ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Having a plan in place to protect your home from the flying debris and wind-driven rain caused by tropical storms and hurricanes will give you a head start to protecting one of your greatest investments. 

Our homes are where we raise families, store family heirlooms and where many of life’s milestones occur. Taking steps now to strengthen your roof, windows, downspouts, shutters and other parts of your home against hazards from storms can mean the difference between minor damage and destruction. 

Below are steps you could take to harden and protect your property against storms:

• Review home insurance policies to ensure proper coverage and take photos of property.
  • Losses caused by flooding are not typically covered by standard homeowners’ insurance polices. Learn more about the National Flood Insurance program at www.floodsmart.gov .
• Prepare to store anything from your property that could be picked up by hurricane winds and turned into a harmful object. 
• Trim trees to remove dead limbs and secure rain gutters and downspouts. 
• Make sure porches, decks or sheds are sound and firmly attached. 
• Fasten down roofs with hurricane straps or clips and install strong bolts at the top and bottom of exterior doors. Buy or make storm shutters for windows.

Complete your home inspection to determine which areas of your home need to be strengthened this hurricane season. Learn more about strengthening your home from hazards storms pose from the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) at Resilience – #HurricaneStrong. FEMA is a founding and legacy partner with FLASH.

Learn more from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency about basic hurricane preparedness tips, preparing your home against hurricanes and storm notifications and alerts at Hurricanes (vi.gov) . Sign up for Alert VI to receive real-time notifications for emergencies in the U.S. Virgin Islands at VITEMA - Public - Sign In (everbridge.net).

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

BURLINGTON, VT – Vermont residents who applied for assistance from FEMA for the severe storms and flooding, July 7, 2023 and continuing, will receive a determination letter from FEMA. It may say you are ineligible for assistance, but that is not a denial.

It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds. The letter will also explain your application status and advise what you need to do to appeal an unfavorable decision.

Often, you need only send more information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue reviewing your application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.

If you have questions about your letter, call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available seven days a week, 365 days a year, with language translation services available. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, or the amount of assistance provided, you can submit an appeal letter and documents supporting your claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to send FEMA your appeal.

By law, FEMA cannot provide you a grant when any other source – insurance, crowdfunding or financial assistance from voluntary agencies – has covered expenses for the same disaster-related need. In other words, FEMA cannot pay for home repairs if you already received funds from your insurance company for the same repairs.

However, those who are underinsured may receive assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled. While FEMA may be able to help with basic needs, it does not provide assistance to cover insurance deductibles.

Appeals must be in writing in a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should also include: 

• Applicant’s full name 
• Disaster number (DR-4720 -VT)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence 
• Applicant’s current phone number and address 
• Your nine-digit FEMA application number on all documents

If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, that person must sign it and provide FEMA with a signed statement authorizing the individual to act on behalf of the applicant. 

Appeals must be postmarked within 60 days of the date noted on your FEMA determination letter. Appeal letters and supporting documents may be uploaded to your personal FEMA online account. To set up an account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov and follow the directions. 

Other ways to submit documents include:

Mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055

Fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA 

For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1a6lYO5hgY 

For the latest information on Vermont’s recovery from the severe storms and flooding, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4720. You may also follow facebook.com/FEMA.

On July 21, 2023, U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.) will join FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell, FEMA Region 3 administrator MaryAnn Tierney, and Delaware emergency management officials to provide tips to the public on how to be prepared for extreme weather this hurricane season at the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center. 

Members of the media are invited to join for remarks and tour of the county emergency operations/911 center. 

Event Details:

• When: July 21, 2023, at 10:30 AM EDT
• Where: Sussex County Emergency Operations Center - 21911 Rudder Lane Georgetown DE 19947
• Key Attendees Include:
  • Senator Tom Carper 
  • Sussex County Office of Emergency Management, Director Joe Thomas 
  • Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), Director AJ Schall
  • FEMA Administrator, Deanne Criswell
  • FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator, MaryAnn Tierney

Contact Us:

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs: 

FEMA Region 3 Congressional Affairs at FEMA-R3-CongQ@fema.dhs.gov

FEMA Region 3 News Desk at 215-931-5597 or at FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

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

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

FEMA is adding sites to its roster of locations offering free mitigation advice. As part of a continued effort to help residents in Guam rebuild from Typhoon Mawar, FEMA is offering free tips and advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. 

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff will also be on-site to provide assistance for FEMA disaster assistance registration and application reviews. 

Each location will have an Assistive Listening Device for customers who may have hearing difficulty. 

