FEMA Celebrates Disaster Resilience Month, Highlighting Billions of Dollars Committed Mitigation Funding

WASHINGTON -- During Disaster Resilience Month in August, FEMA announced several bold actions to make the nation safer from extreme weather events and other hazards.

These include more than $4 billion in grant announcements and future funding opportunities, boosted by investments from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As part of the rollout process, FEMA is expanding assistance to communities to increase grant access and revising materials to be simpler so governments navigate programs.

The announcements represent the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to increase climate resilience in order to protect people and infrastructure from natural hazards and the effects of climate change like more energized hurricanes with deadlier storm surges, extreme heat and more frequent and severe droughts, wildfires and floods.

“Hurricanes are more energized, wildfire season is now a year-long threat and devastating floods are becoming too common,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “These devastating effects of climate change and associated extreme weather are a call to action. FEMA, and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are answering that call, proactively expanding resilience investments to communities across the nation, with a special emphasis on those who need it the most.”

Aligning with FEMA’s strategic plan, the agency recognizes that when individuals and communities are climate literate, they are better positioned to take necessary steps to apply that knowledge to build resilient communities. These grants are a tool to help the nation shift towards smart investments in system-based, community-wide projects to protect those at most severe and persistent risk.

“As natural hazards worsen, it’s imperative to be proactive and find solutions which make communities safer,” said Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks. “The announcements we have made this month are a testament to FEMA’s commitment to supporting community resilience in a way which is both effective and equitable.”

While Disaster Resilience Month focuses on community and infrastructure actions, FEMA will now shift to promoting individual initiatives in National Preparedness Month, held annually in September.  

Here’s a summary of announcements for Disaster Resilience Month:

• On Aug. 1 in Miami, Vice President Kamala Harris announced selections for $1.16 billion in climate resilience funding through two competitive grant programs -- Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities  and Flood Mitigation Assistance -- to help communities across the nation enhance climate and disaster resiliency.
  • For BRIC, FEMA selected projects across all 10 FEMA regions with 53 states and territories, the District of Columbia and 271 different communities, including 33 tribes.
  • The Flood Mitigation Assistance grant programs’ 19 states and 72 different communities will also receive funding.
• On Aug. 5, the Shoalwater Bay Tribe in Washington dedicated a FEMA-funded evacuation tower to keep its community safe from tsunamis.
• On Aug. 9, FEMA's Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak toured areas of Wisconsin and the city of Madison. Sivak met with Wisconsin Emergency Management Hazard Mitigation Program Supervisor and Engineer for the city of Madison to highlight benefits of mitigation projects.
• On Aug. 12 in Gastonia, North Carolina, Administrator Criswell announced more than $3 billion in funding for the BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs for the next annual funding cycle. BRIC more than doubles to nearly $2.3 billion while the Flood Mitigation Assistance program is seeing a five-fold increase to $800 million.
  • The administrator joined the FEMA's Region 4 Administrator Gracia Szczech and Gov. Roy Cooper to mark the city of Gastonia’s critical infrastructure restoration and stream protection project following its selection by FEMA for the FY 21 BRIC funding cycle. The project will use federal grant funding will to restore a stream, stabilize a creek bank and realign critical water and power infrastructure.
  • These funding levels are bolstered by nearly $900 million through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: $200 million for BRIC and $700 million for Flood Mitigation Assistance. Both programs were vastly oversubscribed, representing the intense demand for climate resilience funding.
• On Aug. 12, FEMA announced expanding investment in the BRIC’s non-financial Direct Technical Assistance to at least 40 communities in the next grant cycle to help build capacity and capability at the local level. The assistance reduces barriers a community may face that could prevent them from accessing the BRIC program. It includes helping communities submit high-quality applications for innovative projects that can increase resiliency.  This is an increase from eight communities for FY 20 and 20 in FY 21.
• On Aug. 12, FEMA’s Region 10 Administrator Willie Nunn joined State of Washington and local officials to announce projects selected for the FY 21 funding cycle and the future FY 22 cycle. The event took place near the location of the planned North Shore Levee project, which selected during the FY 21 cycle. It will provide critical flood protection for residents and businesses across Aberdeen and Hoquiam.
• On Aug. 23, FEMA’s Region 1 Administrator Paul Ford joined local and state officials to visit the wastewater treatment plant in Leominster, Massachusetts. The project will protect the plant’s infrastructure from potential failure following erosion along the Nashua River.
• On Aug. 24, FEMA published a notice in the Federal Register seeking public comment on updates to its Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program and Policy Guide. The guide provides helpful information for state, local, tribal and territorial governments seeking to successfully navigate the application and grant processes. It has been updated be more equitable, reduce complexity and address climate resilience.
• On Aug. 29, FEMA announced the launching of a notice of intent for a future funding opportunity to reduce vulnerability to natural hazards, foster greater community resilience and reduce disaster suffering. The Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation Revolving Loan Fund program will provide no less than $50 million in capitalization grants to states to fund low-interest loans to local governments. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, also commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Congress appropriated $500 million for this opportunity through 2026.
  • One of the primary sponsors of this legislation, Senator Gary Peters, did an event in Traverse City, Michigan with the FEMA Region 5 administrator marking this opportunity. 
• On Aug. 29 FEMA launched a new webpage Climate Resilience in Action to have a central focal point for different types of media stories that address the effects of climate change. There are a series best practice stories and video stories highlighting how communities are protecting their legacies, building back stronger and becoming climate resilient.
• On Aug. 29, the FEMA's Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani joined local officials in Provo, Utah to announce a water supply project received the maximum funding of $50 million for an aquifer storage recharge system, selection during the FY 21 cycle. The project will help maintain an adequate level of clean drinking water for the community.
• On Aug. 30, the City of Tulsa and State of Oklahoma officials joined FEMA’s  FEMA’s Acting Deputy Administrator of Resilience, Victoria Salinas and the Region 6 Deputy Administrator representatives for an event marking the city’s resilience project being selected during the FY 21 BRIC project cycle. The flood reduction project will make infrastructure enhancements by increasing the capacity of the storm sewer system and constructing two detention ponds and culverts.
• On Aug. 31, FEMA will make new support materials available to governments to help them apply for FEMA resilience grants. The materials aid state, local, tribal and territorial governments in submitting more successful Hazard Mitigation Grant Program applications.
  • Materials also help them reduce time it takes to receive awards. The application period for the $3.46 billion in HMGP funding available for all 59 COVID-19 major disaster declarations has been extended to provide more time for states, tribes and territories across the nation to work with communities in developing quality sub-applications that will make them more climate resilient.

