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Million-Dollar Allocations from FEMA Will Boost Rebuilding of Baseball Parks Across the Island
San Juan, Puerto Rico – The players of the Children’s and Youth Baseball League of the Municipality of Las Piedras will soon be running the bases on a renovated playing field thanks to a million-dollar allocation from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Around $5 million will be used to repair the Francisco Negrón Stadium, where the fans of Las Piedras gather to support both professional players and the little ones who are making their debut in the sport. Under this figure, around $510,300 are earmarked for mitigation measures to address damage caused by heavy rains or winds.
This stadium in Las Piedras is just one of several baseball parks to which FEMA allocated over $15 million. The facilities, which address the damage caused by Hurricane María, also include Santa Isabel, Villalba and Yabucoa, where the projects are already in the construction phase and will soon benefit their respective communities. These four municipalities have already received over $91 million from the agency for 116 park and recreational facility projects.
“The parks promote sports for our children and serve as a point of gathering for many other events that help us to strengthen ties with the communities. It is of great satisfaction to know that these reconstructions will soon translate into renovated parks ready to train our future professionals,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.
Over 250 players of the Pedreña Children’s and Youth League use the Francisco Negrón Stadium and other parks in the communities of Las Piedras during their regular season. According to the league president, Armando “Andy” Díaz, some former players have returned as leaders to share what they received during their childhood and youth. During his tenure with the organization, Díaz has seen youngsters like Ángel Sánchez — who is playing for Los Artesanos at Double-A Professional Baseball — develop in and out of Puerto Rico thanks to the sports education provided in the town.
Meanwhile, in the Municipality of Santa Isabel, work has already begun to rebuild the Luis Guillermo Moreno baseball park. Painting and replacement of equipment — particularly the reconstruction of the bleachers area — is part of the work to be carried out with around $2.5 million from the agency. This also includes about $183,000 to install 13 storm drains and other equipment to protect the facility from future weather events.
Furthermore, the Herminio Cintrón Stadium in the Municipality of Villalba has already been allocated over $4.6 million to repair the 1960s facilities. The work for this park includes the replacement of electronic equipment and other infrastructure elements. Asbestos problems will also be remediated and $530,000 will be used for mitigation initiatives to prevent erosion and other damage due to excess rainfall.
Another significant project of the agency includes several ballparks in the Guayabotas, Ingenio, Jagüeyes, Limones and Tejas neighborhoods in the Municipality of Yabucoa. Following an allocation of about $3 million, construction work to replace the facilities has already begun.
The municipal director of Sports and Recreation, Rey Marte, indicated that Yabucoa also has sports such as basketball, soccer and softball, although he stressed that baseball is “practically a religion” for Yabucoa. Marte described the purpose of the Little League program, which is the largest in Puerto Rico with 27 teams, as an opportunity to develop spending time together, socializing and promoting health through exercise. “At the end of the road, if we get some star or some baseball player in the big leagues, that’s great. But what we really want is to give children the opportunity to spend time with their peers and to have a discipline through the game, so that they can use it in life, in their studies, in everything that awaits them,” he said.
To date, FEMA has awarded around $30.5 billion for nearly 10,700 Public Assistance projects, aimed at rebuilding a Puerto Rico that is more resistant to future weather events.
For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 06/08/2023 - 14:18While recovering from Typhoon Mawar, Guam residents should be on the lookout for fraudsters
Guam residents affected by Typhon Mawar should be aware that crooks may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after a disaster. Please don’t forget:
- FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other authorized officials working in impacted areas always carry official identification badges with photo IDs.
- FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
- Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.
- Be suspicious of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA (FEMA representatives will have your FEMA application number).
- Don’t give out your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector (FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information).
In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.
If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.
If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application. If you do wish to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the Helpline will assist you in creating a new application.
If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: 202-212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.
If you suspect identity theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov.
Residents are also advised to report any suspicious activity or suspected fraud to local law enforcement or the Mariana Regional Fusion Center (MRFC) at 671-475-0400 or via email at mrfc@ghs.guam.gov, following the Department of Homeland Security’s campaign, “If You See Something, Say Something.” Information that is provided to the MRFC will be recorded and properly disseminated to all pertinent authorities.
