FEMA Grants Funds to Remove Cameron Peak Fire Debris

DENVER – FEMA has approved $3.07 million in federal funds to remove hazardous trees and wildfire debris along public roads in Larimer County as part of the recovery effort from the Cameron Peak Fire.  The funds are provided from the agency’s Public Assistance program under the major disaster declaration for Colorado issued on January 15, 2021 following the Cameron Peak and East Troublesome wildfires.

FEMA’s Public Assistance reimbursements are made on a cost-sharing basis to states, counties, municipalities, tribes and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency work and restoration of infrastructure. The estimated total cost of the project is $4.09 million. FEMA will provide 75 percent of the cost with the State of Colorado providing an additional 12.5 percent and Larimer County responsible for the remaining share.

The Cameron Peak Fire burned over 208,000 acres in Larimer County and left more than 9,500 fire-damaged, hazardous trees and debris along public rights-of-way in the county.  The FEMA grant will reimburse Larimer County for the cost of removing hazardous trees as well as chipping and disposing of wildfire debris along 13 county-maintained roads. 

The project is on-going and FEMA will continue to work with the State of Colorado and Larimer County to identify additional disaster related debris removal costs that may be eligible for reimbursement.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

minh.phan Tue, 09/28/2021 - 16:22

Protect Yourself from Fraud, Schemes and Scams

PHILADELPHIA - After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often attempt to take advantage of disaster survivors. Scammers may target survivors when they are in a stressful state and are more susceptible to potential fraud.

Scams can take different forms and be carried out in many ways, including phone calls, texts, mail or email, websites, or in person. Federal and Commonwealth emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity by calling the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866)-720-5721 or your local police department.

Some post-disaster fraud practices may include the following:

Phony government workers: You may be contacted by scam artists posing as disaster workers who are seeking money for services. Federal, Commonwealth and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money,

Fake offers of Commonwealth or federal aid:  Federal disaster employees will not promise a disaster grant. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help with completing applications. No money is solicited or accepted.

Beware of unlicensed/uninsured contractors/phony contractors: Often after a disaster, individuals will represent themselves as legitimate contractors. Ask for references, be cautious about advanced payments, make sure they are licensed and insured and obtain the proper permits.

Phony housing inspectors: When a disaster occurs, survivors may be vulnerable to phony housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA to inspect damage. There is no charge for a FEMA inspection.  FEMA inspectors will contact you to set a time to meet at the address where the damage was reported and to obtain any other required information. All FEMA personnel and contractors will have an official laminated photo ID badge. You may ask to see it. Field inspectors may use different types of communication methods to contact applicants. Inspectors may be calling from issued phones or personal cell phones, so applicants may receive calls from different area codes. Inspectors can and will use any contact information the applicant provided in their application including phone calls, text messages and emails.

If you have any doubts when receiving a call or an inspection visit from someone stating they are FEMA personnel, do not give out any information, but call (800)-621-3362 (TTY: (800)-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET to verify the call or visit is legitimate.

There may be occasions when a FEMA representative must contact you to verify personal data.  When applying for assistance, you will receive a nine-digit registration number that can be used for reference when corresponding with FEMA. That is the number you would use to check the status of your application online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, when calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-(800)-621-3362 or in person with a FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) Team member. FEMA DSA staff will be working in affected areas to provide survivors with one-on-one help with applications, fielding questions about the registration process or even finding the current status of their case.

Fraudulent charitable solicitations: A list of reputable charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance is available at Give.Org. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions.

The Alliance advises, “do not respond to unsolicited emails, watch out for pushy telemarketers and look out for fake charities that sound real by using similar names.” For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website.

Or, if you have knowledge of fraud, waste, or abuse, you can report these tips - 24 hours a day, seven days a week - to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or email disaster@leo.gov.

For more information about FEMA’s support to Pennsylvania’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4618.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs.

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. 

 Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

 

amanda.hancher Tue, 09/28/2021 - 15:54

How to Appeal a FEMA Disaster Assistance Decision

Trenton, NJ – New Jersey survivors affected by flooding caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida who have registered for disaster assistance may receive a letter from FEMA stating they are ineligible. However, this may not be the final word.

If an applicant believes FEMA’s decision was incorrect, they can file an appeal with FEMA. Applicants must appeal initial eligibility determinations within 60 days of the date on their eligibility notification letter.

The first step is for applicants to read their determination letter carefully to understand why FEMA decided the application was “ineligible.” Many times, it could be something as simple as providing missing documents or information.

Important Documents to Include with an Appeal Letter

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 the applicant thinks 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, applicants must submit a signed statement that the writer is authorized to act on behalf of the applicant.

How to Submit an 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.

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

Those who need help understanding their letter can call FEMA at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines currently are operating 24 hours per day, 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.

amir.nijem Tue, 09/28/2021 - 15:09

Disaster Assistance Approved for McKenzie County

BISMARCK, N.D. – FEMA has approved disaster assistance for McKenzie County.  The county was added to the disaster declaration approved by President Biden on Sept. 1 making aid available to eight counties for severe storms and flooding occurring from June 7-11, 2021.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides aid to state, tribal and local governments as well as certain private non-profits for damaged public infrastructure and emergency actions taken to protect lives and property.  Funding is provided as a cost share of no less than 75 percent, with the remainder being the responsibility of the state and the applicant.

