FEMA Updates Shelter Locator Texting Feature

WASHINGTON -- Having the right information at the right time is often key to surviving a disaster. FEMA’s updated texting feature allows the public to access shelter addresses when they need it most. Users can text “shelter” and their ZIP code to 43362 to get a list of nearby shelter locations. This effort is made possible through collaboration with the American Red Cross.

“Disasters frequently disrupt communications systems which can leave survivors feeling overwhelmed and helpless when they are trying to locate shelters,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Since texting capabilities are often unaffected during disasters, our updated Text to Shelter option is an easy and accessible way survivors can locate nearby shelters with a tap of a button. This feature will help keep our communities safe.”

FEMA’s old text feature only showed shelters within the requested ZIP code. This new feature uses Geographic Information System (GIS) capabilities to give users shelter addresses within 200 miles of their ZIP code. The texting feature is available across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Standard texting rates with the user’s carrier may apply, but there is no additional fee to use this service. In phones with a standard map feature, users will be able to click on the shelter address inside the text message and view directions. The text can be easily shared with friends and family so they know where the user is going or where they themselves can take shelter.

Shelters identified through the text feature are pulled from data managed by the American Red Cross. FEMA does not run shelters. Remember that in a disaster situation it is always important to follow the immediate instructions of state and local officials, as they may be able to point survivors to additional shelters and resources not included in the text feature.

Disasters can strike anywhere, anytime. Save this number, 43362, in your phone today so you’ll be able to find a safe space to shelter during a disaster. Information on different types of shelters and sheltering can be found at Shelter | Ready.gov. Additional ways to find shelter can be found at FEMA.gov/Shelter or redcross.org/shelter.

Graphic mayshaunt.gary Tue, 02/08/2022 - 17:57

Deadline March 7 to Apply for FEMA Assistance

LACEY, Wash. – Washington residents who have uninsured losses resulting from the Nov. 5 - Dec. 2, 2021, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides have until March 7, 2022 to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Homeowners and renters in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas can apply for FEMA assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

As of Feb. 6:

• FEMA has approved $4.1 million in assistance to 762 individuals and households.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $5.8 million in disaster loans for 100 homeowners, renters and businesses.
• The National Flood Insurance Program has received 378 claims and paid $16.1 million.

Disaster Recovery Centers in the following locations can help with applications and provide face-to-face information and guidance about disaster assistance:

• Clallam County Emergency Operations Center (County Courthouse Building) 223 E. 4th St., Port Angeles, WA 98362; Feb. 7-9
• Skagit County, Old Sedro-Woolley Library, 802 Ball Street, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
• Skagit County: Hamilton Fire Department parking lot, 951 Pettit St., Hamilton, WA 98255, Feb. 4-5 and Feb. 10-12
• Skagit County: East County Resource Center, 45770 Main St., Concrete, WA 98237; Feb 7-9
• Whatcom County, parking lot, 1208 E. Main St., Everson, WA 98247
• Whatcom County: Sumas A.C. Church, 125 W. Front St., Sumas, WA 98295
• Whatcom County: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce, 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale, WA 98248
• Whatcom County: Nooksack Indian Tribe, 5084 Mount Baker Highway, Deming, WA 98244,

Long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other sources.

Homeowners and renters should submit an SBA disaster loan application even if they are not sure they will need or want a loan. If SBA cannot approve your application, in most cases SBA will refer you to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance.

March 7, 2022 is the deadline to apply to the SBA for physical property damage. The deadline for working capital applications is Oct. 5, 2022.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela. Paper applications may be requested by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 TTY) or by sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

SBA is operating a Business Recovery Center at Everson Mercantile Building, 128 W. Main St., WA 98347 where business owners can meet with SBA representatives and get help applying for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans.

