether someone is representing FEMA, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

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

sandra.habib Thu, 08/17/2023 - 13:11

Experts to Share Tips on Salvaging Family Treasures

Learn how to salvage your storm-damaged family photos, artwork, textiles, media and other family treasures by meeting with preservation specialists at the Vermont State Fair and local Disaster Recovery Centers.

These FEMA and Library of Congress “Save Your Family’s Treasures” preservation teams will demonstrate how to safely handle and salvage your damaged items, using techniques taught by Heritage Emergency National Task Force conservation experts.

Vermont State Fair --175 S. Main St., Rutland, VT 05701

Preservation specialists will be at the Vermont State Fair from Aug. 16-19. They will be sharing a booth with FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance teams at the following times and dates:

• 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 16
• 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 17
• 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 18
• 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 19

Disaster Recovery Centers

Specialists will also be available 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 18 and 8 a.m.to 6 p.m. Aug. 19 and 21-24 at these three Disaster Recovery Centers:

• Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
• Northern VT University – McClelland Hall, 131 College Hill Road, Johnson, VT 05656
• Vermont College of Fine Arts, 36 College St., Montpelier, VT 05602

FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution co-sponsor the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, a partnership of 62 national service organizations and federal agencies, to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies.

If you cannot attend the demonstrations, guidance and resources are available online at Save Your Family Treasures | FEMA.gov.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 08/17/2023 - 04:56

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Hawaii

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Hawaii to supplement response and recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires beginning on Aug. 8, 2023, and continuing.

The President authorized the federal cost share to be increased from 75% to 100% for 30 days within the first 120 days of the state’s choosing. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for debris removal and emergency protective measures in Maui County and assistance for emergency protective measures for Hawaii County.

For the latest information on Hawaii Wildfires, visit fema.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/16/2023 - 23:13

FEMA Deputy Administrator Hooks Addresses Business Leaders in Hawaii, Urges Disaster Survivors to Register for Federal Assistance

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks addressed business leaders in Hawaii during a call today, providing an update on the agency’s efforts to help survivors jumpstart their recovery from the disastrous wildfires in Maui. 

To date, FEMA has provided more than $2.3 million in assistance to more than 1,330 households, including more than $800,000 in initial rental assistance, Hooks said. FEMA wants all survivors to register as soon as possible so that they receive the help they need.

“We want to reach survivors as quickly as we can to get them to apply for assistance,” Hooks said during the call, sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. 

Hooks spoke to approximately 275 people on the call, that also included members of the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, Maui Chamber of Commerce and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.

“The business community is already active in many ways in supporting the businesses and survivors affected by these wildfires,” Hooks said. “Thank you for all you are doing. Our ask of you is to continue to be involved and work with federal and state partners as part of the whole-of-community effort to provide coordinated support to survivors and to help us share information with your employees and customers who are affected.”

FEMA has more than 600 personnel on the ground on Maui who are reaching survivors where they are, and residents now have the option to apply for federal disaster assistance at a joint Disaster Recovery Center that opened today. It is located at the University of Hawaii Maui College, 310 W. Ka’ahumanu Ave., Kahului, Hawaii.

Survivors who have not yet registered can do so 24 hours a day by calling 800-621-3362, visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Anyone who wishes to donate to help wildfire survivors should donate responsibly. Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery.

For more information on the Hawaii wildfires, visit FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/16/2023 - 23:13

FEMA Opens First Disaster Recovery Center on Maui

Maui residents who were affected by the recent wildfires can now apply for federal disaster assistance at a joint Disaster Recovery Center that opened today at the University of Hawaii Maui College, 310 W. Ka’ahumanu Avenue, Kahului, Hawaii.

Survivors can speak to FEMA specialists, get assistance registering for disaster assistance, get in touch with voluntary organizations and have access to other federal and state resources from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. HST seven days a week.

Specialists at the center can also direct you to operators who can communicate in many languages. The center has printed materials in multiple languages.

Disaster Recovery Centers are barrier-free and provide equal access to all visitors. If you use American Sign Language or assistive technology, and if you need accommodations to communicate, please notify FEMA staff at the center immediately.

