Disaster Recovery Center Updates in Southwest Virginia

BRISTOL, Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open in Duffield, Va. at the Pioneer Center at 225 Boone Trail Road, Duffield, VA 24244 on Tuesday, November 5, at 8 a.m. This will be the tenth DRC to open in the impacted area. 

The Pulaski County DRC in Dublin, Va. will reopen on November 6, at 12 p.m. And the Disaster Recovery Center in Christiansburg, Va. will not reopen. 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 newest Disaster Recovery Center is located at:

Scott County  

Pioneer Center

225 Boone Trail Road

Duffield, Va. 24244

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays

The Dublin, Va. Disaster Recovery Center will re-open Wednesday, November 6 at noon.

Pulaski County 

New River Valley Fairgrounds 

5581 Fair Grounds Circle

Dublin, Va. 24084

Reopening 11/06:

Wednesday Nov. 6, 2024 – 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. 

Hours of Operation after 11/6

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

Closed Sundays

The Disaster Recovery Center in Christiansburg will not re-open.

Montgomery County   

Montgomery County Government Center

755 Roanoke Street

Christiansburg, Va. 24073

Hours of operation:

Closed, Will Not Reopen

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.

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.

erika.osullivan Sat, 11/02/2024 - 18:04

FEMA Disaster Assistance Available for New Mexicans Impacted by the Oct. 19-20 Chaves County Flood

Chaves County homeowners and renters, who sustained damage from the Oct. 19-20, 2024, severe storm and flooding may be eligible for disaster assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. 

FEMA disaster assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help people recover from the effects of the disaster.

FEMA’s assistance offers benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors when needed the most. In addition, FEMA’s new simplified Individual Assistance process and expanded eligibility allows New Mexicans access to a wider range of assistance including for serious needs.

Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) provides funding for households to cover important items like water, food, first aid, breast-feeding supplies, infant formula, diapers, personal hygiene items, fuel for transportation or other emergency supplies for eligible households. 

To qualify for SNA, you must be displaced, need shelter or have other emergency costs due to the disaster on your application.

Displacement Assistance (DA) provides people with up-front funds to assist with immediate housing options of their choice, to keep people housed. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options.

Before receiving funds for Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) or Displacement Assistance (DA), an inspection is required to confirm eligibility.

How to Apply to FEMA

New Mexico residents can apply to FEMA for federal financial assistance three ways:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov,
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices, or 
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. MT. Help is available in most languages. Dial 711 or video relay services are available.

To view an American Sign Language (ASL) video about how to apply visit Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

Additional Assistance and Benefits

• Streamlined Application Requirements so you can apply for a low-interest, long-term disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and for FEMA assistance at the same time.
• Support for Underinsured Claims to help with aspects of home repair not covered by insurance.
• Simplified Assistance for Entrepreneurs by providing self-employed survivors with initial financial support to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment to help them land on their feet. 
• Expanded Habitability Criteria to help survivors make their post-disaster homes safer and cleaner. Previously, for example, if a home had a leaky roof pre-disaster, that area of the home wouldn’t qualify.
• Make Accessibility Improvements to help survivors with disabilities improve their living conditions by making their homes even more accessible than they were pre-disaster.
• Streamlined Temporary Housing Assistance Applications by reducing documentation requirements for applicants who need to extend their stay in FEMA-supported temporary housing.
• Simplified Process for Appeals so survivors who wish to appeal FEMA’s decisions will no longer need to provide a signed, written appeal letter to accompany the supporting documentation.
• Computer Assistance for survivors who need to repair or replace disaster-damaged computers.
• Rental Assistance for Temporary Housing. If you suffered damage to your primary residence, FEMA may be able to provide rent for a temporary place to live while you are displaced. Rental assistance is intended to cover monthly rent, security deposit and cost of essential utilities such as electricity and water.

FEMA’s Individuals and Household Program assistance is intended to help jumpstart your recovery. Here are some examples of basic needs:

• Home Repair Assistance may be provided to homeowners to repair the structural parts of your home. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance ways. FEMA may also reimburse for the actual cost to repair or replace your furnace, private well and septic system that was damaged or destroyed by the disaster.

