April is National Financial Capability Month: Three Tips to Protect Your Money in an Emergency

CHICAGO – April is National Financial Capability Month: a reminder that everyone should arm themselves with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage their finances every day, but especially in case of an emergency.

FEMA is offering three key steps to financially prepare for unexpected disasters.

1. Gather financial and critical personal, household and medical information. Have extra originals or copies of passports, driver's licenses, insurance and medical information, birth and marriage certificates and other critical documents stored in a safe, easily accessible location—such as a safe deposit box, external hard drive or the cloud—to avoid any issues.   
2. Consider saving money in an emergency savings account that could be used in any crisis. Keep a small amount of cash at home in a safe place too. It is important to have small bills on hand because ATMs and credit cards may not work during a disaster when you need to purchase necessary supplies, fuel or food.  
3. Obtain property, health and life insurance if you do not have them. Not all insurance policies are the same. Review your policy to make sure the amount and types of coverage meet the requirements for all possible hazards. For example, homeowners insurance does not typically cover flooding, so you may need to purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program.

An easy way to start preparing your finances for an emergency is by completing an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit. This important document offers guidance on organizing and securing important documents, provides important advice on managing finances, and describes what to expect should a disaster strike your community. For even more information on how to financially prepare for an unexpected emergency or disaster, visit www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness. 

# # #

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

nicole.wilson Wed, 04/12/2023 - 14:13

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available for the Navajo Nation to supplement the tribal recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms and flooding that occurred Jan. 14-17, 2023.

On April 11, the President authorized federal funding to be made available to the Navajo Nation and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storms and flooding.

Benigno B. Ruiz has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the tribe and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 04/12/2023 - 14:01

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Wynne, Arkansas

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.– FEMA and the State of Arkansas will open a joint Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Wynne, Arkansas, on Wednesday, April 12 to help survivors affected by the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred on March 31.

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.

The DRC in Wynne will open Wednesday, April 12 at 7 a.m.

Cross County – Wynne

Ridgeview Church

999 US Hwy 64 East

Wynne, AR 72396

Hours: Monday - Saturday 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

Sunday: 1–7 p.m.

DRCs are also open in Pulaski County.

Pulaski County – Little Rock

West Central Community Center

8616 Colonel Glenn Rd.

Little Rock, AR 72204

Hours: Monday - Sunday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

Pulaski County – North Little Rock

North Little Rock Community Center

2700 Willow St.

North Little Rock, 72114

Hours: Monday - Sunday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

While additional recovery centers will be opening soon, Arkansans can visit any DRC to learn more about FEMA disaster and recovery assistance. You may also get help to do the following:

• Apply for assistance.
• Learn the status of your FEMA application.
• Understand any letters you get from FEMA.
• Find housing and rental assistance information.
• Get answers to questions or resolve problems.
• Get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance.
• Learn about Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs.

Residents of any of the three counties approved for individual assistance, Cross, Lonoke and Pulaski may visit any open disaster recovery center in Arkansas. No appointments are necessary.

FEMA also has teams canvassing in the most heavily impacted areas as determined by local officials.

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, 04/11/2023 - 21:11

Claims Office to Co-Host Town Hall in Mora on April 19

Santa Fe, NM - Mora County and the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office will co-host a town hall meeting on April 19 at Mora High School.

Claims Office leadership will present updates about the Claims Process and introduce new leadership staff. The meeting will also include a question-and-answer session following the presentation. The meeting will be staffed by English and Spanish speakers and American Sign Language interpreters.

Event information:

Mora High School Lecture Hall 10 Ranger Road Mora, NM 87701

Wednesday, April 19 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. MT

If you are unable to the attend the Town Hall in person on April 19, we still want to hear from you. Please submit your questions to ClaimsOffice@fema.dhs.gov. We will do our best to address all questions and concerns at the Town Hall.

You can also call the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133 to get answers to your questions. You do not need to RSVP to attend.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 04/11/2023 - 18:05

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Panola and Montgomery Counties

PEARL, Miss. – The state of Mississippi and FEMA will open Disaster Recovery Centers in Montgomery and Panola counties Monday, April 10, at 11 a.m. to help survivors of the March storms and tornadoes. Other Disaster Recovery Centers are located in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe and Sharkey counties.

