What to Expect During a FEMA Housing Inspection

San Juan, Puerto Rico — As more survivors from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico apply for disaster assistance for their damaged homes, FEMA home inspections have gained momentum across the island. Survivors must know what to expect during a home inspection to ensure their application continues to move forward.

Typically, after a survivor applies for disaster assistance, a FEMA inspector will contact them within a few days to schedule an appointment. The inspector’s phone number may be from out of state or show up on caller ID as “unavailable”.

For the survivor’s protection, the inspector may ask the survivor to verify personally identifiable information (PII) by phone.

When the FEMA inspector calls, write down:

• The inspector’s name

• Date of call

• Date and time of appointment

• Inspector’s telephone number

The inspector will attempt contact three times on different days and times of the day to schedule an appointment to conduct the inspection. If the survivor cannot be reached, a letter and/or e-mail will be sent to the address provided at the time of application.

If a FEMA home inspector contacts you, but no one in the household applied for FEMA disaster assistance, inform the inspector and ask for the application to be withdrawn. Also notify FEMA via the Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

During the Inspection

A typical inspection takes up to 45 minutes to complete. You or your designated co-applicant will need to meet with an inspector and provide a photo ID. You may invite another individual such as a household member, relative or friend to help communicate with the inspector.

If you need a reasonable accommodation or a sign language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please send an email to FEMA-PRaccesible@fema.dhs.gov. You can also call 1-833-285-7448, press 2 for Spanish.

If you or your co-applicant are unable to meet with an inspector, a third-party can be designated in writing and pre-authorized before the scheduled time and date.

FEMA never charges a fee for an inspection. The inspector carries an official photo ID and will never ask for bank information. The inspector will attempt to verify the applicant’s name, address, contact information, occupancy and ownership status and insurance coverage.

The inspector will walk through the home to assess the condition of both damaged and non-damaged areas, noting disaster caused damage to real property (structural) and conducting a complete inventory of all damaged and non-damaged essential personal property (appliances, furniture, etc.).

The inspector will ask questions about disaster-caused losses and expenses including medical expenses, moving and storage expenses, items purchased in response to the disaster, uniforms, supplies, and tools required for school or employment.

Inspectors will not climb on roofs. Photos may be taken of the interior and exterior of the home during the inspection process. In situations where the home is inaccessible, the inspector may meet with the survivor at another location to conduct an initial assessment and verify identity, occupancy and/or ownership.

If you suspect an inspector isn’t who they say they are, tell them to leave immediately and call local law enforcement.

After the Inspection

FEMA will mail you a decision letter about eligibility for assistance. To receive updates and notifications faster, create an online DisasterAssistance.gov account after applying for FEMA assistance.

Information gathered during the inspection is only one of several criteria used by FEMA to determine eligibility for assistance. If you have questions after your inspection, please call FEMA’s Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

kimberly.keblish Mon, 10/10/2022 - 14:05

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Yauco

San Juan, Puerto Rico — An additional Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is now open in Yauco. The joint DRC, a partnership between the municipality, the Government of Puerto Rico and FEMA, will help Hurricane Fiona survivors apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

All 20 FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will be open on Monday, October 10.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are on hand at the DRC to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits and renters, and provide information about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Services are provided in English and Spanish. If you need a reasonable accommodation or a sign language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please send an email to FEMA-PRaccesible@fema.dhs.gov. You can also call 1-833-285-7448, press 2 for Spanish.

The additional center is located at:

• Estadio Municipal Mario “Ñato” Ramírez, Ave. Blvd Jimmy Negrón Palma Real, Yauco, PR 00698

Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

All DRCs have Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach Specialists on site to support and provide guidance to visiting survivors.

To find the DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: Fema.gov/drc.

Additional DRC locations in Puerto Rico are:

• Centro de Bellas Artes de Caguas, Calle Padial, Esquina Calle Ruiz Belvis, Caguas, PR 00725

• Cancha de Baloncesto Reinaldo Lugo, Calle Desengaño, Barrio Colombia, Mayagüez, PR 00680

• Estadio Pedro Montañez, Carretera Núm. 14, Km 69.7, Calle Matías Soto, Barriada San Cristóbal, Cayey, PR 00736

• Centro Comunal Los Naranjos, Comunidad Los Naranjos, Calle 2, Barrio Cabo Caribe, Vega Baja, PR 00693

• Centro de Usos Múltiples Francisco “Pancho” Robledo, Ave. Padre Severo Ferrer Santa Isabel, PR 00757

