Five Steps to Keep Your Disaster Recovery on Track

Recovering from a disaster is a continuous process with many options and it is important for disaster survivors to know the resources available to support their recovery efforts. Depending on your particular needs and the steps you’ve already taken, there are several additional steps you can take to recover from your losses and mitigate your property against future damage.

Here is a checklist to ensure you’ve taken all the steps in your federal assistance process:

• Visit a temporary Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) near you. A DRC is a place where you can receive in-person support, speak with FEMA and other federal representatives, upload documents, review the status of your application and submit appeals. Get answers to your questions while the DRC is open. Survivors of the August 18-19, 2024 Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides in Connecticut can visit the following DRC: 
  • Until 6 p.m. November 4 – at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 910 Main Street, South, Southbury, CT 06488, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday Closed. Note: This DRC will CLOSE permanently at 6 p.m. on Monday, November 4. 
  • NOTE: There will be no DRC service on Tuesday, November 5 and Wednesday, November 6.

  • Beginning 8 a.m. November 7 – at Southbury Town Hall, 501 Main Street, South, Southbury, CT 06488, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday Closed. Note: This DRC will be OPEN on Monday, November 11. 

     

• Apply for a low-interest U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan. SBA disaster loans are not just for businesses. Homeowners, renters and nonprofit organizations may also apply. Next to insurance, an SBA low-interest disaster loan is the primary source of funds for property repairs and for replacing contents destroyed in a disaster event. Know that you are never obligated to accept a loan.
  • To apply with the SBA: visit www.SBA.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services), or send an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. 
  • Survivors of the August 18-19, 2024 Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides in Connecticut can visit the following SBA Business Recovery Centers (BRCs): 
    • Oxford Town Hall, 486 Oxford Road, Oxford, CT 06478, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday Closed.
    • Monroe Police Department, 7 Fam Hill, Monroe, CT 06468, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday Closed.

  • NOTE: On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the SBA Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new SBA Disaster loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, SBA remains committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

     

• Request continued temporary rental assistance forms. If you received initial rental assistance and remain unable to return to your pre-disaster primary residence due to a disaster declared event, make sure to apply for FEMA’s Continued Rental Assistance. If you did not receive a form by mail, you may request one by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

   

• Stay in touch with FEMA. Disaster survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA are asked to please stay in touch with the agency to review their application status, update their contact information and provide required documentation as needed. It is critical to keep in touch with FEMA. Missing or out of date information could slow much needed disaster assistance. Let FEMA know if your address or phone number has changed. Download and use the FEMA Mobile App, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call FEMA’s helpline at 1-800-621-3362. 

   

• Know your appeal options. If you disagree with FEMA decisions, you have the option to submit additional documentation such as your insurance settlement or prove home ownership or documentation to prove your identity to have your case reconsidered. The appeal should be submitted within 60 days of the initial FEMA decision and include supporting documentation, such as a copy of a verifiable contractor’s estimate for repairs.

For questions about federal disaster assistance, call the FEMA helpline: 1-800-621-3362. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

adrien.urbani Thu, 10/31/2024 - 16:41

FEMA Approves $1.2 Million to Spanish Fork, Utah for Flood Recovery

DENVER – FEMA has approved $1.2 million to help the city of Spanish Fork repair its water pipeline and damaged embankments. The funding is part of a major disaster declaration by President Biden issued in response to the Spanish Fork River flooding in 2023. 

Flooding from rapid snow melt damaged part of the drinking water pipeline and embankment in four locations, which affecting the community’s drinking water infrastructure. The $1.2 million in FEMA funding will bring the facility to pre-disaster function, and capacity, while making the waterline stronger to prevent future damages. The project is 75% funded by FEMA. 

