FEMA Assistance Available for Personal Property Losses, Including Musical Instruments

Tennesseans love their music! So, it is good news that musicians, and other residents who had damage or losses from Tropical Storm Helene Sept. 26-30, may be eligible for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, or Washington counties are encouraged to apply.

FEMA assistance covers basic needs. It will not restore all disaster-related property loss. Insurance coverage is the best means to recover after a natural disaster. However, FEMA assistance may repair or replace disaster-damaged property if conditions meet the eligibility requirements, and the item(s) may fall within any of these categories:

• Appliances: includes standard household appliances, such as a refrigerator, washing machine, etc.
• Clothing: essential clothing needed due to overall loss, damage, or contamination.
• Home furnishings: basic furnishings found in a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and living room.
• Tools required for work and school: tools and equipment (including musical instruments) required for your job and items required as a condition of an applicant’s or household member’s education. This assistance also applies to self-employed individuals.
• Computing devices: funds to cover replacement of one personal or family computer. Funds for additional computers required for work or school may be approved.
• Accessible items: FEMA also provides assistance for damaged personal property required for qualified applicants with disabilities. FEMA assistance for these items do not count toward the Housing Assistance financial maximum.

Conditions for Eligibility

• To be eligible, these items must have been owned prior to Hurricane Helene and have been damaged by the declared disaster.

To apply for FEMA assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, you can provide FEMA your number for the service. You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

You may also qualify for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds for homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 11/26/2024 - 20:41

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers to Close Thursday and Friday, Nov. 28 and 29, for Thanksgiving Holiday

All FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024 and Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. 

The centers will resume normal operations on 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 30 except for Greenville, which will reopen on Monday.

Disaster Recovery Center Locations and Hours are:

Monday at 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday; closed Sunday

• Carter County: 1749 Highway 19 E., Elizabethton, TN 37643
• Cocke County: Cocke County Recreation Department 466 Learning Road/Learning Way, Newport, TN 37821
• Greene County: Greene County Courthouse/Annex 204 N. Cutler St., Greeneville, TN 37745
• Hamblen County: Utility Commission Conference and Training Center 441 Main St., Morristown, TN 37814
• Johnson County: Tennessee National Guard Armory, 1923 S. Shady St., Mountain City, TN 37683
• Unicoi County: National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center 615 South Main Ave., Erwin, TN 37650
• Washington County: Cherry Grove Baptist Church, 104 Cherry Grove Rd., Jonesborough, TN  37659

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 11/26/2024 - 20:27

FEMA Deadline Passed but Assistance is Still Available

While the deadline to register with FEMA passed on Nov. 25 for those affected by July’s severe storms, agency representatives are still available to answer questions and help Vermonters complete their applications. The agency also encourages applicants to stay in touch, especially if they have a change of address or other updates to their applications. 

To update your application or get answers to questions, call FEMA’s helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in your time zone), seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

Vermonters were eligible to apply for two separate disaster declarations. The first took place July 9-11 in the designated counties of Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orleans and Washington. The second incident occurred July 29-31 in the designated counties of Caledonia, Essex and Orleans. 

Vermonters affected by both July storms were required to submit separate applications for each event.

Those who haven’t applied by the deadline and still want to register must submit a justification for why they missed it. Justifications may include: a record of hospitalization, illness, or disability of the applicant or an immediate family member; death of a family member; or proof of personal or business travel that kept the applicant out of the area for the full application period.

FEMA assistance specialists continue to follow up with applicants to make sure they are receiving all the funding to which they are entitled. So far, of the total 2,282 applicants who registered for the July 9-11 incident, FEMA has followed up with 1,706 and approved an additional $1.4 million. For the July 29-31 incident, specialists reached out to 245 registrants out a total of 313 and approved an additional $220,000.

As of November 25, Vermonters affected by the July flooding have received the following assistance: 

• For incident period July 9-11, more than $9.1 million has been approved. 
  • $5,395,139 for Housing Assistance  
  • $3,253,144 for Other Needs
  • $505,500 for low-interest disaster loans from U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
• For incident period July 29-31, more than $1.2 million has been approved. 
  • $728,185 for Housing Assistance
  • $477,183 for Other Needs
  • $31,200 for low-interest disaster loans from SBA

adrien.urbani Tue, 11/26/2024 - 18:25

FEMA Awards $1.9M to Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to Develop Code Training and Outreach Programs

CHICAGO – Through the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program, FEMA has awarded $1.9 million to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). The funds will be used to support the development and implementation of initiatives aimed at enhancing building code compliance across the state, including assessing the needs of local governments and building inspectors, developing educational materials on building code updates and delivering training and outreach programs.