Even if you applied for federal assistance previously for other disasters in New Mexico, you could still apply to FEMA for assistance following the Oct. 19-20 severe storms and flooding in Chaves County.

angela.ambroise Sat, 11/02/2024 - 17:29

One Month of Meeting Survivors Where They Are in Virginia

BRISTOL, Va.— Yesterday marked one month since the White House declared a major disaster in Virginia for Hurricane Helene. Since then, FEMA and the commonwealth of Virginia, along with other partner agencies, have been working to provide resources to survivors on the road to recovery.

16 counties and two independent cities have been designated for Individual Assistance and 36 counties for Public Assistance as of November 1, 2024. The deadline for Individual Assistance is December 2, 2024. To learn more about individual assistance, visit fema.gov/ia.

Graphic

FEMA staff have been working to reach the whole community. One part of the community outreach includes Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams, who walk door to door to register survivors and answer questions. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams have visited over 26,000 homes in Virginia over the last month. FEMA staff have attended community events across the declared counties and independent cities, spreading the word about disaster assistance. Additionally, FEMA has opened eight Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) throughout southwest Virginia, providing in-person assistance to over 2,600 Virginians to date. Staff from federal, commonwealth, and local agencies are at DRCs to help survivors answer questions about FEMA applications as well as access other resources and support.

Commonwealth, federal, local and nonprofit agencies have collaborated on Agriculture Recovery Resource Days, where over 15 agencies and organizations shared resources with farmers and agribusinesses impacted by Hurricane Helene. Over 100 households attended the first Agriculture Recovery Resource Day on, October. 29 in Independence, Va. At least two additional Agriculture Recovery Resource Days will be held on Nov. 7 and Nov. 9. To learn more about upcoming agriculture events please visit Hurricane Helene Virginia Agriculture Recovery Resource Day | FEMA.gov.  

Below are some pictures of FEMA staff in communities throughout southwest Virginia, meeting survivors where they are:

Montgomery County, Va. (Oct. 1, 2024) - A resident describes high water from the New River to a Preliminary Damage Assessment team days after it flooded its banks and into his home. The team, comprised of Montgomery County emergency managers, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was reviewing Montgomery County properties impacted by Tropical Storm Helene. WASHINGTON COUNTY, Va.— A FEMA specialist helps a survivor apply for federal assistance at the Taylors Valley Community Center in Taylors Valley on Oct. 4, 2024. (Philip Maramba/FEMA) WASHINGTON COUNTY, Va.— FEMA staff assisting Hurricane Helene survivors on opening day of the DRC in Damascus. (Philip Maramba/FEMA) GRAYSON COUNTY, Va.— FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists, sharing information about FEMA disaster assistance with a resident in Independence on Oct. 10, 2024. (Nicholas Monteleone/FEMA)  Bland, Va. - FEMA staff talk about disaster assistance with attendees of the Bland County Festival of Leaves at a pop-up FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. WYTHE COUNTY, Va.— A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialist, accompanied by FEMA Corps team members, shares application information with a Wythe County resident on Oct. 17. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are making their way through southwest Virginia to help survivors impacted by Helene. (Kelly Magarity/FEMA) WASHINGTON COUNTY, Va.— FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) staff discuss disaster assistance and SBA resources for Helene survivors at a community event on Oct. 19, 2024. (Johannes Webb / FEMA) WASHINGTON COUNTY, Va.— FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialist talking to a Helene survivor at a community event on Oct. 19. (Johannes Webb / FEMA) WYTHE COUNTY, Va.— FEMA staff member at the Disaster Recovery Center in Wytheville on Oct. 26, sharing information about FEMA programs. (Johannes Webb / FEMA) WYTHE COUNTY, Va. – FEMA staff handing out Halloween candy and discussing disaster assistance programs at a community event in Wytheville on Oct. 26. (Johannes Webb /FEMA) GRAYSON COUNTY, Va.— FEMA Applicant Service Program specialist assisting a producer at the first Agriculture Recovery Resource Day in Independence on Oct. 29. (Johannes Webb / FEMA)

FEMA encourages Hurricane Helene survivors who have not applied for assistance to do so before the Individual Assistance deadline on December 2. Impacted individuals in the 16 designated counties and two independent cities can apply today by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app, calling 1-800-621-3362, or visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. A ninth DRC will open on Saturday, November 2 in Galax, Va. and additional locations will open in the coming weeks. 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.