The North Dakota Department of Emergency Services manages the Public Assistance program on behalf of the state. Information will be provided to potential applicants in McKenzie County on how to request assistance.

The Public Assistance program was previously approved for Burke, Divide, Emmons, Grant, Kidder, LaMoure, Sioux and Williams counties. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Brian.Hvinden Tue, 09/28/2021 - 14:59

Everyone Has Equal Access to FEMA Help

NEW YORK – All disaster survivors have equal access to information on federal disaster assistance programs, including how to apply for them.

The state of New York and FEMA are committed to helping everyone affected by the Remnants of Hurricane Ida, including those with disabilities and access and functional needs. If you need an accommodation or assistance due to a disability or accessibility, let FEMA know when you apply for assistance or anytime during the disaster assistance process.

Assistance may be in the form of a grant.

Residents of the Bronx, Kings, Nassau, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties can apply for assistance from FEMA for home repairs and other disaster-related necessary expenses. Damage or losses to your primary residence must have occurred Sept. 1-3.

To apply for FEMA assistance: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (711/VRS). If you use a relay service, such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are on duty seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and can connect you to a specialist who speaks your language.

You will need the following information when you apply:

• Name and Social Security Number of the primary applicant
• Name and SSN of secondary/co-applicant (encouraged but not required)
• Current and pre-disaster address
• Names of all occupants of the pre-disaster household
• Current contact information
• Types of insurance held by the household
• Household pre-disaster annual gross income
• Losses caused by the disaster
• Banking information for direct deposit or financial assistance, if requested

FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers where you can meet face-to-face with FEMA staff and representatives of other federal and state agencies who can provide information about disaster assistance that may be available to you. To find a recovery center near you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

FEMA can also provide interpreters, real-time captioning, and information in alternate formats such as Braille, large print, audio and electronic versions. The agency also provides free services to help people communicate with FEMA staff and understand FEMA programs. Among the aids are:

• Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website and social media
• Qualified American Sign Language interpreters
• Qualified multilingual interpreters
• Information written in multiple languages

Newspapers, radio, television, social media, local officials and private sector partners help to share important recovery information.

For referrals to agencies that support community-specific need, contact your nearest 211 Counts center at https://www.211nys.org/contact-us. In New York City, call 311. For outlying areas, call 211.

For more online resources as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit DisasterAssistance.gov and click “Information.”

For the latest on New York’s Hurricane Ida recovery effort, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/fema.

thomas.wise Mon, 09/27/2021 - 22:12

FEMA Cost Share Adjustment Grants More Emergency Aid for Louisiana

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional federal emergency aid available for the state of Louisiana for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged as a result of Hurricane Ida.

Under the major disaster declaration issued for Louisiana on Aug. 29, 2021, President Biden authorized a 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, for a period of 30 days from the start of the incident period.

President Biden has now authorized an extension of the period of 100% federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, from 30 to 45 days from the start of the incident period.  The federal share for all categories of Public Assistance, including direct federal assistance, has been increased to 90% of the total eligible costs, except for assistance previously authorized at 100%.

In addition to the cost share adjustment for Hurricane Ida, the President also  authorized an extension of the period of 100% federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, from 30 to 45 days from the start of the incident period for Hurricane Laura.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/27/2021 - 21:29

FEMA to Open Document Drop-off Center in Haywood County FEMA to Open Document Drop-off Center in Haywood County

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – FEMA will open a Document Drop-off Center in Haywood County Tuesday, Sept. 28 for survivors of Tropical Storm Fred to submit any required supporting documents for their disaster assistance application. Survivors may also register with FEMA at the sites.

The drop-off center in Haywood County will be located at:

• East Fork Baptist Church, 13175 Cruso Rd, Canton, NC 28716 (Drive-thru and walk-up service)

Drop-off centers in Buncombe and Transylvania counties are also open. They are located at:

• Buncombe County Interchange Bldg., 59 Woodfin Place, Asheville, NC 28801 (Drive-thru service only)
• Transylvania Public Library, 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 (Walk-up service only)

Hours for all three centers are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They will cease operation at 5 p.m. Sept. 30.

FEMA staff will be available at all sites to help with registration, scan documents, update applications or answer questions about disaster assistance. Following COVID-19 protocols, masks are required at these facilities.

Survivors who have been asked by FEMA to provide additional documents should read their FEMA letter carefully and make sure they have everything they need when they arrive at the drop-off center. Applicants do not have to visit a center to submit documents to FEMA. They can mail, fax or submit them online. Information on these options can be found in their FEMA letter. 

Documents also may be submitted in any of the following ways:

• Mail: FEMA Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055. 
• Fax: 800-827-8112. Attention: FEMA.
• Submit via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions.

Survivors can apply for disaster assistance 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 service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

The deadline for applications is Nov. 8, 2021.  

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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

brianasummer.fenton Mon, 09/27/2021 - 20:36

It’s Important to Submit an SBA Loan Application It’s Important to Submit an SBA Loan Application

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Survivors of Tropical Storm Fred in Buncombe, Haywood, and Transylvania counties who apply for disaster assistance from FEMA may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) with information on how to apply for a disaster loan. It’s important to submit the loan application as soon as possible.

