U.S. Departments of Homeland Security and Education Release Toolkit of Federal Resources to Help Rebuild Puerto Rico’s School Infrastructure

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –Today, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Department of Education released a toolkit outlining federal resources available to help Puerto Rico recover and rebuild safe, healthy, and modernized school facilities.  The Departments of Energy and Labor, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency, also collaborated on the toolkit.

The toolkit focuses on four key aspects to supplement ongoing recovery efforts in the education sector: planning and design, workforce readiness, contracting and procurement, and project review.  In addition, the document includes a directory with technical assistance opportunities and information on other funding sources from federal partners.

“As Puerto Rico continues to rebuild, recover, and reimagine a future of security and prosperity for all of its families, DHS will be there every step of the way,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “I encourage officials to use the resources available to them through the federal government to build safe and resilient schools for teachers and students.”

“All children deserve to have the opportunity to learn and thrive in safe and functioning educational facilities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.  “FEMA is proud to continue supporting Puerto Rico through this important phase of work.”

“The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to supporting a full recovery in Puerto Rico grounded in dignity, equity, and respect,” said Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “Education is a critical component of full recovery, and access to first-class facilities is a first step in providing all students in Puerto Rico—the island of my roots—with the high-quality education they deserve.”

This toolkit was generated by the White House Working Group on Puerto Rico, which was launched in July 2021 to provide Puerto Rico the resources and technical assistance it needs to recover and prosper.

After multiple natural disasters, Puerto Rico has access to extensive recovery resources, including more than $2 billion in FEMA Public Assistance for school infrastructure related to recovery.  Additionally, billions more in federal education and COVID-19 relief funds are available to assist with addressing and recovering from COVID-19.  These funds may also include upgrades to school infrastructure, depending on the program.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $25.9 billion towards response and recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.  FEMA is helping rebuild large parts of the island and supporting the government of Puerto Rico’s plan to restore critical services systems and build capacity in a manner that is both fiscally sound and resilient against the impacts of future disaster.

On Jan. 27, 2022, at 3pm ET/4pm AT, the White House will host a webinar where agencies will discuss the toolkit and resources it identifies.  The webinar will be held on Zoom and requires advance registration.

To see the full toolkit, visit: https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_technical-assistance-toolkit_schools-puerto-rico.pdf (English) or https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_technical-assistance-toolkit_schools-puerto-rico_spanish.pdf (Spanish).

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 Fri, 01/21/2022 - 12:34

Citizenship and FEMA Eligibility

FEMA is committed to helping all eligible disaster survivors recover from flooding and mudslides in Washington Nov. 13-15, 2021, including U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals and qualified aliens.

Disaster survivors in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, including residents of the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Nation and other tribes in the three counties, may apply for assistance from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. You or a member of your household must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified alien. If you do not meet the status of either U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified alien, your household may still apply for and be considered for IHP assistance if:

• Another adult member of your household meets the eligibility criteria and certifies their citizenship status during the registration process or signs the Declaration and Release form; or
• The parent or guardian of a minor child who is a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or a qualified alien applies for assistance on behalf of the child, as long as they live in the same household. The parent or legal guardian must register as the co-applicant and the minor child must be under age 18 at the time the disaster occurred.

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is March 7, 2022. ​​​​​​​

Qualified aliens

A qualified alien includes:

• A legal permanent resident (“green card” holder).
• An asylee, refugee or an alien whose deportation is being withheld.
• An alien paroled into the U.S. for at least one year.
• An alien granted conditional entry (per law in effect prior to April 1, 1980).
• A Cuban or Haitian entrant.
• Certain aliens subjected to extreme cruelty or who have been a victim of a severe form of human trafficking, including persons with a “T” or “U” visa.
• Aliens whose children have been abused and alien children whose parent has been abused who fit certain criteria.

