More than $5.4 Million in Federal Funding Approved for Kentucky Emergency Management

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $5.4 million in federal funding to reimburse the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) for emergency protective measures, as a result of the Dec. 10-11, 2021, tornadoes.

During the incident period, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and tornadoes created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public, requiring emergency protective measures.

FEMA has approved $5,437,450 for KYEM for the utilization of state workers, rented equipment and contracts to include:

• procuring shower & laundry trailers;
• restroom trailers;
• multiple portable storage containers;
• meals and food distribution;
• tarps, blankets and generators;
• light towers;
• trash pick-up and removal;
• KN95 masks; “cut and toss” limb clearing measures; and
• and National Guard Support in areas affected by the storms.

All work was performed between Dec. 11, and Jan. 11, 2022.

FEMA authorized a 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures—including direct federal assistance—for a continuous 30-day period of the Commonwealth’s choosing within the first 120 days of the Eastern Kentucky floods.

This project was funded at a 100% cost share. This means FEMA reimburses applicants at 100% of eligible costs.

FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the Commonwealth, which is responsible for ensuring the eligible sub-recipients receives these awards. Following the Commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, it will provide funds to the sub-recipients on a reimbursable basis.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including eligible houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 02/08/2023 - 22:07

More than $5 Million in Federal Funding Approved for Hopkins County

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $5 million in federal funding to reimburse Hopkins County for debris removal, as a result of the Dec. 10-11, 2021, tornadoes.

FEMA approved $5,037,678 for debris removal throughout Hopkins County for the periods of Dec. 27, through Jan. 25, 2022. During this time period county labor, materials and rental equipment, as well as contract labor, were used to remove 180,521 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris, and 53,411 cubic yards of vegetative debris from roads and rights of way throughout Hopkins County. This debris was determined to pose a threat to public health and safety.

FEMA authorized a 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures—including direct federal assistance—for a continuous 30-day period of the Commonwealth’s choosing within the first 120 days of the Eastern Kentucky floods.

This project was funded at a 100% cost share. This means FEMA reimburses applicants at 100% of eligible costs.

FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the Commonwealth, which is responsible for ensuring the eligible sub-recipients receives these awards. Following the Commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, it will provide funds to the sub-recipients on a reimbursable basis.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including eligible houses of worship.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 02/08/2023 - 21:55

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close on Sundays

PRATTVILLE, Ala. -- All FEMA/State/Small Business Administration Disaster Recovery Centers in Alabama will close on Sundays.

All recovery centers will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.

The centers provide one-on-one help to people affected by the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance.

WHERE:

Autauga County

Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Center  

118 Jesse Samuel Hunt Blvd.

Prattville, AL 36066

 

Dallas County

Dr. Michael and Catherine Bullock Community Center

1428 Broad St.

Selma, AL 36701

 

Dallas County

Felix Heights Community Center

405 Medical Center Pkwy.

Selma, AL 36701

 

Greene County

Robert H. Young Community Center

720 Greensboro St.

Eutaw, AL 35462

 

Hale County

Akron Volunteer Fire Station

181 First Ave. South

Akron AL 35441  

Sumter County

Emelle City Hall

123 Dailey Ave.

Emelle, AL 35462

 

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center.

Survivors may also apply for assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA app for smartphones or calling 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

The deadline to apply for assistance for all designated counties is March 16, 2023.

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

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Tue, 02/07/2023 - 22:47

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Federal Cost Share for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Typhoon Mangkhut from Sept. 10-11, 2018.

The President authorized the federal cost-share for Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation and Other Needs Assistance to increase from 75% to 90%. This action reduces the Commonwealth’s financial responsibilities by nearly $1 million.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 02/07/2023 - 17:03

FEMA Awards Rhode Island Over $2 Million for COVID Quarantine Shelter Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state for the costs of providing quarantine housing to the public and to homeless populations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,026,009 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the Rhode Island Department of Administration for the cost of contracting with several hotels for temporary housing between March 2020 and April 2021.