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides funding to governmental agencies and certain private non-profits for eligible disaster response costs. For more information about the Public Assistance program, visit: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.

anthony.mayne Thu, 10/31/2024 - 15:37

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in all communities and incorporated areas of Lafourche Parish, Louisiana.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community residents can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

This is Lafourche Parish’s first complete set of digital FIRMs. These maps serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Community leaders and residents can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards, development and flood insurance that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flood event.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv 
• FEMA Flood Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart.gov.

alexa.brown Thu, 10/31/2024 - 15:10

Don’t Wait! Saturday is the Final Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Oct. 31, 2024
DR-4787-WV NR-015
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News release

Don’t Wait! Saturday is the Final Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Saturday is the final day for residents in Boone, Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel and Wood counties to apply for FEMA Assistance if they had damages during the April 11-12, 2024, storms, floods, and landslides. THE DEADLINE TO APPLY IS SATURDAY, NOV. 2, 2024.

FEMA assistance for individuals and families affected by the flooding can cover home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

The easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., 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.

Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, is also the final deadline to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan. Applicants can apply online at sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.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).

 

issa.mansaray Thu, 10/31/2024 - 14:30

Disaster Recovery Center in Galax, Va. Will Open Nov. 2

BRISTOL, Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Galax at 816 Glendale Rd. on Saturday November 2, 2024, at 8 a.m. Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. This will be the ninth DRC open in the impacted area; to find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362. 

A Disaster Recovery Center is an accessible facility that survivors can visit in person to learn more about FEMA and other agencies providing disaster assistance in Virginia. Residents, property owners, and business owners can go to a DRC to apply for assistance and obtain resources from other agencies based on their needs. Survivors do not need an appointment at a DRC to receive assistance. 

The center is located at:

City of Galax

816 Glendale Rd

Galax, VA 24333

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.

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. Learn more about what to expect at a DRC here.

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 Thu, 10/31/2024 - 14:29

FEMA Registration Deadline is Approaching Quickly for Hurricane Francine Survivors

BATON ROUGE, La. –Louisiana residents with damage from Hurricane Francine have just a few weeks remaining to apply for disaster assistance. Nov. 16 is the registration deadline for survivors in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes.

Survivors with a loss or damage should apply with FEMA even if they don’t have repair estimates or insurance settlements yet. To be considered, people in the impacted areas need to register with FEMA to begin the process. FEMA will work with survivors to identify what information is needed to determine eligibility.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Visit one of the Disaster Recovery Centers. To find a location, visit https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
• Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The FEMA Helpline is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CDT, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, 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 - 12:25

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in York County

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

York County

York County Library 
138 E. Black St.
Rock Hill, SC 29730

Open Oct. 31, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Nov 1-2, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov. 4-6, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; closed on Nov. 3

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. 

dalton.kramer Wed, 10/30/2024 - 22:02

FEMA Continues Work with the Disability Community on Helene and Milton Response, FEMA's Disability Director Visits Affected Areas to Meet with Survivors, Community Groups and Governmental Officials

WASHINGTON -- Since Hurricane Helene made landfall, FEMA has been working with governmental and voluntary disability support organizations to ensure survivors with disabilities have the tools they need to recover from the storm. Building relationships with these organizations pre-disaster has been crucial to getting support to survivors as quickly as possible. FEMA’s Disability Integration Advisors continue their work advocating for people with disabilities and connecting them with available resources to help speed their recovery.

Sherman Gillums, Jr., FEMA’s Director of the Office of Disability Integration and Coordination personally traveled to hurricane-impacted areas to support these advisors, survey recovery efforts and meet with state officials and local disability organizations. 

“It was important to me to talk to organizations and officials in person to show our unwavering commitment to people with disabilities,” said Director Gillums. “The relationships we’ve built with these organizations prior to the disaster allowed us to pinpoint the areas where people with disabilities needed help. My visit with Able South Carolina and independent living centers in Ashville highlighted ways we could assist with their recovery efforts. I deeply appreciated their insight and openness about their experiences which allowed us to work together on solutions to challenges.”   

The percentage of people applying for FEMA disaster assistance and identifying as having a disability is consistent with the demographic information we have for the hurricane affected areas. “This is really important,” said Director Gillums. “It is a good indication that we are reaching people with disabilities and getting them the tools they need to apply for assistance more quickly year after year. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t more work needed to get people with disabilities on the road to recovery, but it is an encouraging first step.