For more information about FEMA’s hazard mitigation assistance programs, visit fema.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/31/2022 - 23:12

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in O’Fallon, Missouri

A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will open in O’Fallon, Missouri (St. Charles County) on Thursday, September 1 to provide one-on-one assistance to people directly affected by the July 25—28 flooding and severe storms.

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

The disaster recovery center location is:

O’Fallon Municipal Centre

100 N. Main St.

O’Fallon, MO 63366

(Southeast Entrance)

Hours: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

• After this Sunday, September 4, all six FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed on Sundays.
• The Disaster Recovery Centers will still be open six days a week: Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice.
• Labor Day hours: All Disaster Recovery Centers will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Labor Day, Monday, September 5.

Other recovery centers are open in these locations:

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Urban League Empowerment Center                

9420 W Florissant Ave.

Ferguson, MO 63136

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

University City Recreation Center

Centennial Commons

7210 Olive Blvd

University City, MO 63130

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042                                   

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. LOUIS CITY

Ranken Technical College

Mary Ann Lee Technology Center

1313 N. Newstead Ave.

St. Louis, MO 63113

(On the corner of Newstead and Page)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

ST. CHARLES COUNTY

Developmental Disabilities Resource Board – DDRB Building

1025 Country Club Road

St. Charles, MO 63303

(I-70 near Zumbehl Road Exit)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome.

Before visiting a center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362). Hours on Labor Day are: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

People directly affected by flooding in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County may visit any recovery center.

For needs directly related to the July 25—28 flooding, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food

By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.            For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

tiana.suber Wed, 08/31/2022 - 20:27

FEMA Administrator Reaffirms Collaboration with Local Government in Reconstruction Efforts

As a prelude to the commemoration of the five-year mark of Hurricane María, Deanne Criswell visited Puerto Rico to highlight the mitigation opportunities available through agency funds

San Juan, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Administrator, Deanne Criswell, visited Puerto Rico this week to hold meetings with several officials and the agency's local team, as part of the events leading up to the commemoration of the five-year mark of Hurricane María. The Administrator's agenda focused on the achievement of over 10,000 obligated projects and the mitigation opportunities available in the reconstruction progress.