During that time period, the department contacted to operate non-congregate shelters at the Wyndham Providence Airport, and at Pawhi Pawtucket Hilton & Hampton Inn to serve adults who had tested positive, were symptomatic and awaiting test results, or were asymptomatic but had known direct contact with an infected person.

The state also contracted with Fellowship Health Resources Inc. to provide healthcare services to homeless individuals with mental health issues and COVID-19, and Universal Protection Services LP to provide security services.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Rhode Island with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic fight is critical to their success, and to 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.

This grant brings the total awarded by FEMA to the State of Rhode Island to almost $611 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 02/07/2023 - 16:04

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Greene and Sumter Counties

PRATTVILLE, Ala. – FEMA and the state of Alabama are opening two disaster recovery centers Feb. 7 in Greene and Sumter counties to provide one-on-one help to people affected by the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, state and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance.

WHERE:

Greene County

Robert H. Young Community Center

720 Greensboro St.

Eutaw, AL 35462

Opening: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Feb. 7

Regular Hours: Monday to Saturday, six days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time daily.

 

Sumter County

Emelle City Hall

123 Dailey Ave.

Emelle, AL 35459

Opening: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Feb. 7

Regular Hours: Monday to Saturday, six days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time daily.

 

In addition, the following recovery centers are already open:

Autauga County

Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Center 

118 Jesse Samuel Hunt Blvd.

Prattville, AL 36066

Regular Hours: Monday to Saturday, six days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time daily

 

Dallas County

Dr. Michael and Catherine Bullock Community Center

1428 Broad St.

Selma, AL 36701

Regular Hours: Monday to Saturday, six days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time daily

 

Dallas County

Felix Heights Community Center

405 Medical Center Pkwy.

Selma, AL 36701

Regular Hours: Monday to Saturday, six days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time daily

 

Hale County

Akron Volunteer Fire Station

181 First Ave. South

Akron AL 35441

Opening: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Jan 28

Regular Hours: Monday to Saturday, six days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time daily

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center.

 

Survivors may also apply for assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA app for smartphones or calling 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

The deadline to apply for assistance for all designated counties is March 16, 2023.

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

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Mon, 02/06/2023 - 20:20

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Declaration for the State of North Dakota

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA announced federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of North Dakota to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in areas affected by a severe winter storm, snowstorm and straight-line winds from Nov. 9-11, 2022.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storm, snowstorm and straight-line winds in Dickey, Kidder, Mercer, Nelson, Ransom, Sargent and Wells counties.

In addition, federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments on a cost-sharing basis for snow assistance for a continuous 48-hour period during or proximate to the incident period in Kidder, Mercer, Nelson and Wells counties.

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

Kenneth G. Clark has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations for the affected areas. Additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 02/06/2023 - 19:14

One Week Left for Hurricane Nicole Survivors to Apply for FEMA Assistance

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Homeowners and renters in Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Putnam, St. Johns or Volusia counties who have loss or property damage caused by Hurricane Nicole have only one week left to apply for federal disaster assistance.

The deadline to submit your application for FEMA assistance is Feb. 13.

Over the next seven days, you can complete your disaster assistance application any number of ways:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline is available every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov and click on the blue “Apply Online” icon.
• Download the free FEMA mobile app for smartphones.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). Several DRCs are operating throughout the state of Florida. To find one close to you, go online to: DRC Locator or floridadisaster.org, or text “DRC” along with your ZIP code to 43362.

If eligible, FEMA disaster assistance may include financial assistance, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs, for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your primary home; funds to homeowners to help repair or replace disaster caused damage or loss to your primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicle, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other pre-approved miscellaneous items.

Keeping your contact information current helps FEMA process your application. The agency may need to call to schedule a home inspection or get additional information from you to move your application forward.

For many, insurance may cover damage and loss. That is not the same as FEMA assistance. Our funding is intended to cover basic needs for those who don’t have insurance or lack adequate insurance to cover basic necessities after suffering damage and loss from a disaster like Hurricane Nicole.

For the latest information on Florida's recovery from Hurricane Ian and Nicole, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Mon, 02/06/2023 - 16:23

Mobile and Morgan Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance

PRATTVILLE Ala. – Mobile and Morgan counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes in Alabama.

