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Federal Assistance for Flooding Survivors Tops $11 Million
Lacey, Wash. - Nov. 5 through Dec. 2, 2021, severe storms threatened Clallam, Skagit, Whatcom counties and Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, and Quileute Tribe by bringing the largest and, for some areas, most severe, disaster to occur in history. As a result, over 1000 individuals were forced to evacuate.
In response to Governor Inslee’s request, President Biden approved a major disaster declaration Jan. 5, 2022. Since the declaration more than $11.2 Million in federal assistance has been approved for Washington homeowners, business owners and renters. The following is a snapshot of other numbers of significance as of March 22.
FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) dispersed $5.85 Million dollars in aid to individuals eligible for assistance. Within this program, $5.19 Million in aid was used under Housing Assistance and $652,865 for other needs.
The U.S. Small Business Administration, the federal government’s primary source of money for long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property, approved $11.26 Million in loans to Washington homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private, nonprofit organizations. The $11.26 Million dollars approved includes $9.5 Million in home applications and $1.7 Million in Business/ Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) loans.
The National Flood Insurance Program provided $19.83 Million to claimants affected by the flooding. This again proves that Flood Insurance is the best tool for protecting one financially from the devastating effects of flooding.
FEMA's Individual Assistance program completed 1,686 home inspections and awarded 1,062 households with assistance.
A total of 1,414 survivors were assisted at the 12 local Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) operating in Clallam, Skagit, Whatcom counties and Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, and Quileute Tribe. Each of these centers are now closed, but residents are reminded to keep in touch with FEMA by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
Over the past three months, FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams helped more than 1,700 survivors apply for FEMA assistance and performed updates and inquiries to their accounts.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance, funded by FEMA and administered by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Washington Employment Security Department was approved for this disaster. This program provides funding for Washington survivors who lost their jobs or have been unable to work due to the landslide and flooding. The program’s application deadline has been extended until April 8, 2022. Individuals that still have disaster-related unemployment needs can contact the Washington Employment Security Department by calling (855) 952-9988.
The Washington Pro Bono Council and the American Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division initiated the Disaster Legal services program during this disaster. This service allows callers to receive limited legal assistance from a volunteer lawyer. Disaster survivors facing legal issues related to the severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides may call the hotline at 509-557-0301. Callers may also leave a message.
Under FEMA’s Public Assistance program, state, county and local governments as well as private nonprofit organizations and houses of worship may be eligible for reimbursement of eligible emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities. In all, 61 applicants have filed requests for Public Assistance to cover repairs and rebuilding.
Survivors who have questions about their FEMA application can contact FEMA by visiting online at DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
For more information about Washington flood and mudslide recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in Washington State to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.
tiana.suber Thu, 03/24/2022 - 22:25FEMA Provides $3 Billion to Mid-Atlantic States for COVID-19 Costs
PHILADELPHIA - The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Region 3 has provided more than $3 billion to local and state agencies, school districts, nonprofits and other public entities in the District of Columbia, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia for costs related to saving lives and protecting people during the COVID-19 mission.
The federal grant funding is being provided to reimburse costs associated with emergency protective measures taken to protect the public before vaccines were developed and distributed to the public, and actions taken to store, handle, transport, distribute and administer vaccines to reduce the spread the of the virus.
“This milestone shows FEMA’s commitment to providing critical funding to our state, local and nonprofit partners,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “The crucial work of the federal family and the whole response and recovery community has helped the nation reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus and protected residents and frontline medical workers. FEMA will continue to work hand in hand with all of our federal, state and tribal partners until this mission is complete.”
Totals for each state and the District of Columbia provided are:
Delaware: $181.6 million
District of Columbia: $452.1 million
Maryland: $1.1 billion
Pennsylvania: $574.8 million
Virginia: $616.8 million
West Virginia: $54.2 million
Scores of projects comprise the $3 billion total. A few recent projects that FEMA Region 3 provided funding for include:
District of Columbia
D.C. Office of Contracts and Procurement – $49,181,756.50
- Purchased equipment, materials, supplies, and services in response to COVID-19, which included services for monitoring of positive COVID-19 cases/contact tracing and providing N95 protective mask fit testing. Additional projects included building out the Medical-Surgical unit at Walter E. Washington Convention Center, St. Elizabeth’s hospital expansion for additional patient beds, and supporting morgue operations and victim identification.
Delaware
Delaware Emergency Management Agency – $159,636,781.83
- Provided test kits, rapid test analyzers, community-based testing locations, and PPE.
Maryland
Mercy Health Services, Baltimore - $14,198,513.13
- Provided Emergency Medical Care through the capacity expansion of an existing medical facility adding 32 beds.
Pennsylvania
City of Philadelphia – $17,774,703.45
- Provided non-congregate isolation and quarantine sheltering with site management and wraparound services for high-risk individuals.
