Barre Disaster Recovery Center to Close September 28

Williston, Vt. – In coordination with state and local partners, we will be permanently closing the Disaster Recovery Center in Barre at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024. 

The center is currently open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturdays at:

Barre Municipal Auditorium

20 Auditorium Hill

Barre, Vermont 05641

 

The adjustment of hours for these temporary centers is coordinated with state and local partners generally based on the volume of visitors and needs of the community. 

Vermonters can visit Disaster Recovery Centers to get in-person help regarding disaster assistance. Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to help upload documents, answer questions and guide you through the appeals process.

Four other Disaster Recovery Centers will remain open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice. These centers are located at:

 

• Brighton Town Hall Gym - 49 Mill Street, Island Pond, VT 05846
• Lyndon Public Safety Facility - 316 Main Street, Lyndonville, VT 05851
• Waterbury Armory - 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676
• Hinesburg Town Hall - 10632 Route 116, Hinesburg, VT 05461

There are three other ways to apply that don’t require visiting a center:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
• Download the FEMA’s Mobile App.

For information about other Disaster Recovery Center that are currently open, please 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 4810 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on X at https://x.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

Billy.domrose Thu, 09/26/2024 - 12:07

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Scott County Closing Sept. 28, Clay and Sioux Counties Reducing Hours

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Scott County Disaster Recovery Center, located at 3506 N. Harrison St. Davenport, Iowa, will close permanently on Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. The Disaster Recovery Centers in Clay and Sioux Counties will be open from 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday beginning Sept 30.

They are located at:

Clay County

Spencer City Hall

City Council Chambers

101 W. Fifth St.

Spencer, IA 51301

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

 

Residents can also register for disaster assistance by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Using the FEMA app

If you had flood related damage or storm-caused expenses or are self-employed and live in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Humboldt, Lyon, Monona, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pottawattamie, Scott, Sioux and Woodbury counties, FEMA assistance can provide grants to help cover temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster related needs. U.S. Small Business Administration provides loans to help cover home repairs and other disaster-related needs along with business impacts.

Anyone using a relay service, such as a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA 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 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. Press 2 for Spanish. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

martyce.allenjr Thu, 09/26/2024 - 10:18

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

WASHINGTON– FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 26 – July 7, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding in Chase, Clark, Comanche, Doniphan, Finney, Geary, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Kearny, Meade, Scott, Thomas and Wabaunsee Counties

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

Andrew P. Meyer has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

erika.suzuki Thu, 09/26/2024 - 00:38

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 20 – July 8, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding in Boyd, Clay, Dakota, Dawson, Douglas, Fillmore, Holt, Howard, Lincoln, McPherson, Nance, Nemaha, Saunders, Scotts Bluff, Thomas and Washington Counties. 

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

Andrew P. Meyer has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

erika.suzuki Thu, 09/26/2024 - 00:33

FEMA Teams Visiting Local Neighborhoods to Assist Disaster Survivors

CHICAGO – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are assisting communities affected by the July 13 – 16, 2024, storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Teams are out in impacted areas of Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will and Winnebago counties to help residents navigate the federal disaster assistance process.

DSA personnel visit communities designated as federal disaster areas to help homeowners and renters apply with FEMA and quickly identify and address immediate and emerging needs. They also can provide application status updates and referrals to additional community resources.

DSA teams will never ask for or accept money and will always be wearing a FEMA identification badge with a photograph. A FEMA shirt, vest or jacket is not proof of identity. While helping someone apply, they will ask for personal information, including social security number, annual income and bank information. Residents are encouraged to ask for identification before providing any personal information. They can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify a FEMA visit is legitimate.

Homeowners and renters in Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will and Winnebago counties with uninsured or underinsured disaster-related loss from the July 13 – 16, 2024, storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding don’t have to wait for a DSA team to apply for assistance. To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service (VRS), 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 Thu, 09/26/2024 - 00:09

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from June 22 – July 8, 2024.  

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

Federal funding is also available to the Tribal Nation on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by wildfires Yakama Nation.  

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

Tonia Pence has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if 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 Wed, 09/25/2024 - 21:57

Help Navigators Advance Your Claim

SANTA FE, N.M. – By law, the Claims Office can only pay claims that include the required documentation. After filing a Notice of Loss (NOL), claimants have 150 days to provide documents showing Proof of Loss (POL). If claimants think they will be unable to deliver the needed documents in 150 days, they can request an extension. Extensions are not automatic and must be requested by the claimant. 

• It’s important to know that claimants do not have to wait for a Navigator to reach out to them to submit documentation. Claimants may submit documentation any time after they have received their Letter of Acknowledgment. 
• Documentation may be hand delivered directly to one of the three claims offices or may be submitted via email to: FEMA-hermits-peak@FEMA.dhs.gov, or mailed to:  P.O. Box 1329 Santa Fe, NM 87504. 
• We recommend you provide copies of your documents and keep the originals.