• Polideportivo Francisco “Frankie” Colón Alers, Ave. Los Caobos Final, Ponce, PR 00716

• Centro de Recepciones y Bellas Artes, Sala de Recepción, Ramal 152, Ave. José Zayas Green, Barrio Barrancas, Barranquitas, PR 00794

• Cancha de Balonmano Néstor Milete Echevarría, Carr. 3, Río Grande PR, 00745

• Centro de Convenciones de Cabo Rojo Dr. Ramón Emeterio Betances y Alacán, PR-100, Cabo Rojo, 00623

• Centro Comunal Justo Concepción, Carr. 486, Km 2.2, Barrio Zanjas, Camuy, PR 00627

• Cancha Juanito Cabello, Calle Ramón Baldorioty de Castro, PR-173, Cidra, PR 00739

• Centro de Entrenamiento y Formación del Volleyball David Cuevas, Carr. 111, Ave. Los Patriotas, Barrio Pueblo, Lares, PR 00669

• Cancha Juan E. Lluch, PR 315 km 0.9, Lajas, PR 00667

• Centro Bellas Artes Ceferino Caro Ramos, Calle Unión, Rincón, PR 00677

• Biblioteca Municipal de Salinas, Calle Dr. Santos P. Amadeo, Casco Urbano, Salinas, PR 00751

• Casa Alcaldía (1er Piso), Calle Georgetti #35, Barceloneta, PR 00617

• Centro de Recepciones Luis Ángel Ortiz Hernández, Ave. Luis Muñoz Marín, PR-155 Orocovis, PR 00720

• Centro de Usos Múltiples Néstor Vázquez, Terminal de Carros Públicos, 38 Calle Terminal, Patillas, PR 00723

• Coliseo Roberto Clemente Walker, Ave. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan, PR 00920

 

You may also register for assistance with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov

• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

kimberly.keblish Mon, 10/10/2022 - 13:40

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Hardee County

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA have opened an additional Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Hardee County.

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

New Disaster Recovery Center HARDEE COUNTY

Wauchula Civic Center, 515 Civic Center Dr., Wauchula, FL 33873

The center is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

Other Disaster Recovery Center

Other centers are operating at:

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Home Depot, 12621 S McCall Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33981

COLLIER COUNTY

Veterans Community Park, 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples, 34109

LEE COUNTY

Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Fort Myers DMS Building, 2295 Victoria Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901

ORANGE COUNTY

Barnett Park, 4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808

OSCEOLA COUNTY

Hart Memorial Central Library, 211 E. Dakin Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34741

SARASOTA COUNTY

Shannon Staub Public Library, 4675 Career Lane, North Port, FL 34289

 

All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

 

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. 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.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are canvassing neighborhoods in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and answer questions about federal assistance. DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

For more information about Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4673 and  floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 10/10/2022 - 11:41

Free Legal Services Available for Puerto Rico Hurricane Fiona Survivors

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Puerto Rico residents affected by Hurricane Fiona can now receive free legal disaster-related assistance to help them through the recovery process. To be eligible for these services survivors must have been directly affected by the disaster and not have sufficient means to hire an attorney for legal disaster-related issues.

To learn about the available resources in your area, call the toll-free legal aid hotline Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. at 1-800-981-5342. This service is provided by the Young Lawyers Division of the American Bar Association, and Servicios Legales de Puerto Rico, in collaboration with FEMA.

Some examples of legal disaster-related issues include:

• Handling insurance claims (life, medical and property)

• Dealing with home repair contracts and contractors

• Help with consumer protection matters, remedies and procedures

• Counseling on documentation to verify occupancy and home ownership

• Counseling on landlord/tenant issues or mortgage foreclosure problems

• Replacement of wills, deeds, titles and other important legal documents destroyed or lost in the disaster.

• Assistance with securing FEMA and other benefits available to disaster survivors

Disaster-related legal services will also be available at all FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers, beginning Monday, October 10, 2022. To find a DRC near you visit fema.gov/drc.

Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance

People affected by the hurricane in the 78 municipalities of Puerto Rico can apply for assistance online at: DisasterAssistance.gov, by downloading the FEMA app or by calling 1-800-621-3362.

People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week. You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in your area.

kimberly.keblish Sun, 10/09/2022 - 20:55

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Barceloneta, Orocovis, Patillas and San Juan

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Additional Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) are now open in Barceloneta, Orocovis, Patillas and San Juan. The joint DRCs, a partnership between the municipality, the Government of Puerto Rico and FEMA, will help Hurricane Fiona survivors apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

All 19 FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will remain open throughout the weekend and will also be open on Monday, October 10.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are on hand at the DRC to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits and renters, and provide information about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Services are provided in English and Spanish. If you need a reasonable accommodation or a sign language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please send an email to FEMA-PRaccesible@fema.dhs.gov. You can also call 1-833-285-7448, press 2 for Spanish.