Graphic

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.

 

 

mashana.davis Sat, 11/02/2024 - 15:23

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for New Mexico

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of New Mexico to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding on Oct. 19-20, 2024.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Chaves County. 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 also is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm and flooding in Chaves County. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

José M. Gil Montañez has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online 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 Sat, 11/02/2024 - 13:44

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe to supplement the Tribal Nation’s efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm, straight-line winds and flooding from July 13-14, 2024.

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

Federal funding is also available to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm, straight-line winds and flooding.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe.

Edwin J. Martin has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

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.  

amy.ashbridge Sat, 11/02/2024 - 02:02

Georgians Can Appeal FEMA’s Decision on Disaster Assistance

ATLANTA – If you receive a letter from FEMA saying you are not eligible for federal assistance after Tropical Storm Debby, with damage Aug. 4 – 20, 2024, or Hurricane Helene, you can appeal the decision within 60 days from the date on that letter. Make sure you read the letter carefully, as it includes the reason FEMA found you ineligible and the types of documents or information you need to provide to show you qualify for assistance or need more help.  

An appeal is an explanation of why you disagree with FEMA’s decision. In an appeal, you may ask FEMA to review your file and it is an opportunity to provide new or additional information that may affect the decision. You may appeal any decision by FEMA regarding your application for assistance, such as your eligibility, the amount or type of assistance provided to you, late applications, requests to return money, or a denial of continued Temporary Housing Assistance.

Documents and information to submit

• Receipts
• Bills
• Repair estimates
• Property titles or deeds
• Any other information that may support your appeal. 

Please note, receipts, bills, and estimates must include the business name and contact information to help FEMA confirm the information. All documents must also include your full name, current phone number and address, disaster number, your FEMA application number written on all pages, and the address of the disaster-damaged home.

How to send appeals and supporting documents to FEMA 

• Upload them your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center
• Mail it to FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
• Fax it to 1-800-827-8112. 

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 Fri, 11/01/2024 - 18:28

South Carolinians May Be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance

South Carolinians who have been displaced from their homes by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) from FEMA. Individuals and households who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan.

Residents in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, 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 may be eligible, if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs are not met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.

People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending on the method of communication they selected when applying for assistance.

Eligible survivors may stay in participating TSA hotels in Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. To locate participating hotels, visit  femaemergencyhotels.com/ and enter your FEMA registration number, obtained when you applied for FEMA assistance.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone, or movie rental.

An initial eligibility review will be conducted 60 days after the check-in date. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to the checkout date.

TSA participants may also be eligible for other federal financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.

To apply for assistance, homeowners and renters can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. To get in-person assistance, you can visit any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, please go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362.

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. 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. 

dalton.kramer Fri, 11/01/2024 - 17:28

Free Disaster Legal Services Available for Connecticut Severe Storm and Flooding Survivors

Free legal counseling, assistance and/or referrals are available for Connecticut residents in Fairfield, Litchfield and New Haven counties as they recover from the August 18-19, 2024 severe storm, flooding, landslides and mudslides. People do not need to apply for FEMA Assistance to receive Disaster Legal Services.

To be eligible for these services survivors must have been directly affected by the disaster and not have sufficient means to hire an attorney for legal disaster-related issues. Services typically provided include:

• Help with insurance claims for doctor and hospital bills, loss of property, loss of life, etc.
• Drafting of new wills and other legal papers lost in the disaster.
• Assistance with home repair contracts and contractors.
• Counseling and advice about landlord/tenant matters.
• Estate administration, including guardianships and conservatorships.
• Help with consumer protection matters, remedies, and procedures.
• Preparation of powers of attorney and guardianship materials.
• FEMA appeals support, such as identifying and gathering relevant documentation.

Individuals who are interested in receiving this legal assistance may call 1-860-612-2038 and leave a message. The hotline accepts calls 24-hours a day, however, people may be prompted to leave a message and a specialist will contact them within two business days. 

