Over 4,500 Federal Personnel Supporting States Impacted by Hurricane Helene, Biden-Harris Administration Continues Response Efforts

WASHINGTON – As crews continue working to restore power, communications and infrastructure across the Southeast, FEMA and federal partners are sending additional teams and resources to bolster state-led response efforts. More than 4,500 personnel from across the federal workforce are deployed and more than 1,000 are from FEMA. To date, FEMA has shipped over 7.1. million meals, more than 6.5 million liters of water, 150 generators and more than 200,000 tarps to the region.

Today, the White House announced that President Biden will travel to North Carolina to meet with community leaders and first responders. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will remain in North Carolina to oversee response efforts and ensure the federal government provides urgent and extensive support to Asheville and surrounding areas.

Administrator Criswell today announced that FEMA Region 10 Regional Administrator Willie Nunn will deploy to South Carolina to oversee response and recovery operations in the state.

President Biden has approved Major Disaster declarations for areas of Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina, including 41 counties in Georgia announced today. Disaster survivors in these areas can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA.

People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated counties should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. 

There are three ways apply for FEMA assistance: 

• Online by visiting disasterassistance.gov.
• Calling 1-800-621-3362. 
• Download and apply on the FEMA App.

Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Hurricane Helene.  

Additionally, yesterday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra declared a Public Health Emergency (PHE) for South Carolina and Tennessee to address the health impacts of Hurricane Helene. This follows recent announcements of PHE declarations for Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. PHE declarations give the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.

Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has more than 850 trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. They are also helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting the Red Cross Hurricane Helene Reunification page, where you can enter pertinent information about the person you’re looking for.  If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mold mitigation with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through October 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist. 

While the impacts of Hurricane Helene are widespread and affecting many states simultaneously, each disaster is unique. Below is a list of tips and resources that people can use to help address the needs they are facing in their community as well as key operational updates. 

North Carolina 

• Residents should not travel to western North Carolina to keep the roadways clear for search and rescue teams and utility crews. 
• Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visit unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts. 
• 10 federal search and rescue teams are working on the ground. Over 900 personnel have searched 675 areas and rescued 127 survivors. 
• Four FEMA Incident Management Assessment Teams are in North Carolina, coordinating directly with the state to facilitate requests for assistance.
• 25 trailer-loads of meals and 60 trailers-loads of water have been delivered to North Carolina. Going forward, more trailer loads of meals and 40 trailer-loads of water will be delivered daily.
• A bulk water distribution site opened in downtown Asheville yesterday; additional sites will open in the coming days.
• There are 28 shelters open with more than 1,030 occupants.
• FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will assist survivors in applying for assistance.
• FEMA, the FCC, and private telecommunications providers are working together to help restore temporary communications as quickly as possible by establishing temporary cell sites and allowing for roaming where possible. This will enable residents to connect to any network available, even if they aren't subscribed to that network. 
• 60 Starlink satellite systems are available to help with responder communications and an additional 140 satellites are being shipped to assist with communications infrastructure restoration; 64 satellite phones expected to arrive today. One Starlink will be deployed to each county to assist with communications and continuity of government. 
• Generators are moving into Asheville, with another 30 generators enroute to the staging base in the Charlotte metro area. 
• FEMA Disaster Medical Assistance Teams are in Asheville providing emergency room medical support at hospitals. 
• 200 federal ambulances have been provided to the state. 
• A C-17 cargo plane full of food, water and other commodities arrived at the forward operating base in Asheville, with a daily flow of commodities established via air bridge. 

Florida

• 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. 
• More than 120 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance personnel deployed to help survivors apply for assistance and jumpstart their recovery. 
• Two FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for federal assistance. 
• 30 FEMA Division Supervisors are embedded in 21 Florida county Emergency Operations Centers.

Georgia

• Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.
• Two FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for federal assistance. 
• A FEMA Incident Management Assistance Team is onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in TOWN to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for assistance

South Carolina

• Residents with questions on Hurricane 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.
• A FEMA Incident Management Assistance Team is onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in West Columbia to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for assistance.