The additional centers are located at:

• Casa Alcaldía (1er Piso), Calle Georgetti #35, Barceloneta, PR 00617

• Centro de Recepciones Luis Ángel Ortiz Hernández, Ave. Luis Muñoz Marín, PR-155 Orocovis, PR 00720

• Centro de Usos Múltiples Néstor Vázquez, Terminal de Carros Públicos, 38 Calle Terminal, Patillas, PR 00723

• Coliseo Roberto Clemente Walker, Ave. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan, PR 00920

Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A FEMA Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach Specialist will be on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents.

To find the DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: Fema.gov/drc. Additional DRC locations in Puerto Rico are:

• Centro de Bellas Artes de Caguas, Calle Padial, Esquina Calle Ruiz Belvis, Caguas, PR 00725

• Cancha de Baloncesto Reinaldo Lugo, Calle Desengaño, Barrio Colombia, Mayagüez, PR 00680

• Estadio Pedro Montañez, Carretera Núm. 14, Km 69.7, Calle Matías Soto, Barriada San Cristóbal, Cayey, PR 00736

• Centro Comunal Los Naranjos, Comunidad Los Naranjos, Calle 2, Barrio Cabo Caribe, Vega Baja, PR 00693

• Centro de Usos Múltiples Francisco “Pancho” Robledo, Ave. Padre Severo Ferrer Santa Isabel, PR 00757

• Polideportivo Francisco “Frankie” Colón Alers, Ave. Los Caobos Final, Ponce, PR 00716

• Centro de Recepciones y Bellas Artes, Sala de Recepción, Ramal 152, Ave. José Zayas Green, Barrio Barrancas, Barranquitas, PR 00794

• Cancha de Balonmano Néstor Milete Echevarría, Carr. 3, Río Grande PR, 00745

• Centro de Convenciones de Cabo Rojo Dr. Ramón Emeterio Betances y Alacán, PR-100, Cabo Rojo, 00623

• Centro Comunal Justo Concepción, Carr. 486, Km 2.2, Barrio Zanjas, Camuy, PR 00627

• Cancha Juanito Cabello, Calle Ramón Baldorioty de Castro, PR-173, Cidra, PR 00739

• Centro de Entrenamiento y Formación del Volleyball David Cuevas, Carr. 111, Ave. Los Patriotas, Barrio Pueblo, Lares, PR 00669

• Cancha Juan E. Lluch, PR 315 km 0.9, Lajas, PR 00667

• Centro Bellas Artes Ceferino Caro Ramos, Calle Unión, Rincón, PR 00677

• Biblioteca Municipal de Salinas, Calle Dr. Santos P. Amadeo, Casco Urbano, Salinas, PR 00751

You may also register for assistance with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov

• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

kimberly.keblish Sun, 10/09/2022 - 20:34

Unemployment Service Available for Puerto Rico Hurricane Fiona Survivors

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Employees or self-employed individuals in Puerto Rico who became unemployed as a direct consequence of Hurricane Fiona, may be eligible to receive Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Survivors from all 78 municipalities are eligible to apply for disaster assistance.

Survivors have until November 30, 2022, to file a claim at the Department of Labor and Human Resources (DTRH, by its Spanish acronym). DUA claims filed after this deadline may be ineligible.

To be eligible for DUA, the individual must be determined ineligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under any state or federal law. Claimants must first apply for state unemployment benefits by visiting http://desempleo.trabajo.pr.gov/reclamantes and state “Hurricane Fiona” as the reason for separation. All required documentation must be submitted to DTRH within 21 days from the date the application is filed.

DUA is available to survivors who lost their jobs as a result of the disaster. Common eligibility requirements 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 as a result of the damage caused; or you lived in the area of the disaster when the disaster occurred and were unable to get to your workplace as a result of Hurricane Fiona.

kimberly.keblish Sun, 10/09/2022 - 19:54

FEMA Approves $150 Million for Households in Florida

TALLAHASSEE – Ten days after the major disaster declaration for Hurricane Ian in Florida, FEMA has approved $150 million in grants to 101,705 households to help them recover.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging, home repairs and other disaster-related expenses. FEMA grants include $72 million for housing assistance and $78 million for other expenses.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP has received 31,000 claims from Florida policy holders and made $10 million in advance payments.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is processing disaster loan applications and has approved $3.5 million to date.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. Help is available 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.

mayshaunt.gary Sun, 10/09/2022 - 15:14

FEMA Expands Efforts to Reach Every Affected Community

WASHINGTON -- More than $168 million in federal disaster assistance has gone to Hurricane Ian survivors. FEMA and its state partners are opening more Disaster Recovery Centers, while hundreds of Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) specialists are going door-to-door to help survivors sign up for assistance in affected communities.

