Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Recovery Centers Reopen

FRANKFORT, Ky – The Commonwealth of Kentucky and FEMA have deemed it safe to reopen some Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Registration Centers after two days of severe weather.

Find locations for open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) online at www.fema.gov/drc or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. On your smart phone, open the FEMA App, click on “Talk to FEMA in person.”

The following recovery centers will open at noon, Saturday, Jan. 8:

WARREN COUNTY DRC

Former Sears location at Greenwood Mall, 2625 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104

 

CALDWELL COUNTY DRC

Butler Gymnasium, 600 W. Main St., Princeton, KY 42445

 

GRAVES COUNTY DRC

Graves County Public Library, 601 N. 17th St., Mayfield, KY 42066

 

LOGAN COUNTY DRC

Logan County Extension Services, 255 John Paul Road, Russellville, KY 42276

 

BARREN COUNTY DRC

Cave City Police Department, 103 Duke St., Cave City, KY 42127

 

MARION COUNTY DRC

223 N. Spalding Ave., Lebanon, KY 40033

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC

Community Center, 108 W. Keigan St., Dawson Springs, KY 42408

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC

Mike’s Old Pharmacy, 104 S. Lee Trover Todd Jr. Hwy., Earlington, KY 42410

 

The following Mobile Registration Center will reopen at noon, Saturday, Jan. 8:

Marshall County MRIC

Old Marshall County Library, 1003 Poplar St., Benton, KY 42025

 

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 Sat, 01/08/2022 - 03:50

Federal Support in New York Continues Four Months After Ida

NEW YORK – It has been four months since the remnants of Hurricane Ida impacted homes, businesses and infrastructure across New York state. To date, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the National Flood Insurance Program has disbursed nearly half a billion dollars to help New Yorkers recover and rebuild.

“We stand alongside our state, local, community and other federal partners to continue a robust recovery effort,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Lai Sun Yee. “In addition to funding, FEMA mobilized more than 40 disaster recovery centers, visited nearly 99,000 homes and interacted with at least 42,000 survivors through its Disaster Survivor Assistance teams.”

Nearly 40,000 New Yorkers from the Bronx, Brooklyn (Kings County), Queens, Staten Island (Richmond County), Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties have been approved for FEMA disaster assistance since the Sept. 5 major disaster declaration. Orange County was added to the declaration on Dec. 1.

As of Jan. 5. FEMA approved $191.1 million for housing and other essential storm-related needs under the Individual Assistance program. This amount includes $171.9 million approved for temporary housing, rental assistance, home repair and replacement for eligible survivors  and $19.2 million approved for other needs assistance which can help eligible survivors pay for medical and dental expenses, childcare, and other disaster-related necessary expenses.

The Small Business Administration has approved 4,010 home and business loans for a total of more than $196.5 million to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from remnants of Hurricane Ida. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. These low-interest loans are not just for businesses. Homeowners, renters and certain nonprofits impacted by Ida may also apply. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $110.1 million to New York policyholders and closed 3,032 claims for flood damage caused by the storm.

Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it is part of the solution, as disaster recovery is a whole community effort. Many entities are involved including local and state agencies, nonprofits, voluntary and faith-based organizations, and the private sector. FEMA continues to work closely with its whole-of-community partners to ensure disaster survivors have access to the resources they need from all eligible programs available.

Residents of Orange County who suffered damage or losses from remnants of Hurricane Ida, have until Monday, Jan. 31 to apply for disaster assistance with FEMA.

The application period for residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn (Kings County), Queens, Staten Island (Richmond County), Dutchess, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties ended on Jan. 4. However, individuals from these nine counties have a 60-day grace period to submit a late application. For a late application, the applicant must submit a letter to FEMA that explains the extenuating circumstances that prevented them from applying within the application period.

To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

Applying for an SBA loan assures that all available disaster assistance options remain open to you. If you are not eligible for an SBA loan, this may open the door to additional assistance from FEMA.

Applicants may apply online using SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call 800-877-8339. For more information, email DisasterCustomerService@SBA.gov.

zella.campbell Fri, 01/07/2022 - 22:58

Disaster Recovery Progress in Jefferson and Shelby Counties

CLANTON, Ala. – On Dec. 21, 2021 President Biden issued a federal disaster declaration for Jefferson and Shelby Counties following the severe storms and flooding that occurred Oct. 6-7, 2021. Since then, local, state, and federal partners have been hard at work making sure disaster survivors get the assistance they need.

Since the federal disaster declaration for Oct. 6-7 severe storms and flooding, Jefferson and Shelby County residents have received more than $9,736,248 in federal funds as of Jan. 7, 2022.