FEMA continues to work closely with state, county and federal partners to aid active response efforts and to help survivors in Maui jumpstart their recovery.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available at the recovery center to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans. These loans are offered to homeowners and renters, business owners and private nonprofits.

robert.barker Wed, 08/16/2023 - 21:19

FEMA Funding Approved for Dawson Springs

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has announced it will provide the Commonwealth with a total of more than $5.8 million to reimburse the Dawson Springs Housing Authority for the demolition and re-building of an apartment complex destroyed by a tornado December 10, 2021. The 26 buildings in the Clarksdale Court Apartments were leveled by an EF4 tornado when it tore through Hopkins County.  The tornado flattened 26 brick buildings in the Clarksdale Court Apartment complex, leaving residents of 50 housing units homeless. 

The brick veneer buildings were all demolished by municipal authorities to protect the public from imminent danger. 

The $5,861,909.79 provided by FEMA for the ongoing rebuilding of the housing project represents 90 percent of the estimated total cost.  The funds come from FEMA’s Public Assistance which is a cost-sharing program.  Due to the magnitude of damage caused by this storm, President Biden authorized a cost share reimbursement of 90 percent federal funding for this event.

The Commonwealth will provide 4.8 percent of the required applicant cost share, and the housing authority will only be responsible for the remaining 5.2 percent. 

The Dawson Springs Housing Authority is a government agency that operates and manages public housing in Hopkins County.  The Housing Authority oversees low-income housing, including the application process, eligibility guidelines, subsidies and related resources.

candace.herring Wed, 08/16/2023 - 21:08

Experts to Share Tips on Salvaging Family Treasures

Learn how to salvage your storm-damaged family photos, artwork, textiles, media and other family treasures by meeting with preservation specialists at the Vermont State Fair and local Disaster Recovery Centers.

These FEMA and Library of Congress “Save Your Family’s Treasures” preservation teams will demonstrate how to safely handle and salvage your damaged items, using techniques taught by Heritage Emergency National Task Force conservation experts.

Vermont State Fair --175 S. Main St., Rutland, VT 05701

Preservation specialists will be at the Vermont State Fair from Aug. 16-19. They will be sharing a booth with FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance teams at the following times and dates:

• 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 16
• 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 17
• 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 18
• 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 19

Disaster Recovery Centers

Specialists will also be available 1 to 6 p.m. August 18 and 8 a.m.to 6 p.m. August 19 – 24 at these three Disaster Recovery Centers:

• Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
• Northern VT University – McClelland Hall, 131 College Hill Road, Johnson, VT 05656
• Vermont College of Fine Arts, 36 College St., Montpelier, VT 05602

FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution co-sponsor the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, a partnership of 62 national service organizations and federal agencies, to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies.

If you cannot attend the demonstrations, guidance and resources are available online at Save Your Family Treasures | FEMA.gov.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 08/16/2023 - 20:30

Los sobrevivientes del desastre en el condado Cook pueden solicitar asistencia de FEMA

CHICAGO – Los residentes del condado Cook que fueron afectados por las severas tormentas e inundaciones ocurridas del 29 de junio al 2 de julio de 2023 ahora pueden llamar o conectarse en línea para solicitar asistencia por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés).

Si tiene cobertura de seguro, primero presente un reclamo. Si tiene pérdidas sin seguro o con seguro insuficiente, comuníquese con FEMA visitando DisasterAssistance.gov/es, descargando la aplicación móvil de FEMA o llamando a la línea de ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362. Si usa el servicio de retransmisión de video, el servicio telefónico con subtítulos u otros, proporcione a FEMA su número para ese servicio. Cuando llame a la línea de ayuda de FEMA, hay operadores multilingües disponibles (presione 2 para español y 3 para otros idiomas).

La asistencia federal puede incluir alojamiento provisional, reparaciones esenciales a la vivienda y cubrir otros gastos relacionados con el desastre.

Cuando solicite asistencia de FEMA, tenga lista la siguiente información disponible:

• Un número de teléfono actual donde pueda ser contactado
• Su dirección en el momento del desastre y la dirección donde se hospeda ahora
• Su número de seguro social (o el número de seguro social de un niño menor de edad en su hogar, si está presentando la solicitud en su nombre)
• Una lista general de daños y pérdidas
• Información bancaria si elige depósito directo
• Si tiene cobertura de seguro, el número de póliza o el nombre del agente y/o de la empresa

Al momento de solicitar asistencia, un miembro de la familia debe cumplir con los criterios de ciudadanía. Eso significa que un niño menor de edad que es ciudadano, nacional no ciudadano o extranjero cualificado puede tener un padre o tutor que no es elegible para solicitar asistencia en nombre del niño.