How FEMA is helping Floridians:

• Twenty counties are now eligible for individual assistance. Yesterday, FEMA approved the addition of Palm Beach County. Homeowners and renters in Palm Beach County who were affected by Hurricane Ian may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
• FEMA opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Orange and Osceola counties. Along with DSA specialists going door-to-door in Florida neighborhoods, there are now seven centers operating across the state. Disaster Recovery Centers are in Charlotte, Collier, Orange, Osceola and Sarasota counties, with two centers operating in Lee County. More centers are planned to open over the next few days. Centers are accessible offices staffed by state, federal and volunteer organizations that let everyone access recovery information. As centers are added, real-time locations will be updated at floridadisaster.org.
• FEMA will pay hotel and motel costs for eligible survivors. FEMA and the state of Florida activated the Transitional Shelter Assistance Program, which allows FEMA to make payments directly to participating hotels and motels in Alabama, Florida and Georgia that provide emergency shelter to survivors.
• More than 700 FEMA inspectors are in the field going to homes of survivors who registered for federal disaster assistance. To date, they have performed over 16,000 inspections.
• FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is issuing advance payments to help Floridians jumpstart their recovery. To date, FEMA has paid more than $17 million to Florida 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 if it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians should 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.
• Thousands of federal staff are supporting Ian response efforts. This includes more than 1,800 staff from other federal agencies. More than 1,800 emergency management personnel from 26 states were deployed to Florida through an Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
• Yesterday, Operation Blue Roof completed its first roof installation. This is a free service provided to homeowners and is currently operating in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can sign up at BlueRoof.us or call toll-free at 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane now have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25 through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose policy 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 suffered 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.
• FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors with immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life-saving and life-sustaining items. This assistance is a one-time payment of $700 per household.
• 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.

mashana.davis Sun, 10/09/2022 - 15:04

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Orange, Osceola Counties

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA have opened two additional Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Orange and Osceola counties.

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. 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. 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.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are canvassing neighborhoods in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and answer questions about federal assistance. DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

New Disaster Recovery Centers

All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

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

ORANGE COUNTY

Barnett Park, 4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808

OSCEOLA COUNTY

Hart Memorial Central Library, 211 E. Dakin Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34741

Other Disaster Recovery Centers

All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Home Depot, 12621 S McCall Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33981

COLLIER COUNTY

Veterans Community Park, 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples, 34109

LEE COUNTY

Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Fort Myers DMS Building, 2295 Victoria Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901

SARASOTA COUNTY

Shannon Staub Public Library, 4675 Career Lane, North Port, FL 34289

 

For more information about Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4673 and  floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

mayshaunt.gary Sun, 10/09/2022 - 13:53

FEMA Provides More than $150 Million to Hurricane Ian Survivors, Supports Temporary Roof Repairs

WASHINGTON -- Hundreds of FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams continue going door-to-door to help survivors with their unique needs, and to date, FEMA has awarded over $150 million in assistance to survivors.

FEMA also continues to open more Disaster Recovery Centers across the impacted areas, with additional centers opening today in Collier and Charlotte counties. There are now a total of five Disaster Recovery Centers being operated in Lee, Sarasota, Collier and Charlotte counties, and more are planned to open over the next few days.

Additionally, FEMA and the state of Florida have recently activated the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, providing eligible survivors who have applied for disaster assistance with TSA to shelter in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA.

Meanwhile, our federal partners continue to support the whole-of-government effort to help Floridians recover. In particular, today the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) began its first installation project as a part of Operation Blue Roof, providing impacted survivors in eligible counties with temporary roof repair. USACE has been tasked by FEMA to assist eligible homeowners with temporary roof repairs. More information about Operation Blue Roof can be found here.