The service is a partnership between the Connecticut Bar Association, Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, and FEMA. 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.

adrien.urbani Fri, 11/01/2024 - 16:52

How to Appeal a FEMA Individual Assistance Decision

BRISTOL, Va.— FEMA’s first decision may not be the final decision; all Virginians that applied for Individual Assistance from FEMA may not be approved the first time they apply, but there are opportunities to appeal FEMA’s decision. All applicants will receive a determination letter that contains FEMA’s decision and next steps for the applicant. In the event of a denial, sometimes FEMA simply needs more information or supporting documentation from the applicant in order to approve the application or additional types of assistance. Hurricane Helene survivors have the right to appeal any FEMA decision or award amount. Appeals must be filed within 60 days from the date on the determination letter.

All FEMA determination letters explain the types of documents that may help an applicant appeal FEMA’s decision or the awarded amount for that type of assistance. Supporting documents may include: 

• Receipt and bills for any eligible repairs or expenses related to the disaster.
• Repair estimates from contractors or repair services. 
• Property titles or deeds to prove ownership of the damaged property. 
• Additional information or any other documents that may support the reasons for the appeal.

Applicants may include an explanation in their appeal about why they believe FEMA’s decision was incorrect, but it is not required. When submitting any documentation or information to FEMA for an appeal, applicants must include their:

• Full name;
• Current phone number and address;
• FEMA application number and disaster number (DR-4831) on every page; and
• Address of the disaster-damaged home. 
• Additionally, receipts, bills, and estimates must include the business name and contact information to help FEMA confirm the information is accurate.

Applicants should read their determination letter carefully for what is needed to help FEMA process the appeal. If applicants want to send additional information, they can send a signed and completed Appeal Request Form (a copy of this form is included with the FEMA determination letter) and/or a written appeal letter. 

Appeals may be sent:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Log into your account and upload supporting documents via the Correspondence Upload Center.
• In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
• By mail: FEMA Individuals & Households Program, National Processing Center P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
• By fax: (800) 827-8112, Attention: FEMA – Individuals & Households Program.

If an applicant is unable to submit their appeal, someone else can do it for them. FEMA will need the applicant’s written permission to share information about the application. Applicants can do this by completing an Authorization for the Release of Information Under the Privacy Act form and sending it to FEMA with your appeal paperwork.

All appeals and additional documentation are reviewed. Decisions are usually made within 30 days of receiving the appeal; however, it may take up to 90 days for a decision. Additional information may be requested from applicants if FEMA does not have enough information to make a decision based on the appeal.

Applicants will be notified in writing of the response to your appeal, either by mail or via the DisasterAssistance.gov account created when they applied with FEMA.

If applicants have questions regarding their determination letter or how to appeal, applicants may visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If applicants use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service, or other communication services, they should be ready to provide their service number.

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. 

kelly.magarity Fri, 11/01/2024 - 16:22

Upcoming Agriculture Recovery Resource Days in Southwest Virginia

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

Washington County 

Saturday, Nov. 9

Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Wytheville Meeting Center 

333 Community Boulevard, Wytheville VA 24382

Wythe County

We are planning additional events in the upcoming weeks, including an event in Smyth County and another in a location central to Lee, Scott and Wise counties.  

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) 

Commonwealth 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 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 Fri, 11/01/2024 - 16:06

FEMA Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Return to Buncombe County

RALEIGH, N.C. – In addition to fixed sites, Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers (M-DRCs) continue to operate in Buncombe County. 

M-DRC locations, dates and hours of operation are listed below:

Swannanoa Fire Rescue - Bee Tree Fire Sub Station

510 Bee Tree Rd. 

Swannanoa, NC 28778

Open: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Nov. 2–5, and November 11–14. 

 

Buncombe County Sports Park (Parking Lot)

58 Apac Dr. 

Asheville, NC 28806

Open: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Nov. 6–9, and Nov. 15–18. 

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.  

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses. 

To find all DRC locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a zip code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will open soon. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.   

Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

barbara.murien… Fri, 11/01/2024 - 15:30

Free Legal Help for Tennessee’s Helene Survivors

Unexpected legal issues may arise after a disaster that can leave individuals and families devastated. If you are facing legal issues resulting from Tropical Storm Helene in Tennessee, you can get free legal advice.

Disaster Legal Services are now available to low-income, elderly and other vulnerable residents in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties who were affected by the storm and are unable to afford their own lawyer. 