When a Navigator does reach out, it is important that claimants respond to navigators’ attempts to reach them by phone or email, either when the navigators are first assigned to the claim – after an NOL is submitted -- or later when the navigators seek needed paperwork. 

Navigators are dealing with a very high volume of claims which requires them to work on multiple claims at a time, so it is important to answer your navigator in a timely manner, so they can work on your claim within the timeframe of a 150 days since your NOL was submitted. 

“Navigators are here to help people understand what documentation is required during the claims process and how to submit the documentation, but the process moves faster when claimants work along with their navigators as a team”, said Jay Mitchell, Director of Operations for the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “Navigators are dedicated to helping impacted people receive compensation for their losses, but the claimants have a significant role in the determination of the compensation through the information they provide.”

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to start a claim with the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office if they haven’t already. The deadline to submit a Notice of Loss to start the claims process is November 14, 2024. 

The Claims Office continues to observe an increase in claim submissions leading to longer wait times in claims reviews, determinations, and the issuance of Letters of Determination (LODs) for claims. We are actively working to reduce wait times and shorten processing times of claims by sharing checklists of what documentation is required for specific losses. 

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

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. At the time of publication, the FEMA Claims Office has paid more than $1.2 billion to claimants. 

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

erika.suzuki Wed, 09/25/2024 - 19:46

FEMA To Hold Public Event in Flatwoods To Assist Survivors

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Homeowners and renters affected by May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides are invited to Flatwoods Senior Center to meet with FEMA face to face. Disaster survivors can talk with FEMA experts to ask questions and learn everything they want to know about federal disaster assistance.

FEMA, other federal agencies and local resources will be on hand to provide one-on-one assistance. Applicants who want to understand their FEMA letter, receive help with applications and appeals, or learn about contract estimations, repairs and new builds are encouraged to get their questions answered at this event.

If weather permits, this event will be held at the following location:

Flatwoods Senior Center, 2513 Reed St., Flatwoods, KY 41139

• Sept. 27, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. ET; and 
• Sept. 28, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET.

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

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Wed, 09/25/2024 - 19:35

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Fulda

ST. PAUL – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open Thursday, September 26, 2024, in Fulda to help residents kickstart their recovery after the severe storms and flooding of June 16 – July 4, 2024. 

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Minnesota 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.

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

Murray County: Fulda Senior Center 107 N. Lafayette Ave., Fulda, MN 56131 Hours: Mon. – Fri. 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Closed Sundays.

Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App on your phone, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

The deadline to apply with FEMA is October 27, 2024. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797. 

kimberly.keblish Wed, 09/25/2024 - 18:36

Lumen Field to Become a Mission Ready Venue

BOTHELL, Wash – Stadiums and venues provide a central and accessible location to help communities respond to extreme weather crises, providing safe storage and shelter in times of need. With these events becoming more frequent, severe, and expensive, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier today announced that Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington, home of the Seahawks, will be among the first NFL venues to be designated as a Mission Ready Venue that can be used during response and recovery missions. Through Mission Ready Venues, a public-private partnership, Lumen Field will increase its capabilities to better sustain public safety and be a source of support for the community they serve. The designation identifies the ways Lumen Field could be used for response and recovery activities during declared emergencies or disasters.

“The Seahawks and Lumen Field are proud to be one of the first NFL stadiums to be designated a Mission Ready Venue,” said Zach Hensley, Seattle Seahawks Vice President of Operations and General Manager of Lumen Field. “A commitment to community is fundamental to our organization, and the unique attributes that allow us to host more than two million guests each year can be an invaluable resource to the larger Pacific Northwest region in times of need.”

“During large-scale emergencies, like the COVID-19 pandemic, hurricanes, or tornados, we’ve seen how large music, sports and entertainment venues can serve as a safe space for communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This new strategy we’re launching with the NFL is a groundbreaking opportunity to help our partners use these venues for emergency response and recovery needs, while keeping communities safe and making them more resilient. While we are starting with the NFL, all venues across sports organizations and leagues can become assets to their communities, and I encourage them to join in this collaborative effort as we grapple with the impacts of the climate crisis.”

“I’m pleased to have Lumen Field designated as a Mission Ready Venue,” said FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn. “In a time of crisis, it’s important that we all work together and look at all options to support disaster survivors. Lumen Field is well-known in our community as a place to congregate for Seahawks games and other community events. When a large disaster strikes, it’s great to know that Lumen Field can play a pivotal role in helping our community.” 

“Stadiums are valuable community assets that are often used in times of disasters,” said NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier. “This designation reflects the role that many stadiums play, not only on Sundays, but especially in times of need. We are proud to work with FEMA and first responders at the local and state level to ensure disaster response agencies have the information and tools they need to help a community recover when disaster strikes.” 