Tennessee

• Residents can call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to relay as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts. 
• Counties have started establishing donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.
• A FEMA Incident Management Assistance Team is onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in Nashville to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for assistance. 
• Federal Urban Search & Rescue personnel are on the ground in Knoxville. 

 

amy.ashbridge Tue, 10/01/2024 - 21:22

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Ontario County, New York

Ontario County, N.Y. - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Ontario County, New York. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period. 

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. 

The 90-day appeal period will begin October 3, 2024. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. 
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. 

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov. 

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. 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 and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Ontario County, NY Flood Mapping Milestones

• March 17, 2022 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• July 14, 2023 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• August 17, 2023 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• November 8-9, 2023 — Open House Meetings with public to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map.
• October 3, 2024 — Appeal Period starts.
• Spring 2026* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 2 Office of External Affairs at (212) 680-3699 or at FEMA-R2-ExternalAffairs@fema.dhs.gov.

###

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

kate.macedo Tue, 10/01/2024 - 20:40

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Kewanee

SPRINGFIELD – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open Wednesday, October 2, 2024, to help residents kickstart their recovery after the July 13 - 16, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding.

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Illinois and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

The center will be open at the following location, days and hours:

Henry County Office of Emergency Management
4424 Walter Payton Memorial Highway (Hwy 34)
Kewanee, IL 61443
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Additional recovery centers will be opening in other impacted counties soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may visit any center for assistance.

Assistance in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials are available at these centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available at all centers. 

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.  

kimberly.keblish Tue, 10/01/2024 - 19:58

FEMA Assistance Available for Survivors in 30 Additional Georgia Counties

WASHINGTON – FEMA has made federal assistance available to Georgia residents in 30 additional counties to help those who have been affected by Hurricane Helene from Sept. 24, 2024 and continuing.  

Individuals in Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Bulloch, Burke, Candler, Chatham, Clinch, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Lincoln, McDuffie, Montgomery, Screven, Telfair, Treutlen, Ware, Washington and Wheeler counties may be eligible for grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help them recover from the effects of the disaster. 

In addition to these counties, Appling, Brooks, Coffee, Columbia, Jefferson, Liberty, Lowndes, Pierce, Richmond, Tattnall and Toombs counties were approved earlier for this assistance. 

In addition to housing expenses, survivors may be eligible for other serious disaster-related needs, such as replacement of damaged personal property and expenses for transportation, childcare, moving and storage. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

Federal funding is also available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Bulloch, Burke, Candler, Chatham, Clinch, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Lincoln, McDuffie, Montgomery, Screven, Telfair, Treutlen, Ware, Washington and Wheeler counties. 

Appling, Brooks, Coffee, Columbia, Jefferson, Liberty, Lowndes, Pierce, Richmond, Tattnall and Toombs counties were approved earlier for this assistance.  

For the latest information visit  www.fema.gov/disaster/4830.  

amy.ashbridge Tue, 10/01/2024 - 18:25

FEMA Offers a Variety of Help for Illinois Survivors

CHICAGO – FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the July 13 - 16, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding. Homeowners and renters in Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago counties who suffered damage are encouraged to apply.

FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance. FEMA assistance is limited to primary homes only, or the place you live more than six months of the year. Second homes, vacation homes or homes used as vacation rentals do not qualify for FEMA assistance.

Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid and may include:

• Serious Needs: Money for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
• Displacement: Money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a rental unit.
• Home Repair or Replacement: Money to help you repair or replace your home damaged by the disaster. The money can also help with pre-existing damage to parts of your home where the disaster caused further damage.
• Rental Assistance: Money you can use to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster.
• Personal Property: Money to help you repair or replace appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster. This can also include money for books, uniforms, tools, additional computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment.
• Child Care: Money to help you pay for increased or child care expenses caused by the disaster.
• Transportation: Money to help you repair or replace a vehicle damaged by the disaster when you don’t have another vehicle you can use.
• Moving and Storage Expenses: Money to help you move and store personal property from your home to prevent additional damage.