The joint team of Mitigation and Disaster Survivor Assistance will be present at the following locations on the following dates:

Guam Home Center

(Dededo)

Pay-Less Supermarket Micronesia Mall

(Dededo)

Yigo Pay-less Supermarket

(Yigo)

282 E. Marine Corps Drive

Dededo, GU 96929

1088 W. Marine Corps Drive

Dededo, GU 96929

525 Chalan Ramon Haya

Yigo, GU 96929

July 22-23 and July 25-28

(Note: close on July 24)

July 22-23 and July 25-28

(Note: close on July 24)

July 22-27 

(Note: close on July 28)

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday.

To extend assistance to more survivors, the joint team is planning to incorporate additional sites soon. 

If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet or need to update a pending application contact FEMA by visiting disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents). 

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

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook. 

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Vermont to supplement state, local and tribal recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe flooding beginning on July 7, 2023, and continuing. 

The President authorized the federal cost-share for emergency protective measures to be increased from 75% to 100% for a 30-day period of the state’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made funding available for individual assistance, public assistance, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and other needs assistance for total eligible costs. 

As Guam residents begin to rebuild, survivors of Typhoon Mawar can get tips and advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be on hand at three locations in Dededo to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of the disaster. These mitigation specialists will be available at the following locations on the following dates:

Location

Dates

Times

Guam Home Center, Dededo

Saturday, July 15, through Friday, July 28

Tuesday-Saturday 

8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m 

Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Closed on Mondays

Pay-Less Supermarket Micronesia Mall, Dededo

Saturday, July 15, through Friday, July 21

Pay-Less Supermarket, Dededo

In addition, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff will be on hand to offer in-person FEMA registration and application reviews to Guam survivors with questions about FEMA assistance.

If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet or need to update a pending application, contact FEMA by visiting disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents). 

Federal Assistance to Mawar Survivors Continues to Grow, Tops $100 Million
Now, more than a month after Typhoon Mawar devastated the island territory, Guam residents continue down their road to recovery with the help of federal funding from the U.S.  Small Business Administration and FEMA. To date, nearly $112 million in low-interest disaster loans from the SBA and direct disaster assistance through FEMA have flowed into the community to help jumpstart the recovery process.  

Small Business Administration 
The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved more than $62.2 million in low-interest disaster loans. The SBA is the number one source of federal disaster recovery funding. Through low-interest disaster loans, the SBA provides recovery loans to businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters.  

For homeowners and renters, the SBA has approved 651 disaster loans totaling nearly $59.2 million. These loans can be used to repair or replace a survivor’s disaster-damaged home and personal property. Additionally, 45 businesses and private non-profits have been approved for loans totaling more than $3 million. These funds will help these businesses and organizations recover by replacing real estate, machinery and equipment, and inventory and business assets.  

Individuals and Households Program 
When it comes to FEMA assistance, more than 16,000 homeowners and renters have been approved for more than $49.7 million in federal awards through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Unlike SBA loans, this money does not have to be paid back. This includes: 

▪ More than $11 million in repair and replacement assistance to help survivors rebuild, or make basic repairs to make their homes safe, sanitary, and functional and provide funds to owners whose primary residences were destroyed due to Typhoon Mawar. 

▪ Nearly $14.5 million in rental assistance was provided to more than 4,700 applicants. FEMA rental assistance is intended to help survivors pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their disaster-damaged homes. FEMA awards eligible applicants an initial Rental Assistance payment based on the Fair Market Rent established by the U.S.  Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for where their pre-disaster residence is located and the number of bedrooms the household requires. 

Other Needs Assistance 
Other Needs Assistance (ONA) provides financial assistance for disaster-related necessary expenses and serious needs that are not covered by insurance or provided by any other source. More than $24.3 million in ONA has been awarded to Guam survivors. This includes critical needs assistance, transportation assistance, personal property assistance, moving and storage, disaster-related medical and dental assistance, and money to clean and sanitize a disaster-damaged home. 

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

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook. 

Beginning July 21, a new program will address removing Typhoon Mawar debris from local public schools ahead of the coming school year. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Debris Removal Program is a collaboration between USACE, FEMA and the office of Governor Guerrero. 

When it comes to bringing a sense of normalcy back to the lives of children affected by disaster, returning to school provides routine, friends and a community of peers who have experienced many of the same challenges. That’s why this program is so important to the recovery of a community. 

With classes starting Aug 9, the debris program is arriving just in time.