According to the NYU School of Professional Studies and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, stadiums and arenas can improve the public health and well-being of their communities —including pandemic response during COVID-19. 

“Seattle is proud that Lumen Field is designated as a disaster response and recovery venue,” said Curry Mayer, Director, Seattle Office of Emergency Management. “Lumen Field was successfully used as a mass vaccination site during the COVID pandemic. Lumen has all the amenities needed to serve the public and is easily accessible for Seattle’s communities.”

Given the size, capabilities, and locations of large sports venues, these existing community assets can serve the public in a variety of ways including emergency shelters, staging areas, commodity distribution sites, evacuation pick up points, disaster recovery centers, mass vaccination and testing, temporary hospitals and more. FEMA and the NFL recognized this unique opportunity for collaboration and are enlisting the support of venue owners, operators, and the tenants of these facilities to work with government officials in the planning and preparation for emergency or disaster response and recovery efforts.  To receive an official Mission Ready Venue designation, venues must undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine what capabilities the venue may be able to support in emergency and disaster response and recovery efforts. The designation highlights the following attributes of selected venues: 

• Provide Safety and Security: Stadiums are usually centrally located, close to major roadways and transportation hubs, and critical services like hospitals. If used to respond to a disaster, the designation will save valuable time and resources and will further enhance coordination between the public and private sectors during disaster response and recovery. 
• Provide Accessibility: Stadiums are also compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act and can support persons with disabilities and others with access or functional needs. Additionally, 73% of NFL venues are accessible by mass transportation. This provides an avenue to promote equitable service to underserved populations to access potentially critical lifesaving/life sustaining services after an event. 
• Strengthen Community Resilience: Stadiums and arenas are a focal point of communities and help strengthen social networks by enhancing connections between residents with home team pride. These Mission Ready Venues can boost morale amidst disaster. By providing a more robust and resilient environment, these venues can enhance social networks amongst survivors while providing ample opportunities to establish connections with the venue’s main tenants.
• Ensure Unity of Effort: Coordination of stadium resources and services can support survivors and responders and help stabilize an incident quickly. Since stadiums are fixed locations, resources and services can be deployed quickly. This promotes the community’s physical and economic recovery.

Mission Ready Venue designations are for five-year increments with a yearly check-in to ensure continued readiness of the venue. Redesignation will be necessary every five years and designation does not supersede any agreements with state, local or private sector entities. 

###

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.

 

natalie.shaver Wed, 09/25/2024 - 17:54

Biden-Harris Administration Makes Emergency Federal Assistance Available to Florida, FEMA Urges Gulf Coast Residents and Visitors to Rush to Complete Preparation

WASHINGTON -- In advance of Hurricane Helene’s landfall in Florida, the Biden-Harris Administration approved a pre-landfall emergency declaration for Florida. This declaration enables FEMA to provide federal resources to the state for emergency protective measures and aid initial response and recovery efforts. FEMA urges people to take this storm seriously as it is expected to bring life-threating storm surge and hurricane conditions to Florida and the risk for dangerous flash and urban flooding to Alabama and Georgia. Now is the time for people to activate their hurricane plans and prepare for the storm’s effects. 

The National Hurricane Center forecasts Helene is likely to bring heavy rain, life-threatening storm surge, hurricane force winds and flash and urban flooding to affected areas starting Thursday. Due to the large size of this system, storm surge, wind and rainfall impacts will extend well away from the storm’s center. The storm will move quickly once it makes landfall and will likely result in strong winds and heavy rain over parts of the southeastern United States. Tornadoes may occur over parts of the western Florida peninsula and southern Alabama. The risk of tornadoes will increase on Thursday, expanding across Florida and into parts of Georgia and South Carolina.

FEMA, its federal partners and partner organizations are actively coordinating response efforts across Florida. FEMA’s National and Regional Response Coordination Centers are activated to support state requests for assistance. Urban Search and Rescue teams, Health and Medical teams including medical support for patient evacuation and communication assets are prepared to respond as needed. FEMA has pre-positioned Incident Management Assistance Teams and commodities including water, meals, generators, and other critical items in regional distribution centers.

FEMA is also closely coordinating with Alabama, Georgia and North Carolina and stands ready to provide support as needed.

NOW is the time to finish preparations: Today is the day to prepare for this storm. Take action immediately to protect yourself, your family, your pets and your home. Finish gathering any supplies like food, water, medication, flashlights and food for your pets now. Include cash in your emergency kit, as ATMs may not work after the storm. You can find hurricane preparedness information on Ready.gov and Listo.gov in Spanish language. 

