Cómo solicitar asistencia de FEMA después del huracán Ian

ATLANTA – Los propietarios de vivienda e inquilinos de Carolina del Sur en los condados Charleston, Georgetown y Horry que fueron afectados por el huracán Ian pueden solicitar asistencia por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés).

Los sobrevivientes pueden solicitar asistencia por desastre en www.disasterassistance.gov/es, llamando al 800-621-3362 de 7 a. m. a 11 p. m. hora local, o usando la aplicación móvil de FEMA. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión de video (VRS, por sus siglas en inglés), el servicio telefónico con subtítulos u otros, proporcione a FEMA el número de ese servicio.

Cuando solicite asistencia, tenga a mano la siguiente información:

• Un número de teléfono actual donde pueda ser contactado
• Su dirección en el momento del desastre y la dirección donde se hospeda actualmente
• Su número de Seguro Social
• Una lista general de los daños y las pérdidas
• Su información bancaria si elige el depósito directo
• Si está asegurado, el número de póliza o el agente y/o el nombre de la compañía

Los sobrevivientes pueden ser elegibles para recibir asistencia por los daños y las pérdidas sin cobertura de seguro o sin suficiente cobertura de seguro causadas por el huracán Ian.  Si tiene un seguro de propietario de vivienda, de inquilino o de inundación, debe presentar una reclamación lo antes posible. FEMA no puede duplicar los beneficios por pérdidas cubiertas por un seguro. Si su póliza no cubre todos sus gastos por desastre, puede ser elegible para recibir asistencia federal.

Tome fotos para documentar los daños y comience la limpieza y las reparaciones para evitar más daños. Recuerde guardar los recibos de todas las compras relacionadas con la limpieza y reparación.

La asistencia por desastre puede incluir ayuda financiera para alojamiento temporal y reparaciones de la vivienda, al igual que otros gastos relacionados con el desastre.

Para ver un video accesible sobre cómo solicitar asistencia, visite youtu.be/lcIRb0M1Ivs.  

Para obtener información sobre la recuperación de Carolina del Sur tras el huracán Ian, visite fema.gov/es/disaster/hurricane-ian. Siga a FEMA en Twitter en FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter y en facebook.com/FEMAespanol.

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

 

Toda la asistencia por desastre de FEMA se proporciona sin discriminación por motivos de raza, color, sexo (incluido el acoso sexual), orientación sexual, religión, país de nacional, edad, discapacidad, dominio limitado del inglés o situación económica. Si entiende que se están violando sus derechos civiles, puede llamar a la línea de Recursos de Derechos Civiles al 833-285-7448.

 

ron.roth Fri, 11/25/2022 - 15:10

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Ian

ATLANTA – South Carolina homeowners and renters in Charleston, Georgetown and Horry counties who were affected by Hurricane Ian may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Survivors can apply for disaster assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

For information on South Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit fema.gov/disaster/hurricane-ian. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

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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.

 

ron.roth Wed, 11/23/2022 - 20:59

FEMA Gives Free Rebuilding Advice in Aguada and Dorado

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Disaster survivors who are repairing their homes after Hurricane Fiona can visit National Lumber hardware stores in Aguada and Dorado to talk with FEMA mitigation specialists about their damage and discuss how to make homes stronger and safer during the rebuilding process.

FEMA mitigation specialists will share tips about rebuilding and protecting homes from future disaster-related damage, such as high winds and water. They will also provide information on topics such as selecting contractors, understanding flood insurance coverage and emergency preparedness. No appointment is needed.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28 – Friday, Dec. 2 at:

National Lumber Aguada

Aguada Shopping Center

Calle Colón Final

Aguada, PR 00602

National Lumber Dorado

Carr. Núm. 165 Intersección 854

Frente a la estación Mobil

Dorado PR, 00646

 

 

 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 11/23/2022 - 13:32

File Disaster Unemployment Assistance Claim Before Nov. 30 Deadline

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Employees or self-employed individuals in Puerto Rico who became unemployed because of Hurricane Fiona have until Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022, to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

Survivors from all 78 municipalities are eligible to file a claim with the Department of Labor and Human Resources. To be eligible for DUA, the individual must be determined ineligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under any state or federal law. Applicants must first apply for state unemployment benefits by visiting: solicitud inicial de desempleo and state “Hurricane Fiona” as the reason for separation.

