Parks, Public Libraries Get on Path to Recovery Across U.S. Virgin Islands

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Parks and public libraries serve communities throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands by providing a source for recreation, community, education and historical and cultural environments. An interruption in operations at these facilities can disrupt many routines and a closure of public libraries can limit and often times prevent a student’s ability to perform their schoolwork without a dedicated, structured environment.  

FEMA's whole-community approach to recovery includes collaborating with the territory on projects for parks and public libraries to recover from the damage caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. Parks, recreational facilities and libraries play important roles in a community’s well-being, providing an opportunity to stay active. As well, libraries encourage learning, exposure to arts and crafts, opens them to the world through books and are historical and cultural landmarks across the territory.

FEMA has committed $26.4 million for repairs to 56 sports, parks and recreational facilities across the territory.

“The Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation is grateful to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for providing the funds that allow us to repair and, in some cases, reconstruct the territory’s recreational facilities. The grants awarded by FEMA’s Public Assistance Program support our efforts to provide high-quality recreational spaces and activities to our community,” said Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Calvert White.

Projects on St. Croix include repairs to Pedro Cruz Ballpark in Kingshill, Isaac Boynes Ballpark in Frederiksted and Cramer’s Park Pavilion.

Other repair and restoration projects are planned for St. John and St. Thomas. On St. John, the Winston Wells Ballpark, the Orville Brown basketball court and the Cruz Bay tennis court will undergo improvements. The Emile Griffith Ballpark, Lionel Roberts Stadium and completed Joseph Aubain Ballpark on St. Thomas will also benefit from restoration efforts.

While the revitalization of the territory's parks and recreational facilities can benefit the entire community, so can the restoration of libraries. “Libraries create a conducive environment to learning and lay the groundwork toward the development of strong communities,” said FEMA U.S. Virgin Islands Recovery Director Kristen A. Hodge. “Working with the V.I. Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation and the V.I. Department of Planning and Natural Resources to rebuild these important community institutions will leave a legacy for future generations," said Recovery Director Hodge.

FEMA is obligating $5.8 million to five public libraries in the U.S. Virgin Islands for hurricane repairs. Library repairs will include $669,400 in hazard mitigation measures to infrastructure damaged by the 2017 storms.

FEMA's $1.8 million obligation to the Florence A. Williams and Athalie M. Petersen libraries' repairs on St. Croix includes $608,200 in hazard mitigation measures, such as the installation of ceramic flooring to replace carpet and vinyl flooring and door dams to stop further flooding at the Williams site.

The Charles W. Turnbull Regional Public Library on St. Thomas will receive $2.9 million toward renovations.

The restoration of Charlotte Amalie's Enid M. Baa Library and Archives highlights the importance of historic preservation in disaster recovery. Enid Baa, born in 1911 on St. Thomas, was a librarian, educator and historian. She was a leading advocate for the establishment and administration of libraries in the territory.

After repairing the site, VI DPNR intends to use the Baa Library building as a community gathering space and visitor welcome center. FEMA has obligated $706,000 for Baa Library repairs. Stainless-steel doors, wire caging to protect air conditioners from flying debris and strengthening windows with hardware to withstand storm-force winds are among the $61,100 approved hazard mitigation measures for the library.

FEMA obligated $271,200 for hurricane repairs to the Elaine I. Sprauve Library and Museum in Cruz Bay on St. John. This project will include American Disability Act-compliant push buttons on exterior and interior doors.

FEMA will continue to collaborate with the territorial departments of Sports, Parks and Recreation and Planning and Natural Resources to ensure FEMA Public Assistance projects to repair recreational facilities and public libraries will benefit the entire community equitably.

gina.callaghan Tue, 09/27/2022 - 18:38

FEMA Awards State of Rhode Island Nearly $1.7 Million for COVID Temporary Hospitals

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.7 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state for the costs of setting up and operating three temporary hospital sites during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,651,970 FEMA Public Assistance grant will go to the Rhode Island Department of Administration for establishing and operating three alternative hospital sites (AHS) that added 1,385 hospital beds to treat COVID patients between October 2021 and February 2022.