Be in the know about your evacuation route. Several counties in Florida issued mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders. Visit Evacuation Orders | Florida Disaster to see the full list. People in Florida, Alabama and Georgia should be prepared to evacuate quickly if they are in the path of this storm and are told to do so. Act now by learning your evacuation routes and identify where you will stay. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case you need to evacuate and that they are familiar with your family’s emergency plan. Learn more about how to evacuate safely on Ready.gov/evacuation and Evacuación | Listo.gov in Spanish language.  

Have several ways to receive alerts. People in areas along Florida’s Panhandle, west coast and into Alabama and Georgia should follow the forecast carefully and instructions of state and local officials by monitoring local radio or television stations for updated emergency information. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up. You can also download the free FEMA App available in English and Spanish to receive real-time weather alerts and find local emergency shelters in your area. 

Listen to officials. Stay off the roads if told to do so. Evacuate if told to do so. If you did not evacuate, find a safe location to ride out the storm, such as a designated storm shelter or interior room for high winds. Go to the highest level of the building if you are trapped by flooding. Avoid enclosed areas, such as an attic. You may become trapped by rising flood water. This storm may produce tornadoes. If you are under a tornado warning, go to a safe shelter immediately, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.

Your neighbors are your lifeline. Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need to ride out the storm. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.  

Have a plan. Consider your family’s unique needs, including anyone who needs medicine or medical equipment. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if you aren’t together when a severe storm hits. Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov in Spanish language for more information on how to stay safe before, during and after severe weather. 

Power outage and generator safety. If you lose power, use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. If using a generator, remember to always use them outdoors and keep it at least 20 feet from doors and windows. Additionally, make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture and put up hurricane shutters if you have them.

Do not focus on the exact track of the hurricane. Hurricanes are immense systems and changes in size, intensity, speed and direction can change quickly. Additionally, areas far from the storm’s center can experience effects such as flooding, storm surge and heavy winds. 

Keep important documents safe. Save copies of birth certificates, passports, medical records and insurance papers in a safe, dry place. Keep important documents in a waterproof container and create password-protected digital copies. Take photos or videos of your belongings and property on your phone or upload them to the internet. Move valuables like photo albums, heirlooms and other treasured items to higher levels.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/25/2024 - 17:34

Acrisure Stadium to Become a Mission Ready Venue

Serving as a Vital Location During Disasters and Part of the NFL and FEMA’s National Strategy to Make Venues Mission Capable During Disasters

PENNSYLVANIA — Stadiums and venues provide a central and accessible location to help communities respond to extreme weather crises, providing safe storage and shelter in times of need. With these events becoming more frequent, severe, and expensive, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier today announced that Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers and University of Pittsburgh Panthers football, and a venue for touring concerts and events, will be among the first NFL venues to be designated as a Mission Ready Venue that can be used during response and recovery missions. Through Mission Ready Venues, a public-private partnership, Acrisure Stadium will increase its capabilities to better sustain public safety and be a source of support for the southwestern Pennsylvania community. The designation identifies the ways Acrisure Stadium could be used for response and recovery activities during declared emergencies or disasters.

“We’re honored that Acrisure Stadium is among the first four NFL stadiums selected for Mission Ready Venue designation,” said James V. Sacco, Vice President of Stadium Operations & Management for Acrisure Stadium. Working collaboratively with the facility owner – the Sports and Exhibition Authority – this designation positions the stadium to partner seamlessly with local, state and federal government officials to serve the Pittsburgh community in a time of crisis or disaster. 

During large-scale emergencies, like the COVID-19 pandemic, hurricanes, or tornadoes, we’ve seen how large music, sports and entertainment venues can serve as a safe space for communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This new strategy we’re launching with the NFL is a groundbreaking opportunity to help our partners use these venues for emergency response and recovery needs, while keeping communities safe and making them more resilient. While we are starting with the NFL, all venues across sports organizations and leagues can become assets to their communities, and I encourage them to join in this collaborative effort as we grapple with the impacts of the climate crisis.”

“Stadiums are valuable community assets that are often used in times of disasters,” said NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier. “This designation reflects the role that many stadiums play, not only on Sundays, but especially in times of need. We are proud to work with FEMA and first responders at the local and state level to ensure disaster response agencies have the information and tools they need to help a community recover when disaster strikes.” 

According to the NYU School of Professional Studies and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, stadiums and arenas can improve the public health and well-being of their communities —including pandemic response during COVID-19. 

“Identifying facilities in the community that can be used to support emergency management functions before a disaster or emergency occurs is critically important to ensuring an effective response and recovery,” said Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) Director Randy Padfield. “The private sector has always been a committed partner and their willingness to participate in programs like this strengthens planning efforts at the local, state and federal level.”