For more information about Washington disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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FEMA’s mission: 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.

mary.j.edmon Mon, 02/07/2022 - 22:05

Helping Children Cope with Trauma after Kentucky Tornadoes

Helping Children Cope with Trauma after Kentucky Tornadoes

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky children who lived through the December tornadoes may feel trauma for years, if it is not addressed. Families are encouraged to seek professional help to get the children to process their reactions and help them heal.

The trauma caused by the Dec. 10-11 tornadoes that damaged thousands of homes, razed entire towns and counted 12 children among its casualties, could last long after the event for those who survived. Even as schools reopen, the stressors continue. Some displaced students now live far from their schools without transportation, and others attend school beside empty desks where their classmates once sat.

From news reports, here are the children’s own words: “It just sucked everything up, the Christmas tree … with the presents,” said an 8-year-old. A middle-schooler searched for a descriptor: “There’s not really words that you can put to say about it.” Children with these anxieties need their parents to be aware of how to get help.

From caregivers

Mental health experts in the Commonwealth’s health system provided the following suggestions:

Children often look to their caregivers for support and to learn how to cope with adversity and trauma. It’s a good time to listen to the children, understand what they’re feeling, and reassure them their feelings make sense because what they experienced was scary and difficult. Professionals suggest parents and caregivers can:

• Create a stable environment by establishing a regular routine.
• Find ways to be present, connect, spend time together and have fun.
• Remind children of ways they are staying safe.
• Focus on the positive; identify small successes or strengths.
• Ask children how they are doing and listen to their answers; let them talk when they feel worried but never force them to talk.
• Allow and encourage children to ask questions; explain what happened honestly and clearly.
• Reduce exposure to media images and stories about the tornadoes.
• Practice calming exercises together such as breathing or relaxation exercises.

How to Tell When a Child May Need Help Coping

Behavior experts say parents should observe their children for signs they feel troubled after the disaster. Some signs, such as nightmares, may be similar to those of adults but an important difference is that children often lack the vocabulary to explain what is upsetting them.

These normal signs of trauma could indicate a need for additional support if they persist beyond several months, worsen, or are severely impacting daily life: 

• Nightmares
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits 
• Flattened emotions
• Irritability
• Hearing scary noises that aren’t there or preoccupation with the weather

Help is Available

You are not alone. These Community Mental Health Centers, supported federally and by the Commonwealth, are available in Kentucky:

• The Adanta Group (Serves Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor and Wayne counties) Website: https://www.adanta.org/client-information/client-services-guide Crisis Line: 800-633-5599
• Communicare (Serves Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, and Washington counties) Website: https://www.communicare.org/behavioral-health Crisis Line: 800-641-4673
• Four Rivers Behavioral Health (Serves Ballard, Calloway, Carlisle, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Marshall, and McCracken counties) Website: https://4rbh.org/resources-after-a-disaster-crisis-or-trauma/ Crisis Line: 800-592-3980
• LifeSkills (Serves Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmondson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, and Warren counties.) Website: https://www.lifeskills.com/crisis Crisis Line: 800-223-8913
• Pennyroyal Center (Serves Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenberg, Todd, and Trigg counties.) Website: https://pennyroyalcenter.org/services/behavioral_health/ Crisis Line: 877-473-7766 Text: CONFIDE to 839863 for youth or RESPOND to 839863 for adults.
• RiverValley Behavioral Health (Serves Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster counties) Website: https://www.rvbh.com/crisis-line/ Crisis Line: 800-433-7291 (call or text)

Other resources:

• The American Red Cross uses professional therapists to meet all survivors' emotional needs in the aftermath of a disaster. Call 800-733-2767 (or 800-Red-Cross) to be connected to someone in your area.
• Family Resource Centers and Youth Services Centers: Your child’s school has valuable resources in the Family Resource Centers in elementary schools and Youth Services Centers in middle and high schools.
• The Kentucky Crisis Text Line: To reach a volunteer crisis counselor, text KY to 741-741.
• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has several free resources on helping children cope after a tornado at https://bit.ly/3GBFgHy.