The costs included general repairs such as fire alarm services, waste drain repairs, duct work repairs and filter cleaning; facility cleaning and relocating barriers; as well as project management, cell service, a police detail, waste & recycling pickup, and facility management services.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Rhode Island with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the 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.

These grants brings the total awarded by FEMA to the State of Rhode Island to more than $560 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:45

FEMA Awards More Than $1.5 Million to Maine General Medical Center for COVID Staffing Expenses

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.5 million to the State of Maine to reimburse Maine General Medical Center for the cost of paying overtime for staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,523,580 Public Assistance grant will go to the non-profit health system headquartered in Augusta to cover the cost of having part-time and float staff work additional shifts above and beyond their regular schedule to provide emergency medical care services in departments with high volumes of COVID-19 patients between December 2021 and April 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Maine General 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.”

So far, FEMA has provided almost $158 million in Public Assistance grants to Maine to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

 

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:26

FEMA Awards Almost $3.6 Million to UMass Memorial Health Care for COVID-19 Temporary Hospital Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $3.6 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. for the costs of operating a temporary hospital to handle patient loads during the COVID pandemic.

The $3,597,687 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the health care system in Central Massachusetts – headquartered in Worcester and affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School – for setting up and operating an alternate care site at the DCU Convention Center in Worcester between January and September 2020. Those costs included medical equipment for the facility as well as air filtration equipment, security equipment and cameras, and personal protective equipment (PPE). UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. also contracted for medical personnel, disinfection and food services for the temporary hospital.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. 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 nearly $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:22

FEMA Awards Nearly $3 Million to Keene State College for COVID Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $3 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Keene State College for the cost of providing testing for students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,955,360 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the public liberal arts college in Keene will reimburse it for contracting to provide 27,099 COVID-19 tests between July and October 2020.

The college also paid an additional $20 test setup administration fee for 12,273 individuals to cover the costs of registration, set ups, testing coordination, and the system to provide test results.

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

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 $161 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

 

adrien.urbani Tue, 09/27/2022 - 17:16

FEMA Extends Deadline to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – At the request of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, homeowners and renters who suffered damage to their property from the July floods have another month to apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA has extended the application deadline to Oct. 28 for survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, and Whitley counties.

FEMA assistance for individuals affected by the July floods can cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

Kentuckians can apply for federal disaster assistance several ways:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for other languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service.
• Visit a FEMA disaster recovery center to apply. Find the nearest recovery center by visiting www.fema.gov/drc or by calling the FEMA Helpline.
• apply online by visiting.  DisasterAssistance.gov; or
• use the FEMA mobile app. Survivors can also use their smart phone, open the FEMA App and select “Talk to FEMA in person.”

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

If you have insurance, you are encouraged to file a claim for damage to your home, personal property and vehicles before you apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA cannot duplicate other sources of assistance you may have received.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663.Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Tue, 09/27/2022 - 11:42

Additional Municipalities Can Now Apply for FEMA Assistance due to Hurricane Fiona

San Juan, Puerto Rico – On Sept. 24 at the request of Governor Pedro Pierluisi, four additional municipalities were approved in a new amendment to the Major Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Fiona and San Germán was added on Sept. 25.

Homeowners, renters, and business owners in the municipalities of Camuy, Guánica, Lajas, Sabana Grande and San Germán are now eligible to apply for federal help in response to damage or losses suffered as a direct result of Hurricane Fiona.

Hurricane Fiona disaster survivors in the 68 disaster declared municipalities are encouraged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Survivors may register for assistance even if they applied for assistance for Hurricane María, the earthquakes and any other presidentially declared disaster in Puerto Rico.

Those who have already registered with FEMA for assistance related to Hurricane Fiona need not register again.

The amendment also authorizes help under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, which provides supplemental grants to state, territorial and local governments and some types of nonprofits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters like this one.