Virginia
Valley Health, Winchester – $6,773,758.00
- Provided temporary medical facilities and sheltering for the response to the COVID-19 pandemic at Valley Health. One section of Winchester Medical Center was converted into a COVID ward during the pandemic. To ensure that only authorized personnel entered the area, they installed a temporary door, door frame, and partition wall to close off the corridor.
“These funds made a great difference to people and communities throughout our region, and continue to have a positive impact,” Tierney said. “The funds enabled medical staffs to care for more people. They provided vital equipment and supplies to protect frontline workers and the public. They saved lives.”
Grants for emergency protective measures are funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant program, which reimburses communities for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments and certain private non-profit organizations.
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If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
charles.elison Wed, 03/23/2022 - 13:25FEMA Awards North Carolina Grant to Increase Resilience
ATLANTA – North Carolina Department of Public Safety has been awarded a $5.4 million grant from FEMA to protect the City of Hickory’s Northeast Wastewater Treatment facility from future disasters.
The FY 2020 grant is funded through a new mitigation program, Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC), to help local communities, states, tribes, and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects, reducing the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards.
“This project will increase the resilience of the community and help protect the residents of Hickory and Catawba County. We are excited to see it awarded,” said North Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray. “Floodwaters have risen increasingly higher near this facility over the past several years, and this mitigation work will better protect the plant during future flood events.”
A protective berm around the Northeast Wastewater Treatment Facility influent pump station will be elevated, and. stream and bank stabilization will be improved along 2,000 feet of Falling Creek.
The total project cost is $7,186,898. FEMA will pay 75 percent of the eligible project cost with a federal share of $5,407,285. The remaining 25 percent, or $1,779,613, will be matched by the City of Hickory.
“With the frequency, intensity and cost of weather events FEMA wants to help protect communities before disaster strikes. Mitigation funding for projects like this will protect the health and safety of residents when there is a flood,” said FEMA Region 4 Administrator Gracia Szczech. said FEMA Region 4 Administrator Gracia Szczech.
The BRIC funding helps meet the increased demand for hazard mitigation across the nation and will enhance FEMA’s work to reach historically underserved communities. To learn more about the BRIC grant program, visit www.fema.gov/bric.
crystal.paulk-… Wed, 03/23/2022 - 13:01
FEMA Provides Another $128 Million for Colorado COVID-19 Response
DENVER – FEMA has approved more than $128 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Colorado. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 28, 2020. FEMA has now approved more than $1.71 billion in Public Assistance grant funds to Colorado for the COVID-19 response.
The $128.99 million to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will cover the cost of providing COVID-19 testing and analysis from January 1 through March 31, 2022. CDPHE projects that more than 2.16 million COVID-19 tests will be administered during the 90-day timeframe. The award provides funding for contracted testing and lab services including supplies and equipment, along with the transportation and processing of tests.
For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow state and local governments to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, tribal and local officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.
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FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Follow us on twitter at https://twitter.com/femaregion8
jamie.casterton Tue, 03/22/2022 - 21:25Repairs Underway at Community Aqueducts in Puerto Rico
Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –More than 2,000 families will have access to drinking water thanks to the repair of community aqueducts through allocations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for damage that resulted from Hurricane María. The funds from the agency’s Public Assistance Program will be distributed between communities in 10 municipalities: Adjuntas, Aguas Buenas, Barranquitas, Caguas, Comerío, Corozal, Naranjito, Ponce, San Lorenzo and Yabucoa.
Furthermore, through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, nearly $1.8 million were assigned for the first phase of a project to assess the viability of backup-power at 232 vulnerable communities. This will prevent the interruption of the potable water supply to around 100,000 residents. Due to their location, these communities don’t have access to water and sewage connections through the Puerto Rico Aqueducts and Sewers Authority (PRASA).
For her part, Brenda Guzmán, project manager at the Community Foundation, stated that the aqueduct of the San Diego Abajo sector in Coamo will benefit about 98 families. Furthermore, she explained, that the mitigation project aims for the aqueducts to “have an emergency generator available and that it can also, through an efficient pumping system, use solar panels. This project addresses a primary need for these communities that depend on electric service to operate their community aqueducts systems.”
Likewise, at the Santas Pascuas Sector Community Aqueduct, Inc. in Ponce, which serves around 63 families, repairs were already completed, like the replacement of PVC pipes from the water inlet to the storage tank with a 52,000-gallon capacity. Furthermore, a section of the pipeline on the surface was replaced and a retaining wall will be built. The allocation of $56,000 for this project includes funds for hazard mitigation measures like the restrengthening of the ground to prevent erosion, among others.
Solsiree Rosario Rivera, President of the Santas Pascuas Aqueduct, stated that “it’s extremely important, because we have people with disabilities and children. Basically, it’s something that we needed. Now, with the help that we’ll have, that will benefit us by us having a better water service without the fear of losing it.”
