FEMA’s New Mexico Joint Recovery Office is Hiring: Attend Nov. 19 and 20 Job Fairs in Santa Fe

SANTA FE, N.M. — The FEMA New Mexico Joint Recovery Office (JRO) is hosting a hiring fair on Nov. 19 and 20 for full-time positions with the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office and Claims Office. 

FEMA staff will be available at the fairs to receive resumes, answer questions and conduct on-the-spot interviews. 

Interested individuals are encouraged to attend the hiring fair to learn more about job openings and how to secure a fulfilling career while serving their community.

The positions will support the important mission of helping the state recover from disasters, processing claims, and compensating those affected by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding.

When

Nov. 19:  9 a.m. – 4 p.m. MT

Nov. 20:  9 a.m. – 4 p.m. MT

Where

Santa Fe Community College Higher Education Center, 1950 Siringo Road, Santa Fe, NM 87505

Open positions for the Santa Fe, Mora, and Las Vegas Claims Offices and Joint Recovery Office include claims navigators, data analysts, a technical writer, an advocate liaison, staff assistants, a community planner, program analysts, project and program managers, watershed analyst, contract specialists and customer service specialists. 

FEMA employee benefits include eligibility for public service; student loan forgiveness; federal retirement plans; paid annual leave; mental health resources; health, dental, and vision insurance; annual federal pay raises, and career growth opportunities.

FEMA is looking for individuals who can represent the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office with compassion, fairness, integrity, and respect. Ideal candidates will have customer service experience; strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills; and experience completing high-quality products within assigned time frames.

“Bringing on local New Mexicans to join our recovery efforts is crucial to ensuring that our communities and businesses impacted by the fire receive swift, fair, and effective support,” said Jay Mitchell, Director of Operations at the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “We need people who understand the unique needs of our state, and with 45 days remaining before the Dec. 20, 2024, deadline, it’s essential that we build a strong, dedicated team to help expedite the recovery process.” 

For additional information about the hiring fairs, including candidate qualifications, position descriptions, and FEMA benefits, please visit fema.gov/fact-sheet/claims-office-and-jro-open-positions.

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to start a claim with the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office if they haven’t already. The deadline to start t a Notice of Loss is Dec. 20, 2024, per the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act.

The Claims Office continues to observe an increase in claim submissions, temporarily leading to longer wait times and longer processing times in issuing Letters of Determination (LODs) for claims. We are actively working to reduce wait times and shorten processing times of claims. 

Claims Office compensation is not taxable. Receiving payment from the Claims Office will not impact eligibility for government assistance programs. Contact a tax professional for specific tax-related questions. Questions and concerns can also be addressed by calling your claim Navigator or the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. As of this week, the FEMA Claims Office has paid about $1.5 billion to claimants. 

For information and updates please visit the Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice. 

amy.ashbridge Thu, 11/07/2024 - 22:24

Still Time To Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance After Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

Homeowners and renters affected by Hurricane Helene in South Carolina have until 11:59 p.m., Jan. 7, 2025, to apply for federal disaster assistance. 

FEMA assistance may include funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of your primary home, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical and dental needs, child care and other miscellaneous items.

After the deadline, you may still submit documents, update your contact information and stay in contact with FEMA regarding your application, but you must apply before the deadline.

How To Apply for FEMA Assistance

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 who were affected by Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance. 

You can apply in several ways:

• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 29169”).
• Use the FEMA mobile app.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. It is open every day. 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 Thu, 11/07/2024 - 21:44

Berrien County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House

CHICAGO — FEMA, the state of Michigan and Berrien County community officials invite residents to join the Open House in Benton Harbor on Thursday, November 14. At this event, FEMA will answer questions from residents about flood risk and flood insurance after the release of preliminary flood maps.

Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Berrien County are encouraged to attend and meet with experts one-on-one to view their own addresses on the new maps. They’ll learn about the mapping process, their specific flood risk and ways to help prevent flood loss. Residents can view preliminary versions of the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report and the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) here.

WHAT:           Berrien County—Flood Map Open House

WHEN:          Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 4-6 PM ET

WHERE:        Benton Harbor Public Library, 213 E. Wall St. Benton Harbor, MI 49022

The updated maps for Berrien County will highlight several streams and flooding sources, including McCoy Creek, Paw Paw River, St. Joseph River, Hickory Creek, Granger Drain, Goodrow Drain, both branches of Glenlord Road Drain, Parker/Richardson Drain, West Tributary St. Joseph River, and Yellow Creek. These updates span 34 Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) panels and cover 29 communities, including 7 charter townships, 11 townships, 6 cities, and 5 villages.