Three Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA 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. Operators are available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. local time.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are also canvassing affected communities to help people apply in person.

You should have the following information available when you apply:

• Name and SSN of the primary applicant.
• Name and SSN of secondary/co-applicant (encouraged but not required).
• Current and pre-disaster address.
• Names of all occupants of the pre-disaster household.
• Current contact information.
• Types of insurance held by the household.
• Household pre-disaster annual gross income.
• Losses caused by the disaster.
• Banking information for direct deposit of financial assistance, if requested.

                                                                                         

 

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 09/26/2022 - 21:56

FEMA Continues Supporting Hurricane Ian Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and the National Hurricane Center's Acting Director Jamie Rhome will conduct a press briefing at the center in Miami to discuss the latest forecast and expected impacts for Hurricane Ian and FEMA's response activities already underway.

The NHC issued Tropical Storm and Hurricane Watches for a portion of the west coast of Florida and may issue additional watches today. Hurricane Ian is expected to bring life-threating storm surge, hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall along the west coast of Florida and the panhandle by the middle of the week.

On Sept. 24, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s request for an emergency declaration. The declaration authorizes FEMA to support the state’s response efforts ahead of Ian. Florida activated 2,500 National Guard members to support the state’s response.  

Now is the time for residents in Florida to have hurricane plans in place and closely monitor local media for forecast updates, directions provided by their local officials and to heed local evacuation orders.

Evacuate if you are told to do so. Learn your evacuation routes, and have a family emergency plan. Make sure you plan for your pets, as not all evacuation shelters accept pets. You can also search for open shelters by texting SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362. Example: Shelter 01234 (standard rates apply).

Prepare Now for a Hurricane

• Now is the time to plan. It’s not too late to create a plan with your family. Visit Ready.gov/plan and use the new “Make A Plan” fillable form to make your plan and easily save an electronic copy to share with family members.
• Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the recently updated free FEMA App (available in English and Spanish) to receive real-time emergency alerts from the National Weather Service and find a nearby shelter.
• Manufactured homes are extremely vulnerable. If you live in a manufactured home, determine where you will go before the storm hits, as these types of structures may not withstand hurricane wind or surge damage.  
• Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family and your pets safe. 
• Prepare or update your emergency supply kit. Your kit should include supplies you and your family would  need for several days, including prescription medications or special medical devices. Make sure you include any needed pet supplies. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or weeks.
• Check on neighbors. As you prepare your family and loved ones for a disaster, check on neighbors and folks in your community to see if they are doing the same or help them get started.
  • People with access and functional needs, including older adults, may need extra assistance to prepare for the storm. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider circumstances and needs to effectively prepare. Visit Individuals with Disabilities | Ready.gov to learn more.
  • Determine if you need any special assistance before or after a storm. If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify back-up service providers.  
• Flood Insurance: Your National Flood Insurance Program policy will cover and reimburse certain actions you take to minimize damage to your home and belongings before a flood.

Federal Actions Ahead of Ian

• FEMA is prepositioning supplies and personnel to strategic locations in Florida and Alabama. This will allow us to get help where it needs to be as soon as possible. Supplies being staged at Maxwell Airforce Base include 3.5 million liters of water and 3.6 million meals. Supplies in Alabama include more than a million liters of water, more than 480,000 meals and more than 7,200 cots. Additional supplies are en route.
• The agency has more than 4,000 reservists available to deploy to support any future disasters. Additionally, more than 7,500 Surge Capacity Force members are rostered to deploy if needed. The agency is establishing a personnel mobilization center to expedite forward movement when needed.
• The National Response Coordination Center in Washington, D.C. and the Region 4 Response Coordination Center in Atlanta are activated. This will help us coordinate federal, state, local, territorial and tribal activity.
• FEMA deployed three Incident Management Teams to Atlanta. Another team and a Mobile Emergency Response Support team are in Tallahassee to support any state coordination needs.  Three other Mobile Communications Operation Vehicles are in route to Maxwell Airforce Base in Montgomery, Alabama. 
• Two Urban Search and Rescue Teams and an Incident Support Team are in Florida, and one is in Montgomery, Alabama to support Florida response efforts.
• A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers power restoration team is deploying to Craig Field in Alabama ahead of the storm. FEMA ordered four generator packs, with a total of 117 units. Additional fuel supplies are also being staged at Warner Robins Air Force Base in Georgia.
• FEMA activated a National Medical Transport Support contract for 52 ambulances and 100 paratransit seats. These resources will stage at Orange County Convention Center in Florida.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services deployed a National Disaster Medical System and two health and medical task forces to Florida. Additional DMATs are on alert to deploy as needed.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 09/26/2022 - 17:02