Individual Assistance in Jefferson and Shelby Counties:

213 homeowners and renters have been approved for $1,124,514.42 in federal grants through FEMA’s Individual and Households Program. This includes:

• $1,035,582.79 in Housing Assistance grants for home repair, home replacement, and or rental/assistance.
• $88,931.63 in Other Needs Assistance grants to replace essential household items and for other critical disaster-related costs.
• 85 homeowners and renters have been approved for rental assistance.
• 417 home inspections issued; 355 completed.

Flood Insurance Program:

• NFIP has paid $8,167,334 to policyholders who filed claims in Jefferson and Shelby Counties.
• 10 households have been approved for $24,000 for a Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP) where FEMA pays the cost of the GFIP directly to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

U.S. Small Business Administration:

• 10 residents have been approved for $420,400 in low-interest loans through the SBA disaster home loan program.
• SBA is operating a Business Recovery Center (BRC) at the Hoover Recreation Center:

• Address: 600 Municipal Drive, Hoover, AL 35216.
• Hours of operation: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. CST, closed Saturday and Sunday.

• The BRC can assist businesses of all sizes, non-profits, and homeowners or renters with their SBA application.

There's Still Time to Apply

Residents of Jefferson and Shelby counties in Alabama who were affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred Oct. 6-7, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The deadline to register is Feb. 21, 2022.

Residents in the designated counties can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 – 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time, 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. When you apply, you will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

For more information about Alabama disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4632. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapman Fri, 01/07/2022 - 22:05

Time is Running Out to Register for FEMA Assistance

HARRISBURG, Pa. – There are just a few days left for homeowners and renters to apply for disaster assistance. Those who sustained uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from the remnants of Hurricane Ida living in Bedford, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, and York counties are encouraged to apply.

The deadline to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is Monday, Jan. 10. There are several ways to register:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), also available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Assistance from FEMA may include:

• Funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs
• Funds to support the repair or replacement of owner-occupied homes that serve as the household’s primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges
• Funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following information prior to registration:

• Social Security number
• Address of the damaged primary residence
• Insurance coverage information
• Current telephone number and mailing address
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

Survivors should update their contact information as soon as possible because FEMA may need to reach them to perform a home inspection or get additional information. FEMA encourages survivors to request direct deposits of disaster assistance to their financial institution. Survivors should let FEMA know as soon as possible of any changes to their mailing or banking information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

For updates on the Pennsylvania response and recovery, follow the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency on Twitter twitter.com/PEMAHQ and Facebook https://m.facebook.com/PEMAHQ/. Additional information is available at fema.gov/disaster/4618.

valerie.amato Fri, 01/07/2022 - 17:26

Two Disaster Recovery Centers to Change Saturday Hours of Operation

BATON ROUGE, La. – The disaster recovery centers in Luling and Montegut will change their Saturday hours of operation to 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., beginning Jan. 8.

Survivors can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions about federal disaster assistance answered at the centers.

The two centers are located at: Edward Dufresne Community Center (Parking lot)

274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway Luling, LA 70070

Hours of operation Mon. – Fri.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed Sunday

Montegut Recreation Center (Gravel next to baseball field)

106 Dolphin St. (Southwest corner of Cross St. and Dolphin St.) Montegut, LA 70377

Hours of operation Mon. – Fri.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed Sunday

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. 

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 01/07/2022 - 16:39

UPDATE: All Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Registration Centers to remain Closed Friday Jan. 7 Due to Severe Weather

FRANKFORT, Ky – Due to the severe winter weather threat in the region, the Commonwealth of Kentucky and FEMA have determined that all Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed Thursday, Jan. 6, and Friday, Jan. 7, 2022.

The weather threat is expected to affect the area until Friday, Jan. 7.

The Recovery Centers will be reopened when it is safe to do so.

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 Fri, 01/07/2022 - 13:23

FEMA, Territorial Partnership Paves Path to Rebuild Arthur Richards School

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Hurricane Maria’s winds and rains left Arthur Richards Junior High School in ruins in September 2017. FEMA and the Territory made it a priority to assess damage to the school’s six buildings and grounds, collaborate to build out temporary modular classrooms for students and ultimately replace the school.

FEMA approved replacement of Arthur Richards in 2020 and demolition of the Frederiksted school began in 2020 as well. Plans to replace Arthur Richards have hit another milestone in the new year with FEMA’s approval of a $242.5 million project to rebuild the school.