Individuals and households in Mobile and Morgan counties can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, which may include temporary housing assistance, basic home repairs and certain other uninsured disaster-related needs.

These counties join Autauga, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Greene, Hale, Sumter, and Tallapoosa counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

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 help is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. central time 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.

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Sat, 02/04/2023 - 14:31

7,644 Florida Households Approved for Flood Insurance Policies as Part of Disaster Assistance

LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA has approved 7,644 households with group flood insurance policies for three years as part of federal disaster assistance after Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole.

The insurance policies are funded through FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance so that households will have coverage for future flood hazards. As of Feb. 2, FEMA has approved $18.2 million in premiums for 7,594 policies as a result of Hurricane Ian and $120,000 for 50 policies as a result of Hurricane Nicole. Of those, 3,006 active policies have been issued so far for Hurricane Ian.

Eligible homeowners receive a notification from FEMA stating they have been included on a Group Flood Insurance Plan (GFIP) and will receive a Certificate of Flood Insurance. Eligible renters receive a notification informing them they are eligible to receive a GFIP certificate for their contents. Applicants must contact FEMA within six months of receiving the notification and confirm they have moved back, or intend to move back, to their pre-disaster residence.

Policy holders receive several reminders their policy is expiring. Every year they get a letter, which includes a reminder. They also get a notice 45 days prior to expiration, and then a final notice of expiration.

When the GFIP expires, the applicant is responsible for purchasing and maintaining flood insurance on their own. Failure to maintain flood insurance may result in denial of future FEMA flood disaster assistance.

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.

bree-constance… Fri, 02/03/2023 - 15:18

Renters and Students with Tornado Damage Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – FEMA’s Individual Assistance program is available to students, renters and homeowners in Butts, Henry, Jasper, Meriwether, Newton, Spalding and Troup counties whose homes and property were damaged by the Jan.12 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes.

Federal grants can help pay for temporary housing. The initial rental grant is for a one- or two-month period and can be reviewed for further assistance. The deadline to apply to FEMA is March 20, 2023.

Renters may also qualify for a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for uninsured essential personal property losses and other disaster-related expenses, including, if referred to by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance:

• Replacement or repair of essential personal property such as school supplies, including textbooks, and also furniture, appliances and clothing
• Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required by those who are self-employed
• Repair of primary vehicles

The items listed below are not depending on an SBA referral.

• Uninsured or out-of-pocket medical, dental, funeral, childcare, moving and storage expenses

Renters and homeowners are required to submit copies of insurance settlements because, by law, FEMA will not pay for expenses already available or covered by insurance or other sources.

After applying for FEMA disaster assistance, those affected by the tornadoes may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA is the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for individuals, families and businesses.

To remain eligible for additional FEMA programs like Other Needs Assistance, those who receive an SBA loan application are encouraged to submit the application – even if you decide not to accept the loan offer.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Go to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app; or
• Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

For information on Georgia’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster 4685. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Fri, 02/03/2023 - 15:11

Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Ventura Counties Can Now Request FEMA Assistance

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino and Ventura counties have been added to the major disaster declaration for California’s severe storms and flooding, meaning residents who had damage or losses from the storms that began Dec. 27, 2022, may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

The declaration allows FEMA to provide direct support to individuals and households in 13 counties: Alameda, Calaveras, Contra Costa, Merced, Mendocino, Monterey, Sacramento, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz and Ventura.

Homeowners and renters who had damage or losses as a direct result of the storms are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance by the March 16, 2023, deadline. Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs as well as other serious disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses, transportation, childcare, and moving and storage expenses.

If you have insurance, first file a claim with your insurance provider. FEMA provides assistance to applicants for your uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses and serious needs.

There are several ways you can apply for FEMA assistance under the Individual Assistance program:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download the FEMA mobile app
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an accessible video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
• You can also visit any Disaster Recovery Center and meet with FEMA staff and representatives of other federal and state agencies who can provide information about disaster assistance. To find a recovery center near you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

brindisi.chan Fri, 02/03/2023 - 01:48

FEMA Awards Over $2.6 Million to RIDOT for Winter Storm Kenan Plowing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2.6 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the Rhode Island Department of Transportation for some of the costs of plowing and treating roads after Winter Storm Kenan in January 2022.