Given the size, capabilities, and locations of large sports venues, these existing community assets can serve the public in a variety of ways including emergency shelters, staging areas, commodity distribution sites, evacuation pick up points, disaster recovery centers, mass vaccination and testing, temporary hospitals and more. FEMA and the NFL recognized this unique opportunity for collaboration and are enlisting the support of venue owners, operators, and the tenants of these facilities to work with government officials in the planning and preparation for emergency or disaster response and recovery efforts. To receive an official Mission Ready Venue designation, venues must undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine what capabilities the venue may be able to support in emergency and disaster response and recovery efforts. The designation highlights the following attributes of selected venues: 

• Provide Safety and Security: Stadiums are usually centrally located, close to major roadways and transportation hubs, and critical services like hospitals. If used to respond to a disaster, the designation will save valuable time and resources and will further enhance coordination between the public and private sectors during disaster response and recovery. 
• Provide Accessibility: Stadiums are also compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act and can support persons with disabilities and others with access or functional needs. Additionally, 73% of NFL venues are accessible by mass transportation. This provides an avenue to promote equitable service to underserved populations to access potentially critical lifesaving/life sustaining services after an event. 
• Strengthen Community Resilience: Stadiums and arenas are a focal point of communities and help strengthen social networks by enhancing connections between residents with home team pride. These Mission Ready Venues can boost morale amidst disaster. By providing a more robust and resilient environment, these venues can enhance social networks amongst survivors while providing ample opportunities to establish connections with the venue’s main tenants.
• Ensure Unity of Effort: Coordination of stadium resources and services can support survivors and responders and help stabilize an incident quickly. Since stadiums are fixed locations, resources and services can be deployed quickly. This promotes the community’s physical and economic recovery.

Mission Ready Venue designations are for five-year increments with a yearly check-in to ensure continued readiness of the venue. Redesignation will be necessary every five years and designation does not supersede any agreements with state, local or private sector entities.

 

###

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

erika.osullivan Wed, 09/25/2024 - 16:59

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Potter County, Pa.

HARRISBURG, Pa. – A new Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening at 8 a.m. tomorrow at the Penn-York Retreat Center in Potter County. Beginning tomorrow, survivors will be able to visit DRCs in all four disaster-designated counties in Pennsylvania: Lycoming, Potter, Tioga and Union counties. 

The following is a list of all current DRCs in Pennsylvania. Disaster survivors residing in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga, and Union counties can visit any DRC to receive assistance.

 

Disaster Recovery Center locations and addresses Hours of Operation  

Lycoming County 

Hepburn Township Volunteer Fire Company

615 East Route 973 Highway 

Cogan Station, PA 17728

Monday – Saturday 

8 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

Sept. 25 hours: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Resuming normal hours on Sept. 26

Potter County 

Penn-York Retreat Center 

266 Northern Potter Road 

Ulysses, PA 16948

Monday – Saturday 

8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Opening Sept. 26 at 8 a.m.

 

Tioga County 

Knoxville Community Center 

301 W. Main Street

Knoxville, PA 16928

Monday – Saturday 

8 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

 

Union County 

Union County Resource Center

480 Hafer Road

Lewisburg, PA 17837

Monday – Saturday 

8 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

 

 

Tropical Storm Debby survivors can visit a DRC to: 

• Start an application for FEMA assistance. 
• Get help understanding FEMA decision or request for information letters.
• Check the status of your FEMA application.
• Meet with Commonwealth of Pennsylvania agencies.
• Get referrals to non-profits that offer additional help. 
• Meet with a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) representative.

 

Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a DRC, call 800-621- FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. In addition to applying by phone and in person at a DRC, you can also register for FEMA assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

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

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

 

erika.osullivan Wed, 09/25/2024 - 15:22

Damaged Wells, Furnaces, Private Roads and Bridges, and Septic Systems May Be Covered by FEMA

Sept. 25, 2024
DR-4787-WV NR-012
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News release

Damaged Wells, Furnaces, Private Roads and Bridges, and Septic Systems May Be Covered by FEMA

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Homeowners typically apply for disaster assistance for structural damages to their property, such as roofs or floors. But other parts of a residence or private property, not covered by insurance, can also be repaired or replaced under FEMA programs.

Damages to your furnace, septic system, private road and/or bridge, or your private well may also be covered by financial assistance from FEMA. 

Residents of Boone, Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel and Wood counties whose primary residences were damaged during the April 11-12, severe storms and flooding may be eligible to apply. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Nov. 2.

FEMA disaster assistance may provide reimbursement for the cost of a professional and licensed technician’s estimate of the repair or replacement of these items. You may also receive assistance for the actual repair or replacement of these items not typically covered by homeowner’s insurance.

When applying for assistance, be sure to include damages to furnaces, septic systems, private roads, private bridges, or private wells on your form. 