Hacer llegar ayuda a quienes más lo necesitan es nuestra prioridad. Los equipos de recuperación estarán visitando pronto las comunidades afectadas por el desastre para brindar apoyo directamente a las personas. Los centros de recuperación también iniciarán operaciones para que las personas obtengan ayuda adicional en persona. Para obtener más información sobre las labores de recuperación por el desastre en Illinois, visite fema.gov/es/disaster/4728.

###

La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o situación económica. Habrá disponible acomodos razonables, que incluyen traducción e intérpretes de lenguaje de señas americano a través del servicio de retransmisión de video para garantizar una comunicación efectiva con los solicitantes con dominio limitado del inglés, discapacidades y necesidades funcionales y de acceso. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sido discriminado, llame a la línea gratuita de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (incluido el 711 o Retransmisión de video). Si es sordo, tiene dificultades auditivas o alguna discapacidad del habla y usa TTY, llame al 800-462-7585.

nicole.wilson Mié, 16/08/2023 - 18:51

Cook County Disaster Survivors: Apply for FEMA Assistance

CHICAGO – Cook County residents affected by the severe storms and flooding of June 29 – July 2, 2023, may now call or go online to register for disaster assistance from FEMA.  

If you have insurance coverage, first file a claim. If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, contact FEMA by going online to disasterassistance.gov, downloading the FEMA app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. When calling the FEMA Helpline, multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).  

Federal assistance may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.

Have the following information ready when you register with FEMA: 

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your social security number (or the social security number of a minor child in your household, if you’re applying on their behalf).
• A general list of damage and losses
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

When registering, one member of a household needs to comply with citizenship criteria. That means a minor child who is a citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen can have a parent or guardian who is not eligible apply for assistance on the child’s behalf.   

Getting help to those who need it most is our priority. Recovery teams will be out soon in the neighborhoods affected by the disaster to provide one-on-one support to individuals. Recovery centers will also be opening for individuals to get additional, in-person help. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728.     

                                                                     # # #

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

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585

nicole.wilson Wed, 08/16/2023 - 16:30

FEMA, Federal Partners Continue to Provide Critical Aid to Hawaii Wildfire Response and Recovery Efforts

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will provide Hawaii response updates at the White House press briefing today, as first responders and search and rescue teams continue working in the devastated areas on Maui. To date, FEMA has approved more than $2.3 million in assistance to 1,331 households, including more than $798,000 in initial rental assistance, to help survivors jumpstart their recovery.

• More than 4,400 survivors have registered for federal assistance and may be eligible for immediate resources such as hotel rooms or financial assistance. Survivors who have not yet registered can do so 24 hours a day by calling 800-621-3362, by visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
• After you register with FEMA, you may be approved for a one-time immediate payment of $700 for Critical Needs Assistance, one of several types of federal assistance survivors may be eligible to receive. Examples of other types of assistance include help with a temporary place to stay, funding home repairs and emergency needs that insurance and other financial assistance sources may not cover. 
• Later today, field teams in Hawaii will open a joint disaster recovery center where survivors can speak face-to-face with FEMA specialists, get in touch with voluntary organizations and have access to other federal and state resources. 
• FEMA is working closely with state, county and federal partners to aid active response efforts and to help survivors jumpstart their recovery. More than 190 search and rescue team members and 420 FEMA personnel are deployed to assist Hawaii residents in their greatest time of need, including 98 Disaster Survivor Assistance staff to help survivors register for assistance.
• FEMA is committed to ensuring that disaster assistance is provided equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted by emailing FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or calling 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available. 
• Hawaii Gov. Josh Green and the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation launched the Hawaii Fire Relief Housing program aimed at connecting Maui residents affected by the wildfires with property owners with vacant housing. Find program application forms on HHFDC’s website. This program is in addition to FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance, which allows survivors to shelter in pre-identified hotels or motels for a limited amount of time as they develop their housing plan. FEMA pays for these hotel rooms so there is no out of pocket expense for survivors.