Moffett, Oklahoma Facing Probation from the National Flood Insurance Program

DENTON, Texas – The town of Moffett, Oklahoma will be placed on probationary status by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) on Nov. 26, 2022, due to deficiencies and violations with the town’s floodplain management program unless the town can either remediate all outstanding violations or prepare a compliance plan approved by FEMA.

The NFIP currently provides nine policies within the town of Moffett, including four non-residential policies for Moffett Public Schools and five residential policies.

When a community joins the NFIP, it voluntarily adopts local floodplain management regulations to meet NFIP minimum floodplain management criteria. Placement on probation is a formal notice to the community that the local floodplain management program is not compliant and is the first step in the process to suspend the community’s eligibility to participate in the NFIP.

Unless the town either remediates the violations or completes a compliance plan approved by FEMA, the probation period will begin on Nov. 26, 2022, and be in effect for one year.

During the probationary period, flood insurance coverage will remain available within Moffett. However, a $50 surcharge will be added to the premium of each new and renewed flood insurance policy sold within the town for at least one year from the effective date of probation. Each flood insurance policyholder in Moffett will receive a notice about the impending probation and the $50 surcharge.

Failure to correct identified deficiencies and to improve the floodplain management program within Moffett during the probationary period can lead to suspension from the NFIP. Flood insurance from the NFIP is no longer available for purchase for communities on suspension. If a flood disaster occurs in a suspended community, most types of federal disaster assistance would not be available. This includes the acquisition, construction or repair of insurable structures within the Special Flood Hazard Area as well as federal assistance to individuals and households for housing and personal property.

FEMA has conducted extensive outreach to the Town of Moffett over three years through formal correspondence, emails, phone calls, a town hall meeting, engagement with local nonprofits, state agencies and a community assistance visit intended to resolve NFIP compliance issues.

FEMA will continue to provide technical assistance and guidance to the town to resolve program deficiencies and correct the violations to help ensure that Moffett residents and property owners have access to flood insurance coverage.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 09/26/2022 - 16:34

FEMA Helps Jumpstart Survivor Recovery in Puerto Rico One Week After Fiona

San Juan, Puerto Rico – One week since the effects of Hurricane Fiona devastated Puerto Rico, FEMA and other federal partners continue to support the Government of Puerto Rico and respond to immediate survivor needs while jumpstarting the longer-term recovery effort.

Through FEMA’s Individual and Households Program, nearly $40 million has been approved for disbursement to survivors including $39.4 million under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program. ONA provides financial help after a disaster to cover expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. These needs may include transportation, childcare and medical and dental expenses.

“Since hurricane Fiona hit Puerto Rico last week we’ve been working very hard with the federal government, including FEMA and all the municipalities, to get Puerto Rico back on its feet and stronger than ever,” said Governor Pedro Pierluisi. “We are committed to ensuring our people have access to essential services. We will continue working collaboratively with all our mayors so that full federal disaster assistance reaches the 78 municipalities”

Fiona disaster survivors in Puerto Rico are encouraged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Survivors in 67 municipalities may register for assistance even if they applied for assistance for Hurricane María, the earthquakes and any other presidentially declared disaster in Puerto Rico.