Once in effect, the maps will inform flood insurance rates and local floodplain management rules adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA urges public officials to use the maps to help plan and prepare communities to quickly respond to and recover from future extreme weather events.

For Open House questions, reach out to fema-r5-map@fema.dhs.gov. For media questions, reach out to the FEMA Region 5 News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

kimberly.keblish Thu, 11/07/2024 - 21:43

Disaster Recovery Center in Giles County Will Be Temporarily Closed Nov. 9

BRISTOL, Va.– The Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Giles County will be temporarily closed on Saturday, November 9, 2024, for a pre-scheduled event. The center will reopen at 8 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024.

Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. To find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.  

The Giles County DRC is located at:

Giles County

120 Pembroke Park Lane

Pembroke, VA 24136
 

Temporarily Closed: November 9, 2024

Reopening: November 11, 2024, at 8 a.m.

Normal Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register 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 also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

Graphic

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Dec. 2, 2024.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

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.

kelly.magarity Thu, 11/07/2024 - 21:31

Free Disaster Legal Assistance Available for North Carolinians

RALEIGH, N.C. – Free disaster-related legal counseling, assistance and referrals are available for eligible North Carolina homeowners and renters in disaster-designated counties as they recover from Tropical Storm Helene. People do not need to apply for FEMA assistance to receive Disaster Legal Services. 

Low-income survivors can use this service to receive confidential, free legal assistance due to the disasters, but do not have the means to secure adequate legal services. 

Typical services include assistance with:

• Insurance policies and claims. 
• Foreclosure and mortgage issues.
• Home repair contracts and contractors. 
• Landlord-tenant disputes.
• Document replacement.
• Government benefits information. 
• FEMA appeals.
• Fraud.

For legal assistance, call 1-866-219-5262 and dial 2657. The toll-free hotline is available 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. If contacted outside of operational hours, survivors can leave a voicemail. 

Disaster Legal Services attorneys are not FEMA employees. They are volunteers who provide survivors with legal counseling, advice, and, when appropriate, legal representation in non-fee-generating cases that are not against the Federal Government. The service is a partnership between the North Carolina Bar Association, North Carolina Bar Foundation, Legal Aid of North Carolina, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and FEMA. 

More information about legal assistance for North Carolina residents is available online at: legalaidnc.org/disaster.

barbara.murien… Thu, 11/07/2024 - 20:45

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Veterans Day

Disaster Recovery Centers for the storms and flooding that took place July 11-13 and July 29 - 31 will be closed for Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11. 

These centers are located at the Hinesburg Town Hall (10632 Route 116) and the Lyndon Public Safety Facility at 366 Main Street. They will be opening back up on Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 9 a.m. Normal operating hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday. Closed Sundays.

Residents affected by the flooding don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to register for FEMA assistance. Three ways to apply before the Nov. 25 deadline include:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• The FEMA mobile app 
• Call the FEMA 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. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.

adrien.urbani Thu, 11/07/2024 - 17:13

Agriculture Recovery Resource Days Scheduled in Additional Southwest Virginia Counties

BRISTOL, Va.— Commonwealth, federal, local, and nonprofit agencies are coming together to hold Agricultural Recovery Resource Days, where staff from over 15 participating organizations share resources with farmers and agribusinesses impacted by Hurricane Helene in southwest Virginia. 

Farmers, private forest owners, and agribusiness owners can attend whichever event best fits their schedule and can drop in any time during the hours listed. For latest information, please visit: www.fema.gov/event/hurricane-helene-virginia-agriculture-recovery-resource-day.

The next Agriculture Recovery Resource Days will be held on:

Thursday, Nov. 7

Open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Highlands Fellowship Church

22417 Watauga Road, Abingdon VA 24211

Saturday, Nov. 9

Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Wytheville Meeting Center 

333 Community Boulevard, Wytheville VA 24382

Tuesday, Nov. 12

Open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Chilhowie Christian Church

172 Apple Valley Road 

Chilhowie, VA 24319

Thursday Nov. 14 

Open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Glamorgan Chapel

183 Southmark Road SW

Wise, VA 24293

The following agencies will be present at the Agriculture Recovery Resource Days to answer questions about grants, loans, and other resources available for the agricultural community: 

Federal agencies: 

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 
• USDA Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA) 
• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA NRCS) 
• USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) 

State agencies:

• Virginia Department of Emergency Management
• Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
• Virginia Department of Forestry
• Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
• Virginia Department of Health
• Virginia Cooperative Extension
• Virginia State University Small Farm Resource Center
• Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission
• Virginia Small Business Financing Authority

Local agencies and organizations:

• Virginia Farm Bureau 
• Virginia Cattlemen’s Association 
• Farm Credit of the Virginias 
• First Bank & Trust
• Agrisafe Network
• Local Soil & Water Conservation Districts

For information about commonwealth and federal resources for agribusinesses, see Help for Virginia Agribusinesses and Farmers Fact Sheet. 