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA loan but failure to return the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. SBA offers long-term, low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.

SBA disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other resources. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. They may discover they were underinsured for the deductible, labor and materials required to repair or replace their home.

You may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/ or by visiting a Business Recovery Center. Paper applications may be requested by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 TTY) or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan.

SBA is operating three Business Recovery Centers:

• Haywood Community College Regional High-Tech Center, 112 Industrial Park Dr., Room 3021, Waynesville, N.C. 28786. Hours are Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday.
• Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, 1465 Sand Hill Rd., Suite 1054, Candler, NC 28715. Hours are Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday.
• Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Applied Technologies Building, Office #216, 45 Oak Ridge Park Drive, Brevard, NC 28712. Hours are Monday – Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday. (Opens Sept. 28.)

Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

SBA makes physical disaster loans of up to $2 million to qualified businesses or private nonprofit organizations. These loan proceeds may be used for the repair or replacement of real property, machinery, equipment, fixtures, inventory or leasehold improvements. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 8, 2021.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to small businesses and most nonprofit organizations in Buncombe, Haywood and Transylvania counties and in the following adjacent counties: Henderson, Jackson, Madison, McDowell, Rutherford, Swain and Yancey in North Carolina; Greenville, Oconee and Pickens in South Carolina and Cocke and Sevier in Tennessee. The deadline to file economic injury applications is June 8, 2022.

For an American Sign Language video, go online to Reasons to Apply for an SBA Loan.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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

brianasummer.fenton Mon, 09/27/2021 - 19:41

Disaster Rental Assistance – How to Receive it and Extend it

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennesseans who experienced damage from the severe storms and flooding on Aug. 21 in Dickson, Hickman, Houston, and Humphreys counties may be eligible for funding for temporary rentals through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.

FEMA provides rental assistance if your primary place of residence is unhabitable and you do not have money to pay for housing. You must also not be receiving funding for it from another source.

FEMA’s rental assistance includes money for a security deposit and essential utilities, such as electricity and water, but not cable or Internet. The approved rental amount is based on fair market rates for your area as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

For those who are currently receiving FEMA rental assistance and have a continuing need for it, you must contact FEMA to fill out an additional form. If you are a homeowner, the form should have been mailed to the address of your primary residence.

All those requesting extended rental assistance, will need to demonstrate the following:

• Receipts canceled checks or money orders showing previous funds were used to pay for rent.
• An ongoing need, which may be that suitable housing is not available, or your permanent housing plan has not been completed through no fault of your own. 
• You are working on a longer term or permanent housing plan.

Extensions on rental assistance may be granted for three-month periods at a time. Toward the end of three months, you must contact FEMA’s helpline to recertify. Rental assistance is available up to a maximum of 18 months from the date of the FEMA disaster declaration. Applicants must continue to work toward obtaining permanent housing to continue requesting rental assistance.

To apply to FEMA or to extend rental assistance: call FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Lines are open daily 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. Other ways to apply for FEMA assistance include: online through  disasterassistance.gov or download the FEMA app to smartphone or tablet.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit Middle Tennessee Flood Recovery and Tennessee Severe Storms (DR-4609-TN) | FEMA.gov. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

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bree-constance… Mon, 09/27/2021 - 17:38

Collaboration Energizes Vision to Strengthen Critical Service Sectors in the U.S. Virgin Islands

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands -- The landfall of two Category 5 hurricanes within 14 days of one another inflicted damage to thousands of Virgin Islanders’ homes and put extreme stress on the territory’s critical service sectors in September 2017. Corrugated aluminum from roofs and vegetative debris piled up, thousands of homes could not receive electricity and major medical facilities were damaged across the territory.

Federal and territorial partnerships continue to push hurricane recovery projects forward to make the territory’s critical service sectors more resilient against the winds and rains of future storms. Approximately $1.25 billion is obligated through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program to support permanent repairs to facilities damaged in the 2017 storms.

Critical service sectors are the most fundamental services in the community that, when stabilized, enable all other aspects of society to function. The stabilization of the power grid and ability of hospitals to stay open after disasters supports lifesaving and life-sustaining operations.

“We look forward to seeing a more resilient power grid, rebuilt public housing communities with mitigation measures to harden roofs, doors and windows and roads repaired to keep stormwater and erosion at bay in the territory. Our partnership with the territory will produce a safer and more resilient infrastructure for all Virgin Islanders and ensure the territory’s critical service sectors are stabilized quicker after future storms,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Recovery Director Kristen Hodge.    

Approved funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program toward emergency and permanent work for critical service sectors in the U.S. Virgin Islands include:

1. $313.5 million for safety and security

Safety and security projects include $563,889 obligated for restoration of the tsunami early warning system on St. Croix and $895,588 for repairs to the tsunami early warning system on St. Thomas, Water Island and St. John. The territory will repair or replace 17 sirens on St. Croix composed of approximately 20-foot steel pole, solar panels, siren heads plus ancillary equipment.

The territory will repair or replace a combined 27 sirens on St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island, which includes 18 sites on St. Thomas, seven sites on St. John and two sites on Water Island.

Mitigation measures for $71,638 on St. Croix and $113,768 on St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island for the tsunami early warning sirens projects include the addition of steel poles to withstand high winds and impact from flying debris.  