The federal and territorial partnership to replace Arthur Richards spotlights FEMA’s mission to support the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education’s plans to repair and rebuild public schools damaged from hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017.

“Collaboration and diligence between FEMA and the Territory has laid the foundation for a new Arthur Richards Junior High School. We stand firm in our commitment to help the U.S. Virgin Islands repair and rebuild schools that will provide a safe and modern environment for the Territory’s children. Building schools smarter and stronger will ensure children return to classrooms quicker after future storms,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Recovery Director Kristen Hodge.    

FEMA has awarded $209.2 million through its Public Assistance program toward the Territory’s plan to rebuild Arthur Richards. Insurance proceeds will cover $10 million and a non-federal cost share of 10% will cover remaining costs for the project to replace Arthur Richards. The replacement of Arthur Richards is authorized as a Public Assistance Alternative Procedures project and clears a path for the Territory to rebuild the school at the site of the Evelyn Williams School in Mount Pleasant on St. Croix.

“The Office of Disaster Recovery thanks FEMA for this obligation which will set the standard for new school construction in the Territory in accordance with the Department of Education’s Facilities Master Plan. This was a monumental joint effort which has provided funding for the first new school reconstruction as we work to modernize schools across the Territory,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery Director Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien.

As of January 5, 2022, FEMA has obligated a combined $444 million for emergency and permanent repairs to U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education facilities damaged during the 2017 Category 5 hurricanes.

The Territory began the demolition of Arthur Richards Junior High School on St. Croix in 2020. FEMA has approved a $242.5 million project to replace the school, which was damaged during Hurricane Maria in September 2017. Photo Courtesy of the U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery.

gina.callaghan Fri, 01/07/2022 - 12:50

FEMA Announces Reinsurance Program to Manage Future Flood Risk in 2022

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has announced its 2022 traditional reinsurance placement for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), continuing its risk management practice against catastrophic flood losses. 

The agency has transferred an additional $1.064 billion of the NFIP’s financial risk to the private reinsurance market. This annual reinsurance agreement is effective throughout the calendar year with 28 private reinsurance companies. 

The 2022 reinsurance placement covers portions of NFIP losses above $4 billion arising from a single flooding event. FEMA paid a total premium of $171.9 million for the coverage. 

The agreement is structured to cover:  

• 4.163% of losses between $4 billion and $6 billion.  
• 26.565% of losses between $6 billion and $8 billion.  
• 22.453% of losses between $8 billion and $10 billion. 

“FEMA remains committed to reinsurance as a risk transfer measure to ensure the NFIP has the capacity to pay claims, especially now with the growing intensity and frequency of weather patterns brought on by climate change,” said David Maurstad, FEMA’s senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “Our No. 1 job is to provide policyholders peace of mind in knowing that the NFIP will be there when they need it most.”

Reinsurance is a financial risk management tool used by private insurance companies and public entities to protect themselves from large financial losses. If a qualifying catastrophic flood event occurs, reinsurance companies cover a portion of the NFIP’s losses to enhance FEMA’s ability to pay flood insurance claims without borrowing from the U.S. Treasury. 

Combined with the three capital markets reinsurance placements in 2019-21, FEMA has transferred $2.3 billion of the NFIP’s flood risk to the private sector.  

If a named storm flood event is large enough to trigger all reinsurance agreements, FEMA will receive qualifying payments. For named storms resulting in NFIP claims exceeding $10 billion, FEMA will receive the full $2.3 billion of reinsurance coverage from the private markets. 

FEMA contracted with Guy Carpenter and Company, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, to provide broker services to assist in securing the reinsurance placement.

FEMA received authority to secure reinsurance through the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 and the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014.  FEMA’s 2022 reinsurance placement builds upon its previous reinsurance placements as further development toward a stronger financial framework. 

For more information, visit the NFIP Reinsurance Program webpage on FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 01/06/2022 - 21:44

FEMA Deadline has Passed but Help is Still Available; Federal Funding Tops $711.7 Million

TRENTON, N.J. – FEMA encourages applicants to keep in touch to track their case. Residents who believe the assistance they received for repairs is not enough are encouraged to contact FEMA to submit an appeal. Survivors may be asked to submit repair estimates, receipts or other documentation that explains their case. Survivors should also notify the agency of additional damage discovered to their home since their inspection. They should also update mailing or email addresses or phone numbers and the status of their insurance settlements.

Applicants in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union or Warren counties can contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585 or go online at DisasterAssistance.gov to keep FEMA updated or for follow-up questions.

The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.