The aqueducts outside of PRASA’s network are vital for some rural sectors that lack the drinking water service that other communities enjoy. The allocations are directed towards repairing and reinforcing these wells and their systems. The improvements that will be done, allow to advance the recovery process that the families will undergo in case of a future storm.
“Currently, COR3 has disbursed over $5.4 million for approximately 200 projects that make the availability of drinking water feasible in communities that can’t get PRASA’s service. We will continue supporting communities to advance these reconstruction projects,” said the Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency, engineer Manuel A. Laboy Rivera.
For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, please visit fema.gov/es/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow our social media pages at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr
frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 03/22/2022 - 11:26
FEMA Urges Southern Resident’s Preparedness Ahead of Severe Storms
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued a moderate risk for portions of central/east-central Texas this afternoon through tonight. The risks include the threat for strong tornadoes above EF-2, large hail more than 2 inches in diameter and winds in excess of 75mph.
There is also a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms today through Tuesday for parts of the lower Mississippi Valley and central Gulf Coast region. A regional severe weather outbreak is possible, including the potential for significant or damaging tornadoes.
Now is the time to prepare for severe weather- Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
- If you are in the forecast areas, monitor a NOAA Weather Radio and your local news or official social media accounts for updated emergency information. Follow the instructions of state, local and tribal officials.
- Download the free FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and information so that you and your loved ones know what to do before, during and after disasters. The app provides real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources.
- Visit Ready.gov to learn more about how to protect yourself and your family in a tornado.
- Storm cellars, safe rooms or basements provide the best protection.
- If underground shelter or a safe room is not available, put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Go to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and stay away from windows and doors.
- Most injuries associated with high winds are from flying debris, so remember to protect your head.
- Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible. Motor vehicles, trailers and mobile homes are not good locations to ride out a tornado.
- If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
President Biden, Vice President Harris, FEMA Announce Flood Mitigation Initiative to Aid Four States Impacted by Hurricane Ida
New Grant Made Possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Provides Record Funding to Build Community Resilience; Vice President Harris Highlights Funds in Trip to Sunset, Louisiana Today
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today a new federal grant initiative that will help four states affected by Hurricane Ida, one of the most intense storms to hit the United States in recent years, become more resilient to flooding.
The new Swift Current initiative, made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, allocates a total of $60 million to Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey and Pennsylvania to equitably expedite mitigation grants to disaster survivors with repetitively flooded homes. This is the first FEMA initiative funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to strengthen national preparedness and resilience.
“The Swift Current initiative represents FEMA’s commitment to quickly and equitably getting hazard mitigation funding to the communities who need it the most,” said Administrator Criswell. “President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made this program possible, and we are excited to continue our work helping make our nation stronger, safer and more resilient from future disasters.”
Swift Current provides learning opportunities that will help FEMA prepare for a larger national rollout to substantially speed up the award of flood mitigation dollars to better align the program with the disaster survivor experience.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes $3.5 billion in Flood Mitigation Assistance grants over five years. As part of the $3.5 billion, Swift Current will help communities reduce flood damage and comply with local community requirements. FEMA is providing more equitable access to mitigation grants through the Act by increasing cost shares above the standard 75% federal share to socially vulnerable communities that often face challenges meeting their non-federal match. Examples of eligible projects include property acquisition and demolition, elevation and relocation.
The four states were selected because they have the highest number of unmitigated severe repetitive loss and repetitive loss properties insured under the National Flood Insurance Program and total flood insurance claims within their respective FEMA regions.
The $60 million in Swift Current funding will be distributed as follows:
- Louisiana, $40 million.
- Mississippi, $5 million.
- New Jersey, $10 million.
- Pennsylvania, $5 million.
To be eligible, buildings must be insured through the National Flood Insurance Program for FEMA to consider them for this funding opportunity.
The initiative promotes equity in line with the administration’s Justice40 Initiative, as the Swift Current funding opportunity aims to prioritize help by providing at least 40% of the benefits to disadvantaged communities.
The application process for federal grants can be burdensome for socially vulnerable communities. FEMA reduced grant application complexities by developing pre-calculated benefits to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of eligible mitigation projects. This enables communities with limited access to resources to apply for these grants.
The federal cost share will range from 75-100%:
- FEMA is offering a higher federal cost share of 90% for buildings located in socially vulnerable communities. These communities often face challenges in meeting the non-federal cost-share match.
- The federal cost share for the Flood Mitigation Assistance program is 100% for Severe Repetitive Loss properties and 90% for Repetitive Loss properties.
The application period opens on April 1 and closes Oct. 3. The Notice of Funding Opportunity is available on Grants.gov.