Common eligibility requirements for DUA include:

• You were working for someone else or were self-employed in the disaster area when the disaster occurred
• You lost your job, and your place of work was affected, or you are unable to get to your place of work because of the disaster damage incurred
• You lived in the area affected by Hurricane Fiona and were unable to get to your workplace because of the disaster.

How to Apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance

To access the DUA application and verify eligibility, visit www.trabajo.pr.gov, click on the Online Services link and complete the Initial Unemployment Application. You can also contact the San Juan Call Center at (787) 945-7900, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 11/23/2022 - 13:24

2 Weeks Left to Apply for Disaster Individual Assistance

Anchorage, Alaska – Residents of the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon have until Dec. 6 to apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and State of Alaska disaster assistance. To receive disaster Individual Assistance, you must apply before the deadline.

Make sure you register with both FEMA and the State of Alaska to be eligible for Individual Assistance.

• FEMA Hotline: 1-866-342-1699 (Monday through Friday, 9 AM – 6 PM AKT.)
  • • FEMA Hotline TTY users can dial 711 or, TTY users with an out-of-state area code, dial 800-770-8973 for Alaska relay service.
• State of Alaska Hotline: 1-844-445-7131 (Monday through Friday 8 AM – 4 PM AKT.)

Don’t forget – the hotline is a helpline! Call to apply, get help with an existing application, or have your questions answered.

There are other ways you can apply for disaster assistance:

• Applications for FEMA Individual Assistance can also be submitted at www.disasterassistance.gov or via the FEMA mobile app.
• To apply for State of Alaska Individual Assistance survivors can go online to ready.alaska.gov/IA.

Residents who applied for disaster assistance from FEMA may be referred to SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan as the next step in the application process. Long-term, low-interest disaster loans for businesses, nonprofits, homeowners and renters may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other sources. You are not required to take out a loan, but failure to fill out the application may prevent you from receiving certain types of FEMA funding.

• Applicants may apply for SBA, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

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For more information about FEMA’s support to Alaska’s severe storms, flooding and landslide recovery, visit the FEMA Disaster Site. Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates.  

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

FEMA is committed to providing equal access to our programs and services without discrimination. If you require a reasonable accommodation, call or text 907-727-6221 or email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also let staff know you require an accommodation such as spoken language resources, mobility assistance, or sign language interpreting services. If you feel you have experienced discrimination, call the FEMA Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD) or email: FEMACivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

mary.j.edmon Wed, 11/23/2022 - 00:47

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of South Carolina to supplement state, local and tribal recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Ian beginning Sept. 25 to Oct. 4, 2022.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Charleston, Georgetown and Horry counties.

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

Residents and business owners in the designated areas can apply for disaster assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Federal funding is 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 Hurricane Ian in Berkeley, Charleston, Clarendon, Georgetown, Horry, Jasper and Williamsburg counties.

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

Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 11/22/2022 - 18:03

Deadline Approaching for Some Florida Flood Insurance Policyholders Affected by Hurricane Ian to Jumpstart Recovery NFIP Policyholders with Renewal Dates of Aug. 25 Through Oct. 23 Need to Take Action

WASHINGTON -- The deadline is approaching for some National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders in Florida areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to renew their policies without the consequence of a lapse in coverage.

Previously, NFIP announced that certain Florida policyholders impacted by Hurricane Ian have a 90-day grace period, instead of the standard 30-day grace period, to renew their policies.  This means once the policy is renewed, if the policyholder suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian or another flood, they may file a claim.

The extended grace period applies to policyholders whose flood insurance policy expiration dates began on Aug. 25, 2022, through and including Oct. 23, 2022. This means for policyholders whose renewal date was originally Aug. 25, the deadline for renewing their policy is now Wednesday, Nov. 23.

FEMA has identified over 11,000 policyholders in Florida who may still be able to renew their policy due to the grace period extension. FEMA estimates there are 220 policyholders who have until Nov. 23 to take advantage of the grace period extension.

The grace period extension will help thousands of Florida policyholders renew their flood insurance policies with no lapse in coverage.  To maximize awareness, FEMA has taken the extraordinary step of going door-to-door to notify policyholders of this opportunity, while flood insurance companies and insurance agents have also been instructed to contact them.

There are 26 Florida counties designated for FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program where policyholders can take advantage of the grace period. FEMA encourages all affected policyholders residing in these counties to jumpstart their recovery by using the grace period to renew their policies as soon as possible.