There are four ways to apply:

• Apply in person at one of our Disaster Recovery Centers in Boone and Roane counties
  • The centers are located at:

Boone County Disaster Recovery Center

Madison City Hall

255 Washington Ave.

Madison, WV 25130

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

Roane County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Old National Guard Armory Parking Lot

206 E Main St.

Spencer, WV 25276

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Sundays

• Visit fema.gov/drc to find the center nearest you
• Apply by phone at 800-621-3362
• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Apply with the FEMA App
• Download the free FEMA mobile app, available at Google Play or the Apple App Store

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

In addition to damage to your home, damages to your furnace, wells, septic system or private bridge may also be eligible for assistance from FEMA.  (Philip Maramba/FEMA)

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

issa.mansaray Wed, 09/25/2024 - 15:06

NFL and FEMA Launch National Strategy to Build Resilience in Communities, Designate Venues as Mission Ready Locations During Disasters

WASHINGTON -- Stadiums and venues provide a central and accessible location to help communities respond to extreme weather crises, providing safe storage and shelter in times of need. With these events becoming more frequent, severe and expensive, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier today announced that FEMA and the NFL are launching a new strategy to build resilience in communities through a program that will designate NFL stadiums and fields as mission capable venues that can be used during response and recovery missions. Through Mission Ready Venues, a public-private partnership, NFL stadiums are recognized for their capabilities to better sustain public safety and be a source of support for the communities they serve. The designation identifies the ways the stadium or venue could be used for response and recovery activities during declared emergencies or disasters. 

“During large-scale emergencies, like the COVID-19 pandemic, hurricanes, or tornados, we’ve seen how large music, sports and entertainment venues can serve as a safe space for communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This new strategy we’re launching with the NFL is a groundbreaking opportunity to help our partners use these venues for emergency response and recovery needs, while keeping communities safe and making them more resilient. While we are starting with the NFL, all venues across sports organizations and leagues can become assets to their communities, and I encourage them to join in this collaborative effort as we grapple with the impacts of the climate crisis.”

“Stadiums are valuable community assets that are often used in times of disasters,” said NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier. “This designation reflects the role that many stadiums play, not only on Sundays, but especially in times of need. We are proud to work with FEMA and first responders at the local and state level to ensure disaster response agencies have the information and tools they need to help a community recover when disaster strikes.”

According to the NYU School of Professional Studies and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, stadiums and arenas can improve the public health and well-being of their communities—including pandemic response during COVID-19. The initial stadiums to receive designations include MetLife, home of the Jets and the Giants in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Lumen Field, home of the Seahawks in Seattle, Washington, Acrisure Stadium, home of the Steelers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Raymond James Stadium, home of the Buccaneers in Tampa, Florida. SoFi Stadium, home of the Rams and the Chargers in Los Angeles, California is under review. 

Given the size, capabilities and locations of large sports venues, these existing community assets can serve the public in a variety of ways including emergency shelters, staging areas, commodity distribution sites, evacuation pick up points, disaster recovery centers, mass vaccination and testing, temporary hospitals and more. FEMA and the NFL recognized this unique opportunity for collaboration and are enlisting the support of venue owners, operators and the tenants of these facilities to work with government officials in the planning and preparation for emergency or disaster response and recovery efforts. To receive an official Mission Ready Venue designation, venues must undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine what capabilities the venue may be able to support in emergency and disaster response and recovery efforts. The designation highlights the following attributes of selected venues:

• Provide Safety and Security: Stadiums are usually centrally located, close to major roadways and transportation hubs and critical services like hospitals. If used to respond to a disaster, the designation will save valuable time and resources and will further enhance coordination between the public and private sectors during disaster response and recovery.
• Provide Accessibility: Stadiums are also compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act and can support persons with disabilities and others with access or functional needs. Additionally, 73% of NFL venues are accessible by mass transportation. This provides an avenue to promote equitable service to underserved populations to access potentially critical lifesaving/life-sustaining services after an event.  
• Strengthen Community Resilience: Stadiums and arenas are a focal point of communities and help strengthen social networks by enhancing connections between residents with home team pride. These Mission Ready Venues can boost morale amidst disaster. By providing a more robust and resilient environment, these venues can enhance social networks amongst survivors while providing ample opportunities to establish connections with the venue’s main tenants.
• Ensure Unity of Effort: Coordination of stadium resources and services can support survivors and responders and help stabilize an incident quickly. Since stadiums are fixed locations, resources and services can be deployed quickly. This promotes the community’s physical and economic recovery.

Mission Ready Venue designations are for five-year increments with a yearly check-in to ensure continued readiness of the venue. Redesignation will be necessary every five years and designation does not supersede any agreements with state, local or private sector entities. 

amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/25/2024 - 15:01

MetLife Stadium to Become a Mission Ready Venue, Serving as a Vital Location During Disasters and Part of NFL and FEMA’s National Strategy to Make Venues Mission Capable During Disasters

New Jersey – Stadiums and venues provide a central and accessible location to help communities respond to extreme weather crises, providing safe storage and shelter in times of need. With these events becoming more frequent, severe, and expensive, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier today announced that MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, home of the New York Jets and New York Giants, will be among the first NFL venues to be designated as a Mission Ready Venue that can be used during response and recovery missions. Through Mission Ready Venues, a public-private partnership, MetLife Stadium will increase its capabilities to better sustain public safety and be a source of support for the community they serve. The designation identifies the ways MetLife Stadium could be used for response and recovery activities during declared emergencies or disasters.