2. $851.3 million for housing

Public housing communities damaged during the 2017 storms will eventually undergo repairs with a focus on mitigation measures to make housing safer and more resilient for Virgin Islands families. FEMA has obligated $200.3 million for the Virgin Islands Housing Authority to implement permanent repairs to communities across the territory. The $200.3 million includes $4.2 million in mitigation measures.

• Projects on St. Thomas include:

An obligation of $10.7 million for repairs to Michael Kirwan Terrace. Mitigation measures of $679,907 will be applied to 20 buildings at Kirwan Terrace and include the installation of stainless-steel door hardware and installation of a water diverter berm and catch basin to control the rainwater flow away from dwellings.

 A combined $4.5 million for repairs to 12 apartment buildings at Tutu Hi-Rise and an obligation of $6.37 million for repairs to the Housing Authority’s central office, annex, workshop and Tutu community center. The community center project includes mitigation measures of $394,944 to install wind-resistant roof gutters, air conditioning security guards, roll-down shutters over doors and windows, and installation of 24-gauge roof and wall panels.

• St. Croix housing community repairs include:

An obligation of $5.5 million for repairs to 16 structures at the David Hamilton Jackson Housing Community. Mitigation measures of $268,882 will include strengthening exterior wooden doors with stainless-steel hardware; replacing damaged aluminum gutters with steel gutters to re-direct water properly and securing exterior lighting to prevent damage by wind-blown debris.

Permanent repairs obligated for $12.9 million to the John F. Kennedy Housing Community and $7.7 million for repairs to the Marley Additions and Marley Homes. Repairs to the Marley Homes include mitigation measures of $99,477 to upgrade damaged gutters, vinyl flooring and bathroom drywall along with the addition of door weatherstripping for doors that were damaged during Hurricane Maria.

3. $140.3 million for health and medical

Projects to stabilize the territory’s health care infrastructure until permanent repairs could be made include the build-out of Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center’s temporary facility in Christiansted with an obligation of $110.5 million from FEMA. The temporary facility will allow Luis Hospital to maintain medical services as it works on the replacement of its main facility, which was damaged from Maria.

4. $1.35 billion for energy and fuel

FEMA is partnering with the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) to harden the power grid to better withstand storms and increase reliability for electricity year-round. Plans and work are accelerating across the territory to repair electrical substations, bury electrical lines and put up composite power poles.

FEMA has awarded approximately $899.1 million through its Public Assistance Program to support permanent repairs to electrical distribution systems and substations on St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix and Water Island. Assistance includes $572.8 million in for mitigation measures to strengthen the grid’s resilience to end the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction.

WAPA plans to install 8,496 composite poles built to withstand hurricane-force winds in the territory. As of Sept.  late August, 4,429 poles were installed, and the project was 52% complete.

The installation of burying electrical lines on St. John from Cruz Bay to Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center is underway on St. John.

This past spring, a groundbreaking was held on St. Croix for three electrical underground projects for Golden Grove, Midland and at the Wilfred “Bomba” Allick Port and Transshipment Center. Work began for the container port underground project Sept. 20.

5. $10.4 million for communications

Projects include repairs to fiber-optic landing sites for the Virgin Islands Next Generation Network (viNGN) on St. Croix and reattachment of aerial fiber to wooden utility poles on St. Thomas. The projects are obligated for a combined $2.9 million.

The $1.8 million fiber-optic landing sites repair project on St. Croix will lead to repairs for submarine cable terrestrial routes with the reattachment of fiber to WAPA wooden utility poles between fiber-optic landing sites and the nearest Fiber Access Point at two locations.

Mitigation measures for the fiber-optic landing sites will provide shoreline armoring for the beachfront manhole that connects the Fiber Access Points to the submarine optic cable linking the Virgin Islands to one of the Atlantic/Caribbean submarine cables. Measures would also include underground cables from the manhole landing to the 12 Fiber Access Points on St. Croix. This mitigation would help ensure internet service, which also provides service for the rest of the territory, continues to operate during future storms.

The St. Thomas $1 million communications project captures permanent repairs for the aerial fiber route and the aerial lateral fiber that branch off to customer endpoints. Repairs included reattaching aerial fiber to WAPA wooden utility poles.

6. $151.1 million for hazardous materials

FEMA is working with the territory as well to strengthen the resilience of sites that maintain hazardous materials, pollutants and waste. Projects include the approval of $6.3 million for the V.I. Waste Management Authority to manage sewer line repairs for the Garden Street, Savan and Moravian guts on St. Thomas.

The projects will include the removal of underground sewer pipes, removal and replacement of manholes, removal and replacement of cast-iron manhole frames and covers, and removal and replacement of underground sewer pipes.

7. $119 million for transportation

FEMA continues to work with the territory to improve roads damaged during the 2017 hurricanes. Obligated projects include:

Two projects for the Department of Public Works to manage repairs to Williams Delight on St. Croix for a combined $3.58 million. Mitigation measures obligated for a combined $1.2 million will focus on strengthening pavement in areas prone to flooding and erosion, improving stormwater drainage and increasing the size of existing culverts.

An obligation of $5.1 million to repair roads and a commuter dock and ramp on Water Island. The watershed project includes mitigation measures of $2.4 million to strengthen pavement most prone to saturated subgrades or erosion, improve stormwater drainage to reduce the damage of saturated subgrades and erosion, and add curbs and gutters or paved roadways.