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation will receive a total of $2,634,921 in federal funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program to reimburse it for the costs of snow plowing and other steps taken after the January 28-29 “bomb cyclone” produced blizzard conditions in some parts of New England.

Kenan caused record or near record snowfall in all five counties in Rhode Island. This created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public and improved property, requiring emergency response and protective measures.

The grant will reimburse RIDOT for 6,502 overtime hours worked by state employees and for contracting for services between Saturday, Jan. 29 and Monday, Jan. 31, during which time the state treated, plowed, salted, sanded and deiced a total of 3,185 lane miles of roads.

The state will also be reimbursed part of the cost of roadside assistance, emergency traffic control, towing, equipment repair and emergency snow removal.

President Joe Biden’s disaster declaration made federal funding available to state, tribal and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of damaged facilities in Bristol, Kent, Newport, Providence, and Washington Counties, including the Narragansett Indian Tribe.

FEMA has awarded almost $7.4 million in Public Assistance grants to state and local governments for the disaster to date.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to reimburse the Rhode Island Department of Transportation for the costs incurred recovering from Winter Storm Kenan,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Re-opening highways for public safety vehicles required extraordinary measures deserving of federal assistance.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

adrien.urbani Thu, 02/02/2023 - 22:30

FEMA Awards Over $1.3 Million to City of Boston for Winter Storm Kenan Plowing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.3 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the City of Boston for some of the costs of clearing snow after Winter Storm Kenan in January 2022.

Kenan caused record or near record snowfall in four counties in Massachusetts. This created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public and improved property, requiring emergency response and protective measures.

The $1,351,689 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the City of Boston for 22,777 overtime hours worked by employees and for contracting for plowing services between Saturday, Jan. 29 and Monday, Jan. 31, during which time it had to clear 785 lane miles continuously.

The city also had to clear parking lots, building entrances and walkways at 73 fire station, 121 public schools, 25 libraries, five municipal facilities, 35 Boston Center for Youth and Families Community Centers, 16 stations for 26 Boston EMS ambulances, and the harbor.

President Joe Biden’s disaster declaration made federal funding available to commonwealth, tribal and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of damaged facilities in Bristol, Norfolk, Plymouth and Suffolk counties, and for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

FEMA has awarded almost $25 million in Public Assistance grants to state and local governments for the disaster to date.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to reimburse the City of Boston for the costs incurred recovering from Winter Storm Kenan,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Re-opening highways for public safety vehicles required extraordinary measures deserving of federal assistance.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

adrien.urbani Thu, 02/02/2023 - 22:20

FEMA Awards Over $4.2 Million To Bowdoin College for Covid-19 Testing Expenses

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $4.2 million to the State of Maine to reimburse Bowdoin College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $4,235,975 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private liberal arts college in Brunswick for 230,383 tests performed between August 2020 and June 2022 for a student population that varied between 1,777 and 1,951 students, and 216 staff.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Bowdoin College with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

So far, FEMA has provided more than $195 million in Public Assistance grants to Maine to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 02/02/2023 - 22:10

FEMA Awards Over $3.5 Million to Massachusetts for COVID-19 Operating Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $3.5 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for the cost of steps taken to protect its staff and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,534,633 Public Assistance grant will reimburse MASSDOT for the cost of purchasing plexiglass sneeze guard barriers and signage, disinfection supplies, medical supplies, storage, and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, respirators, and face shields between April 2020 and March 2022.

The department also contracted for services to disinfect facilities and vehicles.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist MASSDOT 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 to 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 $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 02/02/2023 - 21:34

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

ATLANTA – Disaster survivors in Butts, Henry, Jasper, Meriwether, Newton, Spalding and Troup counties who applied for assistance from FEMA will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email.

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.  Applicants may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:

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

If you have questions about your letter, call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.