Federal Funding Tops $711.7 Million

Four months since President Joe Biden declared a major disaster in New Jersey, more than $711.7 million in federal funds have been provided to New Jersey residents to aid in their recovery. The breakdown of funds is as follows:

• More than $215.6 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing. 
• More than $230.1 million in U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans approved for homeowners, renters and business owners.
• Nearly $266 million paid to National Flood Insurance Program policyholders statewide.

Homeowners, renters and businesses who have applied for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration can follow-up with questions at SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or email disastercustomerservice@SBA.gov.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

amir.nijem Thu, 01/06/2022 - 18:12

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Washington to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding and mudslides from Nov. 13-15, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties and the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe and Quileute Tribe. 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.

Toney Raines 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.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 01/06/2022 - 15:16

FEMA Ensures Equity for the Whole Community in Delivering Disaster Recovery Services

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA continues to stress equity in every part of the agency while assisting Kentucky residents in their recovery from the recent tornadoes.

FEMA may provide or fund programs to support the public before, during, and after a disaster. These programs must comply with Federal civil rights laws and nondiscrimination requirements in the Stafford Act. FEMA does not treat people differently because of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

FEMA provides free aids and services to people to help them communicate with us and understand FEMA programs:

▪ Information available in Braille, large print, or audio ▪ Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website

▪ Qualified sign language interpreters

▪ Qualified multilingual interpreters ▪ Information written in other languages If you need assistance to access a FEMA    program or service or a 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 FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

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]

▪ 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.

For questions about disaster assistance, please call FEMA's Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). FEMA’s Helpline is available to all disaster survivors, including those whose primary language is not English. Press 2 for Spanish or stay on the line for more language options. 

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 Thu, 01/06/2022 - 14:15

Don’t Agree with Your FEMA Decision? Filing an Appeal May Unlock Further Disaster Assistance

Hartford, Conn.– If you applied with FEMA for damage and losses caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida, you will receive a letter in the mail explaining your application current status or eligibility for disaster assistance. Read this letter carefully and follow up with any requests for additional information or provide the documentation requested.

If you received a determination letter, and do not agree with the amount of assistance offered or determination provided, filing an appeal may be the key to unlocking additional disaster assistance. You must file an appeal within 60 days of the date on your FEMA eligibility letter.

In Connecticut, FEMA staff are working with homeowners and renters to resolve issues and help applicants work through the appeals process for additional eligible funding. To date, FEMA has completed 1,980 case reviews. These reviews have resulted in an additional $1.1 million disbursed in disaster assistance to impacted survivors.  

To date FEMA has approved more than $7 million dollars in grants to Connecticut survivors impacted by Hurricane Ida.

Step One: Read Your Determination Letter

It is important that you read your determination letter carefully. This letter contains information to help you understand why FEMA decided the application was “ineligible.” Many times, it could be something as simple as providing missing documents or information.

If you need help understanding your determination letter call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, 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. Multilingual operators are available.

Step Two: Gather Documents to Prove Your Eligibility

Often, applicants need only to submit extra documents for FEMA to process their application. FEMA may find an applicant ineligible if the following documents are missing:

• Insurance documents: Provide documents from your insurance company that show your policy coverage and/or settlement is not enough to make essential home repairs, provide a place to stay, or replace certain contents. FEMA cannot duplicate homeowner or renter insurance benefits.
• Proof of occupancy: Provide documents that prove the damaged home or rental was your primary residence by supplying a copy of utility bills, driver’s license or lease.
• Proof of ownership: Provide mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts or a deed. If you don’t have a deed handy, contact your local or county officials about obtaining a copy.
• Lost documents: Visit the following website for information on replacing lost documents: https://www.usa.gov/replace-vital-documents

All appeals must be in writing. The appeal letter should explain why you believe FEMA’s decision is not correct. When filing an appeal, the submission should also include the following information: applicant’s full name, applicant’s FEMA Application Number and Disaster Number, address of the applicant’s pre-disaster primary residence, and the applicant’s current phone number and address.  It is important to include any documentation FEMA requests and/or that supports the appeal claim. Also, if the person writing the appeal letter is not the applicant or a member of the household, you must submit a signed statement that the writer is authorized to act on your behalf.

Step Three: Submit Your Appeal

IMPORTANT: When submitting an appeal, be sure to include the cover letter you received from FEMA.

• Mail documents and your appeal letter within 60 days of receiving your determination letter to: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055 
• Fax them to 800-827-8112.
• To set up a FEMA online account or to upload documents online, visit disasterassistance.gov and click on “Check Your Application and Log In” and follow the directions.