As disability advisors, Director Gillums and his staff work to integrate accessibility into all stages of recovery. This includes everything from helping survivors access medical necessities to getting them access to assistive devices like screen readers so they can apply for assistance. Most importantly though, the advisors support emergency management specialists throughout the recovery process, by helping them integrate accessibility and disability inclusiveness into their work. 

"This storm caused massive disruption to infrastructure that many of us take for granted,” Director Gillums commented after his travel in North Carolina, Virginia and South Carolina. “As a disability advisor, and a member of the disability community myself, I see how these challenges are compounded for people with disabilities. Getting access to electricity can be a matter of independence and even survival. During my deployment, I witnessed firsthand how communities were eager to be a part of the effort to ensure people with disabilities get what they need to sustain some semblance of independence. FEMA is working with these partners to make sure all survivors, including those with disabilities, are able to access the essential resources they need to be safe, informed and in charge of their lives.”

FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply online as this remains the best way to apply for disaster assistance. Here are the ways to apply for federal assistance: 

• Applying online at disasterassistance.gov
• Using the FEMA App
• Calling 800-621-3362, Staffed daily from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. local time
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistance

Richmond, VA -- Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy S. Pheil discussing the disability integration strategy for the Hurricane Helene response with FEMA Disability Coordinator Sherman Gillums Jr. along with state access and functional needs staff in the situation room at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center. Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) - FEMA's Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health. amy.ashbridge Wed, 10/30/2024 - 21:38

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Election Day

Disaster Recovery Centers for the storms and flooding that took place July 11-13 and July 29-31 will be closed for Election Day, Tuesday,  Nov. 5. 

These centers are located at the Newport Municipal Building (222 Main St) and at the Lyndon Public Safety Facility (316 Main St).

Because the center at the Hinesburg Town Hall ( 10632 Route 116) will be used as a voting site, it will be closed Monday, Nov. 4 through Wednesday, Nov. 6.

The DRCs at Newport and Lyndon will reopen at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

The DRC in Hinesburg will reopen at 9 a.m. on Thursday, November 7. 

Hours for all DRCs are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday. 

Residents affected by the flooding don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for or receive FEMA assistance. The deadline to apply is November 25, 2024. 

Three ways to apply 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 Wed, 10/30/2024 - 21:34

Updated Hours of Operations for the Montgomery & Pulaski County DRCs Oct. 31 through Nov. 6

BRISTOL, Va.– Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Montgomery and Pulaski counties have updated hours of operations this upcoming week. The Montgomery County Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be temporarily closed Saturday, Nov. 2 – Tuesday Nov. 5 and the reopening is to be announced. The Pulaski County DRC will be temporarily closed from 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, through Tuesday Nov. 5, 2024. The center will reopen at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 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 centers are located at:

Montgomery County   

Montgomery County Government Center

755 Roanoke Street

Christiansburg, Va. 24073

Updated Hours of Operation 11/01 - 11/05:

Nov. 1-5, 2024 – Closed  

Hours of Operation after 11/5

Reopening to be announced

 

Pulaski County 

New River Valley Fairgrounds 

5581 Fair Grounds Circle

Dublin, Va. 24084

Updated Hours of Operation 10/31 - 11/06:

Thursday Oct. 31, 2024 – 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Nov. 1 - 5, 2024 – Closed

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

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 Wed, 10/30/2024 - 21:15

FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Approved for Tennessee

With affordable housing in short supply, FEMA has approved temporary housing for 18 months for homeowners and renters who had major or significant structural damage after Tropical Storm Helene’s floodwaters swept across Eastern Tennessee Sept. 26-30.

Direct Temporary Housing Assistance is approved for Helene survivors until April 2, 2026, and includes Direct Lease, Multifamily Lease and Repair, and Transportable Temporary Housing Units. 

For Direct Lease, FEMA leases existing, ready-to-occupy residential properties for use as temporary housing. Under Multifamily Lease and Repair, the agency funds the repair or improvement of existing, vacant multi-family rental properties that eligible applicants can use for temporary housing. 