A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, accessible and functional. FEMA considers the following factors in the home inspection:

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC).
• Access and egress, including privately-owned roads, privately-owned bridges, and privately-owned docks.
• Blocking, leveling, and anchoring of a mobile home, and reconnecting or resetting its sewer, water, electrical, oil, and fuel lines and tanks.
• The exterior of the home is structurally sound, including the doors, roof and windows.
• The electricity, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer or septic systems function properly.
• The interior’s habitable areas are structurally sound, including ceilings and floors.
• The home is capable of functioning for its intended purpose.
• There is safe access to and from the home.

FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance. FEMA assistance only provides funds for basic work to make a home habitable, including items such as toilets, a roof, critical utilities, windows and doors.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

Applicants who disagree with FEMA's decision,or the amount of assistance, may submit an appeal letter and documents supporting their claim, such as a contractor's estimate for home repairs.Appeal letters must be submitted within 60 days of the date on their eligibility notification letter.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. However, those who are under-insured may receive further assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled by submitting their insurance settlement or denial documents to FEMA. FEMA does not provide assistance for insurance deductibles.

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

• Applicant’s full name
• Disaster number (DR-4685 for Georgia)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence Feb. 2, 2023 DR-4685-GA NR 013 State News Desk: 404-635-7200 | ExternalAffairs@gema.ga.gov FEMA News Desk: 770-220-5292 | DR4685-NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov
• Applicant’s current phone number and address

• The FEMA application number on all documents

 

If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, the applicant must also submit a signed statement giving that person authority to represent the applicant. Appeal letters and supporting documents may be submitted to FEMA by fax or mail or via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions.

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

By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA

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

For information on Georgia’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster 4685. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Thu, 02/02/2023 - 16:57

FEMA Lays Foundation for Strategic Plan: Engages Stakeholders and Initiates Efforts to Instill Equity, Increase Resilience and Readiness Posture

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced the agency’s progress on its 2022-2026 Strategic Plan and posture for the year ahead. 

FEMA completed the first year of its 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, developing stakeholder informed, actionable plans that build the foundation needed to achieve our ambitious goals. During this planning phase, the agency also identified and executed immediate actions that could be taken to bring us closer to each of these goals. 

“We are proud of the progress we’ve made in becoming the FEMA our nation needs and deserves and look forward to building on this foundation for years to come,” said Criswell. “In coordination with our partners, we are finding ways to better support the diverse communities that we serve and prepare for the increasing complexity of disasters.”   

The following are updates to the three pillars of the strategic goals:

Strategic Goal 1: Instill equity as a foundation of emergency management

In a continued effort to put people first in its programs and policies, FEMA simplified its Individual Assistance application process, leading to over 100,000 survivors receiving assistance who would have previously been ineligible. That meant more than $600 million in additional assistance got into the hands of survivors recovering from disaster.

Aligning with the Biden Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, FEMA committed to ensuring 40% of the benefits of pre-disaster grant programs go to underserved communities. As a result, approximately $510 million is going to communities that meet underserved or disadvantaged criteria.

To better serve Tribal Nations, the agency published its first ever “National Tribal Strategy.” This strategy was developed hand-in-hand with tribal communities for the agency to take critical steps toward delivering training and assistance that meets the unique needs of tribal communities. The agency also appointed the first tribal political appointee in FEMA’s history to advise Administrator Criswell on tribal affairs, while working to ensure that FEMA lives up to its treaty and trust responsibilities to Tribal Nations.

As FEMA works to ensure preparedness information is available to all communities, especially those often hit hardest by disasters and emergencies, FEMA’s Ready Campaign launched its first-ever public service preparedness campaigns in 2021 and 2022, aimed at underserved communities.  

Strategic Goal 2: Lead whole of community in climate resilience 

With the passing of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA will invest $6.8 billion in community-wide mitigation to reduce disaster suffering and avoid future disaster costs the nation is facing due to climate change. 

In April, FEMA announced the agency’s “Building Codes Strategy” to help organize and prioritize agency activities to advance the enforcement of hazard-resistant building codes and standards.  