For additional disaster recovery resources, 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.

kelly.magarity Thu, 11/07/2024 - 17:07

FEMA Calls May Come from Unfamiliar Phone Numbers

BATON ROUGE, La. – After Louisiana residents apply for disaster assistance, FEMA may call to schedule an inspection of the damaged home or to obtain more information to process the application. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers.

It is important to answer the call. A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, functional and accessible. If an inspection cannot be scheduled, that may cause a delay in FEMA’s review of the application.

FEMA specialists may call to obtain more information to process an application, or they may contact applicants who started an application and did not complete it. The specialists will already have the applicant’s nine-digit FEMA registration number and will not ask you for it.

Here are quick ways to apply for FEMA assistance: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices. You may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m., seven days a week, and specialists speak many languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

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 Thu, 11/07/2024 - 16:34

Georgians Have More Time to Apply for Assistance after Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene

ATLANTA – At the request of the state of Georgia, homeowners and renters in counties approved for individual assistance due to Hurricane Helene or Tropical Storm Debby now have until Jan. 7, 2025, to apply for FEMA assistance. 

Homeowners and renters with damage and losses related to Tropical Storm Debby whose primary home is in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long and Screven counties may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for serious needs, displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses. 

Likewise, homeowners and renters with damage and losses related to Hurricane Helene whose primary home is 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 may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for serious needs, displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses.  

People with damage related to Hurricane Helene and/or Tropical Storm Debby, damage Aug. 4-22, must apply separately for assistance for each disaster, but only once for each disaster. People with homeowners, renters or flood insurance should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If an insurance policy does not cover all disaster expenses, people may be eligible for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply is online on DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center in person, by using the FEMA App, or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most 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. 

To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster 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 Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.

minh.phan Thu, 11/07/2024 - 15:08

Help Remains After Disaster Recovery Center Closes in St. Mary Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. –– The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Morgan City will close at 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 8. However, help is just a mouse click, phone call or a tap on the FEMA app away.

The Morgan City DRC that will close is located at:

St. Mary Parish

Morgan City Municipal Auditorium

728 Myrtle St.

Morgan City, LA 70380

Hours:  Thursday, Nov. 7, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 8, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Individuals affected by Hurricane Francine in the nine designated parishes can still get help by:

• Logging into their account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Visiting the Terrebonne DRC located at 

Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Dr.

Houma, LA 70360

Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday.

Residents in all nine parishes can visit the DRCs to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center. 

The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

• The centers have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff.
• Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request.
• Real-time captioning as well as information in Braille, large-print, audio and electronic versions are available.
• The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.
  • Specialists at the centers can also direct you to operators who can communicate in languages other than English and printed material in multiple languages.
  • Specialists can help you update your FEMA applications and learn about state and community programs and other available assistance. They can clarify information you have received from FEMA or other agencies; they can explain the rental assistance available to homeowners and renters; and they can fax your requested documents to a FEMA processing center and scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.

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 Thu, 11/07/2024 - 13:49

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Saluda County

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

Saluda County

County Administration Building 
407 W. Butler Ave.
Saluda, SC 29138

Open Nov. 7-10 and Nov. 12-13, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Nov. 11, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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 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 Thu, 11/07/2024 - 11:53

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Mountain Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on November 6 at 2:36 p.m. PST / 5:36 p.m. EST to assist the state of California in combating the Mountain Fire, currently burning in Ventura County.

On November 6, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 3,500 homes in and around the communities of Somis, Camarillo, and Saticoy, California with a combined population 30,000. One hundred percent of the threatened homes are primary residences.

The fire started on November 6, 2024, and had burned more than 9,000 acres of state and private land.

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 become major incidents.

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.

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

 

brandi.richard… Wed, 11/06/2024 - 22:57

FEMA in the Field: Assisting Flood Survivors Door-to-Door

Once a disaster is declared, FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are ready to go into impacted communities. Because of this, they are often called FEMA’s “boots on the ground”. They often walk through affected areas or set up in small groups in a neighborhood facility. 

In coordination with the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM), FEMA DSA teams are prepared to knock on doors in Chaves County following the Oct. 19-20 storms and flooding. 

Their mission is to help affected residents apply to FEMA for federal financial grant assistance and provide registration inquiry and update services. 