Knowing that housing solutions are not one-size-fits-all and each survivor has a unique set of needs, FEMA will contact homeowners to determine if they would like a Transportable Temporary Housing Unit. These are furnished one-, two- or three-bedroom units provided at no cost to eligible survivors. If necessary, these units can be modified or improved to be compliant with the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act, providing accessibility for individuals with disabilities or access and functional needs.

TEMA’s assessment of homes, barns, sheds and other structures estimates nearly $20.37 million in damage was caused by the record flooding from Helene. The assessment identified 114 affected structures including 48 that were destroyed, 51 with major damage and 12 with minor damage. Two other structures also sustained some damage. 

Between 346 and 414 applicants may be eligible for FEMA direct housing, the state’s preliminary estimates show.

Survivors whose primary residence is in one of six counties – Carter, Cocke, Greene, Johnson, Unicoi or Washington – must first apply for FEMA Individual Assistance before the Monday, Dec. 2, deadline to be eligible for Direct Temporary Housing Assistance. Assessments are ongoing for Hamblen and Hawkins counties.

To apply, go online 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 Eastern Time. Operators speak most languages; if you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service. You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

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

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 10/30/2024 - 20:43

$16 Million in Federal Funding Fuels Tennessee’s Recovery a Month After Helene

A month after the major presidential disaster declaration for the Sept. 26-30 flooding from Tropical Storm Helene, Tennessee families and communities are recovering with $16.4 million in funding from FEMA as well as support from the state, other federal agencies, and voluntary and community organizations.

Helene’s rains devastated Eastern Tennessee, leaving mountains of debris strewn across a vast area, knocking out power and communications to thousands, and cutting off drinking water. Residents were left without cell coverage, internet connections and access to essential necessities. It may be years before these remote and rural communities resemble the charm they had before.

The disaster declaration was approved on Oct. 2, authorizing funding from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program to the counties most heavily impacted by the storms: Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties. Survivors have until Monday, Dec. 2, to apply for FEMA assistance.

State, federal and voluntary organizations have collaborated to drive the recovery. As of Oct. 30, $16.4 million in FEMA funds has been approved for Tennessee’s homeowners, renters and businesses. And FEMA authorized a Direct Temporary Housing mission for survivors who had major or significant structural damage to their primary homes. 

The American Red Cross, Salvation Army and the Tennessee Department of Education have completed their mission after serving 140,903 meals to survivors.

In the early days after the storms, with communications down across a swath of rural communities, FEMA brought in a mobile unit that continues to provide high-speed internet by connecting to satellites.

Debris removal remains a major priority. The state and federal partners joined with local communities to clear more than 24,000 cubic yards of debris, a visible and vital step in recovery operations. Special attention is focused on Douglas Reservoir, located only a few miles from the Pigeon Forge-Gatlinburg area and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A mile-long curtain was installed to save the dam from damage by 1 million cubic yards of debris that rushed into the lake during the storms. Vegetation, construction and demolition equipment, and hazardous materials continue to line the shores even as the reservoir returns to pre-disaster water levels. 

Perhaps FEMA’s biggest challenge during the response operation has been the campaign to counter misinformation and harmful rhetoric about FEMA’s assistance programs, which was having a negative impact on Tennesseans desperately in need of help. The agency built a Helene Rumor Response webpage where survivors could find the facts themselves, and it continues to push messaging, in English and Spanish, about the many types of available assistance tailored to each survivor’s unique situation. FEMA accomplishes this by directing traffic to the state’s tn.gov/TEMA and fema.gov/Helene/Tennessee disaster pages as well as FEMA’s social media sites on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

But the work of recovery has only just begun. Here are a few highlights:

• $16.4 million in funding from the Individuals and Households Program to provide financial help to those who are unable to meet their disaster-related needs through insurance or other means. 
• As part of that total, more than $8 million represents Housing Assistance to help homeowners repair or replace residential property damage that is not covered by insurance.
• $8.3 million in Other Needs Assistance covers necessary disaster-related expenses such as medical bills; money to clean, repair or replace household items; to repair or replace vehicles damaged by the disaster and other non-housing needs.
• The Direct Temporary Housing Assistance program will help homeowners and renters whose homes were destroyed or heavily damaged.
• More than $1.07 million for 186 claims was paid to National Flood Insurance policyholders. The program also extended the grace period for paying policy premiums to Tuesday, Nov. 26.
• FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists visited 6,277 homes, 288 businesses and 237 community facilities. They also referred 1,140 survivors to community resources.
• More than $53,000 was paid in Disaster Unemployment Assistance to Tennesseans who have been unable to work because of the disaster. FEMA funds the unemployment program, which is managed by the state.
• Some 1,311 survivors have visited FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Centers to apply for federal assistance, to get help uploading documents to their account or get answers to questions including decisions about eligibility for FEMA assistance. A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is scheduled to open Nov. 1 in Johnson County.
• Specialists at the state’s three Multi-Agency Resource Centers in Carter, Cocke and Washington counties also help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional local, state, federal and voluntary agency resources.

Disaster assistance is also available to help communities respond to and recover from Helene’s deadly wrath. FEMA Public Assistance was approved for state and local governments and some private non-profits. These funds help communities cover the costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures and restoring public infrastructure.

Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program and FEMA’s largest grant program. FEMA typically covers 75% of funding and the state covers 25%. For Helene damage in Tennessee, President Biden authorized 100% federal funding for emergency work generated by the disaster. This means FEMA will cover all eligible costs incurred during any 45-day period of the state’s choosing during the first 120 days from the start of the disaster, or Sept. 26. This allows communities to maximize cost savings by selecting the 45 days when the greatest costs occurred.

Under Public Assistance, the federal share of funding is reimbursed through the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency to disburse to local agencies, local governments and certain private non-profits including houses of worship.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 10/30/2024 - 20:38

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Laurens County

ATLANTA – FEMA opened an additional Disaster Recovery Center in Laurens County to provide one-on-one help for Georgians affected by Hurricane Helene. The center is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Center location: 

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road

Dublin, GA 31021

Additional centers are open in Appling, Chatham, Coffee, Liberty, Lowndes, McDuffie, Richmond, Toombs and Washington counties. Additionally, Mobile Disaster Assistance Centers are open in Berrien, Telfair and Ware counties for a limited time. Mobile centers give survivors another option to get help with their application and find other resources.

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

Appling County

Appling County Agricultural Center
2761 Blackshear Highway, Baxley, GA 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

Liberty County

Miller Park/HQ Fire Station 

6944 E. Oglethorpe Highway, Midway, GA 31320

Lowndes County

City of Valdosta

4434 North Forrest Street Extension, Valdosta, GA 31605

McDuffie County

Thomson Depot           

111 Railroad Street, Thomson, GA 30824

Richmond County

Hub for Community Innovation

631 Chafee Avenue Augusta, GA 30904

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 Registration Center location and hours

Berrien County 

Carrie Dorsey Library

315 W. Marion Ave., Nashville, GA 31639

Wednesday, Oct. 30, through Friday, Nov. 1 

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

 

Telfair County

Piggly Wiggly Parking Lot 

48 East Oak Street, McRae-Helena, GA 31055 

Monday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Nov. 2 

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ware County 

Courthouse Annex 

305 Oak Street, Waycross, Georgia, 31501

Monday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Nov. 2 

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 Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.

larissa.hale Wed, 10/30/2024 - 18:31

FEMA Officials Meet Local Officials as Helene, Milton Recovery Progresses

WASHINGTON – More than a month after Helene made landfall, FEMA officials remain on the ground coordinating with local officials in affected states to help guide their recovery.   

Visits included Victoria Salinas, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator, meeting with officials over several days in North Carolina and Florida. There Salinas and other FEMA officials discussed how the communities were progressing in their recovery and surveyed the effectiveness of modern building codes in minimizing storm-related damage.