All applications must be submitted in the Mitigation eGrants system, will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and must be submitted no later than noon Eastern Time on Oct. 3. Applications received by FEMA after this deadline will not be considered for funding. For more information, interested subapplicants in Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey and Pennsylvania should contact their state’s hazard mitigation officer.
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 03/21/2022 - 21:15FEMA Specialists Now Available at SBA Business Recovery Centers
FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA Individual Assistance specialists are now staffing the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Business Recovery Centers to help survivors recovering from the December tornadoes.
With the March 18-19 closing of the remaining Disaster Recovery Centers, FEMA wants to ensure that disaster survivors can still speak to a specialist in person, update information in their accounts and receive referrals to federal, state and community programs and assistance.
- Hopkins County: Hopkins County Emergency Management, 130 N. Franklin St., Madisonville, KY 42431
- Opens 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 22; regular hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Saturday
- The center will be closed for one day, Monday, April 4.
- Warren County: Western Kentucky University Business Accelerator Center, Room 118, 2413 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101
- Regular hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Friday.
- Warren County: Kummer/Little Recreation Center, 333 College St., Bowling Green, KY 42101
- Opens 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 22; regular hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT Monday to Saturday
Even with the closings of the Disaster Recovery Centers, help is just a phone call away. Survivors can get answers from specialists at the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. It is also so important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily.
If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service when you call the FEMA Helpline, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
scott.reuter Mon, 03/21/2022 - 19:02FEMA Awards $2.4 Million for Tornado Saferoom in St. Clair, Minn.
CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released $2,401,365 in Hazard Mitigation Assistance funds to the St. Clair School District to develop a multi-use community tornado saferoom. St. Clair Public School is in Blue Earth County, a tornado-prone area in southern Minnesota. This saferoom will provide safety from severe wind and tornadic events for up to 1,600 students, teachers, staff and nearby community members.
“The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding for mitigation activities that reduce disaster losses and protect life and property from future disasters,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “While we can’t stop tornadoes, we can build secure, easily accessible safe rooms to keep people safe from harm during high-wind events.”
People who live in the city of Wadena, Minnesota know what can happen when a tornado strikes a school. In 2010, an EF-4 tornado destroyed Wadena-Deer Creek High School during a severe weather outbreak. “Fortunately, that storm struck during the summer when school was not in session, but it gave emergency managers a clear-eyed look at what could happen if people don’t have a place to take refuge from violent weather,” said Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Joe Kelly. “The people of St. Clair will be protected from severe weather thanks to this wise investment of mitigation dollars by the federal government and the local community.”
For this project, FEMA will pay 75 percent of the $3,201,820 eligible project cost. The remaining 25 percent of the funds, $800,455, will be provided by the St. Clair School District. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures to reduce the risks associated with natural hazards. To learn more about FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Mon, 03/21/2022 - 13:16FEMA Announces 90/10 Cost Share Adjustment
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that additional disaster funding is available to all states, tribal nations and territories with Presidential major disaster and emergency declarations occurring in 2020 and 2021.
On March 15, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. signed “H.R. 2471, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022” into law, which granted a minimum 90% federal cost share for any emergency or major disaster declaration declared occurring or having an incident period beginning between, Jan.1, 2020 and Dec. 31, 2021.
Specifically, the enacted law authorizes an increase to the standard 75% federal cost share to at least 90% for Public Assistance, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and specified Individual Assistance programs authorized under emergency and major disaster declarations.
The assistance authorized as part of H.R. 2471 is in addition to the President’s announcement on March 1, which extended the full federal cost share to 100% to support all eligible work under COVID-19 emergency and major disaster declarations through July 1, 2022.
From January 2020 through December 2021, FEMA responded to disasters that have impacted millions of Americans. This additional assistance will help communities across the country recover and build a stronger, more resilient nation.
mayshaunt.gary Fri, 03/18/2022 - 21:21Survivors Living in FEMA Temporary Units in Southwest Louisiana to Start Paying Reduced Rent
BATON ROUGE, La. – Survivors of Hurricanes Laura and Delta who are currently living in FEMA provided temporary housing units will start paying a monthly rent. Survivors of Hurricane Laura will start paying rent April 1 and survivors of Hurricane Delta will start paying rent on May 1. The rent amount is based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Fair Market Rent, which may be reduced by FEMA based on the household’s combined post-disaster income. In many cases, survivors may end up paying rents far below fair market rates for comparable properties.
Occupants who provide verifiable documentation of their post-disaster income that meets or is below the HUD Very Low-Income Limit will qualify for the fully reduced rent of $50 per month. Households with total combined incomes above the HUD Very Low-Income Limit who wish to request a lower rental rate will have to provide documentation of post-disaster income and any current housing costs (mortgages, etc.) to calculate their financial ability to pay rent and the amount of rent to be charged.