 FT. MYERS, Fla. -- A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team member provides registration services for Hurricane Ian survivors at the Disaster Resource Center located at the Lakes Regional Library. (FEMA Photo by Lameen Witter)

FT. MYERS, Fla. -- A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team member provides registration services for Hurricane Ian survivors at the Disaster Resource Center located at the Lakes Regional Library. (FEMA Photo by Lameen Witter)

FT. MYERS, Fla. -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers install coverings on roofs, as part of the Operation Blue Roof program, to assist Hurricane Ian survivors. Operation Blue Roof is a priority mission that provides homeowners in disaster areas with fiber-reinforced sheeting to cover their damaged roofs until arrangements can be made for permanent repairs. (FEMA Photo by Lameen Witter)

FT. MYERS, Fla. -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers install coverings on roofs, as part of the Operation Blue Roof program, to assist Hurricane Ian survivors. Operation Blue Roof is a priority mission that provides homeowners in disaster areas with fiber-reinforced sheeting to cover their damaged roofs until arrangements can be made for permanent repairs. (FEMA Photo by Lameen Witter)

20 Counties Eligible for Individual Assistance

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has declared that survivors in 20 Florida counties are eligible for Individual Assistance to help their recovery.

DSA teams travel door-to-door and to public locations in communities where survivors are located, such as shelters, food and water distribution sites and open grocery stores, providing additional information on how to access and apply for disaster assistance. They can also help survivors who may face barriers accessing assistance programs and resources to support their recovery.

Survivors should know that DSA staff typically wear FEMA attire, will always have FEMA photo identification and will never charge for assistance.

DSA specialists can help with:

• Submitting applications for federal assistance.
• Checking the status of an application already in the system or making minor changes to their applications.
• Providing civil rights and disability integration information to survivors who have difficulty accessing the application process in order to ensure equal access to FEMA programs.

Also, there are several Mobile Registration Intake Centers (MRICs) in the area. These locations will have DSA teams onsite assisting with applications, inquiries, updates and referrals.

Residents in the designated counties can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center or apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA mobile app.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, go to FEMA Accessible: How to Register with Disaster Survivor Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest on Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4673 and floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

amy.ashbridge Sat, 10/08/2022 - 20:32

FEMA Establishes Disaster Hotline for Alaska Survivors

FEMA has established a new Alaska-specific Disaster Assistance Hotline for residents in the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon who experienced damage or loss from September’s severe storm, flooding and landslides.

Those affected by the storms can apply for FEMA disaster assistance in the following ways:

• Call 1-866-342-1699, the Anchorage-based FEMA hotline will be operable from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.on Sunday, Oct. 9 and Oct. 16
• Dial 711 for TTY users. For TTY users with an out-of-state area code, dial 1-800-770-8973 for Alaska Relay.
• Go online at disasterassistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA app.

The hotline will provide survivors with shorter wait times and be staffed by case workers who can register survivors for FEMA assistance as well as answer any follow-up questions.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Nov. 22, 2022.

FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may include grants for temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs, or other essential disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance. In Alaska, subsistence items lost or damaged from the September storms may be eligible for assistance.  

The State of Alaska also has an Individual Assistance program, which has a separate application process from FEMA’s. It is important that survivors apply for both FEMA and the State of Alaska’s disaster assistance programs.

If you are found ineligible for federal assistance, you may still qualify for assistance through the State of Alaska, but if you do not submit both applications it is possible that no assistance will be available to you.

• Survivors can apply for state assistance online at ready.alaska.gov/IA or by calling 844-445-7131. The deadline to apply for State of Alaska assistance is Nov. 17, 2022.

Some applicants may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to apply for a disaster loan. 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. Homeowners and renters should submit an SBA disaster loan application even if they are not sure they will need or want a loan.

Applicants may apply in the following ways:

• Go online at: https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ .
• Call 1-(800) 659-2955, for TTY users please dial 711.
• Email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.

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.

thomas.wise Sat, 10/08/2022 - 18:45

FEMA Provides More than $150 Million to Hurricane Ian Survivors, Continues Outreach Efforts

More than $150 million in federal disaster assistance has gone to Hurricane Ian survivors since the federal disaster declaration. Assistance helps them with temporary housing, essential home repairs and other uninsured and underinsured disaster-related losses so they can jumpstart their recovery. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams continue to go door-to-door to meet people where they are and help survivors with their unique needs. 