The first step of this program begins on the ground with the public schools themselves. Schools will sort their eligible storm related debris by type (vegetative debris, large appliances, construction debris, metal) and bring it to the right of way within ten feet of the curb. USACE teams will then go school-by-school, making one pass per school, and load debris onto trucks to be hauled away.

This program is for storm related public school debris only. Regular household trash, debris from local businesses, asbestos contaminated debris, pressure treated wood and electronic waste are not eligible and will not be picked up.

What about Debris for Private Property?

USACE will soon start going street by street to remove eligible typhoon Mawar debris from private property as well. More information will be available in the coming days, including what debris is eligible/ineligible, and how to properly sort debris to make sure you can fully take advantage of the program. 

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

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook. 

SANTA FE, NM -- The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office will be hosting a town hall meeting on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, 6-7:30pm at the Mora High School Lecture Hall. Claims Office representatives will be on hand to inform claimants of recent Claims Office developments, particularly updates to flood insurance coverage. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), managed by FEMA, provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses. 

In response to the fire damages, subsequent flooding and increased flooding risks caused by the Hermit’s Peak/ Calf Canyon fire, the Claims Office is pleased to announce a partnership with the NFIP that will enable eligible claimants to receive up to five years of flood insurance protection, with premiums paid by the Claims Office. 

The town hall will also allow Claims Office leadership to highlight and discuss another recent partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The Claims Office has partnered with the NRCS to offer claimants the opportunity to request a comprehensive NRCS Conservation Restoration Plan, tailored to recovering from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent floods, at no cost. Under this partnership, NRCS plans will include cost estimates for recovery actions eligible for compensation under the Claims Office.  The meeting will also include an active question and answer portion following the presentation. Event information can be found below:

What:            Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Town Hall

When:            Wednesday, July 19, 2023 

Time:             6- 7:30 p.m. 

Location:        Mora High School Lecture Hall, 10 Ranger Rd., Mora, NM 87701

Disasters bring out criminals looking to prey on survivors who appear to be easy targets for their scams.

Survivors should be aware that fraud and scams can occur anytime. FEMA encourages survivors to be alert and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud by scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.

Anyone who suspects fraud or scams should call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, TTY call 711. The toll-free number is open 24 hours a day.

Common tactics used by scam artists include phone calls from people claiming to work for FEMA. The caller may ask for the survivor’s Social Security number, income or banking information.

Survivors should never trust someone claiming to be a disaster assistance employee asking for money. FEMA does not endorse any commercial business, product or service, and local and federal disaster assistance workers do not solicit or accept money.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, age, disability, limited English proficiency, or economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/FEMARegion1 or the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA.

For updates on the Vermont response and recovery, follow the Vermont Emergency Management Agency twitter.com/vemvt on Twitter and Facebook facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement.

On Friday, July 14, 2023, President Joseph Biden declared a Major Disaster for the state of Vermont as a result of severe storms and flooding occurring on July 7, 2023 and continuing.  

Vermont homeowners and renters affected by the recent flooding who live in counties that have recently been designated for Individual Assistance could be eligible for help from FEMA. 

This declaration makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties. 

Additional counties may be added at a later date as warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance. 

The fastest and easiest way to apply is to visit disasterassistance.gov or download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), wherever you access your mobile applications.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. EDT, seven days a week, with language translation services available.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information available:

• 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, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

As soon as it is safe to do so, start cleaning up. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recovering from the effects of the event.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans are available for homeowners, renters, businesses of any size and most nonprofits. Similar to FEMA, SBA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance.

Businesses of all sizes, homeowners, renters and private non-profits can apply online at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help each survivor recover from the disaster damage. 

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/FEMARegion1 or the Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA.

For updates on the Vermont response and recovery, follow the Vermont Emergency Management Agency twitter.com/vemvt on Twitter and Facebook facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement. 

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures. Funding is available in Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties for emergency protective measures. 

All counties in the State of Vermont are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Vermont to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe flooding beginning on July 7, 2023, and continuing. 

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost 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 to 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 flooding in Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties. 

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

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

Residents 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 in English and Spanish languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

After the devastating effects of Typhoon Mawar, FEMA assigned the crucial mission of recovering drinking water and wastewater infrastructure to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). On July 13, the EPA announced the successful completion of this collaborative effort, which aimed to expedite the recovery process and enhance the resilience of the affected communities in Guam.

The fulfilled mission included conducting operational assessments of drinking water and wastewater facilities that were affected, evaluating the needs of the water sector, and providing necessary technical assistance. 