“Survivors of Hurricane Fiona need assistance right now and we want the island of Puerto Rico to know that FEMA, along with the entire federal family, is working tirelessly to address your needs,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Robert Little III. “With federal, state, local and the support of community partners, together, we can help Puerto Rico recover.”

Individuals, including homeowners and renters, who suffered damage or losses due to Hurricane Fiona in a disaster declared area may register for assistance now.

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.

Three Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA 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.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are also canvassing affected communities to help people apply in person.

manuel.deleon Sun, 09/25/2022 - 17:52

FEMA Urges Preparedness Now for Tropical Storm Ian

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis's request for an emergency declaration on Sept. 24, ahead of Tropical Storm Ian. The declaration authorizes FEMA to provide support for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance under the public assistance program.

As Tropical Storm Ian develops, its track and intensity will change. Residents in Florida should ensure they have their hurricane plans in place and closely monitor local media for forecast updates, directions provided by their local officials and heed local evacuation orders.

Evacuate if you are told to do so. Learn your evacuation routes and have a family emergency plan. Make sure you plan for your pets, as not all evacuation shelters accept pets. If you are a person with disabilities, you may need to take additional steps to plan for both your needs and your service animal.

You can also search for open shelters by texting SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362. Example: Shelter 01234 (standard rates apply).

Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the recently updated free FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive real-time emergency alerts from the National Weather Service and find a nearby shelter.

Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family and your pets safe.

Prepare Now for a Hurricane

• Now is the time to plan. Take these steps to make sure you're ready:
  • Review important documents. Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, like IDs, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space.
  • It's not too late to create a plan with your family. Visit Ready.gov/plan and use the new "Make a Plan" fillable form to walk you through all the steps to begin your plan and then easily save an electronic copy, or share with other family members. Many shelters do not take household pets, remember to create a plan and have supplies for your pets.
• Prepare or update your emergency supply kit. Your kit should include supplies you may need at home as well as a "go kit" if you must evacuate quickly. Include items members of your family may need for several days, including prescription medications or special medical devices. Make sure you include any needed pet supplies. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or weeks.
• Check on neighbors. As you prepare your family and loved ones for a disaster, check on neighbors and folks in your community to see if they are doing the same or help them get started.
  • Older adults may need extra assistance to prepare for the storm. Visit Ready.gov/seniors for more information. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters. Visit Individuals with Disabilities to learn more.
  • Determine if you need any special assistance before or after the storm. If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify back-up service providers.
• Flood insurance. Your National Flood Insurance Program policy will cover and reimburse certain actions you take to minimize damage to your home and belongings before a flood.

Federal Actions Ahead of Ian

• FEMA maintains commodities strategically located at distribution centers throughout the United States and its territories. We are moving supplies from Atlanta to locations in Alabama ahead of the storm.
• The agency has more than 4,000 reservists available to deploy to support any future disasters. Additionally, more than 7,500 Surge Capacity Force members are rostered to deploy if needed.
• FEMA Region 4 Response Coordination Center in Atlanta and the National Response Coordination Center in Washington, D.C., activated today. This will help us coordinate federal, state, local, territorial and tribal activity.
• FEMA deployed one national and one regional Incident Management Team to Atlanta to support any state response needs ahead of the storm.
• FEMA activated three Urban Search and Rescue Type 3 Teams to Florida to support state response efforts.

mashana.davis Sun, 09/25/2022 - 16:40

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Florida

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Florida to supplement the state, tribal and local response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Tropical Storm Ian beginning Sept. 23 and continuing.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, and St. Lucie counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.

Thomas J. McCool has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

mashana.davis Sun, 09/25/2022 - 02:22

Puerto Rico Residents Encouraged to Register for Federal Assistance

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Hurricane Fiona disaster survivors in Puerto Rico are encouraged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Survivors may register for assistance even if they applied for assistance for Hurricane María, the earthquakes and any other presidentially declared disaster in Puerto Rico.