Apply for Disaster Assistance 

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

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, you can go online at DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App for mobile devices, or call toll-free 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

You can also apply online for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. These are available to homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofit organizations and can provide funds for needs not met by FEMA grants or insurance settlements.  Apply for these loans online at SBA.gov/disaster.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.  

kimberly.keblish Tue, 10/01/2024 - 16:35

Receive One-on-One FEMA Support at Local Disaster Recovery Centers

Williston, Vt. – If you reside in Caledonia, Essex, or Orleans County and were affected by the severe weather from July 29-31, 2024, you can receive one-on-one FEMA support when applying for disaster assistance. 

Simply visit one of the Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) below and a FEMA representative will guide you through the application process. DRCs are open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Waterbury Armory

294 Armory Drive

Waterbury, Vermont 05676

 

Lyndon Public Safety Facility

316 Main Street

Lyndonville, Vermont 05851

 

Brighton Town Hall Gym

49 Mill Street

Island Pond, Vermont 05846

 

Hinesburg Town Hall

10632 Route 116

Hinesburg, Vermont 05461

You can visit a DRC to learn more about FEMA disaster and recovery assistance. You may also get help to do the following:

• Apply for assistance.
• Learn the status of your FEMA application.
• Understand any letters you get from FEMA.
• Find housing and rental assistance information.
• Get answers to questions or resolve problems.
• Get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance.
• Learn about Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs.

There are three other ways to apply for disaster assistance: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or download the FEMA’s Mobile App.

For more information on DRCs, visit fema.gov/drc.

To watch a video about how to apply, featuring American Sign Language, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

For the latest information visit 4826 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on X (Twitter) at https://x.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

Billy.domrose Tue, 10/01/2024 - 15:45

FEMA Clean and Sanitize Assistance Available in Louisiana After Hurricane Francine

BATON ROUGE, La.  – If your home was damaged during Hurricane Francine but you can still live in it safely, you may qualify for up to $300 from FEMA and the State of Louisiana to help with cleanup. This assistance is for eligible homeowners and renters whose homes were damaged by the Sept. 11 hurricane.

You may qualify if:

• You live in a parish designated for Individual Assistance: currently Ascension, Assumption, Jefferson, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes.
• If you own your home and a FEMA inspection determines it was damaged by the disaster but is habitable. 
• If you are a renter and the inspector notes that you can live on the property, but cleanup is needed or has already been done.
• The damage is not covered by your insurance.
• FEMA determines your disaster-damaged home is safe to occupy.
• You save your receipts from any supplies, materials or paid help.

Homeowners and renters can apply several ways:

• Go online to disasterassistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Find a DRC near you.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. CT. 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 the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Tue, 10/01/2024 - 14:31

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Georgia

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Georgia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene from Sept. 24, 2024 and continuing. 

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Appling, Brooks, Coffee, Columbia, Jefferson, Liberty, Lowndes, Pierce, Richmond, Tattnall and Toombs counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. 

Federal funding is also available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in Appling, Brooks, Coffee, Columbia, Jefferson, Liberty, Lowndes, Pierce, Richmond, Tattnall and Toombs counties. 

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

Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made later if warranted by the results of damage assessments. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 10/01/2024 - 13:15

Administrator Deanne Criswell Arrives in North Carolina, Federal Agencies and National Organizations Respond to Help Survivors in Several States

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is in North Carolina to survey damage alongside Governor Roy Cooper. The Administrator also met with response officials about the ongoing efforts to help survivors in the hard-hit communities. Administrator Criswell will remain on the ground in North Carolina until the situation has stabilized, as directed by President Joseph R. Biden. 

Federal agencies, private sector, nonprofits and faith-based organizations continue to work around the clock to move resources to support life-saving response efforts in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia while continuing to meet life-sustaining needs in Florida.

Major disaster declarations have been approved for areas of Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina allowing survivors to apply for disaster assistance with FEMA. People can apply in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov and in Spanish language disasterassistance.gov/es, calling 1-800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App in both English and Spanish languages. In addition, President Biden also issued an Emergency Declaration for Virginia to provide funds for life-saving measures.  

Search and rescue efforts by state, local and federal partners are ongoing and additional personnel are arriving in the region in the coming days. Power restoration crews continue working 24-hours a day throughout parts of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Generators, mutual aid crews and additional power restoration assets are being moved into the hardest hit areas of South Carolina and North Carolina as debris removal allows. 