FEMA also co-leads the White House’s Relocation Subcommittee alongside the U.S. Department of the Interior. This subcommittee gathers federal agencies to explore issues and strategies to support voluntary movement away from high-risk regions. FEMA is awarding approximately $17.7 million to assist three different Tribal Nations with relocation expenses and hazard mitigation projects.

In 2022, FEMA also expanded access to some mitigation grant programs to benefit underserved communities by helping them meet the required Benefit-Cost Analysis and doubling the number of communities receiving direct technical assistance.

Strategic Goal 3: Promoting and sustaining a ready FEMA and prepared nation 

To improve agency readiness, the agency has established a Ready FEMA Framework that serves to improve FEMA‘s ability to define, measure and build capabilities to meet current and emergent requirements across all mission areas, while sustaining the agency’s vital steady-state functions. To support this, FEMA is increasing the capacity of its National Response Coordination Center.

In addition to improving FEMA’s readiness posture, the agency is supporting the readiness efforts of the nation, including efforts of individuals, states, territories, local governments and Tribal Nations. In collaboration with its federal interagency partners FEMA developed the Recovery and Resilience Resource Library webpage, Roadmaps to Federal Resources for Disaster Recovery and the Community Recovery Management Toolkit.

Last year, FEMA launched the Emergency Manager Exchange Program allowing state, local, tribal and territorial emergency managers and government officials to work alongside FEMA staff and leadership on developing and implementing policies and programs.  

Also in 2022, to help all communities prepare, FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security provided a record amount of $250 million from the Nonprofit Security Grant program. Through this grant, more than 1,800 nonprofit and religious organizations received funding for security enhancements to protect against potential threats.

“FEMA continues to improve our nation’s ability to face ongoing and emergent disasters, taking immediate actions over the past year to make our programs more accessible, strengthen our workforce and develop tools that allow communities to identify threats and prepare for disasters,” continued Criswell. “Through thoughtful and coordinated efforts with our partners across the emergency management enterprise, we have laid the foundation to make further, lasting change in the execution of these ambitious goals and we will continue to learn, grow and share our progress along the way.”

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 02/02/2023 - 15:36

FEMA Awards $2.1M to Boardman Township for Flood Risk Reduction Project

CHICAGO – FEMA and the Ohio Emergency Management Agency announced today the release of $2,165,400 in hazard mitigation funding for a project to reduce flood risk in Boardman Township, Ohio.  A current underground stormwater and sewer system will be replaced by the township, and the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will be developed with assistance of Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds from the COVID-19 disaster declared March 31, 2020.

Green infrastructure projects like this provide opportunities for communities to protect against future flooding while taking advantage of upgrading older infrastructure with stormwater parks and rain gardens for residents to enjoy. The Forest Lawn Stormwater Park project will mitigate flooding for downstream residents and improve water quality within the watershed. Native plants will help absorb nutrients and the passive stormwater park will provide additional storage during storm events.

“FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs create safer communities by funding mitigation activities that reduce disaster losses and protect life and property from future disaster damages,” said Tom Sivak, regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “By choosing to replace older underground infrastructure using nature-based solutions, communities like Boardman Township can create beautiful public areas for residents to enjoy while reducing future flood risk.”

“Through the use of hazard mitigation grant funding, much needed projects like the Flood Risk Reduction Project can become a reality,” said Sima Merick, executive director, Ohio Emergency Management Agency. “Coordinated efforts between federal, state and local partners cannot be understated.”

For this project, FEMA will pay 90% of the $2.4M million eligible project cost. The remaining funds will be provided by the Boardman Township. HMGP provides funding to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures following a presidentially declared disaster. HMGP can be used to make improvements to public or private property but must provide a long-term solution to a specific disaster risk. The state or tribe sets priorities related to project selection and submission. For more information about Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants and resources visit:  Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants | FEMA.gov.

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

troy.christensen Thu, 02/02/2023 - 14:45

Alabama Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

PRATTVILLE, Ala.– Autauga, Barbour, Chambers, Conecuh, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Hale and Tallapoosa counties are eligible for FEMA Public Assistance for debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent work due to the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes.

Greene and Sumter counties are eligible for debris removal and emergency protective measures.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Thu, 02/02/2023 - 14:08