Non-Citizen Nationals

A non-citizen national is a person born in an outlying possession of the U.S. (e.g., American Samoa) on or after the date the U.S. acquired the possession, or a person whose parents are U.S. non-citizen nationals. All U.S. citizens are U.S. nationals; however, not every U.S. national is a U.S. citizen.

Qualified Minor Children

The parent or guardian of a minor child living in the same household may apply for assistance on behalf of the minor child who is a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien. The minor child must be under age 18 as of the first day of the incident period or disaster declaration day, whichever comes first.

Resources

Catholic Immigration Legal Services in Seattle provides legal immigration assistance to low-income residents of Washington: 100 23rd Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98144-2302, phone 206-328-6314; DACA Hotline: 206-566-6664.

See Citizenship and Immigration Status Requirements for Federal Public Benefits for more information in multiple languages at fema.gov/assistance/individual/program/citizenship-immigration-status.

If you’re unsure of your immigration status, talk to an immigration expert to learn if your status falls within the immigration status requirements for FEMA disaster assistance.

Voluntary organizations often offer help regardless of citizenship status. To find voluntary organizations:

• Call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or go online to redcross.org/find-your-local-chapter.html.
• Visit nvoad.org/ to learn about other voluntary organizations.

Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA app for smartphones. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

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mary.j.edmon Fri, 01/21/2022 - 03:50

Be Cold Weather Aware in your FEMA Temporary Housing Unit

BATON ROUGE, La. – Wintry weather and possibly dangerous road conditions are expected in Louisiana tonight through Friday morning.

Here are some winter safety tips for Louisianans living in FEMA temporary housing units:

• Stay alert to weather warnings and information on road conditions from state and federal authorities.
• Use the weather radio to monitor the situation and comply with any local official evacuation orders.
• Should local officials recommend manufactured housing occupants find sturdier shelter, evacuate immediately. Be sure to take pets with you.
• Survivors living in travel trailers must leave the trailer in place.
• To help stay warm, wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing and a hat.
• Follow guidelines from the state and FEMA:
  • Conserve propane use prior to cold temperatures.
  • Call the FEMA contracted emergency maintenance number for service if there is a problem with the unit.
    • Maintenance service calls may be delayed by hazardous conditions on roadways.

kiarash.ghiam Thu, 01/20/2022 - 22:36

Wintry Precipitation Delays Opening at Disaster Recovery Centers Across Louisiana Until 11:30 a.m.

BATON ROUGE, La. – Wintry weather and possibly dangerous road conditions will delay the opening of FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers on Friday, Jan. 21. Centers will now open at 11:30 a.m.

Disaster Recovery Centers will resume regular hours Saturday morning. DRCs are open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closed Sundays.

At the centers, survivors can get assistance with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions answered about federal disaster assistance.

For a list of all DRCs currently open in Louisiana and other details, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Or check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person). All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

kiarash.ghiam Thu, 01/20/2022 - 22:17

FEMA Teams Assisting Washington Disaster Survivors

LACEY, WA. – FEMA specialists are working in areas impacted by the Nov. 13-15, 2021 flooding and mudslides to help disaster survivors apply for FEMA assistance and provide information about resources.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams (DSA) are working to help residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, including residents of the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Nation and other tribes in the three counties who were affected by the disaster. The teams carry photo identification and never charge for assistance. FEMA specialists work with survivors to help them apply for assistance, answer questions and process case updates and inquiries.

Specialists currently are in the following location weather permitting:

• Clallam County: FEMA has an application site at 71 N. Spartan Ave., Forks, operating from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, then ceasing operation.

Residents in the designated counties and tribes can apply 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.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in the state to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.

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.      

mary.j.edmon Thu, 01/20/2022 - 17:28

Disaster Recovery Centers in Cut Off and Montegut to Close Permanently Jan. 25 and 26

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Cut Off and Montegut will close permanently next week. The DRC in Cut Off will close Tuesday, Jan. 25. The Montegut DRC will close the following day, Wednesday, Jan. 26.