“FEMA’s BRIC program seeks to shift the focus from reactive disaster spending towards proactive investment in community resilience,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “Investing in building codes is a proactive investment that will reduce natural hazard risk and support families and businesses across Michigan.”

“A strong building code framework is vital for the safety of our communities and the stability of the construction industry,” said LARA Director Marlon Brown. “These funds will help our Bureau of Construction Codes expand support and training to local code enforcement jurisdictions, skilled trades licensees, and design professionals while advancing LARA’s mission to protect people and support business growth.”

The BRIC program provides funds to states, communities, tribes, and territories for eligible mitigation measures that support a more resilient nation, reduce disaster suffering, and avoid future disaster costs. For this project, FEMA will pay 71% of the $2.756 million total cost, while the Bureau of Construction Codes will contribute the remaining 29%, or $756,159.76. FEMA will also provide $95,238 for the sub-recipient management costs.

In the BRIC program’s fourth year, a total of $1B in mitigation funding was made available. Fiscal Year 2023 initial project selections were announced in July 2024. To learn more about FEMA’s BRIC program visit www.fema.gov/bric.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 11/26/2024 - 17:55

FEMA Aid Tops $2.9 Million for Response Costs and Infrastructure Repairs Following 2024 South Dakota Flooding

SIOUX FALLS, S.D.– In just over three months since President Biden’s major disaster declaration for South Dakota, FEMA has approved more than $2.9 million in aid to South Dakota communities. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program (PA) is a grant program which provides funding for rebuilding necessary infrastructure to state and local governments and certain types of private nonprofit organizations following a presidential disaster declaration. Assistance is also available for debris removal and emergency protective measures taken to promote public safety. The federal cost share for eligible work is no less than 75 percent. 

The PA program was approved for 25 South Dakota counties - Aurora, Bennett, Bon Homme, Brule, Buffalo, Charles Mix, Clay, Davison, Douglas, Gregory, Hand, Hanson, Hutchinson, Jackson, Lake, Lincoln, McCook, Miner, Minnehaha, Moody, Sanborn, Tripp, Turner, Union, and Yankton. FEMA and the South Dakota Office of Emergency Management have been working with a total of 219 eligible applicants identifying infrastructure damage and response costs for potential reimbursement. Applicants can include jurisdictions such as counties, cities, townships, school districts and others, as well as certain private non-profits organizations.

FEMA, the state, and the individual applicant work together to review disaster impact and create projects to reimburse the applicant. Site inspections are then conducted to document damage and develop a scope of work for the project. Once this is completed, projects are reviewed at a central processing site with additional supporting documentation collected prior to funding approval. All initial site inspections for the South Dakota disaster have been completed. To date, 84 projects have been approved with a total federal cost share of $2,922,482.18. When all work is completed, more than 400 projects are expected statewide.

To learn more about FEMA’s Public Assistance program, go to www.fema.gov/assistance/public. For more information on the South Dakota disaster recovery go to www.fema.gov/disaster/4807. 

Brian.Hvinden Tue, 11/26/2024 - 16:54

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Hampton County

A Disaster Recovery Center has just opened in Hampton County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Hampton County
Bull Durham Center
380 Railroad Ave.
Estill, SC 29918
Open Nov. 26-27, Nov. 29-30, Dec. 2-5, Dec.7 and Dec. 9, 8 a.m.- 7 p.m.   
Closed Nov. 28, Dec. 1, Dec. 6, Dec. 8.

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina.  You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 11/26/2024 - 16:15

FEMA Thanks Partners and Volunteers this Thanksgiving; Disaster Recovery Centers will Close on Thursday

BRISTOL, Va.– As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, please remind friends, family members and neighbors who were impacted by Hurricane Helene to apply for disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Dec. 2, 2024.

“The past two months have been extremely difficult on the residents of southwest Virginia as they recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene,” said State Coordinator of Emergency Management Shawn Talmadge. “During this week of Thanksgiving, we would like to thank all the southwest Virginia residents on their steadfast strength, resolve, and patience as we navigate the recovery process. We will be with you until the end.”

Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reflect on what we are grateful for and share our gratitude with others.

“Thank you to southwest Virginia for welcoming FEMA into your communities and giving us the opportunity to work with you. I want to extend a special thanks to our partners and all of the volunteers who have supported ongoing Helene recovery efforts,” shared FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO) Timothy Pheil. 

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Virginia will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28, and will re-open on Friday, Nov. 29 at 8 a.m. 

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, get help understanding and responding to a FEMA letter, receive referrals to local assistance, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans, and much more. To find the DRC close to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.  

There are other ways to stay in touch with FEMA. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates 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. You can register or access your application online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

“Our Individual Assistance deadline is approaching next week so I encourage you to apply if you have not already,” said FCO Pheil. “Even though the deadline is coming up, FEMA will continue to be here as we work with state and local partners on long-term recovery plans for southwest Virginia.” 

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response.

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of persons with disabilities. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by the federal government, federal contractors, and by recipients of federal financial assistance. Any recipient or sub-recipient of federal funds is required to make their programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. Its protections apply to all programs and businesses receiving any federal funds. This applies to all elements of physical/architectural, programmatic and communication accessibility in all services and activities conducted by or funded by FEMA. FEMA intends to comply with the Rehabilitation Act in all federally conducted and assisted programs in alignment with the principals of whole community inclusion and universal accessibility.

amanda.hancher Tue, 11/26/2024 - 15:52

Keep Kitchen Safety as Your Main Ingredient for Thanksgiving

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — From mashed potato stuffing to turkey or curry goat to leftovers, everyone has a favorite Caribbean Thanksgiving dinner menu. As you plan your holiday meal, follow these turkey tips from FEMA and the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency. They will help you keep your Thanksgiving dinner delicious and safe.

Cooking is the biggest cause of home fires and fire injuries, and Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires. So, there’s no better time to focus on safety.

“We look forward to everyone having a blessed and safe Thanksgiving this year in the Virgin Islands. As you and your loved ones gather to cook your holiday meals, please include safety as your main ingredient,” said FEMA Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office Coordinator Aaron VanDoren.

Start with these prevention tips:

• Make your cooking area safe. Move things that can burn away from the stove. Turn pot handles toward the back so that they can’t be bumped.
• Watch what you are cooking. Use a timer when roasting a turkey, ham or baking pies.
• Be prepared. Keep a large pan lid or baking sheet handy in case you need to smother a pan fire.
• Stay awake and alert while you are cooking. If you see smoke or the grease starts to boil in your pan, turn the burner off.
• Prevent burns. Wear short sleeves when you cook or roll them up. Do not lean over the burner. Use potholders and oven mitts to handle hot cookware.

Know what to do if you have a cooking fire:

• If you have a fire in your oven, turn it off. Let the contents cool before cleaning.
• If you have a fire in your oven and flames escape it, leave your home and call 911.
• If a small grease fire starts in a pan, slide the pan lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Do not move the pan. To keep the fire from restarting, leave the lid on until the pan has cooled.

There’s nothing more satisfying than cooking a good meal for the people we love. Make safety a priority in your kitchen at Thanksgiving and all year long.

For additional fire safety and burn prevention information, visit www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/ and https://go.dhs.gov/UhB . 

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

gina.callaghan Tue, 11/26/2024 - 14:52

Public Assistance Aiding Community Recovery after Francine

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Program provides funding to help communities pay for emergency work to save lives and protect property, debris removal, and repairs to roads, bridges, water control facilities, public buildings, public utilities, parks and recreational facilities.

PA is FEMA’s largest grant program and can reimburse eligible applicants on a cost-sharing basis to help clean up communities affected by disaster. FEMA is reimbursing Louisiana applicants 75% of eligible costs associated with the cleanup and repair efforts after Hurricane Francine. 

Although funds are awarded to government entities and certain private nonprofits, the PA program is intended to benefit everyone — neighborhoods, cities, parishes and states. 

Under the program, there are two general categories, emergency work and permanent work. Emergency work projects can include debris removal and emergency protective measures, which assist with emergency operations such as sheltering and threats to public health and safety. Permanent work projects can include repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities, such as roads, bridges, public utilities, including water treatment and electrical plants, government buildings and parks.

The parishes designated for Public Assistance are Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington and West Feliciana.