The photos highlight efforts in North Carolina as well as other states impacted by Hurricane Helene.

ASHEVILLE, North Carolina -- Governor Roy Cooper (center), FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (center right), FEMA Regional Administrator Robert Samaan (right) and members of the National Guard discuss impacts to communities and ongoing response in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. ASHEVILLE, North Carolina -- Responders from the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response’s National Disaster Medical System (ASPR) unload medical equipment to provide care at Mission Hospital. The team started seeing patients to assist the hospital with the increase in demand for their Emergency Department. (Photo Credit: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) ASHEVILLE, North Carolina -- U.S. Air National Guard unload supplies with heavy machinery including food and water from a C-17 aircraft for distribution to survivors of Hurricane Helene. BRADENTON, Florida -- FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance Team goes door-to-door in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene registering people for disaster assistance and answering questions about FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. STEINHATCHEE, Florida -- FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Team meet with residents to share information about applying for disaster assistance and the different programs available to help jump start the recovery after Hurricane Helene. SEVIERVILLE, Tennessee -- The Salvation Army of Kentucky and Tennessee unload supplies from their truck for their mobile kitchen unit to serve meals to flood survivors and volunteers. (Photo Credit: The Salvation Army of Kentucky and Tennessee)

 

 

erika.suzuki Tue, 10/01/2024 - 12:10

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center to Open in New Haven County

Middletown, CT – A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will open in Southbury, New Haven County on Wednesday, October 2. The DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between the state of Connecticut and FEMA, will help survivors affected by the August 18-19 severe storm, flooding, landslides, and mudslides apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for their application and get their questions answered in person.

The center is accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs. The facility is equipped with assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Services are provided in English and Spanish. If you need a reasonable accommodation or a sign language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please call 1-833-285-7448, press 2 for Spanish. 

The Southbury DRC will open on Wednesday, October 2 at the following location:  

Southbury Town Hall

501 Main Street S

Southbury, CT 06488 

 

Operating Hours: 

Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

 

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be on hand at the center to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits, and renters, and provide printed information about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

Billy.domrose Tue, 10/01/2024 - 00:43

How can South Carolinians Apply for Fema Assistance After Hurricane Helene

ATLANTA - South Carolina homeowners and renters in 13 counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Aiken, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Cherokee, Greenville, Greenwood, Lexington, Newberry, Oconee, Pickens, Saluda and Spartanburg counties can apply.

There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET daily. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

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

FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors. In addition, a simplified process and expanded eligibility allows South Carolinians access to a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs.

What You’ll Need When You Apply

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

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

For the latest information about South Carolina’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4829.

zella.campbell Mon, 09/30/2024 - 23:17

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in St. John the Baptist Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA and the State of Louisiana will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Reserve on Tuesday, Oct. 1, to provide one-on-one help to Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Francine.

Center location:

St. John the Baptist Parish

Reserve Library

1482 Hwy 44

Reserve, LA 70084

Additional DRCs are open at the following locations: 

St. Charles Parish

Alan Arterbury Building

14564 River Road

New Sarpy, LA 70078

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

Lafourche Parish

Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center

4876 Hwy. 1

Raceland, LA 70394

Ascension Parish

Lemann Memorial Center

1100 Clay St.

Donaldsonville, LA 70346

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

Residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes can visit any DRC to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center. 

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

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 Mon, 09/30/2024 - 21:44

Be Alert to Fraud After Hurricane Helene in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- Floridians should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after Hurricane Helene. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from people affected by the disaster.

If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If this happens, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application. 

If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline will submit a request to stop further processing of that application.

If you do want to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the helpline will assist you in creating a new application.

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. They carry official photo identification badges. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free.

Don't believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. 

Don't give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information. 

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff's department or contact Florida’s Office of the Attorney General by calling 866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or visit myfloridalegal.com. To file a fraud complaint, go online to Scam Report (myfloridalegal.com). 

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, you can report these tips – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. You can also email StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov to report a tip.

For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Mon, 09/30/2024 - 20:32

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Hillsborough, Manatee and Sarasota Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in Hillsborough, Manatee and Sarasota counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene.