You may call the toll-free hotline anytime at 844-HELP4TN (844-435-7486). If no one answers, leave a message and your call will be returned. 

Callers can get help with legal issues including:

• FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration benefits
• Home repair contracts and property insurance claims
• Revising wills and other important legal documents destroyed in the disaster
• Price-gouging, scams or identity theft
• Landlord or tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure
• Disability-related access to federal, state or local disaster programs.

Attorneys cannot help in all cases including ones in which a settlement could result in legal fees or an award. These cases will be referred for other legal help.

The Disaster Legal Services program works with FEMA and its state and local partners including the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services, Legal Aid of East Tennessee, and the Tennessee Bar Association Young Lawyers Division.

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 11/01/2024 - 14:28

Westfield, Pa. Disaster Recovery Center Will be Closed on Nov. 5

HARRISBURG, Pa.– The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Westfield, Pa. will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 5 for election day. The DRC will be closing at 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 4 and will reopen at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6. 

Disaster survivors residing in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga and Union counties can visit any DRC to receive assistance. 

The center is located at:

Tioga County

Valley Christian Church

146 Maple Street

  Westfield, PA 16950

Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance can apply at a Disaster Recovery Center, apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App on your phone, or call 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.

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. If it is not possible to visit a DRC, 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. 

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, you can visit a DRC or call 800-621-FEMA to learn more about next steps. FEMA staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation as well as answer questions you may have.

The deadline to apply for Individual Assistance is Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. 

For more information on Pennsylvania’s disaster recovery, visit the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Facebook page, fema.gov/disaster/4815 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

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. 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).

 

erika.osullivan Fri, 11/01/2024 - 13:57

30 Days After Hurricane Helene, Recovery Continues in South Carolina

Hurricane Helene made landfall on Sept. 26, bringing destructive winds, flooding, tornadoes, and extensive damage to utility infrastructure and homes in South Carolina that evening into the following day. Since then, FEMA has deployed more than 650 personnel across the state and approved more than $203 million in housing and other types of assistance to over 204,000 South Carolina households. This includes: 

• More than $19 million in housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• More than $184 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs, such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.

Kim Stenson, Director of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, emphasized the advancements in recovery efforts. “In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our communities show remarkable recovery. We are making significant strides in delivering support and assistance alongside FEMA and our state and county partners. This success is possible thanks to collaboration and dedication at every level,” Stenson stated.

FEMA has completed more than 43,000 home inspections for Hurricane Helene survivors. Along with state and federal partners, 24 Disaster Recovery Centers have been opened with more to come in affected areas. The response has been a whole-of-community effort, with contributions from nonprofits, faith-based groups, government officials, individuals and the private sector. 

“We’ve made great progress over the past 30 days, but our work is not done,” said Brett Howard, FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer for South Carolina. “FEMA remains on the ground, side by side with local and state partners, ensuring that recovery remains steady and effective for the affected families and communities in South Carolina.”

Still Time 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 still have time to apply for FEMA assistance. You can apply:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. (This is the fastest way to apply.)
• In person at 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”).
• On your phone using the FEMA mobile app.
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. The telephone line is open every day. 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. 

dalton.kramer Fri, 11/01/2024 - 12:10

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams (DSAT) Visit Local Neighborhoods to Help Residents Apply for Disaster Assistance

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams (DSAT) will begin visiting neighborhoods in the City and Borough of Juneau starting this week to help residents who experienced damage from the Juneau Mendenhall Glacier (Áakʼw Tʼáak Sít’ and Sít’ Aant’aakú) flooding on August 5-6. 

FEMA DSAT will coordinate with tribal, state, city, and borough officials. The teams help affected residents apply with FEMA and address immediate and emerging needs. Additionally, they provide application status updates and referrals to community resources. Tlingit & Haida Community Navigators are on site at the library ready to assist tribal citizens. 

FEMA staff can easily be identified by their federal photo identification and FEMA clothing or vests. Residents are encouraged to ask for official photo ID before providing personal information.

Residents do not have to meet with FEMA in person to apply for assistance.