For answers to other questions about FEMA disaster assistance, go here.
For information on Guam’s recovery, go here. Follow FEMA on Twitter and Facebook
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
felicia.jordan Thu, 06/08/2023 - 08:11Temporary Disaster Recovery Centers Operating in Broward County Extend the Stops
LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA are operating Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Broward County.
The temporary centers operating at these locations will stay open until Saturday, June 10, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park, 2520 NW 6th Street in Fort Lauderdale
- Big Easy Casino, NE Parking Lot, 831 N Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach
These are in addition to the fixed center locations:
- Sadkin Community Center, 1176 NW 42nd Way, Lauderhill, FL 33313
- Hortt Park, 1700 SW 14TH Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Hours for fixed centers are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Sundays.
Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.
In addition to visiting a center, you can apply by going online to disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.
In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews are canvassing communities affected by the April 12-14 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Broward County to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and to answer questions about federal assistance. DSA crews wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.
FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For more information about recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4709 and floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.
martyce.allenjr Wed, 06/07/2023 - 16:17Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Plymouth County, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Plymouth 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 June 23, 2023. The affected communities in Plymouth County, Massachusetts are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/05/24/2023-11096/proposed-flood-hazard-determinations
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 – http://msc.fema.gov/portal
- Preliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload
- Flood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
For more information about the flood maps, please 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 https://www.floodsmart.gov.
adrien.urbani Tue, 06/06/2023 - 21:21Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Suffolk 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 June 23, 2023. The affected communities in Suffolk County, Massachusetts are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/05/24/2023-11096/proposed-flood-hazard-determinations
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 – http://msc.fema.gov/portal
- Preliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload
- Flood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
For more information about the flood maps, please 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 https://www.floodsmart.gov.
adrien.urbani Tue, 06/06/2023 - 21:16FEMA Opens Two More Disaster Recovery Centers in Sinajana and Inalahan
FEMA opens two more Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) for Guam residents who were affected by Typhoon Mawar.
These new FEMA Centers will open on June 7, 2023, and the locations and hours of operation are as follows:
CL Taitano Elementary School
170 Bien Avenida Ave.
Sinajana, GU 96910
Hours of operation: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm, seven days a week.
Inalahan Mayor’s Office/Community Center
719 San Jose Ave.
Inalahan, GU 96917
Hours of operation: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm, seven days a week.
Those affected by the disaster can meet with recovery specialists face-to-face if they need help applying for FEMA assistance. They can also get answers to questions or follow up on their applications. Recovery specialists can also provide information on any rental assistance available or fax any requested documents to a FEMA processing center. They can also scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.
Specialists at the center can also direct you to operators who can communicate in many languages. The center also offers printed material 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.
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.
FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation specialists can share home-improvement tips and techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes.
Survivors can also apply for disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362. The Helpline is open and available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents.
If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
When you apply for assistance, have the following information ready:
- 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 numbers
- 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
Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Typhoon Mawar. If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
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 with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.
FEMA Accessible Video: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4715. Follow FEMA at https://twitter.com/femaregion9 and at facebook.com/fema.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
robert.barker Tue, 06/06/2023 - 19:52FEMA May Be Able to Help with Transportation Repairs
FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (ONA) provides financial help after a disaster to cover necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. This may include repair or replacement of a vehicle. You must first apply to FEMA (disasterassistance.gov, FEMA mobile app, 800-621-3362), then submit an application for a disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you are denied a loan, or if the loan does not cover all the expense, you may be referred to FEMA for ONA consideration.
For assistance to repair or replace a vehicle, the damage must have been caused by the disaster and the vehicle must no longer be operable or safe to drive. Cosmetic repairs will not be covered. Other conditions include:
- The vehicle must have been damaged by Typhoon Mawar.
- Assistance is usually limited to one vehicle. If there is a second functional vehicle in the household, the applicant must certify in writing that the damaged vehicle is essential for the household’s daily use.
- The vehicle must be in compliance with motor vehicle division’s registration and insurance requirements.
- The vehicle must be owned or leased (not a rental) by the applicant, co-applicant, or household member.
- The damaged vehicle must be an approved vehicle type, such as a car, truck, SUV or van.