You will receive a decision letter within 90 days of FEMA's receipt of your appeal.

The deadline for applying for federal assistance is January 28, 2022.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 01/05/2022 - 18:50

Disaster Recovery Center at Montegut Recreation Center Remains Open

BATON ROUGE, La. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Montegut remains open to help survivors affected by Hurricane Ida. Survivors can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions about federal disaster assistance answered at the centers.

All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

The center is located at:

Montegut Recreation Center (Southwest corner of Cross and Dolphin St) 106 Dolphin St. Montegut, LA 70377

For other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA.gov/DRC for a complete list of DRCs currently open in Louisiana. 

rebecca.watson Wed, 01/05/2022 - 16:32

FEMA Ready Campaign Urges Preparedness in 2022

WASHINGTON -- FEMA and its Ready Campaign urges everyone to add a New Year’s resolution to your list that includes at least one proactive way to keep you and your family safe from disasters and emergencies.

“We continue to see an increasing trend in communities having to confront disasters outside of traditional seasons, while also combatting complex threats posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Each of us has an important role in keeping ourselves, our families and our communities safe from these threats, and that starts with individual preparedness. Through our annual ‘Resolve to be Ready’ campaign, we are encouraging everyone to include disaster preparedness initiatives into you and your family’s personal resolutions for 2022.”

Here are some things everyone can do:

• Have several ways to receive weather and emergency alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area. 
• Build an emergency supply kit with supplies that last for several days for each member of your household. If you live in Hawai’i, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, consider having supplies to last at least 10 days.
• Make an emergency communications plan to make sure everyone in your household knows and understands what to do and where you will meet if you get separated. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with household members, including your pets and identify where you will go.
• Ensure that you and your family are vaccinated against COVID-19 helps your entire community be more resilient before future disasters. COVID-19 vaccines are effective at preventing COVID-19 disease, especially severe illness and death. Vaccines are widely accessible in the U.S. Visit vaccines.gov to find a location and make an appointment. Or text your zip code to 438829 and get a text with the closest COVID-19 vaccine location.

Being resilient after a disaster or emergency requires the cooperation, collaboration and shared responsibility of everyone in our community, across all levels of government, the private sector and faith-based organizations to you, individuals and families.

The Ready Campaign has more information and resources online for individuals, individuals with disabilities, families, kids, pets and small businesses. To learn more, visit: Ready.gov (for English) or Listo.gov (for Spanish).

Follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook using #ResolveToBeReady.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/04/2022 - 16:18

Some Disaster Recovery Centers to Operate on Rotating Schedule

FRANKFORT, Ky –Twelve Disaster Recovery Centers are part of a circuit and will operate on a rotating schedule. The centers will be in one location for a week and move to another location for a week. Five other recovery centers will operate as a fixed location.

Hours for all DRCs are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time Monday through Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. local time Sunday, until further notice.

Twelve Disaster Recovery Centers will operate on a weekly rotating schedule:

CALDWELL COUNTY DRC#3, Butler Gymnasium, 600 W. Main St., Princeton, KY 42445

Reopening Jan. 12; closing Jan. 18

 

FULTON COUNTY DRC#5, Old Gibson Electric Membership Corp., 1702 Moscow Ave., Hickman, KY 42050

Reopening Jan. 16; closing Jan. 22

 

MARSHALL COUNTY DRC#6, Joe Creason Community Center, 1600 Park Ave., Benton, KY 42025

Reopening Jan. 12; closing Jan. 18

 

CHRISTIAN COUNTY DRC#8, Maddux Funeral Home, 338 E. Nashville St., Pembroke, KY 42266

Closing Jan. 5; reopening Jan. 16; closing Jan. 22

 

HICKMAN COUNTY DRC#9, County Cooperative Ext. Services, 329 James H. Phillips Drive, Clinton, KY 42031

Closing Jan. 5; reopening Jan. 16; closing Jan. 22

 

HART COUNTY DRC#10, Fairgrounds Building (without a fence), 2184 S. Dixie Hwy., Munfordville, KY 42765

Closing Jan. 5; reopening Jan. 16; closing Jan. 22

 

LOGAN COUNTY DRC#11, Logan County Extension Services, 255 John Paul Road, Russellville, KY 42276

Opening Jan. 4; closing Jan. 9; reopening Jan. 21; closing Jan. 27

 

TAYLOR COUNTY DRC#12, Old Firehouse, 1563 Greensburg Road, Campbellsville, KY 42718

Opening Jan. 8; closing Jan. 13; reopening Jan. 25; closing Jan. 31

 