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit other DRCs in Louisiana. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists at the following centers until they close permanently.

Closing on Jan. 25 Tarpon Heights Shopping Center

Galliano Government Complex (Parking Lot)

16245 East Main St.

Cut Off, LA 70345

Closes at 6 p.m.

Closing on Jan. 26 Montegut Recreation Center

(Southwest corner of Cross & Dolphin Streets)

106 Dolphin St.

Montegut, LA 70377

Closes at 6 p.m.

kiarash.ghiam Thu, 01/20/2022 - 15:31

Schedule for Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Since the Dec. 12 major disaster declaration for the severe storms and tornadoes, FEMA and the Commonwealth have operated 18 Disaster Recovery Centers in the affected areas of Western Kentucky.

Here are the expected schedules for six mobile recovery centers. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time on the advertised days:

 

Ohio County: Friday, Jan. 21 to Saturday, Jan. 22.

Community Center/Justice Department, 130 E. Washington, Hartford, KY 42347

 

Lyon County: Friday, Jan. 21 to Friday, Jan. 25. Closed Sunday, Jan. 23.

Old Convention Center, 3311 Lee S. Jones Park Road, Eddyville, KY 42038

 

Logan County: Tuesday, Jan. 25 and Wednesday, Jan. 26.

Local County Extension Services, 255 John Paul Road, Russellville KY 4226

 

The following recovery centers open at 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 24 and will close Tuesday, Jan. 25:

Taylor County: Old Firehouse, 1563 Greensburg Road, Campbellsville, KY 42718

Barren County: Cave City Police Department, 103 Duke St., Cave City, KY 42127

Marion County: 223 N. Spalding Ave., Lebanon, KY 40033

Find a Disaster Recovery Center at fema.gov/drc or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

For 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 Thu, 01/20/2022 - 13:11

FEMA Surpasses the Approval of 9,000 Hurricane María Recovery Projects

Nearly 80 percent of the projects are for permanent work

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The recent number of projects that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has obligated to the Government of Puerto Rico total more than 9,100. This represents over $25.9 billion in federal funds for Puerto Rico's recovery. Hundreds of projects have already been completed while others are in the bidding and procurement stages.

“These awards represent over $19.4 billion for permanent work in various categories,” said FEMA's Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator in Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero Tirado. According to FEMA's Director on the island, the obligations will have an impact on the local economy. “Every day we obligate projects with the goal of allocating funds that will benefit the residents of Puerto Rico and their communities.” Baquero Tirado also explained that there are some 1,900 projects that are in various stages of approval by the agency.

For road infrastructure, close to $1.3 billion has been approved for more than 2,600 projects related to roads and bridges. Some roads such as PR-184 in the Rivera sector, Camino los Cotto and cunetón Rancho Vega in Cayey, as well as PR-825 in Cuesta Varo of the Achiote neighborhood in Naranjito will be repaired with about $2 million obligated to each of these municipalities for these purposes.

Among the completed works is the repaving of a rural road in the Mulita neighborhood of the Tita Montañez Sector in Aguas Buenas. In addition, according to the mayor of this municipality, there are over six sectors under construction. Asphalting works have already been completed in the Tajea I and Tajea II sectors. Soon the repairs for the bridge at the Los Coreanos sector and the Los Layos sector will be contracted as well as the repaving of the Casianos sector in the Juan Asencio neighborhood.

“We are pleased because we have elderly people with health conditions and this makes it easier to enter and exit,” said Juan José Guzmán, resident of the Mulita neighborhood.

On the other hand, close to $897 million was approved to cover the costs of some 2,000 projects to repair parks and recreational facilities. In the municipality of Loíza, for example, work was completed on the Santillana del Mar recreational park with an obligation of over $35,000.

“The park is very important for us because it is the meeting point for neighbors and [where] people [can] come and spend time with their families,” said Luis Daniel Pizarro, Director of Federal Programs for the Municipality of Loíza. Afterwards, he added that this completed repair and others will benefit over 3,000 families and different communities.