The deadline for applicants to submit a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) is Dec. 22, 2024.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

alexa.brown Tue, 11/26/2024 - 14:48

FEMA Opens Additional Disaster Recovery Center in Butts County

ATLANTA – FEMA is opening an additional Disaster Recovery Center in Butts County to provide one-on-one help for Georgians affected by Hurricane Helene. The center is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; it will be closed Sundays, and is scheduled to close permanently at 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13.

All Georgia recovery centers will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, Nov. 28, and Friday, Nov. 29.

Center location:

Butts County
Butts Park & Recreation Building
(Ernest Biles Youth Center)
576 Ernest Biles Drive, Jackson, GA 30233

Additional centers are open in the following counties:

Open Monday – Saturday from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 1 – 6 p.m.

Appling County
Appling County Agricultural Center
2761 Blackshear Highway
Baxley, GA 31513Bryan County
Jacob Grant Teen Center
185 Ball Park Road
Richmond Hill, GA 31324Chatham County
Savannah Technical College
Student Enrichment Center Building
5717 White Bluff Road
Savannah, GA 31405Coffee County
The Atrium
114 N. Peterson Avenue
Douglas, GA 31533Emanuel County
Southeastern Technical College
Special Programs Building
346 Kite Road, Building 1
Swainsboro, GA 30401Jefferson County
National Guard Bid-EOC
1841 Hwy. 24 West
Louisville, GA 30434Laurens County
Old West Laurens Middle School
338 West Laurens School Road
Dublin, GA 31021Lincoln County
Lincoln County Recreation Department
Walter T. Norman Gym
1962 Rowland-York Drive
Lincolnton, GA 30817Lowndes County
City of Valdosta
4434 North Forrest Street Extension
Valdosta, GA 31605McDuffie County
Thomson Depot
111 Railroad St.
Thomson, GA 30824Richmond County
Hub for Community Innovation
631 Chafee Ave.
Augusta, GA 30904Screven County
Screven County Library
106 Community Drive
Sylvania, GA 30467Tift County
Tift County Swimming Pool
202 Baldwin Drive
Tifton, GA 31794Toombs County
Georgia Department of Human Services
162 Oxley Drive
Lyons, GA 30436Washington County
Sandersville School Building Authority
514 North Harris St.
Sandersville, GA 31082Wilkes County
Washington Fire Department (Training Room)
212 E. Court St.
Washington, GA 30673

FEMA Mobile Registration Center location and hours

Burke County
Burke County Public Library
130 GA-24 South, Waynesboro, GA 30830
Monday, Nov. 25 – Saturday, Dec. 7
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (except Nov. 28 & 29)Clinch County
Clinch County Elementary School
575 Wood Lake Drive, Homerville,, GA 31634
Monday, Nov. 25 – Saturday, Dec. 7
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (except Nov. 28 & 29)Dodge County
Public Safety Building
440 Legion Drive, Eastman, GA 31023
Monday, Nov. 18 – Wednesday, Nov. 20
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (except Nov. 28 & 29)Cook County
Cook Farm Service Agency
204 East 9th St.
Adel, GA 31620
Monday, Nov. 25 – Saturday, Nov. 30 | 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (except Nov. 28 and 29)

To find center locations in the state, visit FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Georgia Page, FEMA’s DRC Locator or text “DRC” and your Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.

Homeowners and renters in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Fulton, Glascock, Glynn, Hancock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, McIntosh, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Stephens, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Wheeler and Wilkes counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Georgia and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

If you are in an affected county, you are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages.

Disaster Assistance Teams are also on the ground in affected counties going door-to-door to help survivors register for assistance.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne.

bree-constance… Tue, 11/26/2024 - 14:23

FEMA Extends Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program

HICKORY, N.C. – FEMA is granting additional time for Helene survivors to stay in short-term, emergency sheltering in hotels and motels.

FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance was originally authorized for 60 days, until Dec. 3, but has been extended until Dec. 12. This will allow households additional time to identify another housing solution or make repairs to their home.

FEMA will continue to evaluate the need to extend the program as individuals’ housing plans develop. Applicants are encouraged to maintain contact with the state, voluntary agencies, local organizations, long-term recovery groups and other partners to find suitable housing.

FEMA will notify participants three to seven days before their checkout dates after determining if they are able to return to their residences. Notification is by automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected when originally applying for assistance. A message is also sent to their participants’ disaster assistance accounts if they have set them up on Disasterassistance.gov.