BARREN COUNTY DRC#13, Cave City Police Department, 103 Duke St., Cave City, KY 42127

Opening Jan. 4; closing Jan. 9; reopening Jan. 21; closing Jan. 27

 

OHIO COUNTY DRC#14, Community Center/Justice Department, 130 E. Washington, Hartford, KY 42347

Opening Jan. 4; closing Jan. 9; reopening Jan. 21; closing Jan. 27

 

MARION COUNTY DRC#15, 223 N. Spalding Ave., Lebanon, KY 40033

Opening Jan. 8; closing Jan. 13; reopening Jan. 25; closing Jan..31

 

LYON COUNTY DRC#16, Old Convention Center, 3311 Lee. S. Jones Park Road, Eddyville, KY 42038

Opening Jan. 8; closing Jan. 13; reopening Jan. 25; closing Jan. 31

 

FIXED LOCATIONS:

In addition, six other Disaster Recovery Centers will remain in one location on a fixed basis at the following sites:

WARREN COUNTY DRC#2

Former Sears location at Greenwood Mall, 2625 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104

 

MUHLENBERG COUNTY DRC#4

Neal’s Chapel General Baptist Church, State Route 81, Sacramento, KY 42372

 

GRAVES COUNTY DRC#7

Graves County Public Library, 601 N. 17th St., Mayfield, KY 42066

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC #17

Community Center, 108 W. Keigan St., Dawson Springs, KY 42408

 

HOPKINS COUNTY DRC #18

Mike’s Old Pharmacy, 104 S. Lee Trover Todd Jr. Hwy., Earlington, KY 42410

The Disaster Recovery Centers, operated by the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and FEMA, offer in-person support to survivors in the designated counties of Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren.

FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs and how to apply with FEMA, and help connect

survivors with resources for their recovery needs. Other Disaster Recovery Centers will open across the Kentucky disaster area in the coming days. To find the latest DRC information, open the FEMA App on your smart phone, click on “Talk to FEMA in person.” The DRCs are all listed with pertinent details. You also may visit the Disaster Recovery Center Locator online.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

The centers are federal facilities and, under COVID-19 protocols, a face mask is required. If you do not have a mask, one can be provided. 

Mobile Registration Center Locations

In addition to the newly opened Disaster Recovery Centers, Mobile Registration Centers are open to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and provide information about resources for survivors. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST) daily. For an updated list of locations, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630.

You do not need to visit a center to apply with FEMA

If you are unable to visit one of the centers, there are other ways to apply: You 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.

 When you apply, you will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is Feb. 11, 2022.

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

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, 01/04/2022 - 13:13

FEMA Remains Focused on The Recovery from The Earthquakes

Debris removal is underway for private properties in the south that were destroyed by the earthquakes

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – Two years from the series of earthquakes that hit Puerto Rico at the end of 2019, the recovery continues with the help of over $523 million allocated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The funds are distributed among projects comprising the 14 municipalities of the Southern, Western and Central parts of the island.

Among the structures with most damage because of the earthquakes were the schools on the area, many of which had the “short columns” structural problem, which makes them more vulnerable against seismic events. To repair these and other structural damages on over 126 schools, FEMA allocated an additional more than $178.3 million in 2021 to the Department of Education.

“Puerto Rico’s history changed because of these earthquakes. As of today, over 518 projects have funds from the agency, mostly for schools and municipalities. We seek to take advantage of this unique opportunity to strengthen the structures where public education is given and additional spaces within the affected area,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero.

According to the federal agency, in addition to repair and reconstruction work for the schools, public buildings and roads, the efforts include private property debris removal. Over 86 residences in Guánica and Yauco have already been demolished, which will start the long-term recovery of these families.

In this journey towards recovery is Janet Vega Padró, resident of the Esperanza neighborhood in Guánica, who lost her home because of the earthquakes. “The first step has already been taken, which is the demolition,” while she added that she expects to begin rebuilding her home with the funds she received from FEMA.

Public Safety Funds

On the other hand, public buildings like police stations, fire stations and judicial centers also received federal allocations for repairs. One of these obligations to the Public Buildings Authority was of over $8.4 million to repair facilities on the municipalities at the area.

For the Secretary of the Puerto Rico Public Safety Department, Alexis Torres, the allocation of these funds is significant and serve as a benefit of the community. “We will continue to identify the help available to provide our staff of the DSP bureaus with better tools, work conditions and, therefore, be able to offer a better service to the people in case of emergency,” said Torres.