For the latest 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, 02/07/2022 - 20:40

For Many an SBA Disaster Loan is the Key to Recovery

NASHVILLE, Tenn.– Those affected by last December’s severe storms and tornadoes may need more financial assistance for long-term recovery than FEMA can provide. Most disaster survivors do.

However, many residents and business owners in the designated counties of Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson may be reluctant to take out a low interest disaster loan which the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers. Before rejecting the idea of applying, survivors should consider the following:

• There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan, or to accept the loan if approved.
• However, if FEMA refers you to SBA, you must apply before you can be considered for certain kinds of FEMA grant money. If you are not approved for a loan, FEMA may be able to provide grants to cover disaster related expenses for personal property, vehicle repair or replacement and/or moving and storage feed.
• You do not need to own a business to apply for an SBA low interest disaster loan. If your primary residence was located in a designated county and sustained disaster damage, you are eligible to apply.
• Your insurance may not cover all the replacement, repair and rebuilding costs needed. A disaster loan could help pay the difference, including the policy deductible.
• Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.
• Businesses and nonprofit organizations may be eligible to borrow up to $2 million for repair costs and disaster related working capital needs.
• Currently, interest rates for physical loss loans are as low as 1.38% for homeowners and renters. For businesses, it’s at 2.830% and for nonprofits it’s 1.875%. Monthly repayments can be stretched out over 30 years to help make the loan more affordable. Loan payments do not begin until 18 months from date on the SBA Note provided at closing.  Ask your loan officer for more information.
• In addition, you may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of the physical damage to make your home or business safer. Eligible work could include building retaining walls, elevating or retrofitting the flood prone structure or relocating utilities to protect against future damage.

If you applied for FEMA Individual Assistance and were referred to the SBA, you may soon receive a phone call. A team of SBA specialists are reaching out to survivors to discuss the SBA application process and answer questions.

For more information:

• Visit SBA’s secure website at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance.
•  You may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Call 800-621-3362 anytime from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual specialists are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:

Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number

Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.

• You may also register via the FEMA app by downloading it to a smartphone or tablet, or at www.disasterassistance.gov.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter@FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Mon, 02/07/2022 - 19:57

FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $1.78 billion to more than 273,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.

“Applications” in the below chart 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

