Georgia Farmers, Ranch Hands May be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Georgia farmers and ranch hands whose tools or equipment were damaged by Hurricane Helene or Tropical Storm Debby, damage Aug. 4--20, 2024, may be eligible for disaster assistance. FEMA assistance is available to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment and items required for employment or for self-employment.

Coverage for Tools and Equipment

Family-owned farms typically have a variety of equipment needed to conduct business. These include, but are not limited to, tractors, plows, seeders or planters, harvesters, sprayers, hay balers and utility vehicles. These items are all potentially eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if the applicant can show that they were damaged by the disaster, the applicant does not have another working item that can meet this need, and the loss of the item was not covered by insurance. Crops and livestock are not “tools and equipment” because they are the products of a farming operation, whereas tools and equipment are the means of production.

Ranch hands may be eligible for assistance to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment not covered by insurance when they can show these items are required by their employer.

Assistance is based on a need to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment, items required by an employer as a condition of employment or required for education. This includes disaster-damaged tools and equipment, or other items required for a specific trade or profession that are not provided or supplied by the employer, including a computer.

Many of these items have substantial costs, but it is important to remember that assistance for uninsured or underinsured occupational tools is limited to the maximum amount of Other Needs Assistance an applicant may receive. Additional assistance to help meet these needs may also be available from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency offers Livestock Assistance, Farm Loans and help for farmland damage and crop losses. Visit Disaster Assistance Programs (usda.gov) to learn more.

How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

• Visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, visit fema.gov/drc.
• Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download and use the FEMA app.

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

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

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

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 Tue, 10/29/2024 - 17:38

FEMA is Hiring Georgians to Assist with Hurricane Helene Recovery

ATLANTA – FEMA is currently hiring locals to ensure Georgia’s recovery is led by the people who know the area best. If you live in Georgia and want to help your community recover after Hurricane Helene, FEMA encourages you to apply for a temporary or permanent local hire position. 

The agency is hiring for positions in a variety of fields, including emergency management, logistics management, information technology, grants management and more to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts. These positions are normally for 120 days but may be extended based on agency needs. 

How to Apply

• Visit USAJobs.gov to see all open positions. Type keywords “FEMA, Local Hire” and enter your location as “Georgia”.  
• Click “Apply Online” and follow instructions in the “How to Apply” section of the job opportunity announcement.
• You will need to submit the documents and information outlined on the page.

Questions?

If you have questions, please email them to fema-careers@fema.dhs.gov or visit fema.gov/careers for more information.

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 Tue, 10/29/2024 - 16:01

FEMA is Hiring Community Liaisons in North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. - FEMA is hiring Community Liaisons to support local communities affected by Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina. FEMA Community Liaisons will work with storm-affected communities and serve as a community link between FEMA, state, and federal partners. 

In this position, FEMA Community Liaisons will work with other FEMA staff to support communities in navigating federal programs, identifying and reporting potential barriers and gaps in recovery needs and determining the best approaches to meet those needs. 

These positions are for Cadre of On-Call Response/Recovery Employees (CORE). CORE employees are full-time employees hired to directly support response and recovery efforts related to disasters. These positions will be hired into temporary two-year, excepted service appointments, which may be renewed based on workload, funding and supervisory approval. Benefits include health insurance, vacation time, sick leave and up to 11 paid annual holidays. 

Applications are being accepted online. To see all open positions and to apply, visit usajobs.gov. More information about FEMA’s hiring process can be found on FEMA.gov/careers.

All applicants must be U.S. citizens and 18 years of age or older. Additional requirements vary by position type.

erika.suzuki Tue, 10/29/2024 - 15:37

President Joseph R. Biden Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the U.S. Virgin Islands

WASHINGTON– FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Ernesto on Aug. 13-16, 2024.

Federal funding is available to territory 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 Tropical Storm Ernesto on the islands of St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas and Water Island.  

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

Lai Sun Yee has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Designations may be made at a later date if requested by the territory and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

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

Time Is Running Out!

Harrisburg, Penn -- If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance from FEMA, time is running out. 

The deadline for applications is November 12. If you live in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga or Union County and suffered loss of personal property or damage to your home due to Tropical Storm Debby on Aug. 9 -10, 2024, you should apply as soon as possible. 