Center locations:

Hillsborough County
Hillsborough Community College - The Regent
6437 Watson Rd. 
Riverview, FL 33578
Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Sunday
 

Manatee County
Lakewood Ranch Library
16410 Rangeland Pkwy.
Bradenton, FL 34211
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

Sarasota County
Sarasota Christian Church
2923 Ashton Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34231
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday

These centers can help Floridians affected by both Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene. 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. 

Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Mon, 09/30/2024 - 20:26

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Elk Fire in Wyoming

DENVER – FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Elk Fire burning in Sheridan County, Wyoming. 

FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request this afternoon and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Elk Fire was threatening more than 1,000 homes and 1,000 residents, which are under an evacuation order. The fire started Sept. 28 and has burned more than 22,410 acres.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. 

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

morgan.dzakowic Mon, 09/30/2024 - 20:15

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in St. Clair County

SPRINGFIELD – Two FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers will open Tuesday, October 1, 2024, to help residents kickstart their recovery after the July 13 - 16, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding.

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Illinois and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

The centers will be open at the following locations, days and hours:

Southwestern Illinois Justice & Workforce Development Campus
2300 W. Main Street
Suite M117 (City of Belleville Office Bldg.)
Belleville, IL 62226
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Cahokia Heights Fitness and Community Center
509 Camp Jackson Road
Cahokia Heights, IL 62207
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Additional recovery centers will be opening in other impacted counties soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may visit any center for assistance.

Assistance in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials are available at these centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available at all centers. 

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.  

kimberly.keblish Mon, 09/30/2024 - 20:11

South Dakotans Have Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – South Dakotans in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties impacted by this summer’s severe storms have two weeks remaining to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline is October 15, 2024.

How Individuals can Apply for Disaster Assistance

• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in person. To search for Disaster Recovery Centers, visit www.fema.gov/drc or text DRC and your Zip Code to 43362 for a list of centers closest to you.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
• Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Shorter wait times are more likely in the mornings or evenings. 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

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

• Apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at https://www.sba.gov/disaster.
• Call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Disaster Recovery Update

Since President Biden’s major disaster declaration for South Dakota on August 15, federal agencies have approved $12,866,243.04 in grants and loans to assist in recovery (as of Sept. 29).

To date, a total of 1,310 people in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties have applied with FEMA for assistance. FEMA has approved $8,255,543.04 through the Individuals and Households program, consisting of $5,617,087.97 in Housing Assistance for home repairs and rental expenses, and $2,638,455.07 in Other Needs Assistance for repair or replacement of personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, moving expenses and other disaster-related needs.

In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $4,610,700 in low interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses.

Stay in Touch with FEMA

If you have already applied for disaster assistance with FEMA, it is important that you stay in touch and keep your contact information updated. FEMA may need additional information from you in order to process your assistance or determine your eligibility. Please note that calls from FEMA may come from an unknown number on your caller-ID.

# # #

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. 
Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) at @femaregion8

jamie.casterton Mon, 09/30/2024 - 19:27

Biden-Harris Administration Continues Whole-Of-Government Response to Hurricane Helene, Over 3,500 Federal Personnel Across North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina and Alabama

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is in North Carolina and Will Remain There Until the Situation Has Stabilized, As Directed by President Biden, Administrator Criswell was also in Florida and Georgia

WASHINGTON – FEMA and federal, state, community and voluntary partners continue providing resources to aid response efforts across the Southeast as survivors begin recovering from Hurricane Helene. More than 3,500 personnel from across the federal workforce are deployed and supporting Hurricane Helene response efforts across the impacted states – more than 1,000 are from FEMA. Across the impacted states, FEMA has shipped over 1.9 million Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), more than 1 million liters of water, 30 generators and over 95,000 tarps.

The Biden-Harris Administration declared Major Disaster declarations for areas of Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina,  allowing disaster survivors to begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People in 17 counties in Florida, 25 counties in North Carolina and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, as well as 13 counties in South Carolina can now apply for assistance with FEMA.