Based on a request from the State, FEMA approved an extension to Oct. 31, 2022 for approximately 1,750 households currently occupying direct housing units through the direct housing program for Hurricanes Laura and Delta. Normally, direct Temporary Housing Assistance ends 18 months from the date a disaster is declared. For Laura occupants, the end date was Feb. 28 and it is Apr. 30 for Delta. As part of the extension and in compliance with federal regulations, survivors who remain in their units beyond 18 months from the date of the federal disaster declaration will be charged a monthly rent.
FEMA caseworkers have been in close contact with survivors to discuss the process and documentation requirements. Survivors have the right to appeal the rent amount they will be charged. If you are a survivor and want to appeal, you must:
- Provide a written and signed explanation that you cannot pay the amount of rent charged; and
- Provide verifiable documents showing your current housing costs (mortgage statement, rent receipts, insurance, utilities, etc.). Also, provide documents showing all income (such as paystubs, W-2, tax return, proof of income letter, etc.) for all adult members of the household (18 or older).
- Make sure you include your FEMA application number and disaster number on all pages of all submitted documents. These numbers are printed above your name and address on all letters to you from FEMA; and
- Send the documents by:
- Mail: Louisiana Integration and Recovery Office, 1500 Laurel Street Baton Rouge LA 70802
- Fax: 337-582-1896
- Email: FEMA-DR-4559-directhousingadminsbox@fema.dhs.gov
Send copies of your documents to FEMA and keep all original documents for your records.
While your appeal is being reviewed, rent will continue to be charged on the first day of every month. You will receive a monthly bill for the rent amount until a decision on your appeal is made. The following will apply if your appeal is denied or granted.
If your appeal is denied:
- If you have been paying your monthly rent, you will continue to pay your rent as usual.
- If you have not been paying your monthly rent, you will be required to pay the total of the rent amount charged within 30 days of the date of FEMA’s decision letter and begin paying your rent on the first day of each month until you move-out of the FEMA Unit. This rent will not be prorated if you move out prior to the end of any month.
If your appeal is granted:
- If you have been paying the monthly rent amount, FEMA will refund you any overpayment above the adjusted rent. The adjusted rent amount will be due on the first day of each month as usual.
- If you have not been paying the monthly rent amount, you will be required to pay the total of these adjusted charges within 30 days of the date of FEMA’s decision letter and begin paying your adjusted rent on the first day of each month until you surrender possession of the FEMA Unit. This adjusted rent will not be prorated if you move out prior to the end of any month.
Local, state and federal partners are stepping up efforts ahead of the new deadline to help eligible Laura and Delta survivors get into their repaired or new permanent homes. FEMA and the State Joint Recertification housing teams continue to meet regularly with occupants to support the hard work it takes to get back into permanent housing. The teams routinely guide occupants to available resources and advise them on program requirements and deadlines.
At the peak of the housing program for hurricanes Laura and Delta survivors, there were 2,401 eligible households licensed into FEMA-provided temporary units across 12 parishes in Southwest Louisiana. Close to 75% remain in their FEMA housing units. FEMA’s housing program eligibility and continued occupancy is determined monthly. To remain eligible, occupants must show they are making continued progress on their permanent housing plan.
kirsten.chambers Fri, 03/18/2022 - 17:14Flood Insurance Payments Drive Recovery
LACEY, Wash. – Many Washington residents may believe they don't need to buy flood insurance because they don't live in a high-risk flood zone. However, flooding can happen anywhere, often to the surprise of residents who thought they were covered for disaster. One inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 of damage in a home and when flooding happens, the damage is not covered by most homeowners' insurance policies.
Additionally, FEMA disaster assistance is only available if the president approves individual assistance for a declared disaster and even then, the aid provided is designed to help people have a safe, secure and habitable place to live while they begin their recovery, not cover the complete cost of their loss. Without flood insurance, many survivors will need to cover the cost for this damage out-of-pocket.
In response to the recent Washington state flooding, FEMA's individual assistance program awarded $5.3 million to Washington survivors. The U.S. Small Business Administration issued $8.6 million in low-interest loans that must be paid back.
In comparison, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) paid Washington residents over $19 million to restore their homes to pre-disaster conditions. Most of these funds were distributed within two months of the flooding. This represents the difference in the ability of these families to rebuild following a disaster. With flood insurance, families are given the financial resources to cover the cost of damages. Without flood insurance, however, many families are forced to cover a large percentage of this cost through loans or out-of-pocket. There’s no better way to protect the life you’ve built than with NFIP flood insurance.
Here are some important facts to keep in mind:
- Homeowners and renters insurance do not typically cover flood damage.
- Disaster assistance comes in two forms: a U.S. Small Business Administration loan, which must be paid back with interest, or a FEMA disaster award, which is about $5,000 on average per household.
- By comparison, the average flood insurance claim is nearly $30,000 and does not have to be repaid.