In close coordination with the government of Guam, the EPA assisted in various tasks. These included inspecting over 20 water hauling trucks and 126 water and ice vending machines, sampling and assessing the condition of water storage tanks at 35 hotels, as well as evaluating a dozen large water storage tanks affected by Typhoon Mawar. 

Furthermore, the EPA supported the Guam Water Works Authority in assessing moderate damage at the Northern District Wastewater Treatment Plant and determining necessary repairs to ensure its full functionality. Fortunately, all other wastewater treatment plants in Guam experienced little to no damage.

The surface water treatment plants at Ugum and Navy sustained moderate to minor damage. The EPA conducted assessments on critical infrastructure to ensure both systems are fully operational. 

The EPA is continuing to prepare collected household hazardous waste, including waste from schools, for appropriate shipment and disposal off the island.

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

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook.

If you have sustained damage or loss because of Typhoon Mawar, it is important to act quickly as the deadline to apply for federal assistance is approaching. You have only two weeks left to apply for FEMA disaster assistance; the registration deadline is July 27.

FEMA assistance may include grants to help homeowners and renters pay for:

• Temporary housing for those displaced from their disaster-damaged primary homes.
• Essential repairs to owner-occupied primary homes including structural components such as foundation, exterior walls and roof, and interior areas such as ceiling and floors.
• Replacement of personal property including specialized tools for employment, household items, appliances, disability equipment (i.e., wheelchairs, hearing aids, etc.) and vehicle repair or replacement.
• Other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance, including medical, dental, moving and child-care expenses and funeral and transportation expenses.

Typhoon Mawar survivors should register for assistance even if they have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been settled.

If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet, please do so at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents) or by stopping by a Disaster Recovery Center.

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

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook.

NEW YORK– FEMA Region 2 is proud to announce the launch of the “Make a Difference” recruitment initiative – a partnership with colleges and universities in the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut area. 

This collaboration shows FEMA’s commitment to reducing barriers to access by investing in the next generation of emergency managers. By establishing long-term partnerships with higher educational institutions, the “Make A Difference” program will fast-track more than 300 students and alumni toward their first steps of a career at FEMA.

The agency is seeking applicants from a broad range of disciplines who are passionate about public service and making an impact their communities to fill FEMA Region 2 vacancies; this region serves New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Fast-Track Application Process:

Students and alumni can fast-track their application by sending an email to FEMA-makeadifference@fema.dhs.gov, Please include the following three items:

• Resume
• Transcript
• Reference letter from college or university personnel (e.g., career center, professor, program dean)

FEMA encourages all majors to apply. Full-time, part-time and internship opportunities are available across a wide range of functional areas.  

“We are pleased to announce this initiative and remain committed to streamlining the hiring process making it easier for students to apply,” said Region 2 Administrator David Warrington. “Partnering with the Higher Ed community is critical to the future of emergency management and we encourage all interested students, regardless of major, to join our diverse team and help us make a difference in the communities we serve.” 

The following local colleges and universities are participating in this initiative: Cornell University; Princeton University; New York University; Yale University; City University of New York (CUNY); State University of New York (SUNY); Rutgers University; Stony Brook University; Baruch College and Hunter College.

"Today, we are proud to announce a partnership with FEMA that will provide our students with invaluable opportunities to engage in public service and make a meaningful impact in their communities," said Macaulay Honors College Dean Dara Byrne, PhD. "Our students, who come from communities affected by climate change, are passionate about making a difference, and this partnership will enable them to do so while gaining valuable professional experience. We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration presents and the positive impact it will have on our students and their communities."

“Baruch College is excited to partner with FEMA on this important initiative that will directly bring the talents of our students to help mitigate the impact of the crises of tomorrow,” said Baruch College President S. David Wu, PhD. “Our students are creative problem-solvers who are deeply committed to and passionate about serving their communities and their nation.”

FEMA’s employee benefits include eligibility for public service loan forgiveness, hybrid in-person and telework schedule, commute to work transit allowance, paid annual leave, health, dental and vision insurance and more. 

For more information on the "Make a Difference" initiative, including the application process and available opportunities, please visit Fema.gov/region-2 or contact the recruitment team at 
Fema-makeadifference@fema.dhs.gov. 

SANTA FE, N.M. -- The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office announced today a partnership with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that will enable eligible claimants to receive five years of flood insurance protection, with premiums paid by the Claims Office. The NFIP provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses. 