Individuals, including homeowners and renters, who suffered damage or loss due to Hurricane Fiona in the following municipalities may register for assistance now:

Adjuntas, Arecibo, Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Añasco, Arroyo, Barceloneta, Barranquitas, Bayamón, Cabo Rojo, Caguas, Canóvanas, Carolina, Cataño, Cayey, Ceiba, Ciales, Cidra, Coamo, Comerío, Corozal, Dorado, Fajardo, Florida, Guayama, Guayanilla, Guaynabo, Gurabo, Hormigueros, Humacao, Jayuya, Juana Díaz, Juncos, Lares, Las Piedras, Loíza, Luquillo, Manatí, Maricao, Maunabo, Mayagüez, Morovis, Naguabo, Naranjito, Orocovis, Patillas, Peñuelas, Ponce, Río Grande, Salinas, San Juan, San Lorenzo, Santa Isabel, Toa Alta, Toa Baja, Trujillo Alto, Utuado, Vega Alta, Vega Baja, Vieques, Villalba, Yabucoa and Yauco.

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

Three Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA 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. These toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice; operators are standing by to assist survivors in multiple languages.

To expedite your registration, have the following information at hand:

• 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, if available;
• A general list of damage and losses to your home and personal property; and
• If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name.

If you have a homeowner’s or flood insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately, before applying for federal assistance. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin.

Disaster assistance may provide temporary help and a place to stay while you build your recovery plan. Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it may be able to help your recovery move forward by providing grants for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure. FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, those without insurance, or those who may be underinsured, may still receive help after their insurance claims have been settled.

manuel.deleon Sat, 09/24/2022 - 21:45

FEMA Continues Hurricane Fiona Response Efforts: Sept. 24 Updates

WASHINGTON -- On Sept. 21, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi's request for an expedited major disaster declaration. That declaration now authorizes FEMA to provide individual assistance to survivors in 63 municipalities and public assistance and hazard mitigation in all 78 Puerto Rico municipalities.

Five additional municipalities were added to the declaration on Sept. 23, allowing eligible survivors in Arecibo, Barceloneta, Cabo Rojo, Loíza and Manatí to apply for federal assistance. We have teams on the ground conducting damage assessments and using data obtained from satellites to expedite our review. More municipalities may be approved for Individual Assistance as assessments are completed and adjudicated.

Survivors who live in the 63 declared municipalities can apply for federal assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Survivors using a relay service, such as a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are in affected municipalities, conducting outreach and working to help survivors apply for assistance.

FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors who have 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. Since declaration was approved, more than 168,000 survivors applied and FEMA has awarded $40 million as we continue to process applications.

FEMA is committed to making assistance available to all eligible applicants. The agency expanded the type of documentation needed to prove homeownership and occupancy, making it easier to apply for assistance. These include motor vehicle registrations, documentation from schools, federal or state benefit providers, social service organizations or court documents. Survivors with heirship properties, mobile homes or travel trailers who do not have the traditional documentation of ownership verification may also self-certify ownership.