Additional Federal, State and Voluntary Actions

• Maui County government officials are distributing food, water and other supplies at two Lahaina locations: Gateway Center at 325 Keawe St. and Napili Plaza at 5095 Napilihau St. The Maui Humane Society has veterinarians and pet supplies starting at noon at both locations. 
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has more than 30 staff on the ground in Hawaii and is phasing in more staff. Survivors and businesses who register for FEMA assistance, will also be eligible for low-interest disaster loans. To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, survivors must contact FEMA first. 
  • Information and details on the location of future business recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.
• American Red Cross and Maui County continue to staff and support eight shelters where food, water, hygiene kits and other essential resources are provided to survivors who are unable to return home. FEMA survivor assistance specialists are located at the shelters helping people register for federal assistance. Those affected by the fires may visit a Red Cross shelter to get a hot meal, charge their phone and access other essential support.
• More than 270 Red Cross staff are working with partners to ensure people receive help as quickly as possible and has distributed more than 25,000 meals and snacks to survivors and responded to more than 1,300 requests to help families located missing loved ones.
• Local and national Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOADs) are providing emergency assistance to survivors. Those seeking to donate to the recovery efforts, can do so by visiting hawaiistatevoad.org.
• Co-hosted by FEMA’s Voluntary Agency Liaisons and the DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, the webinar focuses on Legal Considerations for Achieving Equitable Recovery to provide insights on how emergency managers can partner with organizations that provide legal services and consider the legal aspect of disaster recovery as noted in the National Disaster Attorney Guidebook. 
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is providing a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of Federal Housing Administration insured mortgages and Home Equity Conversion Mortgages. Homeowners affected by the disaster should contact their mortgage or loan servicer immediately. Call the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320 for additional information. To learn more about disaster relief options for FHA homeowners visit the FHA Disaster Relief site.
  • HUD also released regulatory and administrative waivers to help communities accelerate their recovery. This includes funding for housing rehabilitation and reconstruction, homebuyer programs replacing disaster damaged residences, infrastructure improvements and assistance to people at risk of homelessness.
• Understanding debris removal will be a critical aspect of recovery, FEMA mission assigned both the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to start the process of debris collection and planning for removal.  
• To learn more about the Hawaii Wildfires response and recovery efforts, visit FEMA.gov. FEMA also launched a rumors page to provide accurate information to survivors. 

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 08/16/2023 - 14:53

New Hours for Disaster Recovery Centers

All nine Disaster Recovery Centers in Vermont have new hours as of Aug. 16.

The centers will now be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and will be closed Sundays.

If you were affected by Vermont’s July floods, visit a Disaster Recovery Center to get help applying for FEMA assistance, ask questions and learn about resources that can help you recover. No appointment is needed.

Centers are located at:

• Washington County
  • Waterbury Armory, 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676
  • Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
  • Vermont College of Fine Arts, 36 College St., Montpelier, VT 05602
• Caledonia County: Danville School, 148 Peacham Road, Danville, VT 05828
• Lamoille County: Northern VT University -- McClelland Hall, 131 College Hill Road, Johnson, VT 05656 
• Orleans County: Barton Memorial Building, 17 Village Square, Barton, VT 05822
• Rutland County: Asa Bloomer Building, 88 Merchants Row, Suite 330, Rutland, VT 05701
• Windham County: Jamaica Fire Department, 4017 VT-30, Jamaica, VT 05343
• Windsor County: Springfield Health Center, 100 River St, Springfield, VT 05156

You can apply for assistance without visiting a center. To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Language translation is available; if you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 08/16/2023 - 12:54

FEMA, Federal Agencies Continue to Support Communities Impacted by Hawaii Wildfires

WASHINGTON -- FEMA continues to work closely in Hawaii with state, county and federal partners to aid active response efforts and to help survivors jumpstart their recovery. More than 190 search and rescue team members and over 380 FEMA employees are deployed to assist Hawaii residents in their greatest time of need, including 100 Disaster Survivor Assistance staff on Maui to help survivors register for assistance and identify and report any critical needs. 

In the coming days, we will set up a joint disaster recovery center where survivors can speak to FEMA specialists, get in touch with voluntary organizations and have access to other federal and state resources.

To meet survivors’ immediate needs, the state of Hawaii and FEMA activated the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) and Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) programs for wildfire survivors in Maui County. These programs provide relief by supplying shelter (TSA), or money to cover urgent needs like food, water or medical supplies (CNA). Those who have already applied for disaster assistance will be notified of their eligibility by the method of communication they selected when they applied for assistance.