Recovery specialists from the state, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and other state and federal agencies are at the centers to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

Center locations:

Carroll County J.Z. George High School 900 George St. North Carrollton, MS 38947

Humphreys County Humphreys County Library 105 Hayden St. Belzoni, MS 39038

Monroe County Justice Court Building 1619 Highway 25 Amory, MS 38821

Montgomery County Montgomery County Coliseum 200 Recreation Dr. Winona, MS 38967

Panola County MS State University Extension Center 245 Eureka St, Suite C Batesville, MS 38606

Sharkey County Heritage Manor 431 West Race St. Rolling Fork, MS 39159

Center hours for the Montgomery and Panola Disaster Recovery Centers on April 10, are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. After that, the centers will be open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday and 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday. Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers in Monroe County have different hours. To find the closet one to you, visit fema.gov/drc. Homeowners and renters in can visit any center for help.

It is not necessary to go to a Disaster Recovery Center to apply to FEMA. Homeowners and renters in the six counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 from 6 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, or use the FEMA App for smartphones to apply.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Tue, 04/11/2023 - 16:38

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Making Stops in Monroe County

PEARL, Miss. – Two mobile Disaster Recovery Centers operated by FEMA and the state of Mississippi will be making stops in Monroe County throughout the month of April.

The dates and locations are:

Wren Fire Department, 32659 Hwy 45N, Aberdeen, MS 39730

• April 10 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• April 11 and 12 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• April 16 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• April 17-19 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Rose of Sharon, 520 111th St. Amory, MS 38821

• April 13 from Noon to 7 p.m.
• April 14 and 15 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• April 20 from Noon to 7 p.m.
• April 21 and 22 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• April 23 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Mississippi state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, including disaster loans, update their FEMA applications and learn about additional recovery resources.

There are several Disaster Recovery Centers operating throughout the storm-damaged region. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator. No appointment is necessary to get assistance.

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. Create an application online at disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app for smartphones or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 anytime between 6 a.m. and midnight Central Time seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Tue, 04/11/2023 - 16:33

Joint Disaster Recovery Centers to Open in Central Arkansas

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Two joint State/FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) will open Tuesday, April 11 in Central Arkansas to help survivors affected by the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred on March 31.

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.

The following locations will open starting Tuesday, April 11, 2023. Additional locations will be opening soon.

West Central Community Center
8616 Colonel Glenn Rd.
Little Rock, AR 72204
Hours: Monday - Sunday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

North Little Rock Community Center
2700 Willow St.
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Hours: Monday - Sunday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

You can visit either DRC to learn more about FEMA disaster and recovery assistance. You may also get help to do the following:

• Apply for assistance.
• Learn the status of your FEMA application.
• Understand any letters you get from FEMA.
• Find housing and rental assistance information.
• Get answers to questions or resolve problems.
• Get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance.
• Learn about Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs.

Residents of any of the three counties approved for individual assistance, Cross, Lonoke and Pulaski may visit the open disaster recovery centers in Arkansas. No appointments are necessary.

FEMA also has teams canvassing in the most heavily impacted areas as determined by local officials.

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.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4698. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

mashana.davis Mon, 04/10/2023 - 23:16

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides, and mudslides on March 3-4.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities in Adair, Allen, Anderson, Barren, Bourbon, Breckenridge, Bullitt, Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Casey, Christian, Clark, Clay, Crittenden, Cumberland, Daviess, Edmonson, Estill, Floyd, Franklin, Gallatin, Garrard, Grant, Graves, Grayson, Green, Hancock, Hardin, Harrison, Hart, Henry, Hopkins, Hickman, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, LaRue, Laurel, Lee, Lincoln, Livingston, Logan, Lyon, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Martin, McCracken, McLean, Meade, Menifee, Metcalfe, Monroe, Muhlenberg, Nelson, Nicholas, Ohio, Owen, Owsley, Powell, Robertson, Rockcastle, Simpson, Spencer, Taylor, Todd, Trigg, Trimble, Union, Warren, Washington, Webster, Whitley and Wolfe counties.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. Myra M. Shird has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of ongoing damage assessments.

mashana.davis Mon, 04/10/2023 - 22:50

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Tennessee Tornadoes

ATLANTA – Tennessee homeowners and renters in Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties who were affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes March 31 - April 1 may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Survivors can apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. The helpline is available from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time and is accessible in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA Individual Assistance for uninsured losses may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.

If you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. FEMA assistance cannot replace all losses, but if your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

When you apply for assistance, please 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

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

###

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

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.

 

virginia.case2 Mon, 04/10/2023 - 15:53

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Federal Cost Share for Arkansas

WASHINGTON – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Arkansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes on March 31.

On April 8, the President authorized an increase to 100% federal cost-share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, for a continuous 30-day period of the state’s choosing, within the first 120 days of the incident period.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 04/10/2023 - 15:08

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Tennessee Tornadoes

ATLANTA – Tennessee homeowners and renters in Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties who were affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes March 31 - April 1, 2023, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Survivors can apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. The helpline is available from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time and is accessible in most 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 when you apply.