FEMA’s continued partnerships with the Office of the Governor, Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery will ensure the territory builds smarter and stronger and its critical facilities such as power plants and hospitals better withstand future storms.

Haugland Virgin Islands line workers finish installation of a composite power pole in July 2021 in Upper Contant on St. Thomas. The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority is leading operations to install 2,333 composite poles on the island. FEMA/Eric Adams

RG Engineering begins demolition of five buildings in February 2021 damaged during hurricanes Irma and Maria at the Tutu Hi-Rise housing community on St. Thomas. FEMA, through its Public Assistance Program, is supporting the demolition of the buildings and eventual permanent repairs to Hi-Rise. FEMA 

FEMA's Public Assistance Program is supporting the V.I. Waste Management Authority's plans for sewer line repairs for the Garden Street gut in Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas. Hurricanes Irma and Maria left Garden Street littered with debris in September 2017. FEMA/Eric Adams 

gina.callaghan Mon, 09/27/2021 - 17:04

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $1.146 billion to more than 174,000 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

6,872

$26,798,670

3,877

ALASKA

174

$453,893

80

AMERICAN SAMOA

Less than 10

$9,000

Less than 10

ARIZONA

4,870

$15,039,801

2,936

ARKANSAS

3,146

$11,396,853

1,787

CALIFORNIA

28,738

$114,095,249

17,513

COLORADO

2,245

$7,734,565

1,369

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

Less than 10

$4,344

Less than 10

CONNECTICUT

3,273

$15,712,718

2,260

DELAWARE

852

$3,265,184

518

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

537

$2,079,781

304

FLORIDA

19,580

$54,930,759

9,667

GEORGIA

11,397

$45,222,547

6,507

GUAM

16

$51,162

Less than 10

HAWAII

306

$915,881

158

IDAHO

639

$1,985,941

346

ILLINOIS

11,674

$51,422,185

7,499

INDIANA

4,989

$22,643,123

3,222

IOWA

2,420

$11,940,386

1,658

KANSAS

2,365

$10,138,446

1,546

KENTUCKY

4,010

$17,490,263

2,444

LOUISIANA

5,536

$22,100,355

3,203

MAINE

391

$1,188,291

219

MARYLAND

5,414

$23,317,584

3,453

MASSACHUSETTS

5,507

$25,775,338

3,697

MICHIGAN

9,333

$37,642,749

6,144

MINNESOTA

2,696

$13,234,162

1,922

MISSISSIPPI

4,758

$18,328,002

2,699

MISSOURI

5,556

$21,231,662

3,354

MONTANA

534

$1,446,249

276

NEBRASKA

1,205

$5,697,582

802

NEVADA

2,556

$7,556,391

1,357

NEW HAMPSHIRE

658

$2,694,732

443

NEW JERSEY

11,472

$51,207,146

7,363

NEW MEXICO

1,561

$4,382,896

855

NEW YORK

24,989

$105,883,281

15,255

NORTH CAROLINA

8,874

$35,358,990

5,299

NORTH DAKOTA

654

$3,418,942

454

OHIO

9,543

$42,101,577

6,488

OKLAHOMA

4,134

$16,559,039

2,571

OREGON

968

$2,674,664

504

PENNSYLVANIA

12,434

$56,112,110

8,502

PUERTO RICO

1,331

$2,335,381

643

RHODE ISLAND

1,120

$4,612,144

669

SOUTH CAROLINA

6,126

$25,505,697

3,661

SOUTH DAKOTA

693

$3,537,974

479

TENNESSEE

7,434

$31,183,778

4,505

TEXAS

26,474

$103,662,433

15,797

U. S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

32

$107,994

17

UTAH

1,139

$4,966,384

707

VERMONT

135

$565,055

94

VIRGINIA

6,140

$26,253,397

3,922

WASHINGTON

2,012

$6,168,270

1,112

WEST VIRGINIA

1,531

$5,921,154

870

WISCONSIN

4,350

$19,345,863

2,943

WYOMING

293

$1,059,709

182

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

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, 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 a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.

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

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/27/2021 - 15:37

Residents of Macomb and Oakland Counties May Now Be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

CHICAGO – Michigan homeowners and renters in Macomb and Oakland counties, who have disaster-related losses from the severe storms and flooding of June 25-26, 2021, may now apply for federal disaster assistance.

 

Federal assistance may include grants for temporary lodging and home repairs and other programs to help with uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and serious, unmet needs that resulted from the disaster.  

 

FEMA offers multiple options to apply:

 

• 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. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week.
• Go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Download the FEMA App.    

 

If you live in Macomb or Oakland county and have already registered with FEMA since July 15, 2021, you do not need to apply again. If you’re unsure whether you’ve submitted an application, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify your status.

 

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

 

• 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, and
• Private insurance information, if available.

Individuals in Washtenaw and Wayne counties can already apply for help if they have uninsured or underinsured losses from the late June disaster. The deadline to apply is October 13, 2021. For more information about Michigan’s disaster recovery, visit FEMA’s website www.fema.gov/disaster/4607.

                                                    

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.