How FEMA is Helping Floridians

• FEMA will pay hotel and motel costs for eligible survivors from counties hardest hit by Hurricane Ian. Yesterday, FEMA and the state of Florida activated the Transitional Shelter Assistance Program, providing eligible support for survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties. FEMA makes these payments directly to participating hotel and motels in Alabama, Florida and Georgia that provide emergency shelter to survivors.
• Hundreds of Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists are going door-to-door in Florida to help survivors apply for assistance. Teams are in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties.
• FEMA and its state partners are now operating five Disaster Recovery Centers across the state. Centers are open in Collier, Charlotte and Sarasota counties, with two centers operating in Lee county. More centers are planned to open over the next few days. Centers are accessible offices staffed by state, federal and volunteer organizations that let everyone access recovery information. As centers are added, real-time locations will be updated at FloridaDisaster.org.
• Over 700 FEMA inspectors are in the field going to homes of survivors who registered for federal disaster assistance. To date, they have performed over 14,000 inspections.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is issuing advance payments. To date, Florida policyholders have received more than $5.9 million to help Floridians jumpstart their recoveries.
• 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 if it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians should 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.
• More than 4,400 federal staff are supporting Ian response efforts. This includes more than 1,500 staff from other federal agencies. More than 1,800 emergency management personnel from 26 states were deployed to Florida through an Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
• Operation Blue Roof is a free service to homeowners and is currently operating in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. The first completed roof installation is expected today. Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can sign up at BlueRoof.us or call toll-free at 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane now have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25 through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose policy 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 suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days.  
• FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors with immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life-saving and life-sustaining items. This assistance is a one-time payment of $700 per household.
• 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 Sat, 10/08/2022 - 16:41

Palm Beach County Eligible for FEMA Individual Assistance

TALLAHASSEE – Homeowners and renters in Palm Beach County who were affected by Hurricane Ian may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

There are three ways to apply:

1. DisasterAssistance.gov
2. Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
3. Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The line is open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. Help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Applicants will need to provide the following information: 

• 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

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.

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 more information about Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4673 and  floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

mayshaunt.gary Sat, 10/08/2022 - 16:39

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Charlotte, Collier Counties

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA have opened two additional Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Charlotte and Collier counties.

New Disaster Recovery Centers  CHARLOTTE COUNTY

Home Depot, 12621 S McCall Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33981

COLLIER COUNTY

Veterans Community Park, 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples, 34109

 

All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

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

Other Centers LEE COUNTY

Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919

LEE COUNTY

Fort Myers DMS Building, 2295 Victoria Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901

SARASOTA COUNTY

Shannon Staub Public Library, 4675 Career Lane, North Port, FL 34289

 

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are canvassing neighborhoods in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and answer questions about federal assistance. DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: How to Register with Disaster Survivor Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4673 and  floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

mayshaunt.gary Sat, 10/08/2022 - 16:30

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Cabo Rojo, Camuy, Cidra, Lajas, Lares, Rincón and Salinas

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Additional Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) are now open in Cabo Rojo, Camuy, Cidra, Lajas, Lares, Rincón and Salinas. The joint DRCs, a partnership between the municipality, the Government of Puerto Rico and FEMA, will help Hurricane Fiona survivors apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

All 15 FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will remain open throughout the weekend and will be open on Monday, October 11, the federal observance of the Columbus Day holiday.

“The fastest way to register for FEMA assistance is by downloading the FEMA application on your smartphone, home computer or tablet or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov. You do not have to visit a DRC,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Nancy Casper. “However, we understand that some people may prefer in-person support and our doors will always be open to them.”

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are on hand at the DRC to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits and renters, and provide information about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Services are provided in English and Spanish. If you need a reasonable accommodation or a sign language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please send an email to FEMA-PRaccesible@fema.dhs.gov. You can also call 1-833-285-7448, press 2 for Spanish.

The centers in Cabo Rojo, Camuy, Cidra, Lajas, Lares, Rincón and Salinas are located at:

• Centro de Convenciones de Cabo Rojo Dr. Ramón Emeterio Betances y Alacán, PR-100, Cabo Rojo, 00623

• Centro Comunal Justo Concepción, Carr. 486, Km 2.2, Barrio Zanjas, Camuy, PR 00627

• Cancha Juanito Cabello, Calle Ramon Baldorioty de Castro, PR-173, Cidra, PR 00739

• Cancha Juan E. Lluch, PR 315 km 0.9, Lajas, PR 0667

• Centro de Entrenamiento y Formación del Volleyball David Cuevas, Carr. 111, Ave. Los Patriotas, Barrio Pueblo, Lares, PR 00669

• Centro Bellas Artes Ceferino Caro Ramos, Calle Unión, Rincón, PR 00677

• Biblioteca Pública, Calle Dr. Santos P. Amadeo, Casco Urbano, Salinas, PR 00751

Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A FEMA Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach Specialist will be on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents.