FEMA has approved more than $1.3 billion in direct assistance to Hurricanes Helene and Milton survivors. These funds help survivors with housing repairs, personal property replacement and other essential recovery efforts. Additionally, over $1.1 billion has been approved for debris removal and emergency protective measures, which are necessary to save lives, protect public health and prevent further damage to public and private property. 

More than 1,400 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members are in affected neighborhoods across affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. 

Also, FEMA now has 76 Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the hurricane affected communities. Center locations can be found at FEMA.gov/DRC. Centers can provide survivors in-person help with their applications and answer questions they have about available resources to help with their recovery.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Operation Blue Roof which is a free service to homeowners for 25 counties in Florida impacted by Hurricane Milton. Residents can sign-up at www.blueroof.gov or by calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258).  The sign-up period deadline is Nov. 5.

FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply for disaster assistance online as this remains the quickest way to start your recovery. Individuals can apply for federal assistance by: 

• Applying online at disasterassistance.gov
• Using the FEMA App
• Calling 800-621-3362, Staffed daily from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. local time
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistance

President Joseph R. Biden has approved major disaster declarations in six states--Florida, Georgia North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia--affected by Helene. He has also approved a major disaster declaration for Florida following Hurricane Milton.

These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across states affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

SWANNANOA, North Carolina – FEMA sets up a mobile Disaster Recovery Center in an affected North Carolina community. Helene survivors in Swannanoa and nearby areas can visit this center to apply for federal disaster assistance and ask questions about available state and federal resources for their recovery.  SAVANNAH, Georgia - FEMA staff and FEMA Corps members help survivors of Hurricane Helene at the Disaster Recovery Center in Savannah. CORTEZ, Florida – Victoria Salinas, FEMA Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator, and other FEMA personnel join Manatee County officials in the Hunters Point Neighborhood in Cortez. There they spoke with an owner of a property development to talk about how building codes helped the community following the recent hurricanes.  COLLETSVILLE, North Carolina - Victoria Salinas, FEMA Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator, surveys the flood damage from Wilson Creek along Brown Mountain Road with members of the Collettsville Fire Department. Salinas also talked with the owners of the Brown Mountain Resort as they shared their story of surviving the flood from Hurricane Helene. 

FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Toolkit provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. In addition, FEMA has set up a rumor control web page to reduce confusion about its role in the Helene and Milton response and recovery. 

annie.bond Wed, 10/30/2024 - 17:58

Have Questions? Answers May Be Available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA remains in Louisiana to assist survivors recovering from Hurricane Francine. 

Three Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are open to support survivors from Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes. FEMA employees are on-hand to answer questions and assist with applications. Representatives of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of Louisiana and nonprofit and nongovernmental partners are also available to assist survivors as they navigate their recovery. 

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).

DRCs are open at the following locations: 

St. Mary Parish

Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
728 Myrtle St.
Morgan City, LA 70380

Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Drive

Houma, LA 70360

These centers operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. No appointment is necessary. 

Lafourche Parish

Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center

4876 Hwy. 1

Raceland, LA 70394

This center will close Nov. 1. It is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• 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 Wed, 10/30/2024 - 15:43

Deadline Extended for FEMA Public Assistance Requests

RALEIGH, N.C. - Local governments, houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians have until Jan 7, 2025, to submit Requests for Public Assistance (RPA) from FEMA. The RPA is the first step for public and private nonprofit organizations to apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA extended the deadline at the request of the state of North Carolina.

The designated counties and tribe were a part of the major disaster declaration after Tropical Storm Helene, which included FEMA’s Public Assistance Program. This program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. These funds support the removal of debris, costs of emergency protective measures and restoration of public facilities, helping disaster survivors resume life in their communities.

Eligible applicants can apply for assistance through the state of North Carolina. For more information on submitting a Request for Public Assistance, applicants should contact North Carolina Emergency Management, or email pahotline@ncdps.gov.

erika.suzuki Wed, 10/30/2024 - 14:39

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in McCormick County

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in McCormick County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

McCormick County

McCormick County Library 
201 Railroad Ave. 
McCormick, SC 29835

Open Oct. 30 - Nov. 5, 8 a.m.- 7 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. 

gerard.hammink Wed, 10/30/2024 - 14:08

FEMA Reminds Louisiana Residents to Maintain Flood Insurance Coverage

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA is reminding flood survivors who received a temporary Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP) of the need to purchase an individual flood insurance policy. The three-year GFIP expired Monday, October 28, so policyholders must plan now to switch to a standard flood insurance policy to ensure continuous flood insurance coverage.