There are four ways to apply.  You can:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download the FEMA App
• Visit the remaining Disaster Recovery Center at 
  • Tioga County: Valley Christian Church, 146 Maple Street, Westfield, PA 16950 
    • Normal Hours of Operation: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday thru Saturday
    • Election Day, Nov. 5: Temporarily Closed for the Day
    • Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11: Hours of Operation: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

November 12 will be here before you know it. Don’t delay! Register today

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Pennsylvania, visit fema.gov/disaster/4815

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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 Tue, 10/29/2024 - 14:05

Taylor County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens in New Location

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Center in Taylor County is open in a new location to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Helene and Debby. Survivors of Hurricane Milton can also be served by the center.

Center location:

Taylor County
20116 Keaton Beach Road
Perry, FL 32348
Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

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.

kirsten.chambers Tue, 10/29/2024 - 11:44

FEMA Opening Disaster Recovery Center in Juneau

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center on Wednesday, October 30 in Juneau, Alaska to provide one-on-one assistance for people affected by the August 5-6 Juneau Mendenhall glacier flooding.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain disaster assistance programs, help people complete or check the status of applications for federal assistance, and get information on additional resources offered by the State of Alaska.

Disaster Recovery Center Location: 

Mendenhall Valley Public Library 
3025 Diamond Park Loop
Juneau, AK 99801

Hours of Operation 
8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Monday-Sunday

Location closed November 4-6 for election activities

How to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Residents can apply for disaster assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center, or in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
• Call the Alaska Call Center at 866-342-1699 between 7 a.m.-4 p.m. AKT, Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-4 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

Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as assistive listening devices, resources for low vision, and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.

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.

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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 Tue, 10/29/2024 - 02:04

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Tropical Cyclone Eight, North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. – A public notice has been posted describing available FEMA assistance and proposed FEMA-funded actions, including activities that may affect historic properties, threatened and endangered species, critical habitats, wetlands and floodplains in North Carolina. 

FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs following the major disaster declaration for Tropical Cyclone Eight. 

The public notice is posted on FEMA’s disaster web page at fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/4837-dr-nc-public-notice-001.

This may be the only public notice. Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific project by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region 4, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30341-4112, or by email to FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Please include in the subject line of the email, “DR-4837-nc EHAD.” Comments should be sent in writing within 30 days of the date of this notice.

barbara.murien… Mon, 10/28/2024 - 21:03

Non-Profit Organizations Benefit from FEMA Funds

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― The Support and Therapy Center of the Puerto Rico Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association is one of the non-profit organizations that recently received funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair its infrastructure after Hurricane María and to continue offering its services for the development of its participants.

The organization, which focuses on promoting the functioning, independence and integration of people with developmental disabilities, also offers services in social work, physical and occupational therapy, and assistance with the purchase of orthopedic equipment.

“The social and health needs of our island are different and precise. We have the great talent and dedication of communities that are ready to meet these needs and FEMA remains committed to assisting in the recovery of these organizations,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero. 

The Support and Therapy Center serves over 200 people. It also offers educational workshops on the management and prevention of births with neural tube defects and supports families during and after a pregnancy with a neural tube defect diagnosis. 

The Association’s director, Isolina Laboy Arroyo, said that they recently discharged a 3-year-old participant, who “lives a full life, participates in extracurricular activities such as gymnastics and is a girl who enjoys having reached her full potential thanks to early intervention.” 

The organization offered direct services to the mother during her pregnancy and after a surgery to treat the infant’s spina bifida from the womb. After birth, the entity offered direct occupational and physical therapy services to the girl from 5 months to 2 years old.

Laboy Arroyo stated that “over the years, this organization has been able to fulfill its mission of offering direct services to participants to promote the functioning, independence and integration in the community of people with developmental disabilities. This entity has played an important role in being able to provide patients with the opportunity to become as independent as possible within the limits that their condition allows.”

The Association has about $35,000 from the agency to replace the roof waterproofing system, the air conditioners, floor mats for therapy rooms and some office equipment, among others. Mitigation funds within this allocation will anchor the water cistern tank and improve the facilities’ infrastructure against infiltration. 

On the other hand, FEMA also obligated funds for Bill’s Kitchen, an entity that has been providing food security along with nutritional counseling for 31 years.

Bill’s Kitchen was born in memory of a young architect named Bill, who died of AIDS in Seattle in 1992. His mother Sara Metcalf, who lived in Puerto Rico, decided to help people on the island living with this condition by providing food to everyone who needed it, replicating several service programs in New York, Seattle, San Francisco and Washington, DC. Today, Bill’s Kitchen serves more than 30 towns in the northeastern area of the island: they serve about 1,175 people a year, distribute over 11,000 bags of food for two weeks, and coordinate thousands of clinical and support services for their participants.

Bill’s Kitchen Executive Director Sandra Torres Rivera explained that its participants also have services in place to ensure they maintain their treatments for HIV and other chronic health conditions.