9,644

$44,845,109

6,549

ALASKA

359

$1,029,185

197

AMERICAN SAMOA

Less than 10

$33,802

Less than 10

ARIZONA

7,318

$21,703,845

4,311

ARKANSAS

4,427

$18,745,895

2,956

CALIFORNIA

36,197

$161,212,123

24,944

COLORADO

3,878

$11,861,861

2,111

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

23

$26,584

Less than 10

CONNECTICUT

4,152

$20,674,673

3,003

DELAWARE

1,223

$5,142,070

817

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

661

$2,933,878

433

FLORIDA

28,625

$112,469,779

19,944

GEORGIA

17,085

$79,963,675

11,564

GUAM

28

$115,033

16

HAWAII

551

$1,829,919

311

IDAHO

1,453

$4,370,741

752

ILLINOIS

16,305

$71,821,456

10,499

INDIANA

8,222

$33,229,002

4,758

IOWA

3,566

$16,574,398

2,315

KANSAS

3,554

$14,394,267

2,224

KENTUCKY

7,099

$31,973,507

4,416

LOUISIANA

7,453

$35,062,179

5,100

MAINE

770

$2,323,055

424

MARYLAND

7,151

$32,367,851

4,812

MASSACHUSETTS

7,103

$33,687,637

4,870

MICHIGAN

14,653

$54,133,154

8,891

MINNESOTA

4,430

$18,476,699

2,709

MISSISSIPPI

6,337

$28,764,750

4,254

MISSOURI

8,250

$33,343,527

5,276

MONTANA

1,034

$2,999,293

586

NEBRASKA

1,827

$7,990,406

1,147

NEVADA

3,671

$12,062,653

2,201

NEW HAMPSHIRE

1,017

$3,832,805

622

NEW JERSEY

14,121

$68,276,759

9,938

NEW MEXICO

2,518

$7,042,138

1,366

NEW YORK

31,047

$146,215,579

21,322

NORTH CAROLINA

13,655

$60,057,123

9,122

NORTH DAKOTA

982

$5,047,981

681

OHIO

16,940

$69,959,832

10,779

OKLAHOMA

6,334

$26,217,936

4,111

OREGON

1,882

$5,163,876

1,081

PENNSYLVANIA

19,208

$86,438,058

13,099

PUERTO RICO

1,780

$4,261,452

1,140

RHODE ISLAND

1,393

$6,927,257

1,016

SOUTH CAROLINA

9,246

$41,937,890

6,116

SOUTH DAKOTA

961

$4,742,258

659

TENNESSEE

11,636

$52,395,280

7,617

TEXAS

38,490

$176,672,388

26,997

U. S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

55

$256,738

40

UTAH

1,931

$7,921,468

1,129

VERMONT

213

$820,698

142

VIRGINIA

9,316

$39,354,227

5,932

WASHINGTON

3,487

$10,792,020

1,949

WEST VIRGINIA

2,882

$11,516,087

1,692

WISCONSIN

6,676

$27,164,772

4,144

WYOMING

639

$2,177,727

394

 

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. EST today.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, should give FEMA the number for that service.

While COVID-19 funeral assistance can be processed as a reimbursement, applicants are not required to pay for funeral expenses prior to receiving assistance. Applicants must provide FEMA with a signed funeral home contract, invoice, or similar legal documentation that shows the individual incurred COVID-19-related funeral expenses on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 02/07/2022 - 18:40

FEMA Awards Nearly $1M to Michigan Community Impacted by 2020 Dam Failure

CHICAGO – Through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $931,930 to the village of Sanford, Michigan, for the acquisition and demolition of 14 homes that were damaged following the Midland dam break in May 2020. Located in the floodplain of the Tittabawassee River, this area is susceptible to recurring flooding unless mitigation measures are taken. To reduce the community’s flood vulnerability and mitigate risk to life and property, these structures will be removed from the flood hazard area, and the location will be reverted to open space maintained by the city.

“FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program enables communities to implement critical mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate the risk of disaster losses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “The damage sustained from the dam breaks in Midland, Michigan, was substantial and this project will increase the community’s resilience to future flooding.”

“The Sanford community is still dealing with some of the devastating impacts of the floods nearly two years ago,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, commander of Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security division. “We are grateful to our federal partners for their continued efforts to help the community recover and become more resilient.” 

HMGP provides grants to state, tribal and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures following a natural disaster. For this project, FEMA will pay 75% of the $1,242,573 eligible project cost with the remaining 25% of the funds, $310,643, provided by the village of Sanford. FEMA will also provide an initial $25,000 in sub-recipient management costs to assist Sanford in managing this grant. To learn more about HMGP or FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.

# # #

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

troy.christensen Mon, 02/07/2022 - 17:11

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Prince Edward County

PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Prince Edward County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.

The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around Feb. 16, 2022. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1yuSXC.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. 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 and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Prince Edward County Flood Mapping Milestones

• July 10, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• April 14, 2021 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• April 28, 2021 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• Feb, 16, 2022 – Appeal Period starts.
• Spring 2023* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

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

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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 Mon, 02/07/2022 - 16:43

Disaster Recovery Center to Open at Lummi Nation Administration Center

LACEY, Wash. – A Disaster Recovery Center, jointly operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open in the Lummi Nation Feb. 8, operating by appointment only through Feb. 12.

The location:

• The Lummi Nation Administration Center, Qwenes Conference Room, 2665 Kwina Road, Bellingham, WA 98226.

For an appointment, call 360-312-2123.