It’s important that GFIP holders purchase a new flood insurance policy when the GFIP expires, to not only be covered in the event of flood damage, but to remain compliant with the obligation to get and keep flood insurance as a condition of past FEMA disaster assistance. To learn more about the requirement, visit https://agents.floodsmart.gov/disaster-assistance-flood-insurance-requirement.

Following Hurricane Ida, FEMA purchased over 500 GFIPs for eligible disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. This helped those survivors meet the obtain and maintain flood insurance requirement for households that receive FEMA flood disaster assistance when their home is in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). 

Part of the eligibility requirement for receiving future federal financial assistance after a flood is that household get and keep flood insurance. For homeowners: Even if the property is transferred or sold, the requirement stays with the address, so the new owners are required to have flood insurance as well. For renters: They need to get and keep flood insurance as long as they remain at the rental address. Those that don’t buy a flood insurance policy will likely not receive federal disaster assistance for home repairs or personal property replacement if they experience another federally declared flood event.

Steps to Take Now

Purchase an individual flood insurance policy through a local insurance agent or from the NFIP Direct at NFIP Direct - Sign In before your GFIP expires. GFIPs are not renewable. However, policyholders have a 30-day renewal grace period offered through standard NFIP flood insurance policies. This means that even though a GFIP expires on October 28, 2024, policyholders have 30 days to pay in full for a standard NFIP policy without experiencing a lapse in coverage. For example, if they purchase a standard NFIP policy before the 30-day window ends on November 26, 2024, the effective date for their new policy would be October 28, 2024. They would not have to wait the typical 30 days for a new policy to go into effect and could be covered for any flood losses during that time. Don’t delay.

• For more information regarding GFIPs and purchasing a Standard Flood Insurance Policy, call the NFIP Direct at 800-638-6620 and select option number 2.
• Call the FEMA Disaster Assistance line at 800-621-FEMA (3362) to verify how much assistance you previously received. By law, you must purchase at least as much flood insurance coverage as the amount of federal home repair and personal property assistance you received for flood damages. Consider purchasing more coverage than required, as flood insurance claims can be made at any time.

FEMA sends GFIP certificate holders a welcome packet when they first receive the policy, annual reminders, a reminder letter 45 days before the GFIP expires, as well as a final expiration notice.

Flooding is the nation’s most common and costly natural disaster.  Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage. Visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more.

Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Wed, 10/30/2024 - 01:20

FEMA Continues Recovery Efforts Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, over $1.2 Billion in Direct Assistance to Survivors

Federal, state and local partners remain throughout the Southeast to help survivors affected by recent storms

WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration has approved more than $1.2 billion in direct assistance to Hurricanes Helene and Milton survivors. These funds help survivors with housing repairs, personal property replacement and other essential recovery efforts. Additionally, over $1.1 billion has been approved for debris removal and emergency protective measures, which are necessary to save lives, protect public health and prevent further damage to public and private property.

Today, Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks is in North Carolina meeting with state and local officials and supporting federal response efforts. FEMA personnel remain on the ground in communities across the Southeast conducting damage assessments, coordinating with local officials, and helping individuals apply for disaster assistance programs. More than 1,400 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members are in affected neighborhoods helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

Applying for assistance is a critical first step towards recovery. Disaster survivors in certain areas of Georgia, Florida (Helene), Florida (Milton), North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. Federal assistance for individuals may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies. 

Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Applicants may be eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance, which provides survivors with a safe, temporary place to stay, like a hotel or motel, until they can find a short or longer-term housing solution. To date, more than 23,000 households have checked into FEMA provided hotels.