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

troy.christensen Mon, 09/27/2021 - 13:02

DRC Opens in Warren County

Trenton, NJ – A Disaster Recovery Center is opening Saturday, Sept. 25, in Warren County to help residents in New Jersey affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  

Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the centers to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

The DRC is located at:

Franklin Township Municipal Building

2093 Route 57

Broadway, NJ 08808

Hours:

Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET

Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To help alleviate the risk of COVID-19 spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering will be required to gain entry. Hand sanitizer will be available to survivors and staff.

Work stations will be spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA will ensure that common areas are cleaned regularly and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Individuals in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union, and Warren counties are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

Survivors can ask questions or seek further information in person at the DRC, in addition to online or by phone. Survivors can visit any of the DRC locations and find their closest location through the FEMA App.  To download the FEMA App please visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

Additional centers are open in the following locations:

DRC Locations are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday–Friday unless otherwise noted. See below for locations and weekend hours where available.

Bergen County: Phillip Ciarco Jr. Learning Center, 355 Main St., Hackensack 07652

Weekend Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; Closed Sundays

Essex County: Kmart – Co-located with a Vaccination Center, 235 Prospect Ave. #9413, West Orange 07052

Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday–Friday. Weekend Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and Closed Sunday

Gloucester County: Mullica Hill Library, 389 Wolfert Station Road, Mullica Hill 08062

Weekend Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Hudson County: Secaucus Public Library and Business Resource Center, 1379 Paterson Plank Rd., Secaucus 07094

Weekend Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and Sunday 9 a.m. to 2p.m.

Hunterdon County: Union Fire Company #1, 230 N. Main St., Lambertville 08530

Weekend Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Mercer County: Hollowbrook Community Center, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Trenton 08638

Weekend Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Middlesex County: Middlesex Fire Academy, 1001 Fire Academy Drive, Cafeteria B, Sayreville 08872

Weekend Hours:  8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Morris County: Morris Plains Community Center, 51 Jim Fear Dr., Morris Plains 07950

Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday–Thursday. Closed Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Passaic County: Civic Center, 19 Warren St., Little Falls 07424

Weekend Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Somerset County: North End Volunteer Fire Company #3, 169 N. 8th Ave., Manville 08835

Weekend Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Union County: Elizabeth O’Donnell Dempsey Senior Community Center, 618 Salem Ave., Elizabeth 07208

Weekend Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

FEMA and NJOEM are committed to opening DRCs in each of the designated counties. These additional centers will be opening soon to support survivors.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate are currently operating 24 hours per day, 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.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• 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, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

Disaster assistance may include financial help for home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.

amir.nijem Fri, 09/24/2021 - 22:07

FEMA to Open Two Document Drop-off Centers in North Carolina FEMA to Open Two Document Drop-off Centers in North Carolina

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – FEMA will open two Document Drop-off Centers -- one in Buncombe County and one in Transylvania County -- for survivors of Tropical Storm Fred to submit any required supporting documents for their disaster assistance application. Survivors may also register with FEMA at the sites.

The drop-off centers are located at:

• Buncombe County Interchange Bldg., 59 Woodfin Place, Asheville, NC 28801 (Drive-up service only)
• Transylvania Public Library, 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 (Walk-in service only)

Hours are Saturday – Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday noon to 5 p.m. The centers will cease operations at 5 p.m. Sept. 30.

FEMA staff will be available at both sites to help with registration, scan documents, update applications or answer questions about disaster assistance. Following COVID-19 protocols, masks are required at these facilities.

Survivors who have been asked by FEMA to provide additional documents should read their FEMA letter carefully and make sure they have everything they need when they arrive at the drop-off center. Applicants do not have to visit a center to submit documents to FEMA. They can mail, fax or submit them online. Information on these options can be found in their FEMA letter. 

Documents also may be submitted in any of the following ways:

• Mail: FEMA Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055. 
• Fax: 800-827-8112. Attention: FEMA.
• Submit via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions.

Survivors can apply for disaster assistance 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 service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

The deadline for applications is Nov. 8, 2021.  

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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

 

brianasummer.fenton Fri, 09/24/2021 - 19:38

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Bucks and York Counties

HARRISBURG - The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and FEMA opened two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) today in Bucks and York Counties to help those whose homes or personal property were affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida between August 31 - September 5, 2021.

The Bucks County DRC, operating in partnership with the Bucks County Emergency Management Agency, is located at:

Warwick Square Shopping Mall

Former Giant Grocery Store

2359 York Road

Warminster, PA 18929

Hours of operation on Friday, September 24, 2021: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Beginning Saturday, September 25, 2021:

Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

The Bucks County DRC is closed on Sundays.

 

The York County DRC, operated in partnership with the York County Office of Emergency Management, will be located at:

Manchester Township Municipal Building

3200 Farmtrail Rd.

York, PA 17406

Hours of operation on Friday, September 24, 2021: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Beginning Saturday, September 25, 2021:

Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

The York County DRC is closed on Sundays.

DRCs provide disaster survivors with information from Pennsylvania state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center is not required to register with FEMA. In addition to visiting a DRC, you can register by:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 1-800-462-7585. If you use 711 or VRS (Video Relay Service) or require accommodations while visiting a center, call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free numbers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST.
• Help is available in most languages, and information on the registration process is available online at DisasterAssistance.gov or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.

• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), wherever you access your mobile applications.