FEMA Individual Assistance for uninsured losses may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.

If you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. FEMA assistance cannot replace all losses, but if your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

When you apply for assistance, please 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

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw

neily.chapman Mon, 04/10/2023 - 12:33

Free Legal Help for Mississippi Tornado Survivors

PEARL, Miss. – Disaster Legal Services (DLS) offers free legal assistance to low-income Mississippi tornado survivors. If you're not able to afford an attorney for your disaster-related needs, DLS may be able to help.

A toll-free legal aid hotline accepts calls 24-hours a day. The number is (877) 691-6185.You’ may be prompted to leave a message and a specialist will get back with you as soon as possible.

The service, which allows callers to request the assistance of a lawyer, is a partnership between The Mississippi Bar, The Mississippi Bar Young Lawyers Division, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Callers should identify what storm-related issue they need legal assistance with and the county where their storm-damaged property is located. Homeowners and renters whose primary residence is in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola or Sharkey counties are eligible for this free service.

DSL can help with:

• Insurance claims for medical bills, loss of property, and loss of life.
• New wills, powers of attorney, and other legal papers lost during the disaster.
• Home repair contracts and contractors.
• Problems with landlords.
• Proof of home ownership.
• FEMA appeals.

DLS attorneys are not FEMA employees. The services they provide are confidential and they do not share information with FEMA.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov.fema.gov/. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Mon, 04/10/2023 - 12:26

Clean and Sanitize Assistance for Tornado-Damaged Homes

PEARL, Miss. – If your home was damaged by the March 24-25 tornadoes but you can live in it safely, FEMA may be able to provide up to $300 in one-time financial assistance to help with cleanup. This assistance is for eligible homeowners and renters.

You may qualify for FEMA assistance if you meet the following criteria:

• Your pre-disaster primary home must be in one of the six counties designated for Individual Assistance. The IA-designated counties are Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola and Sharkey
• Based on a FEMA inspection, your home has disaster damage; or if you are a renter, the inspection noted cleanup actions are needed or have already been done.
  • If you have already cleaned up, save your receipts from any supplies, materials or paid help.
• The damage is not covered by your insurance.
• FEMA determines your disaster-damaged primary residence is safe to occupy.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

 

neily.chapman Mon, 04/10/2023 - 12:25

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from March 31 to April 1, 2023.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne 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.

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

Federal funding is also available to affected state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B), including direct federal assistance under the Public Assistance program in the same counties.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. Andrew D. Friend has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of ongoing damage assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 04/07/2023 - 19:18

Submitting an SBA Loan Application Could Bring More FEMA Grant Assistance

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan application holds many benefits for Arkansans who apply for federal assistance due to the recent severe storms and tornadoes. An applicant who is referred to the SBA, during the initial FEMA application process, is expected to complete an SBA loan application. Submitting a loan application keeps the full range of disaster assistance available as an option.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are meant for more than just businesses. Disaster loans are also available to homeowners and renters.

SBA Referral Letters

Some applicants may be referred to SBA after applying with FEMA. If you were referred by FEMA to SBA you need to apply. You are not obligated to take out a loan, but you need to complete the application to continue the federal disaster assistance process. By completing the application, you may become eligible for additional grant assistance from FEMA if you do not qualify for the SBA loan. If you have insurance coverage you do not need to wait for your insurance to settle before applying for SBA Disaster Loan Assistance. If you received a referral to the SBA, it’s important to complete the application and submit it to the SBA by June 1, 2023, for physical disaster loan assistance.

Why You Should Complete the SBA Application

The federal funding process stops at this point for those who choose not to apply. If you apply and are not eligible for a low-interest disaster loan, this may open the door to an additional grant from FEMA. If SBA does not approve a loan – or approves a small loan that doesn't cover all of your needs – you may be eligible for additional FEMA grant assistance to replace essential household items, replace or repair a damaged vehicle or meet other disaster-related needs.

There are important reasons to complete and submit the application to the SBA, even if you think you don’t currently need a loan.