To date, 10,129 households have sheltered in Transitional Sheltering Assistance participating hotels; 4,950 have found suitable, longer-term housing and moved on with their recovery. As of Nov. 25, 5,179 households remain checked in to hotels.

Participants may no longer be eligible for this program if they:

• Have withdrawn from FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.
• Have missed a scheduled FEMA property inspection or been unreachable to set up one.
• Declined FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing Assistance.
• Were not referred to FEMA’s Individuals and Households program.
• Are insured.
• Made duplicate or linked applications.
• Are registered as having no home damage.
• Have no disaster-caused damage.
• Received rental assistance from FEMA.

This program is one of several ways FEMA is helping Helene survivors with emergency non-congregate sheltering. In addition to sheltering survivors in private living spaces like hotels or motels, FEMA is providing financial help and direct housing assistance in some jurisdictions:

• Rental Assistance Homeowners and renters in North Carolina may be eligible for FEMA Rental Assistance if they cannot live in their homes because of damage due to Helene. This money provides survivors with a temporary place to live while they repair or rebuild their home. The initial grant is for two months and can be used to rent a place to live, such as a house, apartment, hotel room, RV or other options while your home is repaired, or while you look for a new home. Contact FEMA if you still have a housing need after two months.
• Direct Temporary Housing Assistance may be available to individuals and households where there is a lack of available housing resources due to Helene. This assistance is offered as an interim solution to survivors’ permanent housing needs, and is provided in three forms: Direct Lease, Multifamily Lease and Repair and Transportable Temporary Housing Units.

For more information, survivors should contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA-DR-4827-NC-NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov.

Follow Us

For the latest information about North Carolina’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4827. Follow FEMA Region 4 @FEMARegion4 on X or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne.

krystin.ventura Tue, 11/26/2024 - 01:13

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Aiken County

A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Aiken County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Aiken County
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church
17519 Atomic Road
Aiken, SC 29803

Open from Nov. 26, 2024, through Jan. 7, 2025, Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Closed on Nov. 28 for Thanksgiving.

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina.  You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 11/25/2024 - 23:45

FEMA Assistance to Tennesseans Tops $20 Million

More than $20 million is now in the hands of Tennesseans recovering from Tropical Storm Helene in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi or Washington counties, FEMA grants are an important tool to help you begin the recovery process.

Disaster grants do not have to be paid back. They help you pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property replacement and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by your insurance or other sources. To date:

• Over $10 million in financial Housing Assistance to more than 6,150 households has been delivered to cover reimbursement for short-term lodging, rental assistance, home repair and home replacement.
• Over $10 million in Other Needs Assistance has been paid to more than 10,600 households to reimburse both homeowners and renters for uninsured or underinsured out-of-pocket expenses such as:
  • Medical and dental expenses; cleaning, or replacement of clothing, household furniture, appliances and specialized tools used for your occupation; childcare, educational materials, moving, storage and other necessary expenses.
  • Repair or replacement of personally owned and registered disaster-damaged cars and trucks.

The first step to see if you are eligible for any of FEMA’s Individual Assistance programs is to apply. The deadline to apply is Jan. 7, 2025.

To apply for FEMA assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, you can provide FEMA your number for the service. You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

You may also qualify for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds for homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 11/25/2024 - 23:34

Georgia Survivors of Hurricane Helene Have Until Early December to Apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance

ATLANTA – The early December deadlines for survivors of the 63 Georgia counties affected by Hurricane Helene to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) vary depending on the dates that DUA was granted to each county. 

Residents who were affected by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for DUA to help compensate for income lost as a direct result of the storm. They must first apply for regular unemployment insurance on the Georgia Department of Labor website at dol.georgia.gov. Applicants may be eligible for a weekly benefit of as much as $365, but applications must be submitted by the appropriate deadline dates, as follows: 

Dec. 2:

• Deadline for Georgians in 41 counties impacted by Hurricane Helene to apply with the State of Georgia for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Eligible counties are Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Bulloch, Burke, Candler, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Columbia, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Lowndes, McDuffie, Montgomery, Pierce, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Washington and Wheeler.

Dec. 3:

• Deadline for Georgians in four counties impacted by Hurricane Helene to apply with the State of Georgia for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Eligible counties are Effingham, Elbert, Rabun, Tift.