As of Nov. 21, more than 45,000 policyholders have submitted claims for damage from Hurricane Ian.  The majority of these claims are in Florida. The National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $706 million in total claims payouts to insured policyholders.

Hurricane Fiona

Policyholders in Puerto Rico also received a 90-day extension. The renewal extension applies to policyholders whose flood insurance policy expiration dates began on Aug. 17, 2022, through and including Oct. 15, 2022. As of Nov. 14, there are over 79 policyholders who can still renew their flood insurance policy due to the grace period extension.   As of Nov. 16, more than 121 claims have been submitted following Hurricane Fiona. The National Flood Insurance Program has paid over $880,000 in total claims payouts to insured policyholders in Puerto Rico.

Contact Your Insurance Agent or Company to Renew an Expired Policy

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period for either hurricane Fiona or Ian should contact their agent or insurance company today. Policyholders who don't have their insurance agent or company's contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance. To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 11/22/2022 - 14:37

Hurricane Fiona Two Months Later

San Juan, Puerto Rico — It has been just over two months since Hurricane Fiona impacted individuals and communities across Puerto Rico. The heavy rains and strong winds damaged homes, businesses and critical infrastructure. Nevertheless, FEMA, the Government of Puerto Rico and other federal and local partners swiftly came together to support the island’s recovery.

FEMA Individual Assistance & SBA Numbers

• FEMA has provided nearly $574M in individual assistance to help the recovery efforts of more than 712,000 Puerto Rico households. (as of Nov. 20)
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has also approved nearly $21M in low-interest loans for homeowners and businesses. (as of Nov. 20)

FEMA Public Assistance Numbers

• The agency has already received 292 requests for Public Assistance and identified 262 that are eligible.
• The first project under Public Assistance, a category Z project for the recipient, was obligated on October 28, for a total award amount of $5.8M.

Disaster Recovery Centers

• We opened 43 temporary Disaster Recovery Centers across the island in locations to serve survivors with the greatest support needs. Currently, 15 remain open.

• DRC staff have provided in-person support to survivors during more than 156,800 visits; in addition, hazard mitigation specialist have counseled over 61,800 Puerto Rico residents on resilient repair and rebuilding techniques. 
  • Once there is less of a need for in-person services FEMA works with the Government of Puerto Rico to close these temporary centers.  

Disaster Survivor Assistance Crews

• Recovery centers are just one of the many ways FEMA is supporting Puerto Rico survivors. More than 100 Disaster Survivor Assistance staff have canvassed the hardest hit areas to ensure all survivors get the help they need, and FEMA specialists routinely call applicants if additional information is needed from them. 
  • DSA crews have interacted with more than 39,200 survivors, resulting in over 6,400 registered survivors and 13,200 others receiving case updates and whole community referrals.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance

• Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available to eligible survivors. DUA is a part of the federal disaster assistance process but is administered by the Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources. More than $2.1M has been awarded, to-date. Claims must be filed by Nov. 30, Visit www.trabajo.pr.gov for more information.

Disaster Legal Services

• Disaster Legal Services (DLS) is also available. Survivors can receive free legal assistance for certain disaster-related issues. This service is provided by the Young Lawyers Division of the American Bar Association and Servicios Legales de Puerto Rico, in collaboration with FEMA, by calling the toll-free legal aid hotline at 1-800-981-5342, Monday to Friday (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Survivors can also contact them by email at info@ayudalegalpr.org.

Ensuring Equitable Accessible Communications in Puerto Rico

• As of Nov. 2022, FEMA has 1,063 FEMA staff supporting the Fiona response: approximately 626 are residents of Puerto Rico and 62 percent are Spanish speakers.
• Puerto Rico based FEMA employees were transitioned to support Hurricane Fiona initial response.
• FEMA has ensured the deaf and hard of hearing community has equal access by creating a reasonable accommodation process and providing in-person and virtual Puerto Rico Sign Language (PRSL) interpreters services.
• Language interpretation services have been provided to assist survivors.

• FEMA is also hiring even more Puerto Rico residents to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts as temporary employees. More than 200 positions were posted at USAJOBS.gov, and are already being filled.

Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it is part of the solution. Many entities are involved including local and state agencies, nonprofits, voluntary and faith-based organizations, and the private sector to assist in survivor recovery. Visit fema.gov/disaster/4671 to learn more about Puerto Rico’s recovery after Hurricane Fiona.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 11/22/2022 - 13:43

Over $1 Billion in FEMA Funds to Mitigate Future Disaster Hazards

Milestone reached thanks to the efforts of FEMA employees, the local government and eligible organizations, as part of the $28 billion allocated for Hurricane María

San Juan, Puerto Rico –As Puerto Rico’s recovery from damage caused by Hurricane María progresses, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has allocated over $1 billion to reduce the impact that other natural disasters may have on the island. These funds include measures such as the use of components that are more resistant to wind, changes from low-water-crossings to bridges, storm runoff management on municipal and state roads, elevating structures in flood prone areas and other techniques that seek to strengthen reconstruction projects.

To date, over 6,300 projects to rebuild public buildings, roads and other spaces in the communities have benefited from mitigation funds. With this, the Agency seeks to create long-term resilience on the island.

“About 87 percent of projects for hurricanes Irma and María have funds that go toward mitigation. For these, FEMA funds go beyond repairing the damage: we are helping the new reconstruction to withstand future events, which will reduce reconstruction costs later on,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

Waterproofing for the Auxilio Mutuo Hospital facilities is part of the mitigation measures that this institution will develop with the allocation of over $12.8 million from FEMA. As explained by its Executive Director Jorge L. Matta, among the main damage and challenges to this century-old structure — the first of its buildings was inaugurated in 1910 — were leaks and the power supply during the first 20 days after Hurricane María, while the electrical system was restored.

Through mitigation funds, roofs and windows will be waterproofed, in compliance with historic preservation guidelines. The allocation will also strengthen the uninterrupted supply of energy through a system that will produce energy in the hospital, with a battery bank and a recharging system with generators; all this, without removing their emergency generators. To address mitigation against future strong winds, the work will include reinforcements to protect the internal electrical system.

“For institutions like this, the cost of doing all which needs to be done, if it were not with the help of FEMA, it would be very difficult, if not impossible. We are convinced that we will definitely have a much more robust hospital. And we are grateful that they can help us so that we can have a very resilient hospital, worthy of caring for all our patients and everyone who arrives,” said Matta.

Meanwhile, mitigation measures will be carried out in several communities around the island to benefit residents. One example is the Abra Honda Low Water Crossing in the municipality of San Sebastián, where the Guajataca River washed away a road during the floods caused by Hurricane María. The mitigation proposal seeks to elevate the road with a single-span bridge that is above flood level. For this, the municipality has close to $2.2 million from FEMA for the low water crossing, which will connect roads PR-451 and PR-4451 and will provide the most direct route between the Guacio neighborhood and downtown San Sebastián, where most of the community’s jobs, hospitals and supermarkets are located.

Deputy Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator Andrés García said that "this achievement would not have been possible without the efforts of several people and components at FEMA who have worked as a team with the Government of Puerto Rico, COR3, the municipalities and eligible non-profit organizations. Our Hazard Mitigation team has done a commendable job ensuring that our island has funds that will strengthen our infrastructure for the long term. We are very grateful to them. In addition to being a part of FEMA, they are also survivors, so they understand the importance of this reconstruction first-hand.”

For the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, maximizing the resources available when designing and building resiliently, considering future risks, is vital to avoid, to the extent possible, significant damage as a result of a new natural disaster.

“As part of the assistance that our COR3 staff offers to subrecipients, we guide them through the project formulation process to ensure that factors that pose a threat to infrastructure and communities are taken into consideration. This is how we rebuild with efficiency and resilience, implementing mitigation measures in the reconstruction,” said COR3’s executive director.

To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $28.6 billion for over 10,200 projects that will support Puerto Rico’s recovery.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 y recovery.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 11/22/2022 - 13:32

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Puerto Rico Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that additional disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico through an increase in the level of federal funding for Public Assistance projects undertaken in the Commonwealth as a result of Hurricane Fiona during the period of Sept. 17-21, 2022.

The federal share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, has been increased to 90% percent of total eligible costs -- except assistance previously approved at 100% -- for a period of 30 days from the start of the incident period.

mashana.davis Tue, 11/22/2022 - 02:25

FEMA Awards Vermont Nearly $1.1 Million For Irene Railroad Bridge Repairs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.1 million to the State of Vermont to reimburse the costs of repairing a railroad bridge after it was damaged by flooding during Tropical Storm Irene in August 2011.