Center personnel will schedule appointments for these dates:

• Feb. 8, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Feb. 9, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Feb. 10, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Feb. 11, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Feb. 12, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state agencies will be available to help residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

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

For more information about Washington disaster 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

mary.j.edmon Sun, 02/06/2022 - 05:17

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Concrete

LACEY, Wash. – A Disaster Recovery Center, jointly operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open in Concrete (Skagit County) Feb. 7, to help survivors of the Nov. 5-Dec. 2, 2021, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

Center location:

• East County Resource Center, 45770 Main St., Concrete, WA 98237, hours Feb. 7, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Feb. 8, noon to 8 p.m., Feb. 9, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  
• Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state will be available to help residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas, apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

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

For more information about Washington disaster 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.

mary.j.edmon Sat, 02/05/2022 - 02:04

FEMA Provides $26.9M to the Minnesota Department of Health for COVID-19 Response Costs

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division (DPS-HSEM) announced today that $26,931,775 million in federal funding has been made available to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) for costs related to the state’s COVID-19 response under the federal disaster declaration of April 7, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to MDH for eligible reimbursable costs associated with COVID-19 testing and other related response costs across the state from January 1, 2022, through March 31, 2022.  Testing will be performed at education, tribal and long-term care facilities, local public health sites and pop-up testing locations.  Additionally, MDH will be provided surge bed capacity for Veterans Affairs hospitals.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state and local governments and eligible private non-profits to cover eligible COVID-19 expenses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding will help Minnesota expand COVID testing capacity and increase healthcare resources to continue their fight against the spread of this virus.”

“COVID-19 has presented unique challenges for all of us and responding to the pandemic over the last two years has required collaboration across many sectors,” Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm said. “We are thankful for the support and partnership of all our partners, and in particular the resources provided by the federal government to help sustain our response work.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to state and local governments and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.   

 

# # #

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

troy.christensen Fri, 02/04/2022 - 13:35

Thirteen Tennessee Counties to Receive FEMA Public Assistance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The Major Disaster Declaration signed on Jan. 14, 2022, for middle and west Tennessee following damage caused by a line of tornadoes last December was amended Thursday, February 3, to include funding for FEMA Public Assistance (PA), which supplements state and local recovery efforts. Thirteen Tennessee counties are now eligible to receive PA grants to help communities repair and replace damaged infrastructure and buildings.

In addition to FEMA Individual Assistance, Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner and Weakley counties are now eligible to apply for Permanent Work, Categories A-G. The amendment also approves Decatur and Dyer counties for PA Categories A-G. FEMA considered the results of Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments performed in damaged areas to determine which counties were eligible for PA.

FEMA’s PA program reimburses counties, states, tribes, and certain nonprofit organizations for eligible costs of disaster-related debris removal, emergency protective measures and repair and, under the Permanent Work designation, replacement of disaster-damaged facilities, such as roads, bridges, public utilities, including water treatment and electrical plants, government buildings and parks. This is a cost-sharing program in which FEMA reimburses applicants at least 75 percent of eligible costs. The remaining 25 percent share is covered by the State of Tennessee.

Also, under the Major Disaster Declaration, eligible applicants throughout Tennessee may apply for grants under FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation program. Eligible applicants and sub-applicants include the state, local and tribal governments, and certain private non-profits.  Homeowners may participate through their local city or county government.

The 12 Tennessee counties already designated to receive FEMA Individual Assistance under the Major Disaster Declaration are Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson counties. The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is March 15, 2022.

There are several ways to apply:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov,
• Use the FEMA app, which can be easily downloaded to a smartphone, or
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:
  • Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number
  • Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Thu, 02/03/2022 - 20:46

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Hamilton

LACEY, Wash. – A Disaster Recovery Center, jointly operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open in Hamilton (Skagit County) Friday, Feb. 4, to help survivors of the Nov. 5-Dec. 2, 2021, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

Center location:

• Hamilton Fire Department parking lot, 951 Pettit St., Hamilton, WA 98255, Feb. 4-5 and Feb. 10-12, open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state will be available to help residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas, apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

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

For more information about Washington disaster 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

mary.j.edmon Thu, 02/03/2022 - 19:06

ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Visits Recovery Projects in Florida

Administrator Speaks to Local Officials and Area Emergency Managers 

WASHINGTON -- This week, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell traveled to Florida where she toured recovery projects and met with local and state emergency managers.