Since the Claims Office launched in March 2023, staff have prioritized signing up eligible claimants for an initial one-year flood insurance policy. 

Flood Insurance is available for eligible claimants impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire in San Miguel and Mora counties. Anyone outside of those counties concerned about flood risks due to the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire burn scar may be eligible for flood insurance on a case-by-case basis. 

“We are excited to be able to provide extended coverage to our claimants during the current monsoon season and into the future,” said Claims Office Director Angela Gladwell. “We understand that recovering from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire has been uniquely challenging and we’re committed to ensuring claimants receive the compensation they are entitled to under law.”

“I’m especially pleased to announce this partnership between the National Flood Insurance Program and the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office because at the end of the day, we want everyone who needs flood insurance to have it,” said David Maurstad, Assistant Administrator of the Federal Insurance Directorate and Senior Executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “We don’t want anyone who has had to go through the heartbreak of a wildfire to be unprepared for the flood that may follow.” 

“This effort recognizes not only the increased risk of flood caused by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire, but also furthers our goal of reducing disaster suffering and ensuring peace of mind that flood insurance provides,” he said.

Floods are the most common and costly natural hazard in the nation. Whether caused by heavy rain, thunderstorms, or winter storms, the results of flooding can be devastating. One inch of rain can cause up to $25,000 of damage to a home. While some floods develop over time, flash floods -- particularly common after wildfires -- can occur within minutes after the onset of a rainstorm.

Even areas that are not traditionally flood-prone are at risk, due to changes to the landscape caused by fire. Residents need to protect their homes and personal property with flood insurance now —before more weather events occur and it’s too late.

For questions, please contact your Claims Navigator or call the Claims Office Helpline at (505)-995-7133.

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has allocated over $3.3 million to the municipalities of Barranquitas and Vega Baja to repair several recreational facilities that will benefit communities and visitors.

These allocations for damage following Hurricane María are aimed at addressing what are known as alternate projects. Alternate projects under Public Assistance take place when a community benefits from a different project, as opposed to restoring the project to its original pre-disaster state.

“The needs of communities can change over time and our agency keeps this in mind when evaluating permanent projects with the municipalities. By working as a team, we strive to ensure that the works represent not only a reconstruction but new and better opportunities for all the residents of our towns,” said Deputy Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator Andrés García Martinó.

The Calle Abajo Pablo Pérez Figueroa Community Center in the municipality of Barranquitas is one of the projects under these funds. What was previously a basketball court will now serve as a multipurpose space for around 200 families to celebrate social and educational activities, while strengthening plans to repopulate the urban area.

Pablo Pérez Figueroa lived in the Melitón Perelez community for about 95 years. The facilities that today bear his name mean a lot to the residents, particularly to Mildred and Nelson Pérez Santiago, children of the Barranquitas honoree. “We were eager for a center where cultural or entertainment activities could be carried out. We also have the goal of establishing a center where students can receive tutoring or study aid,” explained Nelson Pérez Santiago.

The new facilities received over $254,000 in agency funds and include an activity room, restrooms, parking lot, and repairs to the gates.

The mayor of Barranquitas, Elliot Colón Blanco, explained that the community already has another basketball court nearby, which is why they understood the need to replace the court with a community center. “For our municipality and for myself, projects like these have to continue developing in our town, because they are of benefit to several communities.”.

Meanwhile, the municipality of Vega Baja also received obligations for two alternate projects. On the one hand, the basketball court, the baseball park and the butterfly garden for El Trece Recreational Area will be renovated; and new areas such as a hostel, a restaurant, a game room and a swimming pool will be built within the facilities. About $2.3 million will address these works, which will include mitigation measures for the baseball park and recreational park.

El Trece receives about 600 people during the summer season. Once the alternate project is completed, the municipality of Vega Baja estimates that this amount could double, while also encouraging tourist visits to the area.

Likewise, the Puerto Nuevo Recreational Area and the La Casona Kiosks in this same municipality will be consolidated into better quality facilities for citizens and tourists with the help of over $802,000 from FEMA. The space, which could create some 15 jobs, will have 14 kiosks, a concrete path, bike corrals and restrooms, among other arrangements.

For his part, the executive director of the Puerto Rico Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said, “Communities evolve as generations develop. For this reason, alternate projects allow reconstruction works to be adjusted to current needs. At COR3, we will continue to assist subrecipients in these processes in search of maximizing the resources allocated to the development of these works.”