Hawaii Governor Green and the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) launched the Hawaii Fire Relief Housing program aimed at immediately connecting Maui residents affected by the recent wildfires with property owners with vacant housing. Find program application forms on HHFDC’s website.

FEMA encourages Maui residents affected by the wildfires to register for disaster assistance. People with limited phone and internet access can register with FEMA staff in person at shelters. Others can register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
 

Additional Federal, State and Voluntary Actions 

• Maui County government officials are distributing food, water and other supplies at two Lahaina locations: Gateway Center at 325 Keawe St. and Napili Plaza at 5095 Napilihau St.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has more than 30 staff on the ground in Hawaii and will be phasing in more staff to support. Survivors and businesses who register for FEMA assistance, will also be eligible for low-interest disaster loans. Businesses may receive up to $2 million for physical damage or economic injury. SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the disaster damage from occurring in the future.
    
  • To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, survivors must contact FEMA first. As soon as recovery centers open throughout the affected area, FEMA and SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants.
  • Homeowners can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters can borrow up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.
  • Information and details on the location of future disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.
• American Red Cross and Maui County continue to staff and support five shelters where food, water, hygiene kits and other essential resources are provided to survivors who are unable to return home. FEMA survivor assistance specialists are located at the shelters helping people register for federal assistance. Those affected by the fires may visit a Red Cross shelter to get a hot meal, charge their phone and access other essential support. 
• Local and national Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOADs) are providing emergency assistance to survivors. Those seeking to donate to the recovery efforts, can do so by visiting hawaiistatevoad.org.
• FEMA and the DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships will host a national webinar on Aug. 16, that will include operational updates for the Hawaii wildfires.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is providing a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of Federal Housing Administration insured mortgages and Home Equity Conversion Mortgages. Homeowners affected by the disaster should contact their mortgage or loan servicer immediately for assistance. Conventional mortgage holders may also be eligible for additional relief through their mortgage holder. Call the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320 for additional information. To learn more about disaster relief options for FHA homeowners visit the FHA Disaster Relief site.
• Understanding debris removal will be a critical aspect of recovery, FEMA mission assigned both the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to start the process of debris collection and planning for removal.
• Maui County and the Office of Economic Development launched an online, centralized hub Maui Nui Strong with information on how to donate, volunteer, offer services and look for support.to respond to the impacts of the Lahaina and Kula wildfires.
• As fire containment efforts continue, FEMA continues response efforts. This includes search and rescue operations, including canine search teams. In addition, 30 specialists from the Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team are on Maui, with additional teams enroute to assist the state.
• FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, 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 have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted by emailing FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or calling 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

Safety Messaging

• For state and local safety information and updates, visit: hawaii.gov. 
• Maui County updates are broadcast via radio stations at 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. HST.
• FEMA launched a rumors page to provide accurate information to survivors.
• For information on what to do before, during and after a wildfire, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov.
• To learn more about the Hawaii Wildfires response and recovery efforts, visit FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/16/2023 - 00:11

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

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Illinois to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storms and flooding June 29 to July 2, 2023.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cook County.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available on a cost sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures in Cook County.

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

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 08/15/2023 - 19:53

Photo Release -- FEMA, Federal Partners Continue Hawaii Response Efforts

B-ROLL from ongoing Urban Search and Rescue efforts can be found here: 

• FEMA B-Roll of USAR K9 Search and Hawaiian Electric Debris Removal - YouTube
• DVIDS - Video - FEMA B-Roll of USAR K9 Search and Hawaiian Electric Debris Removal (dvidshub.net)

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is working closely with state, county and federal partners to aid active response efforts and to help survivors in Maui jumpstart their recovery.  

More than 190 search and rescue team members, and over 380 FEMA employees are deployed to assist Hawaii residents in their greatest time of need, including 100 Disaster Survivor Assistance staff on Maui to help survivors register for assistance and identify and report any critical needs.