DRCs are also open in Caguas, Mayagüez, Cayey, Vega Baja, Ponce, Barranquitas, Río Grande and Santa Isabel seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The locations are:

• Centro de Bellas Artes de Caguas, Calle Padial, Esquina Calle Ruiz Belvis, Caguas, PR 00725

• Cancha de Baloncesto Bo. Colombia, Calle Desengaño, Barrio Colombia, Mayagüez, PR 00680

• Estadio Pedro Montañez, Carretera Núm. 14, Km 69.7, Calle Matías Soto, Barriada San Cristóbal, Cayey, PR 00736

• Centro Comunal Los Naranjos, Comunidad Los Naranjos, Calle 2, Barrio Cabo Caribe, Vega Baja, PR 00693

• Centro de Usos Múltiples Francisco “Pancho” Robledo, Ave. Padre Severo Ferrer Santa Isabel, PR 00757

• Polideportivo Francisco “Frankie” Colón Alers, Ave. Los Caobos Final, Ponce, PR 00716

• Centro de Recepciones y Bellas Artes, Sala de Recepción, Ramal 152, Ave. José Zayas Green, Barrio Barrancas, Barranquitas, PR 00794

• Cancha de Balonmano Néstor Milete Echevarría, Carr. 3, Río Grande PR, 00745

To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: Fema.gov/drc.

You may also register for assistance with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov

• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

kimberly.keblish Sat, 10/08/2022 - 12:29

FEMA Continues Contacting Survivors Impacted by Hurricane Ian, Opens Additional Disaster Recovery Centers

WASHINGTON -- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) specialists are working in communities hard-hit by Hurricane Ian to help disaster survivors apply for assistance and to provide critical information about resources.

In addition to the Disaster Recovery Centers in Lee and Sarasota counties, FEMA and its state partners opened additional centers today in Collier and Charlotte counties, and more are planned to open over the next few days. Additionally, hundreds of Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) specialists have been going door-to-door in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties. 

As of today, over 320,000 households have registered for assistance and FEMA has awarded over $90 million in federal disaster assistance to Hurricane Ian survivors since the federal disaster declaration. Today, FEMA and the state of Florida activated the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, providing eligible survivors who have applied for disaster assistance with TSA to shelter in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA.

FEMA Personnel Helps Survivor Register for Assistance (Photo by FEMA Photographer)

FEMA Personnel Help Survivors Register for Assistance (Photo by FEMA Photographer)

FEMA Personnel Speaks with Survivor About Recovery Assistance (Photo by FEMA Photographer)

President Biden has declared that survivors in 19 Florida counties are eligible for Individual Assistance to help their recovery.

DSA teams travel door-to-door and to public locations in communities where survivors are located, such as shelters, food and water distribution sites and open grocery stores, providing additional information on how to access and apply for disaster assistance. They can also help survivors who may face barriers accessing assistance programs and resources to support their recovery. 

Survivors should know that DSA staff typically wear FEMA attire, will always have FEMA photo identification and will never charge for assistance.

DSA specialists can help with:

• Submitting applications for federal assistance.
• Checking the status of an application already in the system or making minor changes to their applications.
• Providing civil rights and disability integration information to survivors who have difficulty accessing the application process in order to ensure equal access to FEMA programs.

Also, there are several Mobile Registration Intake Centers (MRICs) in the area. These locations will have DSA teams onsite assisting with applications, inquiries, updates and referrals. 

Residents in the designated counties can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center or apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA mobile app. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, go to FEMA Accessible: How to Register with Disaster Survivor Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest on Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4673 and floridadisaster.org/info. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

mashana.davis Sat, 10/08/2022 - 01:34

Many Hurricane Ian Survivors Eligible for Transitional Sheltering

WASHINGTON -- The state of Florida and FEMA have activated the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program for Hurricane Ian survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties.

Survivors from these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to shelter in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. They may be eligible for TSA if they cannot return to their home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency (federal, state or nonprofit).

Survivors will be notified of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected when they applied for assistance.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, room service, parking, telephone, food, transportation and other services.

Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.

TSA is limited to participating lodging properties in Florida, Alabama and Georgia.

TSA does not count toward an applicant’s maximum amount of assistance available under the Individuals and Households Program (IHP).

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362, or using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

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.

mashana.davis Sat, 10/08/2022 - 00:13

FEMA Expands Footprint in Florida Communities, Provides More Funding for Survivors

WASHINGTON -- More than $90 million in federal disaster assistance has gone to Hurricane Ian survivors since the federal disaster declaration. Assistance helps them with temporary housing, essential home repairs and other uninsured and underinsured disaster-related losses so they can jumpstart their recovery. 