- The amount provided for repair or replacement is based on the degree of damage and the amount the motor vehicle division has determined for the maximum repair and replacement value.
Documentation required for consideration, includes, but is not limited to:
- Proof of insurance policy showing the type of coverage or proof of vehicle meets the territory’s requirement.
- Insurance provider settlement or statement that insurance coverage does not exists, for vehicle repair.
- A verifiable estimate, bill, or receipt confirming the damage was caused by the disaster, with labor and parts/replacement costs. For vehicle replacement, additional documentation is necessary from the motor vehicle division confirming the vehicle was salvaged due to the disaster.
Apply Now
Survivors can apply for disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362. The Helpline is open and available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents.
If you use 711 or Video Relay service, give FEMA the number for that service.
YouTube: FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance
When you apply for assistance, have the following information ready:
- 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
- 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
Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Typhoon Mawar. If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
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 with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.
For answers to other questions about FEMA disaster assistance, go here.
For information on Guam’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4715. Follow FEMA at https://twitter.com/femaregion9 and at facebook.com/fema.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
robert.barker Tue, 06/06/2023 - 19:49FEMA Inspections Have Begun in Guam
If you applied with FEMA and have damages caused by Typhoon Mawar to your home or personal property, a FEMA inspector will contact you.
FEMA inspections will help determine whether a home is safe, sanitary and livable. To determine whether an applicant is eligible for assistance, FEMA considers the home’s interior and exterior structural soundness; whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer or septic systems are functional; and whether the home is livable and can be entered and exited safely. FEMA inspections will also consider damages to personal property.
At times there can be language or other barriers to completing the inspection. If you need accommodations for language or a disability, call 800-621-3362 in advance of the inspection and let FEMA know your needs.
The first step for a FEMA inspection starts with a phone call, text message or email from a FEMA inspector to the applicant to schedule an appointment. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from an unknown number. The inspector will try to make contact up to three times over three days. The case will be locked if the inspector cannot reach you after three attempts.
The inspection process usually takes 30 to 40 minutes. If you were able to take photos or video of interior or exterior damage to the home, show them to the inspector.
Survivors who are unable to meet with the FEMA inspector for an inspection, can have a friend or relative act on their behalf to meet with the inspector. But first they must submit to FEMA a written and signed request for third-party, which is a legal document, authorizing another person who is at least 18 years of age to meet with the inspector and to provide and receive information from FEMA on their behalf.
What Else You Need to Know
- The inspector will not be collecting any documentation and will never ask for personal information like a Social Security number.
- FEMA never charges for an inspection.
- If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application; if so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop all further processing on the application.
- A fraudulent application could be a sign of identity theft. For information on what to do if you suspect identity theft, please visit identitytheft.gov.
- If you wish to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the FEMA Helpline will need to assist you in creating a new application. Call 800-621-3362.
Apply Now
Survivors can apply for disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362. The Helpline is open and available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents.
If you use 711 or Video Relay service, give FEMA the number for that service.
YouTube: FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance
When you apply for assistance, have the following information ready:
- 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
- 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
Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Typhoon Mawar. If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
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 with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.
For answers to other questions about FEMA disaster assistance, go here.
For information on Guam’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4715. Follow FEMA at https://twitter.com/femaregion9 and at facebook.com/fema.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
robert.barker Tue, 06/06/2023 - 19:47FEMA Awards Additional $368.5 million in Hurricane Ida Public Assistance Grants
BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) grant program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. To date, more than $1.8 billion has been obligated to the State of Louisiana for the Hurricane Ida recovery. This additional $368.5 million will help pay for travel trailers purchased by the state, debris removal in St. Tammany Parish and water remediation expenses for the Lafourche Parish School Board.
Public Assistance ProcessThe Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects. The grants go to governments and nonprofits after a disaster. The money helps protect people and property, clean up neighborhoods, haul away disaster debris, put utilities back in order, and repair roads and bridges, among other projects.
Applicants provide FEMA with thorough documentation to support damage claims. Following approvals by FEMA and GOHSEP, FEMA obligates funding for the project. Once a project is obligated by FEMA, GOHSEP works closely with the applicant to finalize the grant and begin making payments.
Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit (PNP) organizations.
FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the State of Louisiana. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive these awards. Following the state's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the sub-recipients.
Major Grants AwardedGOHSEP: $218.5 million to pay for travel trailers at the 90 percent Federal Cost Share. GOHSEP has received $472.5 million to date.
South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association (SLECA): $77.6 million to cover repair of utility lines. SLECA has received $106.9 million to date.
St. Tammany Parish: $37.9 million for debris removal. The parish has received $48.4 million to date.
Lafourche Parish School Board: $34.5 million to cover water remediation expenses for serval of their buildings. The Lafourche Parish School Board has received $53.4 million to date.
kirsten.chambers Tue, 06/06/2023 - 18:26Disaster Recovery Centers in Cleveland and McClain counties to Close June 10
OKLAHOMA CITY – FEMA and the State of Oklahoma Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Cleveland and McClain counties will close permanently June 10. The DRCs assist survivors affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes that occurred April 19-20. Those centers are located at:
McClain County
Cole Community Center
26887 Main Street
Blanchard, OK 73010
Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
Closed permanently June 10.
Cleveland County
12 Corners Baptist Church
15601 E Etowah Road
Noble, OK 73068
Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday through Saturday
Closed permanently June 10.
The DRC in Pottawatomie County will remain open to assist survivors with their recovery.
Pottawatomie County
130 N Louisa Ave.
Shawnee, OK 74801
The operating hours for the center in Pottawatomie County are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and closed on Sunday and Monday.
Survivors can meet face to face with specialists from FEMA, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and state and local agencies to have their questions about disaster assistance answered. They may also upload any documents needed for their applications at the centers.
No appointments are necessary.
You do not have to visit a disaster recovery center to apply for assistance. The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.
If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT seven days a week. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
alexa.brown Tue, 06/06/2023 - 17:13FEMA Awards Additional $368.5 million in Hurricane Ida Public Assistance Grants
BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) grant program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. To date, more than $1.8 billion has been obligated to the State of Louisiana for the Hurricane Ida recovery. This additional $368.5 million will help pay for travel trailers purchased by the state, debris removal in St. Tammany Parish and water remediation expenses for the Lafourche Parish School Board.
Public Assistance ProcessThe Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects. The grants go to governments and nonprofits after a disaster. The money helps protect people and property, clean up neighborhoods, haul away disaster debris, put utilities back in order, and repair roads and bridges, among other projects
Applicants provide FEMA with thorough documentation to support damage claims. Following approvals by FEMA and GOHSEP, FEMA obligates funding for the project. Once a project is obligated by FEMA, GOHSEP works closely with the applicant to finalize the grant and begin making payments.
Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit (PNP) organizations.
FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the State of Louisiana. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive these awards. Following the state's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the sub-recipients.
Major Grants AwardedGOHSEP: $218.5 million to pay for travel trailers at the 90 percent Federal Cost Share. GOHSEP has received $472.5 million to date.
South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association (SLECA): $77.6 million to cover repair of utility lines. SLECA has received $106.9 million to date.
St. Tammany Parish: $37.9 million for debris removal. The parish has received $48.4 million to date.
Lafourche Parish School Board: $34.5 million to cover water remediation expenses for serval of their buildings. The Lafourche Parish School Board has received $53.4 million to date.
For the latest information on Hurricane Ida recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
luther.wills-dudich Tue, 06/06/2023 - 15:35Tornadoes Took Their Home, Possessions but Not Their Resolve
ADAMSVILLE, Tenn. – The night the tornadoes hit, Elvis and Liz Doyle huddled around a television with their three grandchildren, monitoring the weather via WBBJ and alerts on their phones.
The first alert came at 8:30 p.m. on March 31. The couple and their grandchildren raced to an aged underground shelter about a hundred feet downhill from the house. They scrambled into it, lit a kerosene lamp and sat on plastic chairs waiting. But no tornado. A second alert came an hour later. Again, a mad dash for nothing but practice. At 10:30 p.m. WBBJ clocked a twister within 10 miles of the Doyle home. Underground they went again. Debris wasn’t yet flying, but the tornado soon bore down. Elvis Doyle said it sounded like a giant helicopter.