People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated counties are encouraged to apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance: 

• Online by visiting disasterassistance.gov.
• Calling 1-800-621-3362. 
• Download and apply on the FEMA App.

Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Hurricane Helene.  

Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has more than 850 trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. They are also helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).  If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mold mitigation with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through October 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist. 

While the impacts of Hurricane Helene are widespread and affecting a number of states simultaneously, each disaster is unique. Below is a list of tips and resources that people can use to help address the needs they are facing in their community as well as key operational updates. 

North Carolina 

• People can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visit unitedwaync.org to fill out a request form to add them to search and rescue efforts. 
• Rescue crews are continuing to work in affected areas and utility crews are working to restore cell service and critical infrastructure to restore communications to the impacted areas. People should not travel to western North Carolina to keep the roadways clear. 
• With 10 search and rescue teams on the ground, another nine teams are arriving today for more than 900 personnel to assist with these efforts.  
• Two FEMA Incident Management Assessment Teams are in North Carolina. The team will coordinate directly with the state to facilitate requests for assistance.
• So far, 25 trailer-loads of meals and 60 trailers-loads of water have been delivered to the state to support response efforts. More trailer loads of meals and water will be delivered in the coming days. 
• A C-17 cargo plane full of food, water and other commodities has arrived at the forward operating base in Asheville, with a daily flow of commodities established via air bridge. 
• There are 29 shelters open with over 1,000 occupants.  
• 40 Starlink satellite systems are available to help with responder communications and an additional 140 satellites are being shipped to assist with communications infrastructure restoration. 
• One Starlink will be deployed per county EOC to assist with communications and continuity of government. 
• Generators are moving from Charlotte-Mecklenberg to Asheville, with another 30 generators enroute to the staging base in Mecklenburg. 
• Disaster Medical Assistance Teams are in Asheville providing emergency room medical support at hospitals. 
• 200 federal ambulances have been provided to the state. 
• FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are going to the field, focusing on shelters, where they will assist survivors in applying for assistance.

Florida

• Residents in need of information can call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557 for resources after Helene. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions. 
• Two FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for assistance. 
• 30 FEMA Division Supervisors are embedded in 21 Florida county Emergency Operations Centers. 
• All federal Urban Search and Rescue teams have been released from the state to assist other affected states. 

Georgia

• Residents can find a list of open shelters and report damage by visiting Hurricane Helene | Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.  
• Partners like the Salvation Army, First Baptist Church and others are supporting feeding efforts on the ground.
• A FEMA Incident Management Assistance Team is onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for assistance. 
• All federal Urban Search and Rescue Teams have been released after completing missions in southern and eastern parts of the state. 
• FEMA is providing meals, tarps and water to the state for those impacted by the storm. 
• FEMA continues to work with the state on damage assessment to help with federal assistance. 

South Carolina

• Residents with questions on Hurricane Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133.
• As people begin to clean up, they should watch for downed powerlines, take pictures and document damage and discard items that cannot be properly disinfected. 
• Those who are dependent on medical equipment at home and 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 to see if you are eligible and if a medical needs shelter is available in your area.
• A FEMA Incident Management Assistance Team is onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in Columbia to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for assistance. 

Tennessee

• The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has established a hotline to coordinate reports of missing person in the affected by the flooding in Northeast Tennessee. Call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to relay as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts. 
• A FEMA Incident Management Assistance Team is onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in Nashville to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for assistance. 
• About 90 federal Urban Search & Rescue personnel are on the ground in Knoxville.  

Alabama

• A FEMA Incident Management Assistance Team is onsite at the state Emergency Operations Center in Clanton to coordinate with the state and facilitate any requests for federal assistance.  