Once a presidential disaster declaration has been issued, DSA primarily focuses on addressing the needs of disaster New Mexicans by collecting critical information to support leadership and operational decision-making.

DSA crews are equipped to help residents apply for assistance, even in the toughest of conditions. They will also be wearing a FEMA vest and their official FEMA identification badge. 

DSA crews primarily focus on addressing the needs of populations. Their duties include:

• Providing on-site guidance to survivors about the FEMA application process, and an overview of FEMA disaster assistance.
• Reviewing survivors’ applications, providing basic information about application status and other eligible assistance, and collecting new information or documents for case files.
• Engaging disaster survivors and local officials in identifying immediate unmet needs for a quick resolution via FEMA and/or its partners including voluntary agencies.

Supporting community outreach and partnerships with the local, state, tribal or territorial emergency managers, disability partners, private sector, voluntary agencies, faith-based and community organizations to foster a culture of strengthened alliances to support the delivery of inclusive and equitable services to survivors.

angela.ambroise Wed, 11/06/2024 - 22:13

Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

SPRINGFIELD – Homeowners and renters with disaster-related damage or loss from the July 13 – 16 severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding in Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago counties have just two weeks left to apply for assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance and an SBA Physical Disaster Loan is Tuesday, November 19, 2024. If insured, you do not need to wait for a settlement letter to apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits covered by insurance or other sources, so insurance documentation will be requested, but can be submitted after applying.

FEMA assistance may include grants for temporary housing, basic home repair or replacement and other disaster-related expenses, such as moving and storage costs, primary vehicle repair or replacement, essential furniture and appliances, medical and dental costs, and childcare costs.

The fastest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Residents can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for assistance in-person. To find a center nearest you, visit, FEMA.gov/DRC.

After you apply for FEMA assistance, don’t wait to apply for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) too. You aren’t required to apply for an SBA loan to be considered for FEMA grants, but you could miss out on SBA’s help with disaster-related expenses that FEMA assistance doesn’t cover. 

Homeowners, renters, businesses and certain private non-profit organizations can learn more about SBA long-term, low-interest Physical Disaster Loans that can go towards repairing and replacing disaster-damaged property, by going online to sba.gov/disaster. As of Oct. 15, funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended; while no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance and an SBA Physical Disaster Loan is November 19. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.

kimberly.keblish Wed, 11/06/2024 - 22:11

Two Additional Georgia Counties Now Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

ATLANTA -- Homeowners and renters in Stephens and Wilkes counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene can now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Previously, 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, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne and Wheeler counties were authorized for assistance to households.

There are several ways to apply: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 7, 2025.

What You’ll Need When You Apply

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

If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

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 Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.

larissa.hale Wed, 11/06/2024 - 20:06

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Liberty County Closing, Georgians Can Visit Other Centers

ATLANTA – The Disaster Recovery Center located in Liberty County is closing Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 5:30 p.m. However, people can still visit any other open Disaster Recovery Center located in the state. Survivors can also apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, on the free FEMA App or by calling 1-800-621-3362 any day of the week.

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

Georgians can visit any of the centers listed below and additional centers are planned to open in the coming days and weeks:

 

Open Monday – Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sundays 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Appling County

Appling County Agricultural Center

2761 Blackshear Highway

Baxley, GA 31513

Chatham County

Savannah Technical College

Student Enrichment Center Building

5717 White Bluff Road, Savannah, GA 31405

Coffee County

The Atrium

114 N. Peterson Avenue

Douglas, GA 31533

Emanuel County

Southeastern Technical College 

Special Programs Building

346 Kite Road, Building 1

Swainsboro, GA 30401

  

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road

Dublin, GA 31021

Lowndes County

City of Valdosta

4434 North Forrest Street Extension 

Valdosta, GA 31605

McDuffie County

111 Railroad Street

Thomson, GA 30824

Richmond County

Hub for Community Innovation

631 Chafee Avenue

Augusta, GA 30904

Tift County

202 Baldwin Drive

Tifton, GA 31794

Toombs County

Georgia Department of Human Services 

162 Oxley Drive 

Lyons, GA 30436

Washington County

Sandersville School Building Authority

514 North Harris Street 

Sandersville, GA 31082

   

FEMA Mobile Disaster Recovery Center location and hours

Atkinson County 

Atkinson County Emergency Operations Center 

Parking Lot 
33 West Austin Avenue
Pearson, GA 31642 

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Wednesday, Nov. 6 

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Brantley County

Brantley Recreation Department

3540 Baker Creek Road

Nahunta, GA 31553

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Saturday, Nov. 9

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Jeff Davis

Jeff Davis County Recreation Department
83 Buford Road
Hazlehurst, GA 31539

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Saturday, Nov. 9

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    

 

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.

minh.phan Wed, 11/06/2024 - 19:24

Disaster Recovery Center in Newport Scheduled to Close on November 9

The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) located at the Newport City Municipal Building at 222 Main Street is scheduled to permanently close at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9. The center’s hours until then are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The center was opened for residents affected by the storms and flooding that took place July 9-11 and July 29-31 and who wanted to speak to FEMA and other disaster recovery specialists in person. 