The DRC will be accessible for individuals with disabilities and have on-site communication accessibility tools like amplified listening devices and Video Remote Interpreting. Additional accommodations can be made upon arrival. ASL interpreters and multilingual services will be available upon request. Residents can locate open disaster recovery centers in their area via the FEMA App, by texting DRC and their zip code to 4FEMA (43362) or online via FEMA’s DRC Locator.

Specialists at these temporary Disaster Recovery Centers are equipped to help individuals apply with FEMA, upload documents needed in the application process, and answer questions about specific cases. In addition, Customer Service Representatives from the Small Business Administration will also be on hand to provide program information, answer any questions and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for businesses, private non-profits, homeowners and renters.

For information about SBA’s disaster assistance, call 1-800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visit SBA’s website at SBA.gov/disaster. Deaf and hard of hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

Additional agencies and services will be present once the DRCs reach full operational capability next week. All centers will follow COVID-19 precautions and masks will be required by both FEMA specialists and survivors.

FEMA’s Individual Assistance program is designed to help survivors with immediate essential needs and to help displaced survivors find a safe, functional place to live temporarily until they can return home. Many survivors may have additional needs beyond what can be provided by FEMA. The agency works closely with state, federal, faith-based, and voluntary agencies to help match survivors who have remaining needs with other sources of assistance.

For more information on how to register, please visit: How to Register with FEMA for Disaster Assistance in Pennsylvania | FEMA.gov

For more information on what to expect after you register, please visit: What to Expect After Registering for FEMA Disaster Assistance in PA | FEMA.gov

For more information about Pennsylvania’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4618.

The registration deadline for FEMA Disaster Assistance in Pennsylvania is November 10, 2021.

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

 

###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs.

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. 

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

amanda.hancher Fri, 09/24/2021 - 17:49

FEMA Offers More Equitable Flood Insurance Rates Beginning Oct. 1

WASHINGTON -- Beginning Oct. 1, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will begin to offer more equitable and risk informed rates.

The new premiums are the result of the program’s new pricing methodology delivering rates that are actuarily sound, equitable, easier to understand and better reflect an individual property’s flood risk.

New policies will be sold using the new methodology, and some existing policyholders may be eligible for immediate premium decreases when their policy renews. 

To date, FEMA has provided more than 2.8 million quotes and trained 20,792 agents.

Potential and existing policyholders can learn their specific rates with a call to their insurance company or agent.

“The NFIP’s new rating methodology is long overdue since it hasn’t been updated in more than 40 years,” said David Maurstad, senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “Now is the right time to modernize how risk is identified, priced and communicated. By doing so we empower policyholders to make informed decisions to protect their homes and businesses from life-changing flooding events that will strike in the months and years ahead due to climate change.”

Also known as Risk Rating 2.0, the new methodology uses increased technological and mapping capabilities to determine and communicate a property’s full flood risk. In addition, the new rating methodology has exposed inequities in pricing whereby some policyholders have been unjustly subsidizing other policyholders.  

More Equitable Rates

The new methodology considers the cost to rebuild along with several other flood variables to determine a property’s true flood risk.

Under the legacy pricing system, every policyholder would have seen rate increases now and into the future. Beginning Oct. 1, about 23% -- or more than 1 million -- policyholders will see a decrease in their premium at the time of their policy’s renewal. These policyholders with older pre-Flood Insurance Rate Map homes have some of the highest rates in the nation under the current rating methodology.

Sharing Information with the Public

FEMA has shared information about the new methodology on FEMA.gov that explains in detail the rating system methodology as well as providing rate impacts at the state, county and ZIP code level.

Phased Rollout

Conscious of the far-reaching economic impacts of COVID-19, the agency decided to take a phased approach to rolling out the new rates: 

• Beginning Oct. 1, 2021
  • Existing National Flood Insurance Program policyholders will be able to take advantage of decreases at the time of the policy’s renewal.
  • New policies will be subject to the new pricing methodology, which reflects a property’s full risk rate.
• Beginning, April 1, 2022
  •  All remaining policies will be written under the new pricing plan at the time of renewal allowing these policyholders extra time to prepare.

Incremental Increases

Under the previous methodology, all policyholders received annual increases year after year without knowing their full risk rate. While some policyholders will experience a decrease under the new methodology, others will experience an increase that is commensurate with their full risk rate. By statute, most rate increases are capped at 18% per year.

Maintaining Benefits

The new methodology maintains features that have benefitted communities and flood insurance policyholders:

• FEMA will continue to offer premium discounts for pre-Flood Insurance Rate Map subsidized and newly mapped properties.
• Policyholders will still be able to transfer their discount to a new owner by assigning their flood insurance policy when their property changes ownership.
• Discounts of 5%-45% to policyholders in communities who participate in the Community Rating System (CRS) will continue and will be extended to  all policies in the community instead of just  those located in the high-risk area.

Climate Change Considerations

The new methodology adapts to climate change by using the full range of flood risk across a suite of catastrophe models -- both government models and private sector models.

Because actuarial rates are based on the expected claims during the one-year policy period, they should reflect today’s risk. Future rates will be updated to reflect any changes, including climate impacts.

Policyholders who have questions about their new rate should contact their insurance company or agent.