“The ground was shaking. Our ears were popping in and out. We were crying and screaming. I tried to be the strong one, but my knees were knocking. Then at 12 or 12:30 it was real quiet, and my cousin Randy came up the hill hollering for me,” Elvis recalled.
Several twisters savaged western and middle Tennessee that night. The most lethal of them drilled down for 86 miles, sweeping along a 1,400-yard-wide trail, mostly in McNairy and Hardin counties, the Doyle property in its path. Power went out in 103,000 households across the state, 300 homes were destroyed and 15 people lost their lives. Local, state and federal assistance would get there with extraordinary speed.
More remarkable were the survivors who, like the Doyles, suddenly would be putting their worlds together again. In the city of Covington, 85 miles to the west, the manager of a badly damaged apartment complex tracked down four displaced tenants just to help them apply for FEMA assistance. Then she sent FEMA staff to a nursing home to help another tenant get assistance. The Horse Plus Humane Society offered grants to survivors whose animals got hurt or lost their shelter. And in the devastated town of Readyville, a woman whose seriously damaged house was draped by a tarp called herself lucky – because she still had a home.
Tiny Adamsville straddles McNairy and Hardin counties and may be known best as the home of crime-fighting Sheriff Buford Pusser, the inspiration for the 1973 movie “Walking Tall.” The town has a small industrial park, but the population of about 2,200 is spread out sparsely along scenic roads that wind through hills with picturesque patches of forest and meadows. Most days, the pastoral views suggest a painting more than meteorological mayhem.
When the tempest ended, the Doyles saw only barren ground where their home once stood. Their eight heavily wooded, rolling acres were left with more than 50 jack-knifed and uprooted trees and the chaotic tableau of debris that an EF-3 tornado can make. From spoons and forks to TV sets, housewares and appliances were scattered like confetti. Elvis’s pistol, rifle and prized 40-piece knife collection had all been airlifted, not to be seen again. One of the fallen trees killed granddaughter Parker’s pony. Another fell across the shelter entryway, ironically reinforcing the door against the powerful winds. Nearby, cousin Randy’s home was partly demolished.
“It felt like there ain’t nowhere to go, like losing your mama or something,” Elvis said.
Before the tornado, the retired grandparents and the children had lived in a spacious manufactured home that Elvis had renovated, adding two bedrooms for the grandchildren. When they bought the property three years ago, the shelter had been a plus. Elvis had always meant to clean it up, and three weeks before the tornado, the grandchildren, 11-year-old Gunnar and 9-year-old twins Parker and Phoenix, volunteered for the task. Liz stocked it with food and drink.
The shelter may have saved them, but the Doyles were fortunate, according to FEMA mitigation experts. They were lucky the tree fell on the door – the tornado’s estimated wind speed of between 136 mph and 165 mph might have vacuumed the door and the family into the heavens. At 136 mph, winds can overturn a train, debark trees, toss heavy vehicles and cause severe damage to shopping malls.
FEMA recommends an easily installed, prefabricated, in-ground safe room, furnished with a modern door assembly specifically made to withstand extreme wind and wind-borne debris. A door failure can leave occupants at great risk of injury or death. Another concern is a shelter’s distance from the home. Occupants need to leave their house early enough to avoid the risk of being hit by flying debris. Protection from stormwater and groundwater is a special challenge for in-ground safe rooms. As an alternative, community safe rooms can provide protection for many individuals during severe weather.
FEMA hosts the Safe Room Helpline to respond to inquiries about safe rooms. Email Saferoom@fema.dhs.gov or call at 866-927-2104. For FEMA’s complete guide to safe rooms, visit Taking Shelter from the Storm, which can be saved as a PDF file for more leisurely browsing. Also, the U.S. Small Business Administration may help fund construction of a safe room. Approved SBA disaster loans can be increased up to 20% for mitigation work, including a safe room. For information, call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.
The Doyles have plans to upgrade their shelter down the road, but their recovery is now in an earlier stage, where replacing daily essentials is the priority. Liz still winces when she thinks of the immediate aftermath of the tornado and recalls the complete emptiness she felt. Lacking alternatives, the family had squeezed into a motel. Shortly after that low point, the recovery engines kicked in. The American Red Cross set up an emergency center in Adamsville, offering comforts as well as practical help such as putting storm survivors in touch with FEMA. Volunteers provided food and clothing. God’s Pit Crew and Samaritan’s Purse, groups that help disaster survivors, were there and helped clean up the Doyle property. Elvis applied for FEMA assistance, and the recovery began to take shape.