Likewise, among the 9,000 projects obligated are funds for the University of Puerto Rico. The island's largest educational institution was allocated funds for 182 projects representing $549 million in obligations. For its part, the Puerto Rico Health Department has some 63 projects approved for a total of $104 million for permanent work.

Similarly, about $4.1 billion was obligated for over 2,300 projects to repair public buildings, such as the Lares Cultural Center, which is part of the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, and six community centers in different neighborhoods in Humacao. Both projects received funding allocations within the first days of the new year.

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), said, "Puerto Rico's critical infrastructure is in a historic moment of transformation. The restoration of the electrical and aqueduct systems, as well as the reconstruction of roads, bridges, buildings, parks, schools and ports, among others, will mark the beginning of the Island's socioeconomic development. Currently, 558 permanent works are underway, representing an investment of approximately $373 million. Meanwhile, over 337 projects that represent $14.7 million have been completed, and this year approximately 2,000 projects will begin their respective phases of construction.

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 Thu, 01/20/2022 - 12:09

Woodruff County, Arkansas Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on July 19, 2022, for Woodruff County, Arkansas. 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.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 01/19/2022 - 19:10

Tornado Survivors Should be Aware of Scammers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals are already descending on survivors from the deadly tornado outbreak that hit western and middle Tennessee on Dec. 10-11, 2021. Federal and state emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity.

Many unscrupulous people take advantage of survivors by posing as FEMA representatives, housing inspectors or other official disaster aid workers. Many say they are “just trying to help” survivors complete their applications, but they are trying to obtain personal identity information. Others claim to be contractors only to make promises they don’t keep while pocketing a survivor’s money.

Survivors should keep the following information in mind while FEMA Disaster Assistance Teams, housing inspectors and other officials are working in the area.

• Federal and local disaster workers do not ask for or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help filling out applications.
• Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for a large cash deposit or other payments in full.
• Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. The person might ask for your Social Security number and income or banking information. FEMA representatives will have a laminated badge and your FEMA registration number.
• Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number. Legitimate FEMA housing inspectors will NOT ask for this information.
• Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.

 Fraudulent building contractors

• Use licensed or verified local contractors with reliable references.
• To find licensed, certified Tennessee contractors, check the Department of Commerce & Insurance Administration License Roster Search (tn.gov).
• Don’t pay more than half the costs of repairs in advance and get documentation of your payment.
• Demand contractors detail the job you expect them to do and ask for a written estimate.

Report the Scam. Reporting helps protect others. Based on the type of scam you may see, contact the appropriate agency.

• If you believe you or a loved one has become a victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the office of the Tennessee Attorney General.
• If you suspect fraud of any kind related to disaster assistance or have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, you may report these tips 24 hours a day, seven days a week to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866) 720-5721. You may also email the information to disaster@leo.gov.
• If someone is using your personal information to open new accounts, make purchases or get a tax refund, report it at IdentityTheft.gov.
• You may also file a complaint with Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs if you have been scammed or have a dispute with a business regarding a transaction.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Currently, those affected by the tornado outbreak in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson counties may apply for FEMA assistance the following three ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Operators can answer questions about applications already submitted. Lines are open daily 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, give FEMA the number for that service.
• Or, by downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet

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, 01/19/2022 - 17:44

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Skagit County

LACEY, WA. – FEMA, in partnership with the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open a Disaster Recovery Center Wednesday, Jan. 19, in Skagit County to help survivors of the November flooding and mudslides.

Center location:

• Old Sedro-Woolley Library, 802 Ball Street, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

The center will open Jan. 19 with hours 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. On Jan. 21, hours will change to Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday noon – 6 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, including members of the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe and the Quileute Nation, 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 and tribal members in the designated counties 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.

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.