On Tuesday, Administrator Criswell and FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Gracia Szczech joined Florida Division of Emergency Management and local officials to tour ongoing recovery projects from Hurricane Michael, the Category 5 storm that made landfall and devastated areas of Mexico Beach and Panama City in 2018.

The Administrator was briefed on local recovery progress efforts, and the focus turned toward rebuilding for resilience against future storms. As they emphasized continued partnership in recovery, the Administrator highlighted the need for resilience in the face of increasing climate risks.

Criswell also attended a town hall meeting Tuesday with Callaway, Panama City and Springfield officials where they discussed the challenges of the past and hopes for the future.

Earlier today, Administrator Criswell gave the keynote address at the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association’s annual meeting in Miramar Beach, where she challenged emergency managers to help shape the programs that our country uses during response and recovery operations.

“We need you to tell us how we can best deliver our assistance to your communities -- your insights have the power to drive policy,” she said. “This is where we need those strong partnerships with you as our local experts … you know where Florida’s underserved communities are, what risks they face and what support they need to be stronger and more resilient.”

The Administrator’s remarks emphasized that FEMA’s success is contingent upon the diversity of our workforce -- diversity of thought, identity, backgrounds and skills. She noted her prioritization of an enterprise approach to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce where we can all work together to build a more resilient nation.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 02/02/2022 - 21:58

FEMA Eliminates Barriers for Tennessee Tornado Survivors

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — FEMA remains focused on reducing barriers and increasing opportunities for all Tennessee tornado survivors to receive support and assistance when they need it.

1. 1. 53. language barriers

FEMA speaks your language. We provide translation and interpretation services to reach out and communicate with disaster survivors who speak little or no English. Our telephone interpretation service can communicate in 117 languages. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter for other languages.

Assistance for the disabled

Disasters are traumatic for everyone, including people with disabilities. Twenty percent of the general population have some form of physical, mental health, sensory, intellectual, or cognitive disability. A disaster can take away the key components that enable individuals with disabilities to live independently or to communicate with others. Examples may be a lost wheelchair, walker, or assistive medical device. If you require an accommodation in accessing services or programs, Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362; specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual services are available.

• If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:
  • Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number
  • Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.
    2. tools and other assistance

FEMA also provides free aids and services to help survivors communicate with us and vice-versa. We provide:

• Information in Braille, large print, or audio
• Information in accessible electronic formats on the FEMA website
• Qualified sign language interpreters
• Qualified multilingual interpreters
• Information written in numerous languages

If you need assistance to access a FEMA program or service funded by FEMA, please contact FEMA at (833) 285-7448 [ Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the Language Line] or email FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

1. 1. 6. wants to know

FEMA supports equal access to all programs and services available to eligible Tennessee tornado survivors in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley and Wilson counties.

If you have a complaint, you must report it within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act. To report a concern or complaint of discrimination, please call FEMA External Civil Rights Division at (833) 285-7448 [ Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the Language Line] or stay on the line for more language options, You may also send an email to FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov; or send a letter explaining the issue to FEMA OFFICE OF EQUAL RIGHTS, External Civil Rights Division 500 C Street, SW Room 4SW-0915 Washington, DC 20472.

Once a complaint is filed, it will be reviewed by FEMA’s Office of Equal Rights, the complaint will be investigated, and attempts will be made to resolve any violations informally. If an informal resolution fails to resolve the complaint, enforcement proceedings may be instituted.