- In Washington, approximately 30% of flood claims come from properties outside of high-risk flood zones.
- Flood damage is covered regardless of whether there is a presidential disaster declaration in place. Wherever it rains, it can flood. While flood zones are specific geographic areas where there is a higher statistical probability of a flood occurring, floods often occur outside named flood zones.
- Flooding can be an emotionally and financially devastating event. Without flood insurance, most residents have to pay out of pocket or take out loans to repair and replace damaged items. With flood insurance, you're able to recover faster and more fully.
Property owners can protect themselves from financial losses by having a flood insurance policy through the NFIP. If your community participates in the NFIP as a homeowner or a business, both building and contents coverage can be included in your policy. Renters can get coverage for contents only.
There is a 30-day waiting period before new policies go into effect, so don't wait to obtain a policy. The spring flooding season looms.
How to buy:
- Contact your insurance company or agent. In addition to the NFIP, flood insurance is also available from some private insurance providers. Please visit floodsmart.gov for valuable resources and information pertaining to floods and the NFIP
- For an agent referral, call 800-427-4661 or visit fema.gov/flood-insurance.
For more information about Washington flood recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.
tiana.suber Wed, 03/16/2022 - 15:38Federal Funding for New Jersey Tops $806 Million
TRENTON, N.J. – Six months since the Sept. 5 federal disaster declaration for the remnants of Hurricane Ida in New Jersey, $806 million in federal funding has been provided for survivors.
“We continue working together to get the federal funding where it needs to be – in the hands of survivors and communities,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Patrick Cornbill. “FEMA’s mission has been to help individuals and families recover from the disaster and we will continue supporting until the mission is completed.” The breakdown of funds is as follows:
- More than $237 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
- Nearly $247 million in U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans approved for homeowners, renters and business owners.
- More than $314.3 million paid to National Flood Insurance Program policyholders statewide.
- $8.2 million in Public Assistance funding to reimburse New Jersey applicants for debris removal, emergency protective measures and other eligible costs.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.
kimberly.keblish Wed, 03/16/2022 - 13:14Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice March 17-31 at Menards
FRANKFORT, Ky. – As residents continue to repair and rebuild after the Dec. 10-11 severe storms and tornadoes, FEMA has teamed with Menards in Elizabethtown and Paducah to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by natural disasters stronger and safer.
FEMA specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work.
The specialists will be available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except Wednesdays, from March 17-31 at these locations:
Menards 100 Menards Way Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Menards 5500 U.S. Hwy. 60 West Paducah, KY 42001
For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
scott.reuter Wed, 03/16/2022 - 13:08Nearly $600,000 to Address Flooding in Several Towns
The projects approved as a result of Hurricane María are in the design phase
Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –The municipalities of Dorado, Yabucoa and Loíza are among the applicants for mitigation projects that are already in the design phase, to address flood risks in their communities. The proposals are for nearly $600,000 approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to control or reduce the effects of flooding.
Because of climate change, experts project more floods on the island. According to the engineer and member of the Puerto Rico Committee of Experts and Advisors on Climate Change, Carl Axel Soderberg, an example of these projections are the torrential rains that took place in early February of this year, when up to twelve inches of rain were recorded in a very short time.
Through awards of around $230,000 for the municipality of Dorado, the communities of Doraville, Higuillar, Laguna I and Laguna II could benefit from flood control and flood risk reduction in their respective areas to prevent damage and significantly reduce the severe flooding they have experienced, some for decades.
The projects, which would benefit some 370 households, include the construction of water pumps with discharge piping to a nearby body of water. In addition, the improvement of the drainage systems and the replacement of the current conduits, some of which are too small for the amount of water that flows during heavy rainfall events, are also contemplated.
“These funds are destined for the studies and architectural design of the projects, to reduce the impact of flooding on communities and increase resilience. We are currently in the stage of requesting and awarding the proposals and we hope to soon be able to provide more safety to these families through these risk mitigation works,” said the mayor of Dorado, Carlos López Rivera.
Meanwhile, the municipality of Yabucoa is proposing a flood control project in the Comunas and Aguacate neighborhoods to benefit over 670 homes, businesses, schools and churches. The proposal, with approximately $151,000 in funds, seeks to stabilize the soils, in addition to improving and extending over 500 linear meters of sewers, and placing them away from eroded walls.
For the mayor of Yabucoa, Rafael Surillo Ruiz, these projects are filled with hope because they will promote economic development for the municipality. “This channeling will benefit some 350 families that are affected by the flooding of this ravine. By mitagating all these flood effects, developers [can] look favorably at establishing developments in Yabucoa,” the mayor stated.
Other mitigation projects in the design phase and included in the total figure belong to the municipality of Loíza, which has some $217,000 in funds for these purposes.