To date, FEMA has awarded more than $30.6 billion for over 10,700 Public Assistance projects aimed at rebuilding a more resilient Puerto Rico. Of these, more than $3.8 billion are earmarked for over 6,400 municipality projects throughout the island.

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.

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Calle Abajo Community Center, Barranquitas, Puerto Rico

BARRANQUITAS, Puerto Rico (October 24, 2022) – The Calle Abajo Pablo Pérez Figueroa Community Center in the municipality of Barranquitas is one of the alternate projects under Public Assistance. What was previously a basketball court will now serve as a multipurpose space for around 200 families to celebrate social and educational activities, while strengthening plans to repopulate the urban area.  Photo FEMA/ Alvin J. Báez Hernández

Now, more than a month after of Typhoon Mawar devastated the island territory, Guam residents continue down their road to recovery with the help of federal funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration and FEMA. To date, nearly $112 million in low interest disaster loans from the SBA and direct disaster assistance through FEMA have flowed into communities to help jumpstart the recovery process. 

Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved more than $62.2 million in low-interest disaster loans. The SBA is the number one source of federal disaster recovery funding. Through low-interest disaster loans the SBA provides recovery loans to businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters.

For homeowners and renters, the SBA has approved 651 disaster loans totaling nearly $59.2 million dollars. These loans can be used to repair or replace a survivor’s disaster damaged home and personal property. Additionally, 45 businesses and private non-profits have been approved for loans totaling more than $3 million. These funds will help these businesses and organizations recover by replacing real estate, machinery and equipment, and inventory and business assets.

Individuals and Households Program 

As of July 11, 2023

When it comes to FEMA assistance, more than 16,000 homeowners and renters have been approved for more than $49.7 million in federal awards through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Unlike SBA loans, this money does not have to be paid back. This includes:

• More than $11 million in repair and replacement assistance to help survivors rebuild, or make basic repairs to make their home safe, sanitary and functional and provide funds to owners whose primary residences were destroyed due to Typhoon Mawar.
• Nearly $14.5 million in rental assistance was provided to more than 4,700 applicants. FEMA rental assistance is intented to help survivors pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their disaster damaged home. FEMA awards eligible applicants an initial Rental Assistance payment based on the Fair Market Rent established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for where their pre-disaster residence is located and the number of bedrooms the household requires.

Other Needs Assistance

Other Needs Assistance provides financial assistance for disaster-related necessary expenses and serious needs that are not covered by insurance or provided by any other source. More than $24.3 million in ONA has been awarded to Guam survivors. This includes: critical needs assistance, transportation assistance, personal property assistance, moving and storage, disaster related medical and dental assistance and money to clean and sanitize a disaster damaged home.

If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet or need to update a pending application contact FEMA by visiting disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents). 

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

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook. 

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Baird Springs Fire burning in Grant County, Washington. 

The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 1:25 a.m. PT. He determined that the Baird Springs Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the third FMAG declared in 2023 to help fight Washington wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Trinidad and Crescent Bar. The fire also threatened Grant County Public Utility District and Bonneville Power Administration infrastructure, Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail lines, nearby campgrounds, a large boat launch, golf course, agriculture and tourism businesses, and fishing. 

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair, and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. 

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $1,225,032 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.  

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Once the immediate danger passes after a hurricane or other disaster, having important documents such as insurance policies and property records will be crucial to help you start the recovery process. Taking time now to safeguard critical documents will give you peace of mind, and help you avoid additional stress during the difficult days after a disaster.

If your home is damaged by the winds and rains from a tropical storm or hurricane, you would need documentation to request assistance from insurance providers and from government disaster assistance programs. Store important documents either in a safe deposit box, waterproof and fireproof portable container or another location separate from your home.

Store electronic copies of important documents in a password-protected format on a removable flash or external hard drive in your fireproof and waterproof box or safe or consider using a secure cloud-based service. Be cautious about sharing personal financial information, such as your bank account number, Social Security number, or credit card number.

Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, such as ID, are up to date. In addition, take the time now to think about the priceless personal items you would want to protect from damage or take with you if you had to suddenly evacuate your home. 

Take time today to take an inventory of your household documents, contacts and valuables and put yourself in a position to start your recovery process quickly and efficiently if a disaster impacts your home. Learn more about safeguarding critical documents in English at https://go.dhs.gov/4rA and Spanish at https://go.dhs.gov/4rP .

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Vermont to supplement state and local response efforts to the emergency conditions in the areas affected by flooding beginning on July 9, and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide assistance authorized under Title V of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to save lives, protect property, public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. This assistance is for Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties.  

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

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