“Our nutritional services program complements the provision of food, offering food security to the medical and nutritional counseling, to give the participant the tools to combat not only hunger, but also prevailing health conditions on the island such as diabetes, hypertension and gastrointestinal problems. Through the Intégrate Program we offer medical transportation, oral health and visual health services, which include the purchase of eyeglasses, laboratories and emergency assistance, among other services that our participants cannot access through their health insurance coverage,” said Torres Rivera.

This organization received about $470,000 for its infrastructure. The work includes the replacement of equipment, such as the mezzanine and kitchen air conditioners. More than $78,000 of the funds were destined to mitigation measures aimed at ensuring proper drainage and preventing infiltration to the roof and interior of the facilities.

For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “our work team assists non-profit organizations such as Bill’s Kitchen, an entity that is currently in the construction acquisition phase to make way for the reconstruction of the facilities where they offer services aimed at a population in need. Puerto Rico has thousands of non-profit entities like this one, which have the commendable work of supporting and contributing to the quality of life of our citizens. At COR3 we will continue to guide them in the process so that they can complete their works.”

To date, FEMA has allocated over $34.2 billion for more than 11,000 projects to address Puerto Rico’s recovery following Hurricane María. A total of over $1.4 billion are destined exclusively to support the recovery of 1,105 non-profit projects across the island.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery,  visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 10/28/2024 - 12:04

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Swain County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Monday, Oct. 28 in Bryson City (Swain County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene.  

The Swain County DRC is located at:  

Swain County Technology and Training Center (Swain County Training Center)

45 East Ridge Drive

Bryson, NC 28713

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. 

erika.suzuki Sun, 10/27/2024 - 18:00

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Catawba County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Monday, Oct. 28 in Conover (Catawba County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene.  

The Catawba County DRC is located at:  

Conover Fire Department Station 3 (Fire Station 3)

1776 Village Square NW

Conover, NC 28613

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. 

erika.suzuki Sun, 10/27/2024 - 17:54

FEMA Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Visiting Several Georgia Towns

ATLANTA – FEMA is opening three Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers in Irwin, Telfair and Ware counties. These centers give survivors another option to learn about the types of assistance available, get help applying for federal assistance, receive updates on their applications and learn about the appeals process. 

The centers will be open on the following dates in three locations:

Irwin County 
Sunday, Oct. 27 through Tuesday, Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ocilla Community House

711 S. Irwin Avenue, Ocilla, Georgia 31774 

Ware County 
Saturday, Oct. 26 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 27 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Nov. 2 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Courthouse Annex 

305 Oak Street, Waycross, Georgia, 31501

Telfair County
Saturday, Oct. 26 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 27 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Nov. 2 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Piggly Wiggly Parking Lot 

48 East Oak Street, McRae-Helena, Georgia 31055

Survivors may also visit any of the fixed site Disaster Recovery Centers in the state:

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

 

Temporary FEMA Center location and hours

Valdosta

2108 E. Hill Avenue, Building D

Valdosta, GA 31601

Saturday, Oct. 26: 

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, on the FEMA App or by calling 800-621-3362. 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. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, visit Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance. 

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

larissa.hale Sun, 10/27/2024 - 16:45

Taylor County Disaster Recovery Center to Relocate

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Center at Loughridge Park in Taylor County will close permanently at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 27. The center will reopen in a new location and an announcement will be made.

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

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.

kirsten.chambers Sun, 10/27/2024 - 13:15

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Pasco County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Pasco County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Survivors of Hurricane Debby can also be served by the center.

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers.

Center location:
Pasco County

UF/IFAS Pasco Extension - Stalling Building 

15029 14th St. Dade City, FL 33523 

Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

When this center moves to a new location, details will be provided to the public.
To find other center locations go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.

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

brindisi.chan Sat, 10/26/2024 - 22:27

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Orange County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Orange County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Milton. Survivors of Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Debby can also be served by the center.

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers.

Center location:Orange County

Orange County Multi-Cultural Center 

7149 W. Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32818 

Hours: 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday

To find other center locations go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.

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

brindisi.chan Sat, 10/26/2024 - 22:14

Public Assistance Available for 31 Counties and the Catawba Indian Nation in South Carolina

Governmental agencies and certain nonprofits (including faith-based organizations) in South Carolina that were affected by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance. This assistance can help cover costs for debris removal, protective measures, public buildings and equipment, public utilities, and more. 

The Public Assistance Program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing federal funding on a cost-share basis to assist states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments and private nonprofits that provide essential social services to the public. 