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.      

mary.j.edmon Wed, 01/19/2022 - 16:31

Raceland and Cut Off Disaster Recovery Centers to Close at 2 p.m. Saturdays

BATON ROUGE, La. – Starting this week, FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Raceland and Cut Off will close at 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Survivors can get in-person assistance with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and get questions answered about federal disaster assistance from 9 a.m.to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday at:

LPG Government Complex

4876 LA-1

Raceland, LA 70394

Tarpon Heights Shopping Center

16245 East Main St.

Cut Off, LA 70345

For hours and other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA DRC Locator for a complete list of DRCs currently open in Louisiana. All centers will follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks will be required by both FEMA specialists and survivors. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

rebecca.watson Wed, 01/19/2022 - 15:58

Deadline to Apply for Federal Assistance Nears

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentuckians: Don’t wait! Apply with FEMA for disaster assistance now! The deadline is fast approaching to apply for help from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Homeowners and renters who suffered damage as a result of the Dec. 10, 2021, severe storms and tornadoes have until Feb. 11, 2022, to apply.

If you live in Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren counties, you may be eligible for grants from FEMA and low-interest disaster loans from SBA.

FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are canvassing neighborhoods, interacting with residents to help them apply for assistance and to provide referrals to other resources.

Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Registration Intake Centers provide one-on-one help with the application process. To find the latest information about Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky, visit the FEMA App on your smart phone, click on “Talk to FEMA in person.” You also may visit the Disaster Recovery Center Locator online, or call the FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362.

Applying for help is free. Go online at DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Tue, 01/18/2022 - 21:07

How to Appeal FEMA’s Decision

FRANKFORT, Ky – Western Kentucky residents who applied for assistance with FEMA following the Dec. 10, 2021, severe storms and tornadoes and received a determination letter regarding their eligibility should read the letter  carefully. It might not be the final answer. 

If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, you can appeal. Every survivor has the right to appeal. By appealing, you are asking FEMA to review your case.

You may just need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application. Examples of missing documentation may include proof of insurance coverage; settlement of insurance  claims or denial letter from insurance provider; proof of identity; proof of occupancy; proof of ownership; and proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.

For answers to questions about the letter, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

An applicant who disagrees with FEMA’s decision or the amount of assistance may submit an appeal letter and supporting documents such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs.

An appeal must be in writing. In a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should also include the applicant’s full name; the FEMA disaster number (FEMA DR-4630-KY for the Kentucky disaster); the address of the pre-disaster primary residence; the applicant’s current phone number and address; and the FEMA application number on all documents.

If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, that person must sign it and provide FEMA with a signed statement authorizing the individual to act on behalf of the applicant.

A letter must be postmarked within 60 days of the date of the determination letter. An appeal letter and supporting documents may be submitted to the agency via a FEMA online account or by mail or fax.

• To set up a FEMA online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions in English or Spanish. At the account, an applicant can also check the status of the application and upload personal information and documents as well as the appeal letter.
• Or mail to FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055.
• Or fax to 800-827-8112 (Attention: FEMA).

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4

scott.reuter Tue, 01/18/2022 - 18:48

FEMA Assistance Available for Tennessee Tornado Survivors

Nashville, Tenn – President Biden declared a major federal disaster declaration on Jan. 14 for the deadly tornado outbreak that took place on December 10 and 11, 2021. Homeowners and renters in 12 counties affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornados may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance. These designated counties include Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson counties.

Those affected by the tornadoes can call FEMA at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to apply. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 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, give FEMA the number for that service.

Residents can also register via smartphone or tablet using the FEMA App, or at www.disasterassistance.gov

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, along with other programs to assist those recovering from the tornadoes, such as replacement of personal property and medical expenses not covered by insurance.

For more information on Tennessee severe storms, visit Tennessee Severe Storms (DR-4637-TN) | FEMA.gov. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

 

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felicia.jordan Tue, 01/18/2022 - 18:04

FEMA Announces $530 Million for Emergency Food and Shelter Program

WASHINGTON – FEMA has announced that the National Board for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) allocated $530 million to jurisdictions (counties and cities) across the country to assist our nation’s hungry and homeless populations.