• You may discover in the next few weeks that you were underinsured for the amount of work required to repair or replace your home. An SBA low-interest disaster loan may cover some or all of the difference. In other words, the SBA may bridge the gap between your recovery costs and the settlement amount.
• SBA offers loans for homeowners up to the $200,000 statutory maximum to repair or replace your primary residence. The loans are customized to your personal financial circumstances. On a case-by-case basis, the SBA may be able to assist with the refinance of your current mortgage(s).
• SBA can also help renters and homeowners replace household contents and vehicles, referred to as personal property. You may be able to borrow up to the $40,000 statutory maximum to repair or replace clothing, furniture or appliances that were damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

For businesses and private nonprofit organizations, there are loans available for:

• Businesses of any size and private nonprofit organizations – up to the $2 million statutory maximum to repair or replace real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other assets that were damaged or destroyed.
• Small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations – up to the $2 million statutory maximum for working capital needs, even if they had no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
• Economic Injury – only for small businesses and most private non-profit organizations suffering adverse financial impacts of the disaster (with or without property loss), up to the $2 million statutory maximum for working capital to help pay obligations until normal operations resume.
• Applications for physical damage to businesses must be submitted by June 1, 2023. Businesses with economic injury have until January 2, 2024, to complete and submit their applications.

SBA has established a Business Recovery Center in Pulaski County. The Center is located at:

PULASKI COUNTY

Little Rock Business Recovery Center

Adolphine Fletcher Terry Library

2015 Napa Valley Dr

Little Rock, AR  72212

Mondays - Fridays, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

You can contact an SBA customer service representative via email at disastercustomerassistance@sba.gov or by phone at 800-659-2955. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help Arkansans with their disaster recovery and will provide one-on-one assistance in completing applications for these loans. You can apply online at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4698. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Fri, 04/07/2023 - 17:49

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Guadalupe County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in the City of New Braunfels and unincorporated areas of Guadalupe County, Texas.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Guadalupe County, Texas serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development, and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (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 floodsmart.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 04/07/2023 - 14:41

You Can Verify Identity if Contacted by Claims Office Staff

Santa Fe, NM – The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office encourages you to verify the identity of anyone who says they are from the Claims Office, especially if you are uncertain about their identity. Write down their name and call the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133.

If a person approaches you and says they are a Claims Office employee, always ask to see their badge. All Claims Office representatives carry a government-issued identification badge with a photograph. A Claims Office or FEMA embroidered shirt or jacket is not proof of identity.

Claims Office representatives will not ask for money for payment for any services. Claims Navigators are currently working to return calls received through the Claims Office helpline and contact claimants who have submitted a Notice of Loss form to the Claims Office. 

Claims Office representatives will only ask for Social Security and bank account numbers when you fill out your Proof of Loss. The Proof of Loss will be filled out after you receive an official acknowledgement letter that your Notice of Loss is complete. Be cautious when giving this information to others who ask for it. Scam artists may pose as government officials, aid workers or insurance company employees.

For verification and questions regarding the legitimacy of a Claims Navigator, claimants can call 505-995-7133. Claimants can also learn more about the claims process at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also stay up to date by following our Facebook page at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.

To report scams, fraud and identity-theft contact: the Claims Office Helpline; submit a complaint to the New Mexico Attorney General nmag.gov/contact-us/file-a-complaint/; send an email to StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov; or a local law enforcement agency.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 04/07/2023 - 14:30

Kentucky Flood Survivors Have First Chance to Buy Temporary Housing Units

FRANKFORT, Ky – At the request of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, certain Eastern Kentucky flood survivors living in FEMA temporary housing units (THUs) are being offered the opportunity to purchase their current unit. Direct Temporary Housing was approved in Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Letcher and Perry counties.

To be eligible to purchase a THU, which includes manufactured housing units and travel-trailers, the survivor must lack a permanent housing solution through no fault of their own. Applicants may only purchase a THU in which they currently occupy.

Applicants must be in compliance with the conditions of the Revocable License they signed upon initially moving into the THU, and they must agree to insure the unit, including hazard and flood insurance.

The units will be sold “as is, where is,” with no implied warranties. The buyer must accept all costs required to bring the THU into compliance with local codes and ordinances. Local governments may choose not to participate in the sales program, in which case sales will not be available in those jurisdictions.

All eligible applicants will receive a letter asking if they wish to purchase their current THU. Each interested applicant will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

If an applicant received repair or replacement funds from FEMA, those funds may be used to purchase the THU.

In addition, US Department of Agriculture rural development grants may be available for eligible very low-income homeowners. This program offers grants up to $40,675 that can be used to make their property functional to support a THU. Funds can be used to hook up water systems, foundations, sewer systems, and septic systems. To be eligible, applicants must meet requirements described here: Eligibility (usda.gov) which includes income requirements.

For more information on how to apply, contact Rural Development Kentucky’s Single-Family Housing team at 859-224-7322 or visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-page/kentucky-contacts.