A FEMA grant enabled them to purchase a used three-bedroom manufactured home, delivered May 3. Liz and the children have been painting and cleaning it. Elvis, a retired building contractor, put in a new front door and erected a new power pole to run electricity to the house. He’s also installing new wiring and a water connection. He plans to build porches as well as upgrade the shelter.
Until the home is livable in a month or so, the Doyles are staying in a nephew’s small travel trailer, running a generator for power. That isn’t how the couple imagined their retirement. Elvis and Liz had thought they’d travel, drive down Route 66 to Arizona with the kids, whose parents are unable to support them. The children are back in school now, the grandparents busily driving them to their baseball games, trying to keep the young minds off their losses.
Elvis and Liz say they haven’t recovered yet. How will they know they’ve recovered? “When we feel normal again,” said Liz. For now, they are reckoning how to afford new mattresses and bedding, but still thinking about that drive to Arizona.
sandra.habib Tue, 06/06/2023 - 15:02FEMA Approves $4.79 Million for Mosquito Control After Hurricane Ian
LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA Public Assistance has approved a grant totaling $4,795,332 to reimburse the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for mosquito control expenses after Hurricane Ian.
The September 2022 storm brought torrential rain and storm surge, resulting in flooding and standing water. This created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public, requiring emergency response and protective measures. The department contracted for aerial mosquito control operations in Brevard, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia counties. Federal cost share was 100 percent.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.
Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.
For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
martyce.allenjr Mon, 06/05/2023 - 17:26Las Vegas Claims Office Moves to Permanent Location
SANTA FE, N.M. - The Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Las Vegas Claims Office is moving to its new location at 216 Mills Ave., Las Vegas, NM 87701 (in Mills Plaza near the Big R and Family Dollar) and will be open for business beginning Wednesday June 7, 2023.
The temporary Claims Office location at 366 Luna Dr., on the Luna Community College campus in the General Studies Building, Rm. 109, will remain open thru Tuesday June 6, 2023.
Claimants may visit any location to speak with a Claims Office Navigator to discuss the claims process, pick up or drop off a Notice of Loss, discuss the specifics of your claim or schedule an appointment with a Claims Navigator.
- Mora Claims Office
Mora County Courthouse
1 Courthouse Dr.
Mora, NM 87732 - Las Vegas Claims Office (Permanent Location)
216 Mills Ave.
Las Vegas, NM 87701
(In Mills Plaza near Big R and Family Dollar) - Santa Fe Claims Office
1711 Llano St., Suite E
Santa Fe, NM 87505
(Next to Mucho Gourmet Sandwich Shoppe)
All Claims Offices are open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. The Claims Office Helpline can be reached at (505) 995-7133
To learn more about the Claims Office, visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn on notifications to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office | Facebook.
mashana.davis Mon, 06/05/2023 - 17:21FEMA Region 3 Vaccination Center Items on View on Smithsonian’s Website
PHILADELPHIA - Items from a FEMA Region 3 community vaccination center established and operated in 2021 during the nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic have been added to the permanent online collection of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.
Anyone with an internet connection can view these items in the museum’s virtual exhibit, which went live in April. All materials came from the Greenbelt Metro Community Vaccination site, which was open from April to June 2021 in Greenbelt, MD. More than 119,000 COVID-19 vaccination were administered at the center.
FEMA worked with several federal, state and local partners during the 2021 mission to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to the public. In Maryland, they included the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (now the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM)), the Maryland National Guard, and the Maryland Department of Health, among others.
“MDEM is proud to have partnered with FEMA throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to protect Marylanders,” said Russ Strickland, Maryland Secretary of Emergency Management. “This collection recognizes the incredible efforts of first responders, health care workers, emergency management professionals, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to combat the pandemic. Our participation in the museum highlights the critical role that vaccination centers played in bringing vaccines to underserved communities and protecting the health of Marylanders. We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase our collaborative work and to inspire future generations to serve their communities in times of crisis.”