Congress appropriated $130 million through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, and $400 million through Section 4007 of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, to the EFSP. The program’s National Board will distribute the funds to local organizations dedicated to feeding, sheltering and providing critical resources to people with economic emergencies. These funds are for people with non-disaster related emergencies and can be used for a broad range of services, including mass shelter, mass feeding, food pantries and food banks, utility bill payments to prevent cut-offs, rent/mortgage payments to prevent evictions/foreclosures and transition assistance from shelters to stable living conditions. The $400 million in supplemental funding was provided by Congress to specifically address the continuing economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The National Board is chaired by FEMA with representatives from American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, The Jewish Federations of North America, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Salvation Army and United Way Worldwide. United Way Worldwide, selected by the National Board as its secretariat and fiscal agent, is also responsible for the EFSP’s daily administration, in alignment with federal requirements and National Board governance.

EFSP funding is allocated to qualifying local jurisdictions based on a formula using the most recent national population, unemployment, and poverty data. Grants are then awarded by local boards to nonprofit and government organizations that provide direct services to those in need in their communities. All applications are evaluated competitively. With this FY 2021 annual and supplemental funding, the total aid disbursed in the EFSP’s 39-year history will be more than $5.6 billion.

Find information about allocations on the EFSP website. Learn more about how EFSP funds help Americans rebuild their lives.

A state-by-state list of the eligible jurisdictions and award amounts is available at www.efsp.unitedway.org.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/18/2022 - 17:33

FEMA Assistance Available to Washington Renters

LACEY, WA. – Renters in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties and members of the Lummi Nation, the Nooksack Indian Tribe and the Quileute Tribe whose homes and property were damaged by the November floods can apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA Individual Assistance is available to renters, including students, as well as homeowners. Federal grants can help pay for temporary housing. The initial rental grant is for a 2-month period and can be reviewed for further assistance. The application deadline is March 7, 2022.

Renters may also qualify for a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for uninsured essential personal property losses and other disaster-related expenses. These may include:

• Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks or school supplies
• Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required by the employer
• Primary vehicles in compliance with state registration and insurance requirements that have disaster-caused repair or replacement expenses 
• Uninsured or out-of-pocket medical, dental, childcare, moving or storage expenses

Survivors in the designated counties 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.

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

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

Renters may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $40,000, depending on their losses. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is March 7, 2022.

For an accessible video on how renters may be able to get federal help after a disaster: youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=yAHSPK_K7tg&feature=youtu.be.

For more information about Washington flood 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.      

 

mary.j.edmon Sun, 01/16/2022 - 18:34

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Alaska to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from Oct. 29–Nov. 1, 2021.

Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides in Kenai Peninsula Borough.

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

Thomas J. Dargan has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

mashana.davis Sat, 01/15/2022 - 22:19

$1.5 Million Approved for Washington Disaster Survivors

LACEY, WA. – One week after Washington disaster survivors became eligible for federal assistance, the Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Division and FEMA have worked together to award $1.5 million in federal grants to individuals and households.

Residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, including members of the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe and the Quileute Nation who were affected by the Nov. 13-15, 2021 floods and mudslides, can apply to FEMA for help with temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs or other essential disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance. 

County residents and tribal members in the designated counties can apply 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.

Since the Jan. 5 major disaster declaration, the state and FEMA have coordinated to provide $1,526,454 million in federal funds to individuals and households.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams (DSA) have been deployed to affected communities. DSA team members carry photo identification and never charge for assistance. These teams can help survivors apply for federal assistance, check the status of applications and provide information about resources.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is March 7, 2022.

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

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.      

mary.j.edmon Sat, 01/15/2022 - 03:18

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from Dec. 10-11, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley and Wilson counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

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

Myra M. Shird has been named the 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.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621- 3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

mashana.davis Sat, 01/15/2022 - 01:40