Residents don’t need to visit the DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. Other ways to register before the Nov. 25th deadline include:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• With the FEMA mobile app
• Calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in multiple languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or another relay service, give FEMA your number for that service when you call. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.                                

After the deadline, FEMA specialists will still be available to help applicants. Those who have already applied to FEMA, can ask questions, update contact information and applications and get advice on appealing a FEMA determination by calling the helpline.

adrien.urbani Wed, 11/06/2024 - 15:50

One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Debby

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Floridians who sustained loss from Hurricane Debby have one week remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is Nov. 12, 2024.

Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Baker, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties with losses from Hurricane Debby may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses. 

The quickest way to apply is to go online to 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. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

 To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, 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.

wesley.lagenour Wed, 11/06/2024 - 12:49

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the Seminole Tribe of Florida

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Seminole Tribe of Florida to supplement the tribe’s efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Milton beginning on Oct. 5, 2024, and continuing. 

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available to the Seminole Tribe of Florida and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Milton. For a period of 90 days of the tribe’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period, assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program is authorized at 100% of the total eligible costs.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Leda M. Khoury has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using 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. 

mashana.davis Wed, 11/06/2024 - 12:37

Child Care Assistance Is Available for South Carolinians Affected by Hurricane Helene

South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA Child Care Assistance even if they did not have property damage.

FEMA may award payment for Child Care Assistance under its Other Needs Assistance program to those with disaster-caused child care expenses following Hurricane Helene. Residents 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 are eligible to apply.

Child Care Assistance covers standard child care service fees and/or personal assistance services for children with a disability, as defined by federal law.

Assistance may be available for up to eight weeks per child or household, up to a maximum of $150 per child.

Eligibility Criteria

FEMA Child Care Assistance addresses disaster-related expenses for eligible households with children aged 13 and under and/or households with children with a disability up to age 21, who need assistance with activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence, and more.

Eligibility begins on the date of the incident period for the declared disaster and continues through the end of the 18-month period of assistance unless the time is extended.

Child care registration fees and health inventory fees are eligible expenses for applicants who require a new child care service provider.

• A registration fee is a one-time fee when registering an eligible child with an authorized child care provider.
• A health inventory fee is a medical office fee for processing required medical paperwork as part of the registration process.

To qualify for Child Care Assistance, the general conditions must be met for FEMA Individual Assistance eligibility, and the applicant must have necessary expenses (child care facility damaged or inoperable) caused by the disaster. In addition to meeting the general conditions of eligibility as a direct result of the disaster, households must have a disaster-caused increase in financial burden for child care.

• The applicant’s gross household income has decreased; or
• The applicant’s child care expenses have increased.

Households must certify they cannot utilize child care services provided by any other source to qualify for Child Care Assistance. Households must submit documents showing a disaster-caused need for Child Care Assistance and amount of eligible expenses.

Documents Required

• Pre- and post-disaster gross household income documentation.
• Pre-disaster receipts, contract, or signed letter from the child care provider for child care expenses.
• Post-disaster receipts or estimates for child care fees, registration, and/or health inventory fees.
• A post-disaster child care provider’s license and post-disaster child care contract or agreement.
• Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), 504 plan, or a medical professional’s statement, if applicable, to verify disability for children up to age 21 who need assistance.
• A signed, written statement from the applicant.

Limitations and Exclusions

If a child is a member of multiple households, FEMA will only award Child Care Assistance to the primary custodial parent or guardian responsible for child care costs.

FEMA will not help with any of the following:

• Fees for extra-curricular activities, educational services and additional services.
• Fees not related to the day-to-day child care services provided to the eligible child.
• Fuel expenses related to transporting the child to and from the child care provider.
• Medical care or services.
• Recreational camps or clubs.

Households who did not have child care expenses pre-disaster but have incurred or will incur child care expenses because of the disaster may also be eligible, but must meet additional eligibility requirements.

For additional information, contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center near you, visit fema.gov/drc.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, 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 Wed, 11/06/2024 - 03:28