Dec. 6:

• Deadline for Georgians in 18 counties impacted by Hurricane Helene to apply with the State of Georgia for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Eligible counties are Brantley, Bryan, Butts, Camden, Charlton, Dodge, Fulton, Glynn, Hancock, Long, McIntosh, Newton, Stephens, Taliaferro, Thomas, Warren, Wayne and Wilkes.

You may be required to show proof of Income when applying for DUA benefits. Applicants should be prepared to provide proof of earnings for the most recently completed tax year. Acceptable proof of earnings includes copies of the most recently completed income tax returns, quarterly estimated income tax payment records, or similar documents. 

DUA benefits may also be available to individuals who became the breadwinner or who provide major financial support for a household because the head of the household died as a direct result of Tropical Storm Debby. Individuals applying for benefits under such circumstances must present proof of the head of household's death, such as a death certificate or affidavit. 

To apply or find more details go online at Georgia Department of Labor or call 1-877-709-8185. 

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne.

bree-constance… Mon, 11/25/2024 - 20:00

FEMA Encourages Virginians to Build Back Stronger and Prepare for the Future

BRISTOL, Va.—If you live in Virginia, there are resources and funding available to help you protect your home from future flooding and storms.  

FEMA Creates Phone Hotline with Home Rebuilding Tips 

Do you need information as you’re rebuilding so that you can reduce damage from future storms? If you need tips on mold cleanup, retrofitting for high winds, flood insurance, sealing foundation cracks, sump pumps, elevating utilities and more, call the FEMA Rebuilding Hotline at 1-833-FEMA-4US (833-336-2487) and press “3.” The hotline is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you call and leave a message, someone will get back to you within 1 business day.  You can get started with some of these do-it-yourself options.

 

Virginians can Protect their Homes with Flood and Wind Mitigation Tips 

For flooding:

• Invest in Flood Insurance. Did you know an inch of water can cause $25,000 in damage? Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings and/or contents in a building. To purchase a National Flood Insurance Program policy, call your insurance company or insurance agent. Find a provider online at FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider or call 877-336-2627.
• Seal Foundation Cracks. Use mortar and masonry caulk to fill foundation cracks to help keep water out.
• Install a Sump Pump and Back Flow Valve. Make sure you have a sump pump with battery-operated backup in case of electrical failure and consider hiring a plumber to install a back flow valve to push the flow of water and sewer backup away from your home.
• Elevate Utilities. Raise and anchor air conditioning condensers, heat pumps, water meters and other service equipment onto platforms at least one foot above the potential flood elevation. Consider raising other major appliances above the ground floor.
• Landscape to Improve Runoff. Build up any sunken areas around the foundation, dig small depressions to properly channel water, and otherwise improve your yard so it slopes away from your home.

For wind:

• Reinforce Your Residence. Retrofitting your home can provide structural updates that didn’t exist when it was constructed. For example, a homeowner can install straps to their roof’s structural beams to make it strong enough to resist the "uplift" effect of high winds that can cause it to lift and collapse back down on the house.
• Defend Those Doors. Garage or double-entry doors can fail under wind pressure. Garage doors can be reinforced with girts and by strengthening the wheel tracks. Double-entry doors can be reinforced with a heavy-duty deadbolt, adding slide bolts on one of the doors, and using longer hinge attachments on the door and frame.
• Guard your Glass. Storm shutters prevent windows from breaking when there is windborne debris. You can also add shatter-resistant film or stormproof high-impact glass to defend glass from breaking.
• Trim and Tighten. Consider cutting away any dangling tree branches that pose a threat to your home and securing outdoor furniture and fuel tanks that can serve as projectiles during high wind events.
• Ensure You’re Fully Insured. Take the time to review your insurance coverages and talk to your agent to verify your household is adequately insured for high-wind events and other disaster risks in your community.

1. For even more tips to protect your home in high-wind and flood events, visit Protect Your Property From Severe Winds Brochure 2023 and Protect Your Property From Flooding Brochure 2020 .

    

Mitigation specialist speaking with a Virginia survivor at a Disaster Recovery Center in Galax, Va. (Johannes Webb / FEMA)

 

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to Fund Long-Term Mitigation Projects throughout Va. 

Was your home damaged from Helene or a previous storm? Have you had multiple floods? Or filed multiple flood insurance claims on your property? Consider applying for FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which can fund some long-term projects that help individuals and communities become more resilient to future disasters.   