The first phase ─ for which projects have already been approved ─ will be to carry out the planning and design of the proposals. This phase will be financed entirely with funds from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
“The COR3 team continues to develop proposals, together with the municipalities, for projects like these, which will support risk mitigation efforts. These works will provide security to citizens and their communities in extreme rain events that, as we know, cause severe damage and endanger life and property,” said the director of the Puerto Rico Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency, Manuel A. Laboy Rivera.
For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, please visit fema.gov/es/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow our social media pages at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr
frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 03/16/2022 - 11:25
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Maine
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Maine to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe winter storm and flooding Feb. 15, 2022.
Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities in Knox, Waldo and York counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
William F. Roy has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.
zella.campbell Tue, 03/15/2022 - 23:47FEMA Awards Kentucky Grant to Increase Resilience
ATLANTA – Kentucky Emergency Management has been awarded a $570,500 grant from FEMA to reduce risk from future disasters.
The grant is funded through a new mitigation program, Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC), to help states, local communities, tribes and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects, reducing the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards.
“Kentucky Emergency Management appreciates the continued partnership with FEMA,” said Director of Kentucky Emergency Management Col. Jeremy Slinker. This is a step in the right direction to ensure that all Kentuckians are prepared for any and every disaster that will affect the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the future. We are proud to be the first to receive this in FEMA Region 4.”
Three projects are included in the award for fiscal year 2020.
- $320,000 federal share to update the Commonwealth’s Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan.
- $213,000 federal share to assist the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet’s Office of Energy Policy to identify future mitigation projects geared toward energy.
- $37,500 federal share for the City of Elizabethtown to conduct a study on expanding an existing detention basin at Elizabethtown High School. This could improve stormwater drainage and mitigate flooding in the low lying Henon Lane area.
FEMA will pay 75% of the eligible project costs. The remaining 25% will be provided by the state or local community.
“This award is funding projects to help Kentucky communities become more resilient and better able to withstand the impacts from weather events and other disasters,” said FEMA Region 4 Administrator Gracia Szczech.
The BRIC program’s funding will help meet the increased demand for hazard mitigation across the nation and will enhance FEMA’s work to reach historically underserved communities. To learn more about the BRIC grant program, visit www.fema.gov/bric.
crystal.paulk-… Tue, 03/15/2022 - 19:52Disaster Recovery Centers to Close But FEMA Help Still Available
FRANKFORT, Ky. – As the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance for the Dec. 10-11 tornadoes has passed, the three remaining Disaster Recovery Centers plan to wrap up operations by March 19. But that does not mean FEMA is leaving the commonwealth.
FEMA specialists are still available to help Kentuckians update information in their accounts and direct them to federal, state and community programs and assistance. FEMA is also continuing its work with the commonwealth and other partners to help Kentucky residents in their recovery from the storms and tornadoes.
The schedule for the remaining Disaster Recovery Centers follows:
- Graves County: Mayfield Shopping Plaza, 1102 Paris Road, Suite 4, Mayfield, KY 42066
- Regular operating hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT Tuesday to Friday. Closing 4 p.m. CDT Friday, March 18.
- Hopkins County: Dawson Springs Community Center, 108 W. Keigan St., Dawson Springs, KY 42408
- Regular operating hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CDT Tuesday to Saturday. Closing 6 p.m. CDT Saturday, March 19.
- Warren County: former Sears location at Greenwood Mall, 2625 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104
- Regular operating hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CDT Tuesday to Saturday. Closing 6 p.m. CDT Saturday, March 19.
Eighteen Disaster Recovery Centers have operated across the affected counties during the past three months. More than 7,000 survivors have visited the centers to get information or referrals to programs offered by FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and other federal, state and local partners.
Even with the closings of the recovery centers, help is just a phone call away. Survivors can get answers from specialists at the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. It is also so important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily.
If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service when you call the FEMA Helpline, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
scott.reuter Tue, 03/15/2022 - 18:50Greene County, Arkansas Flood Maps Become Final
DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Sept. 15, 2022, for Greene County, Arkansas. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps.
Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.
Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.
Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.
- To use the live chat service, visit http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
Kurt.Pickering Tue, 03/15/2022 - 16:11FEMA Tops $2 Billion of COVID-19 Funeral Assistance, Announces New Campaign to Increase Program Awareness
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today it has provided over $2 billion in COVID-19 funeral assistance to support more than 300,000 applicants grappling with the financial stress and burden caused by the pandemic. FEMA is also launching a new outreach campaign and continuing to process applications to ensure that this program -- already the largest offering of funeral assistance in FEMA’s history -- reaches additional eligible families in need.
“FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance program has helped provide over 300,000 people with critical financial relief during a time of such unexpected, unimaginable and wide spread loss,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Our new outreach campaign is designed to reach families, especially across underserved communities, where the cost of a funeral can be a financial burden to a loved one. Our goal is to help families apply for assistance, as well as submit all required documents for existing applications.”