Federal and partner actions to support areas affected by Hurricane Fiona

• FEMA and other federal agencies deployed more than 1,000 employees to Puerto Rico to support the response. This is in addition to 700 staff who live and work on the island and the hundreds of trained volunteers who also deployed to assist.
• Five FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are in Puerto Rico to bolster response efforts. Additionally, Mobile Emergency Response Support, Incident Support Base, Staging Management Teams and Mobile Communication Office Vehicle operators are on the island.
• A Water Distribution Task Force with members from the federal and commonwealth government and private sector companies are coordinating water delivery to isolated communities.
• FEMA and the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (Vivienda) are developing a multi-agency Sheltering Transition Team plan to include actions for sheltering and housing resources.
• The Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau continues to provide support to communities and monitor commodity delivery to communities where road access may be limited.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is making low-interest disaster loans available to residents, businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in eligible Puerto Rico municipalities. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, may apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is installing generators at critical facilities and preparing and staging additional generators to support requests. Additional personnel are conducting damage assessments in support of the commonwealth and federal response. USACE issued $30,000 in funding to support a team of engineers to assess federal projects and infrastructure and coastal areas for post-storm damages.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and USACE continue to assess drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.
• Mental health resources are available. Survivors experiencing emotional distress can call or text the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. The helpline is confidential, toll-free and multilingual crisis support.
• The American Red Cross is working closely with the local government to provide support. More than 200 trained Red Cross volunteers are assessing damage, delivering emergency supplies to shelters and have provided more than 900 households with emergency supplies.
• Non-profit organizations provided more than 125,000 meals and more than 60,000 pounds of other relief supplies to survivors.
• More than 590 Puerto Rico National Guard members are conducting search and rescue, commodity distribution, security operations and more. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is supporting the island’s search and rescue response.
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency and deployed an Incident Management Team and Health Incident Management Team.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service approved a waiver to allow hot foods to be purchased with Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for one-week. Additionally, the USDA Food & Nutrition Service approved the use of USDA foods for congregate feeding for 2,500 at shelters.

Stay alert to continuing risks

• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not participate in clean up.
• Use a generator safely. Keep generators far from your home. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open as these could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Stay safe during extreme heat: Avoid strenuous work or exercise during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
• Download the free FEMA App (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips, and disaster resources. Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe.

mashana.davis Sat, 09/24/2022 - 15:29

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Alaska to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm, flooding and landslides from Sept. 15-20.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon.

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 who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 

Federal funding also is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures in the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon.

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

Timothy Manner has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

zella.campbell Sat, 09/24/2022 - 14:37

Five Additional Municipalities Affected by Hurricane Fiona Can Now Apply for FEMA Assistance

San Juan, Puerto Rico – On Sept. 23, President Biden made federal funding available to affected individuals in five additional municipalities in Puerto Rico, Arecibo, Barceloneta, Cabo Rojo, Loíza and Manatí to supplement territorial and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Fiona. 

Residents in 63 municipalities who suffered damage to their homes or personal property may register for disaster assistance with FEMA. Additional municipalities may be made added a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.  Hurricane Fiona disaster survivors in Puerto Rico are encouraged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Survivors may register for assistance even if they applied for assistance for Hurricane María, the earthquakes and any other presidentially declared disaster in Puerto Rico. 

Individuals, including homeowners and renters, who suffered damage or losses due to Hurricane Fiona in a disaster declared area may register for assistance now. 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. Three Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA 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.  

manuel.deleon Sat, 09/24/2022 - 12:56

Free Rebuilding and Repair Tips in Martin and Whitley Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As Kentuckians recover, survivors of the July 26 flooding can get tips and advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be on hand in Martin and Whitley counties to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of disaster. These mitigation specialists will be available Monday, Sept. 26, through Saturday, Oct. 1, at the following locations:

 

Martin County – Evans Hardware, 631 E. Main St., Inez, KY 41224

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

 

Whitley County – Bryant & Son True Value Hardware, 372 S. Fifth St.,     Williamsburg, KY 40769

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

 

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can call 800-621-3362,  go online to disasterassistance.gov, or use the FEMA mobile app to register for disaster assistance or look up the status of their disaster assistance application. 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 Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.

sandra.habib Fri, 09/23/2022 - 18:49

Apply Today, Disaster Assistance Deadline is One Week Away

OKLAHOMA CITY—Oklahoma residents affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 2-8 have one week remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, Sept. 28.

Federal assistance may help eligible survivors pay for rent, home repair or replacement and many other disaster-related needs, including vehicle repair or replacement, funeral expenses, medical or dental expenses and other costs associated with recovery from a disaster.

If you have not applied for federal assistance, there are several ways to apply.

• Log onto DisasterAssistance.gov to submit your application for disaster assistance. The website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week.
• Visit the Disaster Recovery Center in Seminole County. The DRC is located at:

Seminole State College

David L. Boren Library Room 105

2701 Boren Blvd.

Seminole, OK 74868

Hours: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday.