This trip marks Criswell’s second visit to Puerto Rico since taking office as FEMA Administrator in 2021.

During her meeting with Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi and Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero, the officials discussed projects under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and the expediting of funds to rebuild critical infrastructure through FEMA's Accelerated Awards Strategy (FAASt), a pilot initiative that began in Puerto Rico.

The Administrator also reaffirmed her and the agency's commitment to the projects that are pending an allocation of funds.

As of today, the country has over $126 million in HMGP funds, a tool that also supports the work of the municipalities during an emergency.

"Puerto Rico has a unique opportunity to not only rebuild, but to build back better. The historic assistance provided by FEMA presents Puerto Ricans with the opportunity to meet their goal of a strong infrastructure prepared to mitigate future damage. As an agency, we remain committed to advancing equity and combating climate change, while increasing preparedness and resilience in the face of future natural and man-made disasters," Criswell said.

Meanwhile, Governor Pierluisi said, "In our meeting, I took the opportunity to thank her for the agency's unequivocal support and efforts to help Puerto Rico. The relationship we have developed with FEMA since the beginning of my administration last year has resulted in a steady progress toward rebuilding Puerto Rico and benefiting our people. We have constant communication and full collaboration, and we're working together as a team toward a more agile reconstruction.”

According to Federal Coordinator Baquero, the Administrator's visit underscores the importance of Puerto Rico's recovery to the agency. "The entire world is facing a variety of extreme consequences as a result of climate change, and we know what that means for the agency. For that and much more, we're extremely grateful for Administrator Criswell's visit, as her participation in key meetings with recovery leaders was invaluable as we continue the work ahead."

Another of Criswell's priority meetings took place at the Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3) with Executive Director Manuel Laboy. The officials discussed their shared vision for advancing projects aimed at mitigating damage from future natural disasters. They also discussed the priority of finalizing the update of mitigation plans for municipalities, a goal that will be completed soon.

Furthermore, Administrator Criswell also met with FEMA's Joint Recovery Office (JRO) staff to discuss labor equity initiatives in Puerto Rico. At the meeting, the federal official highlighted the efforts of the internal teams that drafted and implemented the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation document, created to plan, strategize and make evidence-based decisions at the programmatic and operational levels. Criswell also recognized the staff responsible for designing nature-based project strategies to mitigate future damages.

Puerto Rico has already been allocated over $28 billion in Public Assistance funds for recovery and reconstruction projects. These funds also include over $9.5 billion under FAASt for the reconstruction of Puerto Rico's electrical grid, aqueduct and sewer system, public schools, and public housing.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 08/31/2022 - 20:14

ICYMI: FEMA Administrator Visits USVI to Receive Irma/Maria Recovery Update, Tours WAPA Power Generation Plant and Juan F. Luis Hospital North

Washington -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell reviewed ongoing response and recovery activities in the United States Virgin Islands with visits to Government House, the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority’s Estate Richmond Power Generation Plant and Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital North on the island of St. Croix.

This trip marks Criswell’s second visit to the USVI as FEMA Administrator.

“Visits like this give me the opportunity to engage with community partners to better understand the ongoing recovery mission,” said Criswell. “Even as new threats emerge, like sargassum and the effects of climate change, FEMA continues to work closely with Governor Bryan and all of the territory’s agencies to move recovery forward here in the Virgin Islands.”

"We remain grateful for the support of FEMA under the leadership of Administrator Criswell in our effort to not only rebuild a resilient public infrastructure post hurricanes Irma and Maria but also for their support as we transform our territory for generations to come," said Gov. Bryan.

During her visit, Criswell reviewed the state of the recovery with USVI Recovery Director Kristen Hodge and her staff and discussed the ongoing sargassum response with Federal Coordinating Office Patrick Cornbill and Caribbean Area Office Coordinator Mark Walters. She also met at Government House with Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s Chief of Staff Karl Knight, Office of Disaster Recovery Director Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA)  Director Daryl Jaschen and WAPA CEO Andrew Smith.

Following her meeting at Government House, Criswell received a tour of the water desalination plant co-located at the Estate Richmond Power Generation Plant from WAPA leadership to gain new insight into both the recovery from Hurricane Maria and the response to a recent sargassum inundation impacting water production.