According to the Adjutant General for the Puerto Rico National Guard, General José Juan Reyes, the experience with the earthquakes taught us to be more proactive and prepared. “We acquired two [pieces of] equipment known as Western Shelters on the civilian version. FEMA acquired that equipment and we installed and enabled them this year. It’s a base camp with a 300-person capacity, but it has a washer, dryer, kitchen, through some containers and a tent cistern that are useful for any emergency,” said Reyes.

When faced with the question of whether the Puerto Rico Seismic Network has introduced new technologies as a result of the earthquakes, the geophysicist and Director of the Network, Dr. Víctor Huérfano, said that the seismic monitoring infrastructure was completely repaired after Hurricane María. “FEMA helps us, the Federal Geological Survey also lends its support and the Mayagüez Campus of the University of Puerto Rico. Fortunately, when the seismic events occurred, the monitoring infrastructure had already been recovered to a 100 percent. And we not only repaired it, [but we also] improved it,” he said.

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resilience (COR3), said that thanks to the collaboration between FEMA, the subrecipients and COR3, in 2021 the inspections were advanced to give way to the reconstruction process of multiple facilities.

“In 2022, we will continue working on the obligation of more than 200 projects estimated at more than $500 million in federal funds from FEMA; with those already obligated, we will begin the process of contracting engineering and architectural services, and others will begin the auction and reconstruction process during the first months of the year,” Laboy Rivera said.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the earthquakes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4773 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr y Twitter @COR3pr..

frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 01/04/2022 - 11:49

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $1.6 billion to more than 247,000 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

9,077

$40,711,969

5,962

ALASKA

303

$851,462

159

AMERICAN SAMOA

Less than 10

$22,968

Less than 10

ARIZONA

6,363

$20,301,974

4,028

ARKANSAS

4,059

$16,870,200

2,673

CALIFORNIA

34,022

$149,873,954

23,252

COLORADO

3,318

$10,759,863

1,917

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

10

$17,584

Less than 10

CONNECTICUT

3,705

$19,160,084

2,782

DELAWARE

1,077

$4,799,044

757

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

619

$2,770,764

406

FLORIDA

26,666

$99,142,983

17,613

GEORGIA

15,820

$70,159,216

10,155

GUAM

25

$88,952

12

HAWAII

501

$1,577,243

274

IDAHO

1,255

$3,627,920

630

ILLINOIS

14,158

$67,588,813

9,903

INDIANA

6,886

$29,886,822

4,284

IOWA

3,128

$15,471,381

2,161

KANSAS

3,123

$13,356,949

2,060

KENTUCKY

6,279

$27,714,169

3,834

LOUISIANA

7,059

$32,160,873

4,677

MAINE

616

$1,994,873

364

MARYLAND

6,393

$30,357,161

4,514

MASSACHUSETTS

6,384

$32,025,694

4,629

MICHIGAN

12,397

$48,901,321

8,056

MINNESOTA

3,759

$17,306,916

2,547

MISSISSIPPI

5,982

$26,040,281

3,850

MISSOURI

7,194

$30,020,458

4,762

MONTANA

918

$2,639,687

513

NEBRASKA

1,588

$7,510,882

1,078

NEVADA

3,292

$11,071,734

2,014

NEW HAMPSHIRE

851

$3,552,211

579

NEW JERSEY

12,881

$64,463,063

9,392

NEW MEXICO

2,138

$6,491,849

1,261

NEW YORK

28,424

$136,536,032

19,931

NORTH CAROLINA

12,211

$53,870,554

8,190

NORTH DAKOTA

877

$4,677,261

634

OHIO

14,080

$57,534,910

8,884

OKLAHOMA

5,724

$23,321,918

3,658

OREGON

1,631

$4,259,741

866

PENNSYLVANIA

16,352

$72,739,330

11,083

PUERTO RICO

1,591

$3,693,412

1,002

RHODE ISLAND

1,259

$6,521,350

956

SOUTH CAROLINA

8,467

$37,796,829

5,509

SOUTH DAKOTA

862

$4,496,637

618

TENNESSEE

10,576

$47,457,084

6,878

TEXAS

35,873

$159,125,879

24,386

U. S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

49

$203,546

32

UTAH

1,674

$7,140,566

1,015

VERMONT

177

$733,242

129

VIRGINIA

8,177

$35,327,285

5,337

WASHINGTON

3,022

$9,565,550

1,723

WEST VIRGINIA

2,531

$9,548,670

1,409

WISCONSIN

5,715

$24,847,079

3,810

WYOMING

552

$1,806,630

322

* 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 January 20, 2020.