“We are honored that MetLife Stadium is one of the first NFL venues designated as a Mission Ready Venue,” said MetLife Stadium President and CEO Ron VanDeVeen. “The stadium will serve as a staging area and safe space that will offer critical support and comfort to our community in the event of a crisis.” 

“During large-scale emergencies, like the COVID-19 pandemic, hurricanes, or tornados, we’ve seen how large music, sports and entertainment venues can serve as a safe space for communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This new strategy we’re launching with the NFL is a groundbreaking opportunity to help our partners use these venues for emergency response and recovery needs, while keeping communities safe and making them more resilient. While we are starting with the NFL, all venues across sports organizations and leagues can become assets to their communities, and I encourage them to join in this collaborative effort as we grapple with the impacts of the climate crisis.”

“Public-private partnerships are essential to helping communities during the response and recovery phases of a disaster,” said FEMA Region 2 Administrator David Warrington. “Establishing relationships of this type will not only enhance our nation’s resilience toward the disasters we face today but will be critical in shaping tomorrow due to the ever-changing landscape of emergency management. This collaborative effort with the NFL is a true reflection of whole-community engagement and I welcome the opportunities it will bring.”

“Stadiums are valuable community assets that are often used in times of disasters,” said NFL Chief Security Officer Cathy Lanier. “This designation reflects the role that many stadiums play, not only on Sundays, but especially in times of need. We are proud to work with FEMA and first responders at the local and state level to ensure disaster response agencies have the information and tools they need to help a community recover when disaster strikes.” 

According to the NYU School of Professional Studies and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, stadiums and arenas can improve the public health and well-being of their communities —including pandemic response during COVID-19. 

“Collaborating with our Federal counterparts and the NFL to designate MetLife Stadium as a mission-ready venue for disasters highlights a critical step in strengthening our state’s emergency preparedness,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police and State Director of Emergency Management. “In times of crisis, every second counts. This partnership ensures we have a strategically located, fully equipped facility capable of supporting large-scale emergency operations, allowing us to respond swiftly and effectively to protect the lives and well-being of New Jersey’s residents.”

Given the size, capabilities, and locations of large sports venues, these existing community assets can serve the public in a variety of ways including emergency shelters, staging areas, commodity distribution sites, evacuation pick up points, disaster recovery centers, mass vaccination and testing, temporary hospitals and more. FEMA and the NFL recognized this unique opportunity for collaboration and are enlisting the support of venue owners, operators, and the tenants of these facilities to work with government officials in the planning and preparation for emergency or disaster response and recovery efforts.  To receive an official Mission Ready Venue designation, venues must undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine what capabilities the venue may be able to support in emergency and disaster response and recovery efforts. The designation highlights the following attributes of selected venues: 

• Provide Safety and Security: Stadiums are usually centrally located, close to major roadways and transportation hubs, and critical services like hospitals. If used to respond to a disaster, the designation will save valuable time and resources and will further enhance coordination between the public and private sectors during disaster response and recovery. 
• Provide Accessibility: Stadiums are also compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act and can support persons with disabilities and others with access or functional needs. Additionally, 73% of NFL venues are accessible by mass transportation. This provides an avenue to promote equitable service to underserved populations to access potentially critical lifesaving/life sustaining services after an event.  
• Strengthen Community Resilience: Stadiums and arenas are a focal point of communities and help strengthen social networks by enhancing connections between residents with home team pride. These Mission Ready Venues can boost morale amidst disaster. By providing a more robust and resilient environment, these venues can enhance social networks amongst survivors while providing ample opportunities to establish connections with the venue’s main tenants.
• Ensure Unity of Effort: Coordination of stadium resources and services can support survivors and responders and help stabilize an incident quickly. Since stadiums are fixed locations, resources and services can be deployed quickly. This promotes the community’s physical and economic recovery.

Mission Ready Venue designations are for five-year increments with a yearly check-in to ensure continued readiness of the venue. Redesignation will be necessary every five years and designation does not supersede any agreements with state, local or private sector entities.

kate.macedo Wed, 09/25/2024 - 13:08

FEMA Releases New Resources to Help Communities Prioritize Inflation Reduction Act Projects, Implement Low-Carbon and Net-Zero Energy Solutions to Promote National Resilience

WASHINGTON -- During Climate Week NYC, FEMA held the Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Building a More Sustainable Future Summit with public, private and academic partners to discuss and examine resilient infrastructure challenges and innovative solutions to address the impacts of climate change. 