Criswell also visited Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital North for an update on the status construction of the temporary hospital slated to open later this year. FEMA has obligated $111 million for the temporary hospital. FEMA has also awarded $10.5 million for architectural and engineering work for the permanent hospital, currently estimated to cost $800 million for its replacement. 

 

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell receives updates on Irma/Maria Recovery from Recovery Director Kristen Hodge and the sargassum inundation response from Federal Coordinating Officer Patrick Cornbill. (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell greets FEMA employees who work for the Irma/Maria Recovery (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell discusses the territory’s hurricane preparedness and ongoing response efforts with VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen in a meeting at Government House on St. Croix. (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell receives a tour of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Estate Richmond Power Plant and Water Desalination Plant to discuss ongoing projects and internal operations to improve the territory’s power and water infrastructure and reliability. (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

St. Croix, USVI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell receives a tour of the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital’s new temporary facility under construction on St. Croix. The new temporary hospital will provide a new, up-to-date medical facility to ensure continuing hospital care for Virgin Islanders when the current hospital is replaced as part of the Irma/Maria recovery.  (FEMA Photo by Brett Walsh)

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/31/2022 - 17:53

Protect the Life You’ve Built, Get Started as National Preparedness Month Kicks Off Tomorrow

CHICAGO – September is National Preparedness Month, and FEMA Region 5 in Chicago encourages everyone to take the steps to prepare for disasters and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

 “Prioritizing personal readiness and the things you value should be part of any plan to take care of your loved ones now and in the years ahead,” said Tom Sivak, regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Protecting your legacy doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. Start with simple steps and include each member of your household, so everyone has a part in safeguarding the future.”  

Lower- or No-Cost Disaster Preparedness Tips 

• Learn your risks and make a plan. Ready.gov offers free resources to learn more about the disasters you may face and what to consider when planning for them.
• Access local resources. Contact your local fire department to find out if they may have programs that provide fire or carbon monoxide detectors. Check online for free or discounted CPR courses offered near you.
• Sign up for free emergency alerts in your area to receive life-saving information from your state and local municipality.
• Verify your home is fully insured for the disaster risks in your area. Talk to your insurance agent to ensure there are no gaps in your coverage, but also remember you should shop around to get the best rate. Ask about discounts that may be available and consider increasing the deductibles to reduce your premiums.
• Make sure everyone in the house knows how to turn off the electricity, gas and water in case of emergency.
• Store important documents and information in a safe place. Items like passports, birth certificates, maps and electronics should be put in a flood-safe place like a high shelf or upper floor in resealable, water-tight plastic bags to help waterproof them. Store important documents like insurance policies digitally. Make sure you put important phone numbers somewhere besides just your cell phone.
• Build your emergency supply kit over time. Start with items you may already have in your home, like a flashlight, extra batteries, copies of important documents, water and non-perishable food. When you go to the grocery store, pick up an extra item each time that you use regularly, especially if it’s on sale! Community food banks are a potential resource for food-insecure families to stock their emergency supply kits. Also consider battery-free supplies, like wind-up flashlights and weather radios, and it’s a good idea to have an external phone charger at the ready in case of a power outage.   

For detailed information about how to be ready for the emergencies you may be at risk for visit Ready.gov or our Spanish site at Listo.gov. Learn more about National Preparedness Month by visiting Ready.gov/September.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 08/31/2022 - 17:50

The Life You’ve Built Is Worth Protecting

ATLANTA – Create a lasting legacy for yourself and your family. Prepare now for future disasters.

September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder of the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. FEMA is working to ensure that all communities and populations have access to information about how to prepare.

“It is vital for everyone to prepare for disasters and other unexpected events,” said Gracia B. Szczech, Regional Administrator for FEMA’s Region 4. “Everyone should take steps to prepare for emergencies at home, school, work and places of worship.”

Make a plan today. Having a plan before disaster strikes can help you save precious time and money. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find. Ask yourself: How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings? What is my shelter plan? What is my evacuation route? What is my family/household communication plan? Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?

Help your children be prepared. On Ready.gov or Listo.gov you will find tools to help kids become a Disaster Master. You will meet Pedro the Penguin, who will teach kids all about staying safe.