The $1,072,923 Public Assistance grant will go to the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VAOT) for the costs of repairing and relocating the Green Mountain Railroad Rail Bridge No. 114 over the Williams River in Chester.

Floodwaters from Tropical Storm Irene almost knocked the steel lattice truss bridge – built in 1899 – into the river and left it tilted 25 degrees, requiring emergency and temporary repairs immediately after the storm in August and September 2011 to return it to service.

As its contractors began permanent repairs in October and November 2011, VAOT decided to relocate this bridge 19 feet to the east following the existing rail alignment, and subsequently demolished the temporarily repaired abutments and constructed two replacement abutments using the latest applicable standards and prevailing construction practices in the railroad industry.

“Recovery from a catastrophic event like Tropical Storm Irene is a long and complex process,” said FEMA Region I Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “FEMA is pleased to assist Vermont as it wraps up the few remaining projects and prepares to close the books on Irene.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. Vermont has received nearly $209 million from the program for Tropical Storm Irene.

adrien.urbani Mon, 11/21/2022 - 22:00

FEMA Awards Nearly $1.9 Million to Massport for Winter Storm Kenan Recovery Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.9 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Massachusetts Port Authority for the costs of removing snow at Logan Airport after Winter Storm Kenan in early 2022.

Massport will receive a total of $1,889,156 in federal funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program to reimburse it for the costs of contracting for snow removal, salting and de-icing after the January 28-29 “bomb cyclone” produced blizzard conditions in some parts of New England.

Keenan caused record or near record snow fall in four counties in Massachusetts, including the city of Boston and the Boston Logan International Airport. This created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public and improved property, requiring emergency response and protective measures.

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 facilities in Bristol, Norfolk, Plymouth and Suffolk counties, and for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

FEMA has awarded more than $13.2 million in Public Assistance grants to state and local governments for the disaster to date.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to reimburse Massport for the costs incurred recovering from Winter Storm Kenan,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Re-opening a critical facility like Logan Airport 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 Mon, 11/21/2022 - 21:57

FEMA Awards Over $10 Million to UMass Memorial Health Care for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $10 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. for the costs of testing and purchasing medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $10,083,433 in Public Assistance grants will reimburse the health care system in central Massachusetts – headquartered in Worcester and affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School – for providing testing to both patients and the public at its facilities between March 2020 and June 2021.

One grant of $3,228,113 will cover the cost of testing 16,080 patients at four of its facilities between March and September 2020, as well as purchasing diagnostic supplies such as test tubes, mixers, IV fluids, alcohol, pipettes, reagents, swabs and syringes, as well as ventilators and personal protective equipment (PPE) including surgical masks, N95 respirators, medical gowns and face shields.

A second grant of $6,855,320 will reimburse UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. for the cost of providing 107,246 tests to patients and the public, as well as temporary tents for testing facilities, dissemination of information, a trailer for PPE storage, and medical supplies between March 2020 and June 2021.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist UMass Memorial Health Care 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 $1.4 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 11/21/2022 - 21:36

FEMA Awards Almost $1.7 Million to Massachusetts DOT for COVID-19 Response Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $1.7 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for the costs of operating safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,656,336 Public Assistance grant will reimburse MassDOT for the cost of purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) and taking other measures to keep essential staff safe between June 2020 and January 2021.

In addition to purchasing PPE, cleaning supplies, and hand sanitizer for its facilities, MassDOT contracted with six cleaning service companies to provide special equipment and disinfecting of facilities, including nightly cleaning.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Massachusetts Department of Transportation 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 $1.4 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 11/21/2022 - 21:33

FEMA Awards Over $3.1 Million to University of New Hampshire for COVID Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $3.1 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse the University of New Hampshire for some of the costs of providing testing for students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,103,181 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the public university will reimburse it for purchasing supplies to administer and process COVID-19 tests at the university’s Manchester and Durham campuses between June and November 2020.

The purchased materials included, but were not limited to, vials, solutions, multiplex mixers, tips, covers, COVID-19 solution kits, pathogen kits, and sample collection kits.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the University of New Hampshire 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.”

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 $181 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 11/21/2022 - 21:26

FEMA Awards Nearly $9 Million to State of New Hampshire for COVID Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $9 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse the state for the cost of providing testing for the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $8,966,895 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services (NHDHHS) will reimburse it for contracting to provide 56,616 free COVID-19 tests between December 2021 and March 2022.