How FEMA is Helping Floridians

• FEMA will pay hotel and motel costs for eligible survivors from counties hardest hit by Hurricane Ian. FEMA approved Florida’s request for Transitional Sheltering Assistance for survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties. FEMA makes these payments directly to participating hotel and motels in Alabama, Florida and Georgia that provide emergency shelter to survivors.
• Hundreds of Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists are going door-to-door in Florida to help survivors apply for assistance. Teams are in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties.
• Earlier this week, FEMA and its state partners began operating three Disaster Recovery Centers across the state. Two more centers will open today. FEMA and its state partners opened two centers in Lee County and one in Sarasota County. Additional centers will open today in Collier and Charlotte counties, and more are planned to open over the next few days. Centers are accessible offices staffed by state, federal and volunteer organizations that let everyone access recovery information. As centers are added, real-time locations will be updated at FloridaDisaster.org.
•  Over 700 FEMA inspectors are in the field going to homes of survivors who registered for federal disaster assistance. To date, they have performed over 11,000 inspections.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is issuing advance payments. To date, Florida policyholders have received more than $5.9 million to help Floridians jumpstart their recoveries.
• 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 if it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians should 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.
• More than 4,400 federal staff are supporting Ian response efforts. This includes more than 1,500 staff from other federal agencies. More than 1,800 emergency management personnel from 26 states were deployed to Florida through an Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
• Operation Blue Roof is a free service to homeowners and is currently operating in Charlotte, Collier, Lee and Sarasota counties. Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can sign up at BlueRoof.us or call toll-free at 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders, who had flood damage from the hurricane, now have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25, through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose policy 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 suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days.  
• FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors with immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life- saving and life-sustaining items. This assistance is a one-time payment of $700 per household.
• 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. 

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/07/2022 - 18:41

Hurricane Ian Survivors May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering

TALLAHASSEE – The state of Florida and FEMA have activated the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program for Hurricane Ian survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties.

Survivors from these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to shelter in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. They may be eligible for TSA if they cannot return to their home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency (federal, state or nonprofit).

Survivors will be notified of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected when they applied for assistance.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, room service, parking, telephone, food, transportation and other services.

Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, Survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.

TSA is limited to participating lodging properties in Florida, Alabama, and Georgia.

TSA does not count toward an applicant’s maximum amount of assistance available under the Individuals and Households Program (IHP).

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362, or using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

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.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 10/07/2022 - 17:51

FEMA Canvassing SW Florida Communities Hit by Ian, Registering Survivors for Assistance

WASHINGTON -- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) specialists are working in communities hard-hit by Hurricane Ian to help disaster survivors apply for assistance and to provide critical information about resources.

In addition to the Disaster Recovery Centers in Lee and Sarasota counties, Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams went door-to-door today in Collier, Hardee, Hillsborough, Polk and Seminole counties.

Overall, nearly 300 DSA specialists are active in Florida helping survivors apply for assistance and have been covering ground in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties. These teams have helped nearly 250,000 survivors apply for assistance.

FEMA Personnel Helps Survivor Register for Assistance (Photo by FEMA Photographer)

FEMA Personnel Help Survivors Register for Assistance (Photo by FEMA Photographer)

FEMA Personnel Speaks with Survivor About Recovery Assistance (Photo by FEMA Photographer)

 

President Biden has declared that survivors in 19 Florida counties are eligible for Individual Assistance to help their recovery.

DSA teams travel door-to-door and to public locations in communities where survivors are located, such as shelters, food and water distribution sites and open grocery stores, providing additional information on how to access and apply for disaster assistance. They can also help survivors who may face barriers accessing assistance programs and resources to support their recovery.

Survivors should know that DSA staff typically wear FEMA attire, will always have FEMA photo identification and will never charge for assistance.

DSA specialists can help with:

• Submitting applications for federal assistance.
• Checking the status of an application already in the system or making minor changes to their applications.
• Providing civil rights and disability integration information to survivors who have difficulty accessing the application process in order to ensure equal access to FEMA programs.

Also, there are several Mobile Registration Intake Centers (MRICs) in the area. These locations will have DSA teams onsite assisting with applications, inquiries, updates and referrals.

Residents in the designated counties can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center or apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA mobile app.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, go to FEMA Accessible: How to Register with Disaster Survivor Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest on Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4673 and floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

zella.campbell Fri, 10/07/2022 - 00:11