Public Assistance is currently authorized in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Cherokee, Chester, Colleton, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Lancaster, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union, Williamsburg and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation.

After Hurricane Helene, the State of South Carolina conducts applicant briefings to inform potential applicants of the assistance available and how to apply. Applicants then file a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) and identify damage that resulted from the disaster. FEMA determines eligibility for reimbursement after state review.

The state will manage Public Assistance funds received from FEMA. This includes disbursing the funds to the applicant.

kwei.nwaogu Sat, 10/26/2024 - 21:42

FEMA Assistance Now Available for Additional Virginia Counties

Bristol, Va. — The major disaster declaration for the Commonwealth of Virginia for Tropical Storm Helene was amended on Oct. 25, approving Individual Assistance for eligible residents of Lee County and Public Assistance under Categories A-G for the following counties: Albemarle, Appomattox, Botetourt, Buckingham, Charlotte, Floyd, Greene, Madison, Nelson, Patrick, and the independent city of Roanoke.

Graphic Applying for Individual Assistance

Individuals affected by Tropical Storm Helene in Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe counties and cities of Galax and Radford remain eligible for Individual Assistance from FEMA. The Individual Assistance registration deadline is Monday, Dec. 2, 2024. 

FEMA may be able to help you pay for essential items, temporary housing, home [MN1] repairs and other needs due to the disaster, including:

• Essential items such as water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, medical supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation;
• Financial assistance to help pay for hotel stays, stays with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unit as well as rental assistance if you are displaced because of the disaster;
• Repair or replacement of a vehicle, appliances, room furnishings, personal or family computer; books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment; and
• Moving and storage fees, medical expenses, childcare and funeral expenses.  

You may receive money to repair the parts of your home damaged by the disaster regardless of pre-existing conditions. You can also make repairs that prevent similar damage from future disasters.

For more information about the types of FEMA assistance available under the Individual Assistance Program, visit: fema.gov/ia.

You can apply for disaster assistance today: 

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov 
• Through the FEMA app
• By calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362
• At a Disaster Recovery Center.

To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

Applying for Public Assistance

The Public Assistance Program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to assist states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain types of private nonprofits. Public Assistance grants help pay for emergency and permanent work that helps communities respond to and recover from disasters.

The following areas remain eligible for Public Assistance Categories A-G: Bedford, Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe Counties as well as the cities of Bristol, Covington, Danville, Galax, Norton, and Radford.

Categories A-G support permanent work in the following: 

• Category A: Debris Removal
• Category B: Emergency Protective Measures
• Category C: Roads and Bridges
• Category D: Water Control Facilities
• Category E: Public Buildings and Contents
• Category F: Public Utilities
• Category G: Parks, Recreational, and other Facilities

For more information on Public Assistance, see: fema.gov/assistance/public.

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.

amanda.hancher Sat, 10/26/2024 - 20:08

Disaster Recovery Center in Pembroke, Va. Will Open Oct. 28

BRISTOL, Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Pembroke, Va. at 120 Pembroke Park Lane Pembroke, VA 24136 on Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, at 8 a.m. Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. This will be the seventh DRC open in the impact 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. 

Graphic

The center is located at:

Giles County

120 Pembroke Park Lane

Pembroke, VA 24136

 

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 staff assisting survivors on Oct. 11, 2024, at the Disaster Recovery Center in Independence, Va. (FEMA photo by Nicholas Monteleone)

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.

amanda.hancher Sat, 10/26/2024 - 19:21

FEMA is Hosting a Job Fair in Augusta

ATLANTA – Are you interested in applying for a federal job? Join FEMA at a job fair on Wednesday, Oct. 30 in Augusta to learn how to navigate USAjobs.gov, the federal government’s official web-based employment webpage that lets you access thousands of job opportunities across hundreds of federal agencies and organizations. 

FEMA representatives will be on hand, providing training on how to navigate through usajobs.gov, create a profile, and build an effective resume in the resume builder tool. Computers will be available at the fair to help attendees access the website and create their online profile.  

The fair will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. You do not need to register to attend.

How to attend: 

Date and time: Wednesday, Oct. 30 from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Location: May Park Community Center, 622 4th Street. Augusta, Georgia 30901

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

minh.phan Sat, 10/26/2024 - 14:45

President Joseph R. Biden Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Havasupai Tribe

WASHINGTON– FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Havasupai Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding on August 22-23, 2024.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals of the Havasupai 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 available to the Havasupai Tribe and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the flooding.

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

Benigno Bern Ruiz has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

Residents and business owners who sustained losses can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.  

 

amy.ashbridge Fri, 10/25/2024 - 23:08