1. 1. 1. for FEMA assistance:

There are many ways tornado survivors may apply:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA app, which can be easily downloaded to a smartphone.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The FEMA Helpline is your go-to resource for answers to questions about insurance or your application as well as to update information.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter@FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Wed, 02/02/2022 - 17:49

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Wilson County, Texas

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Wilson County, Texas. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods.

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around Feb. 2, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through May 3, 2022 for:

• The city of Elmendorf and the unincorporated Areas of Wilson County

Comments only may be submitted through May 3, 2022 for:

• The City of La Vernia

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. 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.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 02/02/2022 - 17:49

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Bexar County, Texas

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Bexar County, Texas. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods.

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around Feb. 2, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through May 3, 2022 for:

• The cities of China Grove, Elmendorf and San Antonio; and the unincorporated areas of Bexar County

Comments only may be submitted through May 3, 2022 for:

• The City of St. Hedwig

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. 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.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 02/02/2022 - 17:41

FEMA Assistance Won’t Affect Other Benefits

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky residents who receive Social Security payments or other government assistance should not be concerned that FEMA disaster assistance will affect your benefits.

FEMA assistance is not taxable income and does not affect eligibility for other benefits. FEMA grants do not affect Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. And it does not affect assistance provided under Kentucky’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, or other federal welfare and entitlement programs.

Disaster funding helps survivors pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property repairs and replacement, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.

The Dec. 10-11 tornadoes affected survivors in 16 counties: Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren. If you were among those residents, you can apply for FEMA assistance if your primary home had damage or losses from the tornadoes.

Applying with other agencies such as American Red Cross or the Commonwealth of Kentucky does not make you eligible for FEMA assistance; you must apply with FEMA. The deadline to apply is Friday, Feb. 11.

To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 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. CST daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

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

For official 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, 02/02/2022 - 16:55

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Deming

LACEY, Wash. – A Disaster Recovery Center, jointly operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open Thursday, Feb. 3, in Deming (Whatcom County) to assist survivors of the Nov. 5 - Dec. 2, 2021, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

Center location:

• Nooksack Indian Tribe, 5084 Mount Baker Highway, Deming, WA 98244.  The center will operate every day for 14 days from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., beginning Feb. 3.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state agencies will be available to help residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Nation and all tribes in the designated areas, apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

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

For more information about Washington disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

###

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

mary.j.edmon Wed, 02/02/2022 - 15:58

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Counties Affected by Kentucky Tornadoes

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A public notice is now available that addresses FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants in 23 counties in Kentucky for costs to repair and/or replace facilities damaged by the Dec. 10-11, 2021, tornadoes.

The notice is now posted on FEMA’s Kentucky disaster website at https://www.fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/dr-4630-ky-public-notice-001; it will also be posted to the Kentucky Emergency Management website.

The public notice describes proposed activities that may affect historic properties and activities and critical actions that may affect wetlands and floodplains.

The president approved a disaster declaration Dec. 12 for the tornadoes.

Sixteen counties were designated eligible to apply for FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program: Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Ohio, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Taylor and Warren. The program provides financial assistance and direct services, including Direct Housing, to disaster-affected eligible individuals and households with uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and serious needs. Under the Direct Housing program, FEMA must evaluate temporary housing sites and take into consideration all environmental laws and executive orders.

The following 23 counties were designated for the FEMA Public Assistance program: Barren, Breckinridge, Bullitt, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Grayson, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Meade, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Shelby, Spencer, Taylor, Todd and Warren.

Under the Public Assistance program, FEMA reimburses eligible applicants for eligible costs to repair and/or replace publicly owned facilities and the facilities of certain private nonprofit organizations that sustained damage in the Dec. 10-11, 2021, tornadoes. The program also encourages protection of these damaged facilities from future events by providing assistance for hazard mitigation measures.

Under Public Assistance Category A, eligible applicants in Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor, Todd and Warren counties can seek reimbursement for emergency debris removal work.