The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program can help pay for a variety of projects, including home elevations, voluntary property buyouts, and relocations of homes that have been impacted by flooding. Get a sense of what home elevation looks like and the reassurance it offers homeowners in Elevating Arnold’s House, a story of a Hampton, Va. resident who received FEMA grant funding to protect his home from future flooding. 

To learn more about the program, including information about the grant and how to apply, see the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Information for Virginia Homeowners fact sheet. 

If you experienced substantial damage from Hurricane Helene—meaning that your home had damages that would cost more than 50% of the building’s pre-damage market value—you can take advantage of the resources above. But you also must take into account local ordinances related to substantial damage. Contact your local floodplain manager and see the Understanding Substantial Damage Determinations fact sheet before you rebuild to save you time and money in the long run. 

 

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

 

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of persons with disabilities. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by the federal government, federal contractors, and by recipients of federal financial assistance. Any recipient or sub-recipient of federal funds is required to make their programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. Its protections apply to all programs and businesses receiving any federal funds. This applies to all elements of physical/architectural, programmatic and communication accessibility in all services and activities conducted by or funded by FEMA. FEMA intends to comply with the Rehabilitation Act in all federally conducted and assisted programs in alignment with the principals of whole community inclusion and universal accessibility.

amanda.hancher Mon, 11/25/2024 - 19:25

One Week Left for Hurricane Helene Survivors in Va. to Apply for FEMA Assistance

BRISTOL, Va.— Individuals and households in Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe counties and cities of Galax and Radford who were affected by the Hurricane Helene have one week left to apply for FEMA assistance. 

Graphic

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by:

• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center
• Going online to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA mobile app  
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is available seven days a week in most languages. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is December 2, 2024.

FEMA assistance may cover temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs. 

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

Have Questions About a FEMA Determination Letter? Visit Us for Help.

If you have already applied for FEMA assistance and have questions about the status of your application or about appealing a FEMA determination letter, visit a DRC near you for one-on-one assistance or call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362. FEMA staff are ready to answer your questions. If you choose to appeal, you must do so within 60 days of the date of your determination letter. 

 

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of persons with disabilities. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by the federal government, federal contractors, and by recipients of federal financial assistance. Any recipient or sub-recipient of federal funds is required to make their programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. Its protections apply to all programs and businesses receiving any federal funds. This applies to all elements of physical/architectural, programmatic and communication accessibility in all services and activities conducted by or funded by FEMA. FEMA intends to comply with the Rehabilitation Act in all federally conducted and assisted programs in alignment with the principals of whole community inclusion and universal accessibility.

amanda.hancher Mon, 11/25/2024 - 16:27

Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton Fast Approaching

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– As a result of the severe damage and historic flooding in Florida caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, FEMA extended the policy renewal deadline for certain National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders to prevent a lapse in NFIP flood coverage. 

These policyholders have until Dec. 10, 2024, to renew their policies. This is a significant extension from the standard 30-day renewal grace period.

If the policy term ended on:The grace period would have ended:But now runs until:Aug. 28, 2024Sept. 26, 2024Dec. 10, 2024Sept. 26, 2024Oct. 25, 2024Dec. 10, 2024Oct. 15, 2024Nov. 13, 2024Dec. 10, 2024Nov. 1, 2024Nov. 30, 2024Dec. 10, 2024Nov. 15, 2024Dec. 14, 2024Dec. 14, 2024

If they have not done so, policyholders should be sure to ask their insurance agent or company about advance claims payments to help start their recovery. Advance payments may be available of up to $20,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster. 

The grace period for policyholders affected by Helene and Milton in Florida will be extended based on the below schedule.

Policyholders whose NFIP policy renewal date is within this range should contact their agent or insurance company.

For example, if the original policy expiration date was Aug. 28, 2024, the policy may be renewed on or before Dec. 10, 2024. Holders of active policies can file claims for damage received from Hurricanes Helene or Milton if the premium is paid. 

Other Actions to Help Policyholders

The NFIP has extended the proof of loss requirement for policyholders who suffered flood damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton from the standard 60 days to 120 days from the date of loss.

The NFIP also authorized its Write Your Own program. Insurance company partners and the NFIP Direct pay claims based on the adjuster’s report without requiring policyholders to sign a proof of loss. When a policyholder seeks additional payment for any reason or disagrees with the adjuster report, they may still submit a signed proof of loss to the insurer along with supporting documentation. This can include a contractor’s estimate, bills, receipts, photographs and other related documents. 