Secure your financial legacy: If a disaster strikes, having insurance for your home or business property is the best way to ensure you will have the necessary financial resources to help you repair, rebuild or replace whatever is damaged. Yet more than half of all homeowners in the United States do not carry adequate homeowner’s insurance to replace their home and its contents should a catastrophic loss occur. Flood insurance is an important resource that covers damage not included in most homeowner’s policies. Contact an insurance agent or visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more about coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program.

Get involved in your community: During disaster response, affected communities depend heavily on local and national volunteer organizations to provide trained volunteers and donated supplies. Get involved today by donating to or volunteering with a reputable organization of your choice through the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (NVOAD). Join a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program and get trained on basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

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neily.chapman Wed, 08/31/2022 - 17:02

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

WASHINGTON — FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Mississippi to supplement state response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a water crisis beginning on Aug. 30, 2022 and continuing.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Hinds County.

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, will be provided at 75% federal funding for a period of 90 days.

Allan Jarvis has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.  

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 08/31/2022 - 14:13

FEMA Awards Brown University Nearly $4 Million for COVID Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $4 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse Brown University for the costs of testing students and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,961,745 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private research university in Providence for the cost of administering 76,861 tests between October 2021 and January 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Brown University 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.

These grants brings the total awarded by FEMA to the State of Rhode Island to almost $544 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Wed, 08/31/2022 - 03:34

FEMA Awards Almost $5.7 Million to Amherst College for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $5.7 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Amherst College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $5,682,750 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private liberal arts college in Amherst for the cost of administering 285,870 tests between July 2020 and February 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Amherst 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 $1.2 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Wed, 08/31/2022 - 03:32

FEMA Awards Rhode Island Health Department Nearly $2 Million for COVID Data Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $2 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state health department for the costs of data analysis to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,954,029 FEMA Public Assistance grant will go to the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) for contracting for experts in data analytics to perform analyses about COVID-19 cases between January and August 2021.

The data was then used by the state’s executive team to inform decisions about actions to take to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus and respond to the challenges it presented.

“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 almost $544 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Wed, 08/31/2022 - 02:59

FEMA Awards State of Rhode Island More Than $2 Million for COVID Fighting Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state health department for the costs of setting up a quarantine resource center during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,016,951 FEMA Public Assistance grant will go to the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) for contracting for services and using its own personnel to set up a resource center to provide individuals and families with information and access to vital services in order to ensure their compliance with quarantine and isolation protocols between July and December 2021.

The center also provided data analytics support for evaluating existing data and analytical reporting processes, and provided a plan to refine and enhance practices. The data was then used by the state’s executive team to inform decisions.

“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 almost $544 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Wed, 08/31/2022 - 02:57

One Month Later: Eastern Kentucky Survivors Benefit from More than $92 Million in Federal Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – One month after historic flooding hit Eastern Kentucky, federal, commonwealth and local resources are working with residents of Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties to help them start their recovery. To date, more than $92 million has been approved in federal grants, loans and flood insurance payments.

As of Aug. 28, 2022:

• FEMA has approved $53.6 million for 6,550 individuals and households, including rental assistance for 3,833 for homeowners and renters and $10 Million for other disaster-related needs.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $27.1 million in disaster loans for 333 homeowners, renters and businesses.
• The National Flood Insurance Program has received 441 claims and paid $11.3 million.

“Every disaster is unique, and with that comes a set of unique challenges. FEMA’s willingness to be flexible within their regulations is appreciated and is necessary to continue to meet the need of Eastern Kentucky,” said Kentucky Emergency Management Director Jeremy Slinker. “Kentucky Emergency Management is committed to coordinating with all our local, state and federal partners to continue to meet the current needs, as well as initiating the recovery process.”

“Our FEMA team members have come from around the country to assist Kentuckians in their time of need,” said Federal Coordinating Officer of Kentucky recovery Brett Howard. “Having such a diverse group of people allows us to innovate and find new ways to overcome the challenges of disaster recovery.”

More than 800 federal personnel from around the country are on the ground in Kentucky helping with flood recovery.

In Eastern Kentucky, challenges include flood-damaged roads, bridges and access routes to many homes preventing some survivors from accessing help or being able to reliably connect with FEMA. Applicants whose homes are isolated in these situations may receive a small initial payment from FEMA. This is to pay for them to get a contractor’s written estimate for the cost of repair for their road or bridge to allow access.

To combat these challenges, FEMA applicant services staff is calling survivors to make sure every applicant who received a FEMA letter stating they are ineligible gets the one-on-one help they need with their application. To date FEMA has approved more than 2,700 additional applicants through this process.