NHDHHS contracted with Clear ChoiceMD MSO, LLC to administer the tests 7 days per week at Clear ChoiceMD Urgent Care facilities in Belmont, Lincoln, and Keene.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of New Hampshire 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 $181 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 11/21/2022 - 21:25

FEMA Awards More Than $1 Million to Baystate Medical Center for COVID-19 Response Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Baystate Medical Center for the costs of steps taken to operate safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,024,676 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the 716-bed independent medical center in Springfield – affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School – for the cost of buying personal protective equipment (PPE) and contracting for other needed services between April 2020 and May 2022.

In addition to purchasing PPE such as surgical masks, gowns, isolation gowns, KN95 masks, nitrile gloves and materials such as sanitizer wipes and hand sanitizer, Baystate Medical Center rented a 20-foot mobile morgue truck and contracted with Crocker Communications Inc. to set up and staff a COVID-19 hotline.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Baystate 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 $1.4 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Mon, 11/21/2022 - 21:21

FEMA Extends Deadline to Apply for Hurricane Ian Federal Disaster Assistance to Jan. 12; Federal Support for Florida Recovery Effort Surpasses $2.69 Billion

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA announced that Hurricane Ian survivors who suffered damage to their property have additional time to apply for federal disaster assistance, with the application deadline extended to Jan. 12, 2023.

The agency also announced that more than $2.69 billion in federal grants, disaster loans and flood insurance payments has been provided to the state of Florida and households after Hurricane Ian. FEMA has provided $752 million to households and $327 million to the state for emergency response and recovery, while the U.S. Small Business Administration has provided $962 million in disaster loans and the National Flood Insurance Program has paid $652 million in claims.

How FEMA is helping Floridians:

• FEMA has made individual assistance available to 26 counties in Florida. Residents in Brevard, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties are eligible to apply for Individual Assistance. Deadline for applications is Jan. 12, 2023.
• FEMA is meeting survivors where they are to help jumpstart their recoveries. Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists are going door-to-door in Florida neighborhoods to help individuals register for assistance. These teams have visited 225,000 homes and interacted with more than 118,000 survivors in counties designated for Individual Assistance.
• 34 Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in impacted areas, with more than 70,000 visits by survivors.
• FEMA is providing Transitional Sheltering Assistance in 26 counties to survivors eligible for temporary hotel stays. As of today, the program is providing housing for 1,687 households with 4,192 members.
• Hundreds of FEMA inspectors have performed over 225,000 home inspections for survivors who applied for federal disaster assistance.
• FEMA is providing temporary housing to eligible Hurricane Ian survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Lee and Sarasota counties. FEMA approved Direct Temporary Housing Assistance to provide options for those whose homes are uninhabitable because of the hurricane. FEMA determined that rental assistance is insufficient to meet the housing need in those counties because of a lack of available housing resources. FEMA will notify applicants who are eligible for direct housing. It will take time to transport, permit, install and inspect these units before they are available. Direct Temporary Housing Assistance may be provided for up to 18 months from Sept. 29, 2022, the date of the federal disaster declaration, to March 28, 2024.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $962 million in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and business owners. Business Recovery Centers are located in Collier, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee and Seminole counties.
• As of Nov. 13, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has received more than 44,400 flood insurance claims and paid more than $652 million to policyholders.
• NFIP policyholders may receive up to $1,000 to reimburse the purchase of supplies like sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber. They may also receive up to $1,000 in storage expenses if they moved insured property. Policyholders should file a claim for flood loss avoidance reimbursement, regardless of whether it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• FEMA is conducting local hiring for more than 300 jobs in Brandon, Fort Myers, Kissimmee, Orlando and Sarasota. These positions are full-time, 120-day appointments that may be extended depending on operational needs. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through USAJobs.gov.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians can file a claim for loss of income caused by Hurricane Ian by going to Disaster Unemployment Assistance - FloridaJobs.org and selecting “Apply for Hurricane Ian DUA,” visiting a local CareerSource Career Center, or calling  800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
• Low-income Florida residents recovering from Hurricane Ian may be eligible for assistance from the Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Survivors can find more information on Florida’s D-SNAP program by visiting the Florida Department of Children and Families’ Hurricane Ian Response & Recovery website.
• Operation Blue Roof installed 20,119 roofs in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. (Mission completed.)
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25, 2022 through Oct. 23, 2022. Policyholders whose renewal date is in this range should contact their agent or insurance company. FEMA also extended the proof of loss requirement for flood insurance policyholders in Florida who experienced flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days. For more information on how to file a flood insurance claim, visit How to Start Your Flood Insurance Claim.
• If you or a member of your household uses adaptive or accessibility items that were damaged by Hurricane Ian, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for those items. For homeowners, items can include an exterior ramp, grab bars and a paved pathway to the home’s entrance from a vehicle. Awards do not count toward your Housing Assistance or Personal Property maximum awards. For more information for homeowners and renters, visit Update to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide. 