During the event, the agency released new resource documents to provide comprehensive guidance on how communities can incorporate low-carbon and net-zero energy practices into FEMA-funded projects. These efforts support the agency’s strategic goal of leading the whole community in climate resilience.

“Investing in local infrastructure means putting aside money today to secure a brighter, more resilient tomorrow. Yet, many state, local, territorial governments and Tribal Nations lack the resources, time or expertise to identify financing mechanisms to invest in climate resilience,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “This new report serves as a critical resource to help communities invest in climate resilience, by identifying examples of how partnerships with the private sector can help break the cycle of response, recovery—rinse and repeat.”

The Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act allows FEMA to provide financial assistance for costs associated with low-carbon construction materials and incentives that encourage low-carbon and net-zero energy projects. Signed by President Joseph R. Biden in 2022, the act marked a historic commitment to build a new clean energy economy and tackle the climate crisis. 

It is crucial for communities to build infrastructure that is not only resilient but also sustainable. FEMA released three new resources. These include: 1) the Low-Carbon and Net-Zero Energy Overview for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Assistance; 2) the FEMA Fact Sheet on Low-Carbon Materials Projects, and 3) FEMA Fact Sheet on Net-Zero Energy Projects. 

Resource Highlights

• Detailed Guidance: The documents offer in-depth information on the use of low-carbon materials like concrete, asphalt, steel and glass as well as the implementation of net-zero energy practices.
• Eligibility and Reimbursement: Applicants can qualify for and receive reimbursement for costs associated with these sustainable practices.
• Real-World Examples: A roadmap of practical examples of successful projects that have utilized low-carbon materials or net-zero energy is included.

FEMA may fund costs associated with low-carbon materials, even when the costs are higher than those for conventional materials, to help cut carbon pollution and build back cleaner and more resilient. These clean, climate-resilient considerations apply to five FEMA grant programs. These programs include the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, HMGP Post Fire, Pre-Disaster Mitigation, Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities and Public Assistance. 

For more information, please visit FEMA.gov.

erika.suzuki Wed, 09/25/2024 - 00:16

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Lafourche Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA and the State of Louisiana will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Raceland on Wednesday, Sept. 25 to provide one-on-one help to Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Francine. 

Center location:

Lafourche Parish

Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center

4876 Hwy. 1

Raceland, LA 70394

Additional DRCs are open at the following locations: 

St. Mary Parish

Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
728 Myrtle Street
Morgan City, LA 70380

Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Dr.

Houma, LA 70360

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/.

.facebook.com/FEMARegion6/

alexa.brown Tue, 09/24/2024 - 22:17

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Florida

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Florida to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Helene beginning Sept. 23 and continuing. 

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. 

Federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support. That assistance is available for Bay, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Monroe, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties.

Federal funding is also available to provide emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance for Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Escambia, Hamilton, Holmes, Marion, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Sumter, Union, Walton and Washington counties.

John E. Brogan has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. 

erika.suzuki Tue, 09/24/2024 - 21:55

May 21-27 Severe Weather: Federal Assistance Tops $3M in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky.– To date, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration have approved more than $3 million for Kentuckians affected by May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides.

As of Sept. 22, FEMA has approved $2,634,757 for 1,445 individuals and households. This includes:

• More than $1,714,675 in Housing Assistance.
• More than $920,082 in Other Needs Assistance.

The U.S. Small Business Administration provides low-interest disaster loans to small-businesses, households and renters throughout the disaster affected area. To date, the SBA has disbursed $382,900 in disaster loans for 17 homeowners, renters and businesses.

FEMA continues to work with Kentucky Emergency Management and Commonwealth partners to support Kentucky recovery. At its peak, FEMA had 320 federal personnel on the ground assisting with recovery.

During the application period, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams spoke with approximately 2,800 households, providing face-to-face assistance to affected Kentuckians. They also contacted more than 800 faith-based, community-based and private sector organizations.

To ensure applicants received all of the assistance they were eligible for, FEMA called disaster survivors and vulnerable populations. Through this outreach, FEMA was able to approve an additional $235,471 for 93 households and renters. 

FEMA encourages survivors to keep in touch. Help is still available, even though the deadline to apply has passed. Survivors are encouraged to notify the agency of changes to their mailing address, email address or phone number and report insurance settlements or additional damage they may have discovered since their home inspection.

Kentuckians can also get help with a pending application or appeal the following ways:

• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
• Logging into their account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Using the FEMA Mobile App.

Over the last two months, FEMA operated 15 Disaster Recovery Centers and Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers to help Kentuckians through the disaster assistance application process. These centers helped 1107 Kentucky survivors with applications, appeals and disaster related questions.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA at x.com/femaregion4 and facebook.com/fema. 

sandra.habib Tue, 09/24/2024 - 19:52