Individuals affected by the hurricanes are encouraged to apply as soon as they are able to by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, which is the fastest way to get an application started. Individuals can also apply using the FEMA App, calling 1-800-621-3362 or in person at a local Disaster Recovery Center. 

Disaster Recovery Centers can provide survivors in-person help with their applications. FEMA now has 75 Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the hurricane affected communities. Center locations can be found at FEMA.gov/DRC. FEMA also has Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in the field supporting survivors and helping them with the application process. 

Support for North Carolina

FEMA has approved over $185 million for over 116,000 households and other types of assistance. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $189 million for debris removal and reimbursement of emergency protective measures for the state.

More than 6,300 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. 

There are 411 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also 21 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Asheville (Mobile), Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Bryson City, Burnsville, Charlotte, Conover, Fairview, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lake Lure, Lenoir, Marion, Marshall, Morganton, Newland, Old Fort, Sparta, Sylva, and Waynesville where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.

Support for Florida  

In response to Helene, FEMA has approved over $413 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 125,000 households. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $335 million in Public Assistance for debris removal and emergency work. In response to Milton, FEMA has approved over $252 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 174,000 households. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $631 million in Public Assistance for debris removal and emergency work.

More than 13,200 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.  

There are 486 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities to provide support. There are also 20 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Bartow, Branford, Brooksville, Carrabelle (Mobile), Dale City (Mobile), Fort Pierce, Homosassa, Lake City, Largo, Live Oak, Madison, Old Town, Orlando, Palmetto (Mobile), Perry (2), Punta Gorda (Mobile), Sarasota, Stuart and Vero Beach supporting survivors from Debby, Helene and Milton where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.  

Support for South Carolina

FEMA has approved over $196 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 198,000 households. 

More than 3,400 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.

There are 155 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also nine Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Abbeville, Anderson, Columbia, Edgefield, Graniteville, Greenville, Greenwood, Spartanburg and Winnsboro where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133. Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information. 

Support for Georgia

FEMA has approved over $190 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 160,000 households.

There are 267 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also 12 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Augusta, Baxley, Douglas, Lyons, McRae–Helena (Mobile), Midway, Ocilla (Mobile), Sandersville, Savannah, Thompson, Valdosta and Waycross (Mobile) where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene. 

Support for Virginia  

To date, FEMA has approved over $8 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 2,700 households.

There are about 79 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also eight Disaster Recovery Centers open in Christiansburg, Damascus, Dublin, Independence, Marion, Pembroke, Tazewell and Wytheville where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at: Recover – Hurricane Helene | VDEM (vaemergency.gov).

Support for Tennessee 

FEMA has approved more than $15.9 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 4,700 households. 

There are more than 58 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are now five Disaster Recovery Center open in Elizabeth, Erwin, Greenville, Morristown and Newport where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 10/29/2024 - 21:15

FEMA Posts Public Notice for Tennessee Counties Affected by Helene

A public notice has been posted that describes FEMA’s proposed funding for Tropical Storm Helene work projects that may adversely affect historic properties, floodplains or wetlands, or may result in continuing vulnerability of these areas to flood damage.

By law, FEMA is required to announce its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities under its Individual Assistance and Public Assistance programs and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program after the Oct. 2 major disaster declaration for Tropical Storm Helene.

The public notice is posted on FEMA’s disaster web page at DR-4832-TN Public Notice 004 | FEMA.gov and on the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website at FEMA-4832 Public Notice. 

The major disaster declaration authorizes FEMA to provide financial assistance and direct services to individuals and households affected by the Sept. 26-30 storms in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties.

The declaration also authorizes FEMA to provide, under its Public Assistance program, reimbursement or direct federal assistance for emergency and permanent work to eligible state and local agencies and certain private nonprofits. Counties authorized under the Public Assistance program are: Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sevier, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington counties.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

For more information about these actions or a specific project, write to FEMA Region 4, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, GA 30341-4112. You may also email FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Include in the email subject line, “DR-4832-TN EHAD.” Comments should be sent in writing within 30 days of the date of the public notice.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 10/29/2024 - 19:44