In cases where FEMA housing inspectors were unable to reach applicants by phone or in-person three times, FEMA is sending teams door-to-door to meet with survivors where they live. The teams include Disaster Survivor Assistance personnel to answer questions about the process, a local official and a FEMA housing inspector to ensure an inspection is completed. These teams have provided face-to-face assistance to more than 600 Kentucky survivors helping them keep their recovery process on track.

FEMA continues to operate mobile registration centers, mobile Disaster Recovery Centers and six fixed recovery centers in six hard-hit counties. The mobile registration centers focus on helping people apply for federal assistance, while the mobile and fixed recovery centers can provide face to face assistance from FEMA, the Commonwealth and SBA. These centers have served more than 7,000 disaster survivors and continue to operate to assist those who need face-to-face help.

Eastern Kentucky flood survivors have until Sept. 28, 2022 to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

sandra.habib Tue, 08/30/2022 - 15:41

Tulsa Advances to Round 2 Consideration for FEMA Mitigation Grant to Enhance Community Resilience

DENTON, Texas – The City of Tulsa has advanced to Round 2 consideration for FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant. The nearly $20 million project would improve the city’s resilience to flooding and extreme heat, as well as its water quality. If selected, the City of Tulsa would use the funds to make significant drainage improvements to Fulton Creek.

FEMA’s Acting Resilience Deputy Administrator Victoria Salinas joined Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum and other local officials at a media event today to recognize city leaders for this achievement and other ongoing efforts to strengthen their neighborhoods, protect their citizens and to lower flood insurance rates.

FEMA’s BRIC Grant Program supports states, local communities, tribes and territories for mitigation planning, adoption and enforcement of building codes and standards, project scoping and small-scale mitigation projects. Tulsa’s grant submission was selected based on the highest composite score assessed during the review. 

Tulsa has spent decades developing lofty stormwater management goals including drainage system maintenance and floodplain development priorities. These actions have helped to reduce risk from future flooding and to save lives.

“The City of Tulsa serves as an example of how a people-centered, city-wide resilience strategy benefits the whole community,” FEMA’s Victoria Salinas said. “FEMA commends Tulsa as a national leader in community flood risk reduction, and for proposing a project that will create more equitable outcomes for all area residents, businesses and homeowners. We are excited that Tulsa has advanced in the BRIC grant application process. The possibility of providing more funding to help them implement a project that will further community resilience is exciting and encouraging to other communities that wish to do the same.”

The City of Tulsa has a system-based approach to improving resilience to flooding, heat and water quality. To reduce flooding, Tulsa’s project submission will allow the city to make infrastructure enhancements along Fulton Creek by increasing the capacity of the storm sewer system and constructing two detention ponds and culverts. Stormwater runoff prevention will also be enhanced by adding trees to reduce heat and limiting development.

These improvements will result in a more usable, environmentally sensitive, healthier, and safer community while reducing risk from future flooding and to save lives.

Project awards could be announced as early as Spring 2023. For more information on the BRIC Grant Program and other mitigation funding opportunities, visit fema.gov/grants/mitigation.

Tulsa's Top NFIP Community Rating Reduces Insurance Rates for Residents

On April 1, Tulsa hit the highest possible rating under the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System (CRS). Achieving a Class 1 rating has only been accomplished by one other city in the country. Tulsa’s leaders and planners long ago realized something had to be done to avoid future losses from floods. This Class 1 rating is reducing insurance rates for residents by 45 percent. Learn more about the city’s CRS achievement at fema.gov/blog/city-tulsa-rises-top-leader-risk-reduction.

Carmen.Castro Tue, 08/30/2022 - 15:11

FEMA Awards More Than $2.7 Million to Plymouth State University for COVID Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2.7 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Plymouth State University for the cost of providing testing for students and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,731,448 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the public university in Plymouth will reimburse it for contracting to provide 27,313 COVID-19 tests between July 2020 and July 2021.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Plymouth State University 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 almost $151 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 08/30/2022 - 00:24

FEMA Awards More Than $3.3 Million to Boston College for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $3.3 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Boston College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,311,550 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private Jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill for the cost of administering 132,462 tests between January and May 2021.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Boston 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 $1.2 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 08/30/2022 - 00:23

FEMA Awards Almost $13.4 Million to Tufts Medical Center for COVID-19 Operating Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $13.4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Tufts Medical Center for the increased cost of operating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $13,370,543 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the teaching hospital in Boston affiliated with Tufts University School of Medicine for steps taken to protect the health of its work force, patients and the general public between March and August 2020.