For more information visit FEMA.gov.

zella.campbell Fri, 09/24/2021 - 17:27

FEMA Grant Helps Pay for 14 New Storm-Resistant Traffic Signals in Bay County, FL

PENSACOLA, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $2,458,610 for the Bay County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to fund the upgrade of 14 traffic signals throughout the county.

Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by the Bay County BOCC following Hurricane Michael in 2018. The grant will help pay for the replacement of 14 span wire traffic signals with new mast arm signals that are intended to improve safety, functionality and performance.

Mast arm-mounted signals are designed to withstand winds of 144 mph, are effective at intersections closer to the coastline and allow for the use of illuminated street signs that display the cross street name.

Seven new traffic signals will be located along intersections on 11th Street, two each along Thomas Drive and CR 389 and one at the intersection of Joan and North Lagoon streets. New mast arm signals will also be located near the Youngstown and Bayou George Fire Departments.

The HMGP provides funding to help communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage. Following a major disaster, a percentage of a state’s total federal recovery grants is calculated to help develop more resilient communities. Florida has an Enhanced Hazard Mitigation Plan that allows more funding to be available for post-disaster resilience projects. States with the enhanced plan receive HMGP funds based on 20% of their total estimated eligible federal disaster assistance.

Kimberly.Kipp Fri, 09/24/2021 - 15:28

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Fawn Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Fawn Fire burning in Shasta County.

On Sept. 23, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Fawn Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 1,900 residential structures in and around Shasta Lake. The fire also threatened 100 commercial structures, two churches, an elementary school, Shasta College, Interstate 5, Bella Vista Water System, power transmission lines and cell towers that could impact 911 emergency communication systems.

The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Sept. 23, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Fri, 09/24/2021 - 14:59

Survivors: Beware of Fraud, Scams After Disasters

Trenton, NJ – After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often try to take advantage of disaster survivors. Federal and state emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity.

When a disaster strikes, unscrupulous people may try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster-aid workers trying to help survivors complete their applications.

Common post-disaster fraud practices include: Fake offers of state or federal aid:

• Federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel never charge survivors for applying for disaster assistance, inspections or help in completing applications.

Phony property inspectors:

• FEMA inspectors will never ask for your social security number.

• No government disaster assistance official will call you to ask for your financial account information. If you doubt a FEMA representative is legitimate, hang up and call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.to report the incident.

• FEMA’s housing inspectors never charge a fee to inspect your property.

Phony building contractors:

• A FEMA housing inspector’s job is to verify damage. FEMA does not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs.
• FEMA recommends hiring a reputable engineer, architect or building official to inspect your home. An unethical contractor may create damage to get work.
• When in doubt, report any suspicious behavior to your local authorities.

Hire a legitimate contractor:

• Always use a licensed local contractor who has reliable references.
• Require a written contract from anyone you hire.
• Be sure to get a written receipt for any payment. Do not pay more than half the cost of the job upfront.
• If one estimate sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many unethical contractors provide low-ball bids that seem attractive. But these contractors are often uninsured and may charge substantial cancellation fees.

Dealing with contractors:

• Ask contractors if they have done this type of repair work before. Also ask if they will purchase necessary permits, and if the work will be inspected. Be sure the contract spells out who pays for required permits.
• Try to get three separate bids for the job. Don't be pressured into making a quick decision. Insist on receiving a written estimate or contract. And don’t sign anything you don’t understand or contracts that have blank spaces.

• Always pay for repair work by check or credit card in order to keep a record and avoid double charges.

Fraudulent charities:

• Watch out for irreputable and phony charitable organizations. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions.
• The Better Business Bureau has a list of reputable charities that have been approved by the Wise Giving Alliance (Give.Org).
• For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, visit https://go.usa.gov/xM5Rn

To report scams, fraud and identity-theft contact:

• FEMA’s toll-free Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721;
• Local law-enforcement agencies.

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

amir.nijem Thu, 09/23/2021 - 22:17

Citizenship Requirements: Survivors Applying for FEMA Assistance Citizenship Requirements: Survivors Applying for FEMA Assistance

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – FEMA is committed to helping all eligible disaster survivors recover from Tropical Storm Fred, including U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals and qualified aliens.

To qualify for assistance from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP), you or a member of your household must be a U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national or qualified alien. However, undocumented families with diverse immigration status only need one family member (including a minor child) who is a U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national, or qualified alien; and has a Social Security number to apply.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Nov. 8, 2021.

A qualified alien includes the following:

• Legal permanent resident (“green card” holder)
• An asylee, refugee, or an alien whose deportation is being withheld
• Alien paroled into the U.S. for at least one year
• Alien granted conditional entry (per law in effect prior to April 1, 1980)
• Cuban/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.

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.

Qualified Minor Child

Adults who don’t qualify under one of the three categories above, including the undocumented, can apply on behalf of a minor child who does qualify and has a Social Security number. A minor child must live with the parent or guardian applying on their behalf. The parent or guardian will not have to provide any information on their own immigration status or sign any documents regarding their own status.

Voluntary Organizations

Voluntary organizations often offer help regardless of citizenship status. To find voluntary organizations in your disaster area:

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

Survivors in affected counties can apply for assistance in the following ways:

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA app for smartphones. 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 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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

brianasummer.fenton Thu, 09/23/2021 - 20:24