Additional ways to apply for disaster assistance with FEMA:

• Visit the Juneau Disaster Recovery Center:
  
  Mendenhall Valley Public Library 
  3025 Dimond Park Loop
  Juneau, AK 99801
  
  Hours of Operation 
  Monday – Sunday, 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  Location closed November 4 - 6 for election activities.
   
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
• Call the FEMA Alaska Call Center at 866-342-1699 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. AKT, Monday through Friday and 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. AKT, Saturday. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

mary.j.edmon Thu, 10/31/2024 - 23:13

FEMA Awards $1 Billion for Emergency Work in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has provided more than $1 billion to help the State of Florida and local communities with the cost of emergency response to Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby.

To date, FEMA’s Public Assistance program has obligated $608.6 million for Hurricane Milton, $335.5 million for Hurricane Helene and $102.2 million for Hurricane Debby. The money reimburses the state, local governments and certain nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures and debris removal. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, 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 Thu, 10/31/2024 - 22:14

Disaster Recovery Center to Close in Lafourche Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. –The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) serving Louisiana survivors of Hurricane Francine in Raceland will close permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, Nov. 1.

• The center (Lafourche Parish) is located at Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center, 4876 Hwy. 1, Raceland, LA 70394.

Additional locations in St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes are open. To find the DRC nearest to you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

The centers operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday through Nov. 2.

Beginning Nov. 4, the hours will change for the recovery centers in St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes. The new hours will be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-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.

You do not have to visit a center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.

Additional options when applying include:

• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Call 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.
• To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register 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, 10/31/2024 - 21:29

Changes to Schedule for Disaster Recovery Centers

Disaster Recovery Centers are open with new hours and locations to help Tennesseans affected by Tropical Storm Helene apply for FEMA assistance and get information and advice about community, state and federal resources.

New Hours

Beginning Monday, Nov. 4, all Disaster Recovery Centers will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. ET Sunday. The centers are currently open at:

• 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
• Unicoi County: National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center, 615 South Main Ave., Erwin, TN 37650

New Centers

Four Disaster Recovery Centers will open Tuesday, Nov. 5, in Carter, Cocke, Johnson and Washington counties. 

Locations of the Johnson County and Washington County centers are new. Their addresses are:

• Johnson County: Pioneer Village Shopping Center, 220 Pioneer Village Dr., Mountain City, TN 37683
• Washington County: Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department, 4061 Highway 81 S., Erwin, TN 37650

The Carter County and Cocke County locations will transition from Multi-Agency Resource Centers, which are run by the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, to FEMA-run Disaster Recovery Centers. Their addresses are:

• Carter County: 1749 Highway 19 E., Elizabethton, TN 37643
• Cocke County: Cocke County Recreation Department, 466 Learning Road or Learning Way (depending on your navigation provider), Newport, TN 37821

Carter, Cocke, Johnson and Washington will open from noon to 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Starting Nov. 6, their regular hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. ET Sunday.

MARC Closing

The Washington County MARC in Jonesborough will close permanently at noon ET Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Apply for Assistance

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

To apply, go to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to midnight ET and operators speak most languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for the service when you call. 

You may also apply at a Disaster Recovery Center. To find one, visit fema.gov/drc. To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 10/31/2024 - 20:35

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Polk County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Friday, Nov. 1 in Mill Spring (Polk County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene.  

The Polk County DRC is located at:  

Polk County Recreation Complex (Parking Lot)

235 Wolverine Trail

Mill Spring, NC 28756

Open: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.  

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses. 

To find additional DRC locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a zip code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will open soon. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.   

Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

barbara.murien… Thu, 10/31/2024 - 19:29

FEMA Offers Free Rebuilding Tips in Atkinson County

ATLANTA – If you are making repairs to your home after Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, you can get tips from FEMA to make your home safer and stronger.  

FEMA Mitigation Specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips along with proven methods to prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also offer tips and techniques on rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. 

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster. The FEMA specialists will be available during the dates and times listed at:

Location

Peoples Bank Extension Office

24 Fleetwood Avenue

Willacoochee GA 31650 

Dates and Times

Friday, Nov. 1 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Monday, Nov. 4 to Friday, Nov. 8 from 8 a.m. – 5 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.

larissa.hale Thu, 10/31/2024 - 18:07