The expenses incurred included purchasing additional medical equipment and supplies for the treatment of COVID-19 patients; hiring additional medical care staff and supporting services; purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE), disinfection services and supplies; and the cost of converting some hospital facility space into treatment areas, including negative-pressure intensive care units (ICUs).

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Tufts Medical Center with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

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

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.2 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 08/30/2022 - 00:22

FEMA, Utah DEM Recognize Resilient Infrastructure Projects

Provo, Utah – Monday morning, FEMA and the State of Utah recognized three projects in the state that have been selected for federal funding under the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) competitive grant program. For the fiscal 2021 year, $1 billion was made available, with the three Utah projects receiving more than $100 million, or 10 percent of total funding nationwide.

“Public infrastructure can often be taken for granted, but it must operate as intended for our society to function properly,” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani. “Projects like these ensure daily life can continue in our communities even in the face of natural hazards.” "This is a great example of a local, state and federal partnership.  It is unprecedented for Utah to receive this level of funding for pre-disaster mitigation efforts," said Kris Hamlet, Director of Utah Division of Emergency Management. "It's important to remember that this BRIC funding, along with the local contribution, is an investment in the future of these communities, in the resilience of these communities when facing disaster. The completion of these projects will pay dividends in the quality of life for many years to come."

The selected projects include:

•  $50 million to the City of Provo for a water supply project to address the threat of drought.  The project will use excess water from the Provo River to recharge the Provo Aquifer. The award represents a 61 percent federal cost share, with $50 million being the maximum amount available under the program.
•  $36.7 million to Salt Lake City for enhancements to a water treatment plant.  The project includes several flood mitigation measures to facility components and a seismic retrofit for one building.  The award represents a 70 percent federal cost share,
•  $21.6 million to the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District for a parallel water pipeline for the Davis Aqueduct.  The parallel line will use earthquake resistant steel pipe and be routed though less seismically sensitive areas, allowing continued service should the existing pipeline be damaged or blocked after a quake. The award represents a 40 percent federal cost share.

“Provo City has been recognized nationally for our forward-looking waterwise efforts,” said Mayor Michelle Kaufusi. “In the short-term by encouraging citizen water conservation, and in the long-run by focusing on ground water storage, re-use and other sustainable methods.  FEMA’s support in constructing our water treatment facility is vital to our community’s drought resistance.”

In addition to the competitive grant funding, each state receives $1 million in allocated funds, which Utah used to fund 10 additional projects, consisting of scoping studies for larger projects and updates to local mitigation plans.

Additional information about the BRIC program can be found at www.fema.gov/bric.

 

Brian.Hvinden Mon, 08/29/2022 - 23:02

Biden-Harris Administration Launches Resilience Revolving Loan Fund Program Funded By Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund will reduce disaster suffering and vulnerability to natural hazards

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is launching a notice of intent for a new program to fund resilience projects that will make communities safer from natural hazards. The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund program will make $50 million available in capitalization grants to states to fund low-interest loans to local governments.

The program is funded by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invests $500 million in the program over five years.

The program will allow jurisdictions to reduce vulnerability to natural hazards, foster greater community resilience to climate change, and reduce disaster suffering. In particular, the new program will help homeowners, businesses, nonprofit organizations and communities fund hazard mitigation projects that reduce disaster risks. Loans will also be available to help local governments satisfy non-federal cost share requirements under FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, update building codes adoption and enforcement, and make zoning and land use changes.

“As the impacts of climate change bring increases in extreme weather, one of our key roles at DHS is to ensure communities are prepared, able to respond, and equipped and resourced to recover from a natural disaster,” said DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “These capitalization grants through the new Infrastructure Investment legislation that President Biden signed into law are helping ensure we are proactively investing in communities’ resilience.”

“Supporting local communities in their fight against climate change requires a multi-pronged approach,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “FEMA’s revolving loans join a suite of other hazard mitigation grant programs and serve as a unique tool our partners can use in their pursuit of building climate resilience.”

“Increasing our nation’s resilience to climate change and the associated natural hazards is a shared responsibility — FEMA cannot do it alone,” said Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks. “Fortunately, the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan program provides us with the opportunity to work collaboratively across different levels of government to help ensure that all communities are climate resilient.”