Under Public Assistance Category B, eligible applicants in Barren, Breckinridge, Bullitt, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Grayson, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Meade, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Shelby, Spencer, Taylor, Todd and Warren counties can seek reimbursement funding for emergency work to protect lives and secure property.

Under Public Assistance Categories C-G, eligible applicants in Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor, Todd and Warren counties can submit projects for permanent work. Additional counties may be designated at a later date if requested by the Commonwealth and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is available statewide.

To obtain information about FEMA’s actions or a specific project, write to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency – Region IV - EHP, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, GA 30341-4112 or send an email to FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Please include in the subject line of the email “DR 4630-KY.”

FEMA is required by law to share the public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities through its Public Assistance program and its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

scott.reuter Wed, 02/02/2022 - 13:11

FEMA Assistance for Tennessee Tornado Survivors Defined

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – You may be eligible to apply for FEMA assistance after a line of tornadoes cut a path through middle and west Tennessee in December, but what does that really mean? What assistance does FEMA provide and to whom? Here are some answers.

Who is eligible?

Under a recently signed Major Disaster Declaration, homeowners and renters in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley and Wilson counties whose primary residence and/or personal property was damaged or destroyed by the tornadoes are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance. You have until March 15, 2022, to do so.

FEMA does not provide assistance to small businesses. Our partner, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), offers low interest disaster loans for that. Also, we do not offer housing assistance for secondary homes; you may only receive FEMA assistance for disaster damage to your primary residence.

1. 1. 23. FEMA may cover

Tornado survivors in middle and west Tennessee are eligible to apply for possible grants that cover temporary housing, repairs and other uninsured or underinsured losses. Below, is an abbreviated list of assistance available. However, those who still have questions can speak with a FEMA representative to learn how the agency can assist with your disaster recovery.

Temporary Housing Assistance: Funds for temporary housing, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs, while you are unable to live in your home due to extreme tornado damage.

Lodging Expenses Reimbursement: Reimbursement for out-of-pocket lodging expenses for homeowners or renters for short periods of time because they can’t access their disaster-damaged home or a utility outage makes the home unlivable.

Home Repair or Replacement: FEMA may assist with the replacement of, or repairs to, a disaster-damaged primary residence in certain circumstances. This assistance is not intended to restore your home to its pre-disaster condition. Instead, grants cover uninsured essentials like doors, windows, a roof, critical utilities, toilets and other necessities. The homeowner may apply for an SBA disaster loan to help with additional repairs beyond what FEMA may provide. Flood insurance may also be required if the home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area.

• • FEMA may also consider funding for hazard mitigation measures, such as roof, furnace, water heater, or main electrical panel mitigation, to help reduce the amount of damage to the home in future disasters, if those items were damaged by the tornadoes. For more information on FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation program, click here.

Other Needs Assistance

Financial assistance is available for necessary expenses and serious needs directly caused by the disaster, including:

• Child-care expenses
• Medical and dental expenses
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Damage to essential household items; tools required for your job; necessary educational materials (computers, schoolbooks, supplies)
• Fuel for the primary heat source (heating oil, gas)
• Clean-up items (wet/dry vacuum, dehumidifier)
• Damage to an essential vehicle
• Moving and storage expenses caused by the disaster. This is moving and storage of essential household goods to prevent further damage, such as ongoing repairs, and returning property to the applicant’s primary residence.
• Other necessary expenses or serious needs as determined by FEMA

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

There are many ways tornado survivors may apply for FEMA:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Visit the state’s Multiple Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Weakley County and talk with a FEMA specialist. That address is: Weakley County Adult Learning Center, 8250 TN Hwy 22, Dresden TN 38225. The hours are

8 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week.

• • An SBA Business Resource Center is also located inside the MARC. It’s open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Saturday and Sunday.
• Use the FEMA app, which can be easily downloaded to a smartphone.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362; specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week.
  • If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:
    • Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number
    • Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.  

felicia.jordan Tue, 02/01/2022 - 21:25