ICYMI: see below for b-roll from the Administrator’s recent visit to impacted areas to survey damage.
DVIDS: DVIDS - Video - B-Roll of Hawaii Wildfire (dvidshub.net)  
YouTube: https://youtu.be/XGiI3TeuEh8 

View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="47127" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/1c5a0d56947f83e3a3d4518da18cec8c.jpeg?itok=JKEUY6nl" alt="undefined" class="image-style-large" />MAUI, Hawaii -- FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams, Washington State Task Force 1 and Nevada Task Force 1, continue federal response efforts to the Hawaii wildfires. (FEMA photo)View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="47130" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/18472f444c1ed4bd87adb38e6657af16.jpg?itok=63g65VmP" alt="undefined" class="image-style-large" />MAUI, Hawaii -- FEMA Urban Search and Rescue, Washington State Task Force 1, participate in federal response efforts to the Hawaii wildfires. (FEMA photo)

MAUI, Hawaii -- FEMA staff participate in federal response and recovery to the Hawaii wildfires. (FEMA photo) 

View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="47129" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/53538416e9fa86536d0eb41a9e680dda.jpeg?itok=IOfrjIbd" alt="undefined" class="image-style-large" />LAHAINA, Hawaii -- FEMA Urban Search and Rescue, Washington State Task Force 1, participate in federal response and recovery efforts to the Hawaii wildfires. (FEMA photo) View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="46700" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/71eb8a7f8e83f61bc7a054f581f6b21b.jpeg?itok=tUcFDI7Y" alt="undefined" class="image-style-large" />Maui, Hawaii (Aug. 13, 2023) - The first of 32 generators arrive at the FEMA staging area in Maui.

 

View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="46682" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/60cae3aa006fd5b7115ee5a00a364d82.jpg?itok=CBImoSid" alt="Caption: Wailuku, Hawaii (Aug. 12, 2023) - FEMA Urban Search and Rescue, Washington State Task Force 1, continues federal response efforts." class="image-style-large" />MAUI, Hawaii -- FEMA Urban Search and Rescue, Washington State Task Force 1, participate in federal response and recovery efforts to the Hawaii wildfires. (FEMA photo)

For more information on the Hawaii wildfires, visit fema.gov.  

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 08/15/2023 - 19:48

FEMA, SBA Assistance Tops $27.9 Million for Vermont Storm Survivors

Just 30 days after President Joe Biden declared a major disaster for the state of Vermont following the July severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, more than $27.9 million in federal assistance has been provided by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to support the state’s recovery. 

Individual Assistance 

Residents of nine Vermont counties can 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 Sept. 12, 2023 to apply.

As of Aug. 14, Vermont’s recovery assistance includes:

• More than $12.7 million in FEMA’s Individual and Households Program grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in nine Vermont counties. These grants help residents pay for uninsured storm-related losses, including:
  • More than $12.6 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing
  • More than $1.2 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 $6.2 million in claims for policyholders.
• The SBA has approved more than $8.9 million in 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 state and FEMA have staffed and operated 11 Disaster Recovery Centers in nine counties to provide one-on-one assistance to survivors. A total of 1,372 survivors have visited these 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. All centers are open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and will shift to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 16.

FEMA supported Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) run by the state of Vermont, where public and private organizations came together to assist those affected by the disaster. As of Aug. 5, all MARC services transferred to Disaster Recovery Centers.

FEMA has sent Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams to storm-affected neighborhoods in every designated county. These teams travel 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 have interacted with more than 8,700 residents and visited more than 18,800 households and 1,040 businesses to help survivors apply for assistance.

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, and is translating information and resources into 11 languages, including Spanish.

Public Assistance

FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) 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. 

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

• Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties have been designated for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.
• Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, 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.
• Under the President’s order, the federal share for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, has been increased to 100% (from 75%) of the total eligible costs for a continuous 30-day period of the state’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period (July 7).
• Vermont Emergency Management hosted five briefings across the state providing information on the Request for Public Assistance (RPA) process with support from FEMA Public Assistance from July 31 to Aug. 4, 2023. More than 200 people attended the five briefings.

Debris Removal: As of Aug. 12, the state of Vermont and FEMA have removed 5,786 tons of debris in response to the flooding.

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 property improvements that eliminate future damage and can save lives. Approved loans can be increased to make building upgrades or improvements to mitigate future damage. 

SBA has 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. 

To find a Business Recovery Center near you, call (800) 659-2955. To apply for a loan online, visit DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov.

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.

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 the Vermont Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at twitter.com/vemt and on Facebook at facebook.com/VermontEmergencyManagement.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 08/15/2023 - 11:15