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

amy.ashbridge Mon, 01/03/2022 - 21:05

FEMA Registration Deadline Approaching Jan. 5 for New Jersey Ida Disaster Assistance

TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey homeowners, renters and businesses who had property damage or loss caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida from Sept. 1-3, 2021, have until Wednesday to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for assistance from FEMA and for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is Jan. 5, 2022.

Federal disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property losses, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

If you live in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union or Warren counties, you can register for disaster assistance, update your contact information, ask questions about a letter from FEMA, get information about FEMA home inspections, or learn how to appeal a FEMA decision by:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Downloading the FEMA app; or
• Calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  Multilingual operators are available.

You should have the following information available when you are ready to register

• Address of the damaged primary dwelling
• Current mailing address, telephone number and Social Security number
• Your insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account numbers for checking or savings accounts for direct deposit; and
• A description of disaster damage and losses

The primary source of federal funding for long-term disaster recovery not covered by insurance is the Small Business Administration. SBA offers disaster assistance in the form of low interest loans to businesses, nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters. SBA also provides eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations with working capital to help overcome an economic injury.

Homeowners, renters and businesses that were affected by Hurricane Ida may apply for disaster loans using SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/, and should apply under SBA declaration #17143. For more information, applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

amir.nijem Mon, 01/03/2022 - 19:31

Resolve to be Disaster Ready in 2022

CHICAGO – As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the holiday season and ring in the New Year, consider committing to a resolution for 2022 that could save your life and protect your home – resolve to be ready for disasters. 

“It only takes a few simple steps, and it starts with understanding the unique disaster risks in your community and making a family emergency communications plan,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Sit down with the members of your household now and talk about the disasters that could impact your area. Ensure everyone knows the shelter plan and evacuation routes, as well as how your family will reconnect if something happens.”

Consider taking these additional preparedness steps too, and resolve to be disaster ready for 2022:

• Make an emergency kit. These portable kits should include food, water, medications, prescriptions, cash, radios, flashlights and other necessities. It is also recommended that you have hand sanitizer and face masks included in your kit, to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Keep an emergency kit in your car in case you are stranded and include an extra set of clothing and blankets for the winter months.
• Sign-up for emergency alerts for your area. It’s important to know how to get information when a disaster happens. Local radio and television stations provide information on how to stay safe and find temporary shelter.
• Budget for a disaster.  Financially prepare for the new year. Find out how with the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit. Start to grow an emergency fund today so you can cover any unexpected changes in your day-to-day life.
• Check your insurance policies. Understand what your policies cover in case of major disasters and talk to your agent to make sure you’re adequately insured against the risks you may face. Snap pictures of your property and make an inventory. Having a clear record of what you own will make the insurance process easier. 
• Protect your valuables. Store precious belongings, such as photographs or heirlooms, in damage proof containers so you don’t risk losing them permanently. Also keep copies of your critical documents safe and secure in case of emergency.

Visit www.Ready.gov/resolution for more information on how you can resolve to be ready. 

# # #

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

troy.christensen Mon, 01/03/2022 - 15:09

Contact FEMA for Assistance with Marshall Fire Losses

DENVER – Boulder County residents and businesses who sustained damages from the Marshall Fire may be eligible for state and federal disaster assistance. FEMA has programs that provide financial help with temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. FEMA may also make referrals to other local, state, federal and voluntary assistance programs.

First, if you haven’t already done so, contact your insurance company and file a claim for the disaster-caused damage.  You don’t have to wait to start cleaning up but be sure to take photographs or video of the damage and keep all receipts for repair work.

If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, apply for assistance with FEMA. You can do so in several ways:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov and click on “Apply Online”
• Call 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open every day from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. MST. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned phone, or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
• Download the FEMA App for smartphones or mobile devices
• On Sunday meet with FEMA Application Assistance staff from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Boulder County Disaster Assistance Center at 1755 S. Public Road in Lafayette.  Additional hours will be announced later.
• Information about how to apply for low-interest U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans for businesses and residents is available online at www.SBA.gov/disaster. You may also call 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. TTY users may call 800-877-8339.

SBA offers federal low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.

In addition to financial aid from FEMA or the SBA, by applying you may be referred to additional federal, state and local disaster aid programs or assistance from voluntary agencies.

It is helpful to have the following information available:

• Address of the dwelling/structure where the damage occurred (pre-disaster address)
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Social Security Number
• Routing and account number for checking or savings account (this allows FEMA to directly transfer disaster assistance funds into a bank account)
• A description of disaster-caused damage and losses

Brian.Hvinden Sun, 01/02/2022 - 01:24