Committed to reaching all affected communities, the agency will begin a targeted paid media campaign this month. FEMA recently hired a media contractor to tailor media efforts to reach the most impactful population-specific outlets.
These new paid advertisements will be directed to localities identified with high rates of COVID-related deaths, low funeral assistance application rates and high Social Vulnerability Index data.
The advertisements will help ensure information about FEMA’s funeral assistance reaches underserved communities that have experienced a high COVID-19 death rate but have low registrations for assistance.
The four selected areas will be in California, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas.
FEMA is also hosting media roundtables with several community outlets in African American, Hispanic and Latino and Asian American Pacific Islander communities to encourage local press to help spread the word about the Funeral Assistance program. Additionally, FEMA’s multilingual services, available through the Funeral Assistance Helpline, has provided assistance in 76 different languages when requested by the caller.
Eligible applicants may qualify for up to $9,000 for each deceased individual per application, with a maximum of $35,000 for families who may have multiple funeral expenses due to COVID-19. Since the assistance began on April 12, 2021, the average amount of assistance awarded is $6,500.
The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the President’s American Rescue Plan gave FEMA the authority to provide COVID-19 funeral assistance and provided the funds for this program.
Additional information, including eligibility requirements, can be found at COVID-19 Funeral Assistance | FEMA.gov. People who incurred funeral expenses related to a COVID-19-related death in the United States or its territories on or after Jan. 20, 2020, can also apply by calling 888-684-6333, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT.
“Applications” in the chart below reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process. Please find state-specific information below:
State / Territory
Applications
Amount Approved
Number of Awards
Alabama
10,409
$47,592,838.29
6,950
Alaska
348
$1,058,166.34
205
American Samoa
Less than 10
$6,488.60
Less than 10
Arizona
8,588
$25,694,432.08
5,272
Arkansas
5,182
$21,344,298.98
3,405
California
38,086
$168,036,566.34
26,054
Colorado
4,099
$13,048,543.12
2,351
Connecticut
4,536
$23,257,962.44
3,353
Delaware
1,320
$5,726,336.69
885
District Of Columbia
1,023
$4,487,166.20
673
Florida
31,612
$125,059,053.64
22,318
Georgia
18,034
$84,172,597.15
12,136
Guam
27
$84,924.00
12
Hawaii
518
$1,778,411.50
299
Idaho
1,748
$6,019,567.77
1,062
Illinois
17,928
$83,081,807.17
12,127
Indiana
10,033
$42,000,641.96
6,000
Iowa
4,078
$19,046,269.64
2,647
Kansas
4,006
$16,217,233.25
2,491
Kentucky
8,359
$37,607,621.78
5,198
Louisiana
8,369
$39,383,106.44
5,732
Maine
860
$2,644,395.80
486
Maryland
7,392
$32,185,153.74
4,777
Massachusetts
8,791
$37,950,812.16
5,486
Michigan
16,593
$68,650,389.77
11,157
Minnesota
4,721
$19,825,792.59
2,946
Mississippi
7,290
$32,836,209.34
4,870
Missouri
9,915
$40,579,096.22
6,471
Montana
1,236
$4,532,322.79
891
Nebraska
2,109
$9,353,642.01
1,340
Nevada
4,411
$14,298,694.61
2,681
New Hampshire
903
$3,522,982.17
591
New Jersey
15,223
$72,541,952.99
10,561
New Mexico
2,858
$8,690,638.82
1,678
New York
35,497
$168,611,126.44
24,677
North Carolina
14,913
$64,842,965.37
9,873
North Dakota
1,310
$6,936,490.06
923
Northern Mariana Islands
26
$34,484.00
Less than 10
Ohio
20,123
$84,724,770.89
13,054
Oklahoma
6,846
$28,568,581.02
4,489
Oregon
1,985
$5,129,560.56
1,129
Pennsylvania
22,580
$102,447,169.86
15,503
Puerto Rico
2,073
$4,844,759.02
1,310
Rhode Island
1,646
$8,179,109.83
1,197
South Carolina
10,166
$45,974,321.00
6,730
South Dakota
1,245
$6,470,665.97
884
Tennessee
13,771
$62,230,078.49
9,091
Texas
41,511
$189,568,290.36
29,058
U.S. Virgin Islands
66
$256,424.30
41
Utah
2,210
$9,639,857.08
1,387
Vermont
183
$629,468.69
111
Virginia
9,847
$41,800,291.86
6,243
Washington
3,548
$11,138,812.45
2,064
West Virginia
3,398
$14,341,807.81
2,111
Wisconsin
7,869
$32,506,181.05
4,903
Wyoming
653
$2,401,273.07
441
mayshaunt.gary Tue, 03/15/2022 - 15:37Pages