“The Federal Emergency Management Agency Community Vaccination Center was an extraordinary example of state and federal assets focused on supporting our local communities,” said retired Maryland National Guard Brig. Gen. Adam Flasch, who was the dual-status commander for the active-duty service members supporting the vaccination site. “The whole of federal and state government came together leveraging what each does best. We were successful because we were a team focused on one outcome: delivering this life-saving vaccine to our most vulnerable populations. It took every member of our FEMA, DoD, and Maryland Department of Emergency Management and Maryland Department of Health to deliver this exceptional outcome.”
The collaboration between FEMA and the museum began when a curator happened to visit the Greenbelt Metro center to get her own vaccination. What she saw there captured her interest, especially since the museum was already starting to plan a national collection effort centered on the COVID-19 pandemic and the various responses to it, the museum contacted FEMA Region 3 about a possible donation of materials, and the center’s team collected significant items to help tell the story of the efforts that FEMA Region 3 and our federal and state partners made to save lives and return the country to normal.
“This online exhibit highlights the contribution of the entire region during one of the most unusual life-saving missions our agency has ever undertaken,” said MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region 3 Administrator. “FEMA helps people before, during and after disasters, and we will never forget working with so many outstanding partners to serve Americans in need.”
The artifacts, which include multilingual signs, posters, flyers, and other materials such as a challenge coin, can be accessed on the Smithsonian’s collections website.
charles.elison Mon, 06/05/2023 - 13:10Disaster Survivor Assistance Crews Hit the Streets in Guam
Guam residents will start seeing FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews in neighborhoods today to help Typhoon Mawar survivors apply for federal disaster assistance and to identify needs within communities.
DSA crews primarily focus on helping underrepresented populations that may be hard to reach by traditional channels. Their mission is to assess and report critical and emerging disaster needs to FEMA leadership for decision-making purposes. Their essential duties include:
- Provide on-site guidance to survivors about the application process, and an overview of FEMA disaster assistance.
- Review survivors’ applications, providing basic information about application status and other eligible assistance, and collecting new information or documents for case files.
- Engage disaster survivors and local officials in identifying immediate unmet needs for a quick resolution via FEMA and/or its partners including voluntary agencies.
- Support community outreach and partnerships with the local, state, tribal or territorial emergency managers, disability partners, private sector, voluntary agencies and faith- and community-based organizations to foster a culture of strengthened alliances to support the delivery of inclusive, equitable services to survivors.
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4715. Follow FEMA at https://twitter.com/femaregion9 and at facebook.com/fema.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
robert.barker Sat, 06/03/2023 - 23:43President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to supplement commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Typhoon Mawar during the period of May 22, 2023, and continuing.
Federal funding is available to the Commonwealth and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance for the island of Rota.
Benigno B. (Bern) Ruiz has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Commonwealth and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
mayshaunt.gary Sat, 06/03/2023 - 16:37FEMA Awards Over $1.2 Million to Elliot Hospital for COVID Testing Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.2 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Elliot Hospital for the costs of purchasing and administering tests during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $1,200,532 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse 296-bed acute care facility in Manchester for the costs of administering 38,053 COVID tests to patients and staff between January and June 2022.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Elliot Hospital with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided more than $233 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.
adrien.urbani Fri, 06/02/2023 - 17:25FEMA Awards Over $1.4 Million to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center for COVID Testing Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.4 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Southern New Hampshire Medical Center for the costs of purchasing and administering tests during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $1,430,186 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the a 188-bed acute care facility located in Nashua for the costs of administering 36,756 COVID tests to patients, staff, and staff families.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Southern New Hampshire Medical Center with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided more than $233 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.
adrien.urbani Fri, 06/02/2023 - 17:15FEMA Awards Over $1.8 Million to Cape Cod Hospital for COVID-19 Testing, Prevention Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.8 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Cape Cod Hospital for the cost of testing and other precautions taken during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $1,808,320 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the non-profit regional medical center located in Hyannis for the cost of providing COVID tests for patients and staff, and for the purchase of medical grade air sanitation units.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.7 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.
adrien.urbani Fri, 06/02/2023 - 17:05Pages