amy.ashbridge Mon, 11/21/2022 - 17:50

Disaster Recovery Centers Close for Thanksgiving Holiday

BRANDON, Fla. – All Disaster Recovery Centers in Florida for Hurricane Ian will close for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend from Thursday, Nov. 24 through Sunday, Nov. 27. Centers will reopen at their regular hours Monday, Nov. 28.

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. 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 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.

thomas.wise Mon, 11/21/2022 - 17:47

FEMA COVID-19 Reimbursement Exceeds $4 Billion in Mid-Atlantic States

PHILADELPHIA – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided more than $4 billion to Region 3 states and the District of Columbia for costs related to saving lives and protecting the public from COVID-19. In addition to Washington, DC, Region 3 includes Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Funds were distributed among local partners, state partners, school districts, other public entities, and certain private nonprofits. 

The federal funding reimbursed costs associated with emergency protective measures via FEMA’s Public Assistance program. The program reimburses communities for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations. These emergency protective measures included patient testing, purchasing of personal protective equipment (PPE), and patient care. Further reimbursement covered costs associated with storing, handling, transporting, distributing, and administering vaccines.

“FEMA is committed to providing mission critical funding to our state, local and nonprofit partners,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “The $4 billion in aid reduced the spread of the COVID-19 virus within our communities. FEMA continues to work hand in hand with our federal, state and tribal partners to lessen the impacts of COVID-19.” 

The total amount of Public Assistance funds received, as of October, per state and the District of Columbia are as follows:

Delaware: $216,336,970

District of Columbia: $722,221,321

Maryland: $1,391,766,239

Pennsylvania: $830,914,127

Virginia: $784,516,159

West Virginia: $94,111,245

It takes scores of Public Assistance projects to add up to $4 billion. A few recent projects that FEMA Region 3 provided funding for include:

District of Columbia

• DC Office of Contracts and Procurement - $481,964,601.43
  • These funds allowed for the purchasing of equipment, materials, supplies, and services in response to COVID-19.

Delaware

• Christiana Care Health Services - $20,389,812.10
  • The funds granted to Christiana Care Health Services provided PPE, testing, patient care, and medical equipment.

Maryland

• Adventist Healthcare - PNP Hospital - $42,649,915.00
  • The Adventist Health funds were obligated towards testing, medical supplies, PPE, and patient care.

 

Pennsylvania

• City of Philadelphia - $41,413,989.47
  • The City of Philadelphia’s grant money provided for feeding the public, alternate care sites, emergency operation center (EOC) costs, non-congregate sheltering, distribution of information, mortuary services, and vaccines.

Virginia

• Valley Health Hospital - $17,786,402.54
  • Valley Health funds were obligated towards PPE, training, screening, cleaning, medical transport, temporary medical facilities, vaccines, and patient care.

West Virginia

• West Virginia University - $9,566,079.98
  • West Virginia University directed funds to testing and distribution of information.  

The response to COVID-19 has been a highly coordinated effort between states, territories, and the federal government. In addition, to the $4 billion in Public Assistance funding, FEMA actively collaborated with the National Guard on strategic Mission Assignments. To date, the total amount of Mission Assignment funds provided per state, are as follows:

Delaware: $145,979,574.00

Maryland: $405,582,023.50

Pennsylvania: $265,271,549.00

Virginia: $471,268,549.00

West Virginia: $356,125,360.24

“The funds granted to Region 3 had profoundly positive impacts on our communities’ ability to respond to the risks of COVID-19,” Tierney said. “The funding provided the ability to purchase vital equipment and supplies. Ultimately, the funds ensured protection for frontline workers and the public.”

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If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.  

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

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

 

amanda.hancher Mon, 11/21/2022 - 15:28