Anyone affected by Helene or Milton who has an NFIP flood insurance policy and has suffered flood damage should file their claim now. Evacuated policyholders can still start their claim and provide specifics later once local officials say it’s safe to return home.

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period should contact their agent or insurance company. Those who don’t have their insurance agent or company’s contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance. 

FEMA also encourages NFIP policyholders affected by Helene or Milton to apply for federal disaster assistance. The three ways to apply are visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA App. Survivors may receive funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. 

FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights can be contacted at FEMA-OCR@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

sixto.valentin… Mon, 11/25/2024 - 16:23

FEMA Grants Prioritize Safety, Security for U.S. Virgin Islands

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – Several community partners across the U.S. Virgin Islands will be able to strengthen their safety and security with grants from FEMA. In total, just over $1 million was awarded to houses of worship and community organizations through a competitive application process. These grants will fund structural enhancements to protect these institutions from threats.

Community engagement between FEMA, the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) and the U.S. Virgin Islands Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VI VOAD) was instrumental with the Nonprofit Security grants being awarded to six houses of worship across the territory. As well, a territorial and federal partnership paved a path for two organizations in the USVI to be awarded Nonprofit Security grants.

“Our strong partnerships with VITEMA and our community partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands has once again led to several houses of worship and other organizations to be recipients of security grants that will ultimately make their congregations and communities safer and more resilient,” said FEMA Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office Acting Coordinator Aaron VanDoren. “We will continue to work with our faith-based and community partners to ensure they have the resources to keep their groups safe from threats that could harm them.” 

The Nonprofit Security Grant supports funding for facility hardening and other physical security improvements and activities to organizations at risk of a terrorist or extremist attack. 

“This is another example of our Territory, through VITEMA, leveraging our partnership with FEMA and our stakeholders resulting in this funding becoming available and awarded to our places of worship and to our nonprofit organizations,” said VITEMA Assistant Director Stephen M. DeBlasio Sr. “This funding will result in a stronger USVI and I am delighted to have seen the collaboration and coordinated efforts that resulted in this grant award.  Our VITEMA Grants Division will continue our coordination efforts through monitoring, and full execution of these projects. Another great opportunity that we have utilized to the fullest to make our community partners secure against a terrorist attack.”

FEMA’s Preparedness division in the Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office promoted the grant and application process in an Organizational Preparedness workshop, trainings, and conversations throughout the year. 

VITEMA provided critical stewardship to prospective applicants in this process. The collaborative partnership between VITEMA, the VI VOAD and FEMA resulted in an increase this year of the number of applicants in the Virgin Islands for these grants, leading to important funding awards for these critical community organizations in the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

If your organization is interested in pursuing upcoming offerings for the Nonprofit Security Grant program, visit https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/nonprofit-security to learn more.

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

gina.callaghan Mon, 11/25/2024 - 14:14

Deadline Extended for FEMA Applications After Hurricanes Helene and Milton in Florida

Homeowners and renters with losses from Hurricanes Milton and Helene may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses. 

Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

If you had damage from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, you will need to apply separately for both disasters and provide the dates of your damage for each. 

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Office of Civil

Rights can be contacted at FEMA-OCR@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

sixto.valentin… Mon, 11/25/2024 - 13:22

Disaster Recovery Center Thanksgiving Holiday Hours

Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) operated by the State of New Mexico and FEMA in Chaves County will operate with special Thanksgiving Holiday hours.

Thanksgiving Holiday Hours:

Wednesday, Nov. 27, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 28 – CLOSED

Friday, Nov. 29 – CLOSED

Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Residents and business owners in Chaves County can visit the center to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents, learn about available resources and get their questions answered in person. Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration as well as, state, local, nonprofit and other community organizations will be available to meet with visitors. 

New Mexicans can also gather information on resources such as Medicaid, unemployment, insurance claim assistance, Disaster Case Management, vital records, mental health support and childcare assistance. No appointment is needed. 

The DRC is located at:

• Roswell Mall next to the Bath & Body Works store
  4501 N Main St. 
  Roswell, NM 88201

You can also contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362). Calls are accepted every day between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. Except for Thanksgiving, when they will be closed due to the holiday. Help is available in most languages.

angela.ambroise Mon, 11/25/2024 - 07:31