Upon completion of a sale, the applicant and/or members of the applicant’s household will no longer be eligible to receive FEMA housing assistance for that declared event. If an applicant chooses not to participate in the sales program, it will not affect their eligibility for further housing assistance.

Each unit’s sale price will be based on a formula that considers the unit type, the number of bedrooms and the number of months the applicant lived in the unit. Applicants who are unable to afford the sale price may appeal that price, but no THU will be sold for less than 25 percent of the unit’s adjusted fair market value.

Applicants with questions can call 800-342-1686.

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 04/06/2023 - 19:44

FEMA Program Aids Disaster Survivors with Critical Needs Assistance

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Individuals and households who have immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling by the recent tornadoes on March 31 in Arkansas may be eligible for a special FEMA financial assistance program.

Lifesaving and life-sustaining items are covered by the Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) program. This includes, but is not limited to, water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items, and fuel for transportation.

CNA is a one-time $700 payment per eligible household. The State of Arkansas requested that FEMA authorize CNA for specific geographic areas that are expected to be inaccessible for seven days or longer. To be eligible for CNA Applicants must register with FEMA no later than April 15.

Individuals and households may be eligible for CNA if the following criteria have been met:

• The applicant registers with FEMA by April 15.
• The applicant passes identity and occupancy verification.
• At registration, the applicant is displaced from their pre-disaster primary residence as a result of the disaster based on their current location recorded in NEMIS or states they have critical needs and requests financial assistance for those needs and expenses.
• Their pre-disaster primary residence is in a designated county, which currently includes Cross, Lonoke or Pulaski counties.

Applicants who apply on or before April 15 and resolve all issues impacting eligibility prior to the end of the FEMA registration period and any approved extensions may receive CNA. Applicants who resolve ineligibility issues after the close of the FEMA registration period will not receive a CNA payment. The registration period for FEMA registrations is currently open through June 1, 2023.

Arkansans are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster 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.

 For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4698. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 04/06/2023 - 17:36

FEMA in the Field – Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams Help Arkansas Residents

LITTLE ROCK, AR – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams (DSA) will be assisting survivors in Arkansas counties affected by the recent storms and tornadoes. These teams help survivors register for federal assistance, identify potential needs and help residents make connections with local, state, federal and voluntary agencies.

DSA teams are available at several locations in Arkansas including:

Pulaski County
Family Assistance Center (City Center)
315 N Shackleford, Little Rock, AR 72211
10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Pulaski County
1300 Pike Avenue, North Little Rock, AR 72114
8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pulaski County
1st Baptist Church
401 1st St., Jacksonville, AR 72076
9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Pulaski County
Donation Center
2301 Thornhill Drive, Sherwood, AR 72120
9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Cross County
Sears Parking Lot
702 U.S. Hwy. 64, Wynne, AR
8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

These teams can help survivors in many ways including:

• Assisting survivors as they register for FEMA assistance.
• Checking the status of an application already in the system and making minor changes to applications.
• Making callouts to faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, private sector (businesses) and public libraries that may have the capability to distribute disaster-related information to survivors in the impacted counties.
• Identifying organizations providing disaster-related services and/or resources to the general public for immediate and long-term recovery.
• Gathering situational awareness about impacts to communities.
• Providing flyers explaining how to apply for disaster assistance.
• Providing civil rights and disability integration assistance information to ensure equal access.

Information provided by the teams is tailored to the individual survivor’s needs and may include information on making temporary repairs to a disaster-damaged house, paying for another short-term place to live while permanent repairs are made and/or helping with serious, disaster-related needs not covered by other programs.  

DSA teams never require survivors to provide personal information. DSA team members can be easily identified by their federal photo identifications and FEMA clothing. Arkansas residents are reminded to ask for official photo identification before sharing personal information.

FEMA employees do not solicit or accept money from disaster survivors. FEMA staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help with registration.

Survivors do not need to contact a DSA team member to register with FEMA. Residents who sustained damage or losses caused by the recent severe storms and tornadoes can register with FEMA in the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use a cell phone to register through the FEMA App; click “Apply Online for FEMA Assistance,” and you will be directed to 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.

By registering with FEMA, survivors may qualify for federal grants to pay for essential home repair or replacement or to rent a temporary home. In addition, help may be available to pay for other disaster-related needs, such as medical, dental, transportation and funeral expenses, moving and storage fees, personal property loss and childcare, not covered by insurance.

Registering with FEMA is also the first step in qualifying for help from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Low-interest disaster loans from SBA are available to businesses of all sizes (including landlords), homeowners, renters and private nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance. Low-interest disaster loans help fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged real estate and personal property.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4698. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 04/06/2023 - 16:30