Federal, state and local officials, volunteer agencies and private sector partners are providing the following support: 

• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency for Florida, Georgia and North Carolina.
• The Department of Defense has 30 high-water trucks ready to assist rescuers and 18 helicopters that can transport supplies, equipment and teams.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers deployed teams for temporary emergency power, debris removal and infrastructure assessment of water/wastewater treatment facilities and road/bridges.
• The Environmental Protection Agency has personnel on the ground who are working closely with federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to prepare for and safety remove hazardous materials and debris and maintain critical public health and environmental protections in place as storm impacts are assessed.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration deployed more than 50 personnel to support people and small businesses as they recover from the hurricane.
• The U.S. Department of Energy is closely monitoring impacts and restoration efforts, and have responders deployed to the Florida Emergency Operations Center, Georgia Emergency Operations Center, and the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center. and are closely monitoring power, fuel and supply chain interruptions.
• Team Rubicon has a Route Clearance Team in the Big Bend of Florida, and two more are coordinating damage assessment. Additional teams are deploying to Georgia and Tennessee.
• The American Red Cross has more than 850 volunteer responders deployed to the affected areas supporting shelters and reunification efforts and another 230 are in transit.
• The Salvation Army is coordinating with county emergency management agencies and partner organizations. In Georgia, meal services are underway in Valdosta, Alma, Vidalia, with six units serving Chatham County and Augusta. North Carolina's Incident Management Team is activated, with two canteens in Boone and Buncombe County. South Carolina has two active units in Saluda and Aiken. In Tennessee our Incident Management Team is traveling to Johnson City to start serving meals immediately to survivors. In Florida, there are 22 mobile feeding units and with five more on the way. And in Virginia, The Salvation Army is feeding at an Emergency Operations Center and will be feeding those who are experiencing power outages.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/30/2024 - 18:08

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is On the Ground in North Carolina, Biden-Harris Administration Actively Responding and Providing Life-Saving Support

President Biden has Directed the FEMA Administrator to Remain in Asheville, North Carolina, Until the Situation has Stabilized 

WASHINGTON – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground today in North Carolina and will survey damage alongside Governor Roy Cooper. Criswell will remain on the ground in North Carolina until the situation has stabilized, as directed by President Biden. 

Today, there are 10 federal search and rescue teams on the ground right now and another nine teams are on the way, for a total of more than 900 personnel actively supporting rescue efforts in affected areas.  

Health and Medical Task Forces and Disaster Medical Assistance Teams from the National Disaster Medical System continue their assessments in North Carolina for rapid deployment of support as needed. One team has started emergency department decompression at Mission Hospital in Asheville and is treating patients. Another team is moving to Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine to support emergency department decompression mission. 200 federal ambulances have been provided to the state.

To aide with communications, rescue crews are continuing to work in affected areas and utility crews are working to restore cell service and critical infrastructure to restore communications to the impacted areas. Administrator Criswell has directed her team to move fast on standing up communications. FEMA has provided 40 Starlink satellite systems to help with responder communications and additional satellites are being shipped to assist with communications infrastructure restoration. One Starlink will be deployed per county Emergency Operations Center to assist with communications and continuity of government. 

For families and people trying to get in touch with loved ones, they are encouraged to call 2-1-1 or visit UnitedWayNC.org to fill out a request form to add them to search and rescue efforts. 

Everyone should heed the warning of local officials and people should not travel to western North Carolina to keep the roadways clear. 

FEMA has two Incident Management Assessment Teams in North Carolina with additional personnel arriving.  These teams coordinate directly with the state to facilitate requests for assistance.

To ensure communities get urgent assistance including meals and water, FEMA has deployed 25 trailer-loads of meals, and 60 trailers-loads of water to the state to support response efforts.  A C-17 cargo plane full of food, water and other commodities has arrived at the forward operating base in Ashville with a daily flow of commodities established via air bridge. An additional 18 helicopters are on standby to help deliver additional commodities to affected areas. 

There are 29 shelters open with over 1,000 occupants. FEMA Disaster Survivor Teams will be out in the field, focusing on shelters, where they will assist survivors in applying for assistance.  

A generator support package is moving from Charlotte-Mecklenberg to Ashville, with another 30 generators enroute to the staging base in Mecklenburg.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/30/2024 - 16:57

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Florida After Hurricane Helene

ATLANTA - Florida homeowners and renters in 17 counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Citrus, Dixie, Franklin, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Taylor and Wakulla counties can apply.

If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage. Apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors. In addition, a simplified process and expanded eligibility allows Floridians access to a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs.

What You’ll Need When You Apply

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

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

For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Mon, 09/30/2024 - 16:44