For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4657. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/23/2022 - 18:29

FEMA Continues Hurricane Fiona Response Efforts: Sept. 23 Updates

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional assistance available to the Government of Puerto Rico Sept. 22. During a briefing on Puerto Rico’s response activities at FEMA’s Region 2 office in New York City, the President announced 100% federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures for 30 days. He also announced three additional municipalities, Añasco, Hormigueros and Mayagüez, are now eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, allowing more survivors to apply for federal assistance.  

On Sept. 21, President Biden, approved Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration. The declaration now authorizes FEMA to provide individual assistance to survivors in 58 municipalities, and public assistance and hazard mitigation in all 78 Puerto Rico municipalities.

FEMA surged hundreds of employees to Puerto Rico to support the response. This is in addition to 700 staff who live and work on the island. We have teams on the ground conducting damage assessments and are also using data obtained from flyers and satellites to expedite our review. More municipalities can be approved for Individual Assistance as those assessments are completed and adjudicated.

Survivors who live in the 58 declared municipalities can apply for federal assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Survivors using a relay service, such as a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are in affected municipalities and are conducting outreach and working to help survivors apply for assistance.

Federal and Partner Actions to Support Areas Affected by Hurricane Fiona

• Five FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams and four Urban Search and Rescue teams are in Puerto Rico to bolster response efforts. Additionally, Mobile Emergency Response Support, Incident Support Base, Staging Management Teams and Mobile Communication Office Vehicle operators are on the island. Disaster Emergency Communications are repairing the La Santa Communication Tower in Humacao.
• Water Distribution Task Force, federal, commonwealth and private sector members are coordinating water delivery to isolated communities.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is making low-interest disaster loans available to residents, businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in eligible Puerto Rico municipalities. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, may apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is installing generators at critical facilities and preparing and staging additional generators to support requests. Additional personnel are conducting damage assessments in support of the commonwealth and federal response. USACE issued $30,000 in funding that will support deploying a team of engineers to assess federal projects and infrastructure and coastal areas for post-storm damages.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and USACE continue to assess drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.
• The U.S. Department of Education is assessing damage and needs of schools on the island.
• Mental health resources are available. Survivors experiencing emotional distress can call or text the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. The helpline is confidential, toll-free and multilingual crisis support.
• The American Red Cross is working closely with the local government to provide support. More than 200 trained Red Cross volunteers are assessing damage, delivering emergency supplies to shelters and have provided more than 700 households with emergency supplies.
• The Salvation Army is distributing hot meals to survivors on the island.
• More than 550 Puerto Rico National Guard members are conducting search and rescue, commodity distribution, security operations and more. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is supporting the island’s search and rescue response.  
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency, and also deployed an Incident Management Team, Health Incident Management Team, Disaster Medical Assistance personnel and three medical support teams to aid Urban Search and Rescue operations.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service approved a waiver to allow hot foods to be purchased with Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for one-week. Additionally, the USDA Food & Nutrition Service approved the use of USDA foods for congregate feeding for 2,500 at shelters.

Stay Alert to Continuing Risks

• Avoid downed power lines: Do not touch or drive over downed power lines. Always assume a downed power line is unsafe and contact the power company and emergency personnel.  
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded: Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Use a generator safely: Keep generators far from your home. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open as these could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Stay safe during extreme heat: Avoid strenuous work or exercise during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
• Download the free FEMA App (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips, and disaster resources. Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/23/2022 - 14:23

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional assistance available to the Government of Puerto Rico to supplement territorial and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Fiona, beginning Sept. 17 and continuing.

This approval allows for 100% retroactive federal funding to cover debris removal, emergency protective measures and direct federal assistance for a period of 30 days from the incident period.

The President's action also makes federal funding available to affected individuals in three additional municipalities within Puerto Rico--Añasco, Hormigueros and Mayagüez. The original 55 municipalities can be found here.

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.

You can apply for disaster assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA 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.

mashana.davis Fri, 09/23/2022 - 00:12