FEMA expects to publish the program funding opportunity by the end of 2022 and receive applications through spring 2023. Initial funding will focus on both increasing public understanding of the program and working with participating communities to learn how to enhance the program in future iterations.

Since taking office, President Biden provided additional funding to FEMA’s annual resilience grant programs—Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities and Flood Mitigation Assistance—more than doubling last year’s funding to approximately $3 billion for FY 22 grant applications. Both programs also include significant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  

“Natural disasters in Michigan and across the nation continue destroying homes, forcing small businesses to shut their doors, and causing millions of dollars’ worth of damage. That is why I created this program to help states establish low-cost revolving loan funds that will allow local communities to invest in projects like seawalls and storm water drains that mitigate damage from extreme weather events,” said U.S. Senator Gary Peters, Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and author of the STORM Act. “This announcement is a significant step to ensuring communities can begin accessing these critical funds. As Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, I’ll continue my efforts to ensure this program is implemented as soon as possible so we can improve our nation’s resilience.”

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance helps communities increase resilience to extreme heat waves, drought, wildfires, flood and hurricanes by funding transformational projects that reduce risk to multiple hazards, support adaptation to future conditions, and lessen the impact of all disasters on our nations most underserved residents and disadvantaged communities. 

Visit fema.gov for more information.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 08/29/2022 - 22:01

Apply with FEMA Today, Application Deadline One Month Away

OKLAHOMA CITY—Oklahoma residents affected by the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding May 2-8 have one month remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline to apply is Sept. 28, 2022.

There may be several reasons that you have not applied with FEMA. However, federal assistance may be a necessary step in your disaster recovery.

Common Misconceptions Debunked:

• “I have my own insurance.” Even if you have insurance you should apply for assistance. Sometimes damage is found that insurance won’t cover, but federal disaster assistance may.
• “I’m still waiting on a visit from my insurance adjuster.” You should still apply with FEMA, as your insurance may not meet all your disaster-related needs.
• “I think I make too much money to apply for assistance.” Most state and federal disaster assistance programs are available to individuals of all income levels. The kind of help provided depends on the applicant's circumstances and unmet needs.
• “I don’t think I sustained enough damage to qualify.” Damage that may not be visible now, may be discovered during repair work. If you applied for disaster assistance, these repairs may be covered.
• “I don’t want to take assistance from someone else.” There are enough disaster funds to take care of every eligible applicant, so you should not worry that you are taking money from other applicants whom you feel need it more.
• “I’m worried that disaster assistance will interrupt or interfere with my other federal assistance.” Disaster assistance grants are not taxable income and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, welfare assistance, SNAP, Supplemental Security Income or any other federal programs.

 If You Have Not Applied for Federal Assistance:

• Log onto DisasterAssistance.gov. 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 a Disaster Recovery Center. To locate the closest DRC to you, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA app or visit the DRC Locator. You can also text 43362 and type DRC (your ZIP Code); for example, DRC 12345.

Download the FEMA mobile app at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products for more information about DRCs.

Carmen.Castro Mon, 08/29/2022 - 20:48

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Ferguson

A FEMA disaster recovery center will open in Ferguson (St. Louis County) on Tuesday, August 30 to provide one-on-one assistance to people directly affected by the July 25—28 flooding and severe storms.

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

The disaster recovery center location is:

Urban League Empowerment Center          

9420 W Florissant Ave.

Ferguson, MO 63136

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

Other recovery centers are open in these locations:

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

University City Recreation Center

Centennial Commons

7210 Olive Blvd.

University City, MO 63130

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042                                   

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

ST. LOUIS CITY

Ranken Technical College

Mary Ann Lee Technology Center

1313 N. Newstead Ave.

St. Louis, MO 63113

(On the corner of Newstead and Page)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

ST. CHARLES COUNTY

Developmental Disabilities Resource Board – DDRB Building

1025 Country Club Road

St. Charles, MO 63303

(I-70 near Zumbehl Road Exit)

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. seven days a week until further notice

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome.

All Disaster Recovery Centers will be open on Labor Day, Monday, September 5.

Before visiting a center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).

People directly affected by flooding in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County may visit any recovery center.

For needs directly related to the July 25—28 flooding, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food

By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.                               

For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

tiana.suber Mon, 08/29/2022 - 18:58