Disaster Recovery Centers in Pottawattamie and Woodbury Counties to Close Permanently September 21

 

DES MOINES, Iowa — Disaster Recovery Centers in Pottawattamie and Woodbury Counties will close permanently Saturday, September 21 at 6 p.m.

 

They are located at:

Pottawattamie County

Charles Lakin Human Services Campus

(North Parking Lot)

815 N 16th St,

Council Bluffs, IA 51501

 

Woodbury County

Morningside Lutheran Church

700 S Martha St.

Sioux City, IA 51106

 

 

If you want to check on your application status or need to register for Disaster Assistance; you may do so in one of the following ways:

 

§  Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov

§  Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)

§  Downloading and using the FEMA app

Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

martyce.allenjr Wed, 09/18/2024 - 18:54

FEMA To Hold 4 More Public Events To Assist Applicants

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky homeowners and renters are invited to meet with FEMA in person. Kentuckians can talk with FEMA experts to ask questions and learn everything they want to know about FEMA assistance. 

FEMA, other federal agencies and local resources will provide one-on-one assistance. Disaster survivors and anyone interested in learning about federal assistance are welcome to visit these public events.

Applicants who want to understand their FEMA letter, to receive help with applications and appeals, and to learn about contract estimations, repairs and new builds are encouraged to get their questions answered at one of the four events.

Pennyrile Area Development Center 300 Hammond Drive, Hopkinsville, KY 42240

Sept. 20, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. CT and Sept. 21, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. CT

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

Dunn Missionary Baptist Church 4855 Charleston Road, Dawson Springs, KY 42408

Oct. 4, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. CT and Oct. 5, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. CT

Muhlenberg County Training Center 61 Career Way, Central City, KY 42330

Oct. 11, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. CT and Oct. 12, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. CT

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

Apply for FEMA Assistance

Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

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

For the latest information 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/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.

sandra.habib Wed, 09/18/2024 - 18:41

Disaster Assistance for Pennsylvania Survivors of Tropical Storm Debby Tops $1 Million

HARRISBURG, Pa. – More than $1 million has been approved for homeowners and renters in Pennsylvania after Tropical Storm Debby from August 9-10, 2024. 

“This milestone highlights the hard work of partners at the local, county, state and federal levels,” said Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Randy Padfield. “We will continue helping individuals get this critical assistance as they continue on their journey of recovery after this devastating flooding.”

 

 

Since the disaster declaration was approved on September 11, FEMA teams have been working hard to reach survivors where they are. “FEMA is committed to communities impacted by Tropical Storm Debby,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Mark O’Hanlon. “I am grateful to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for their continued partnership in our mission to help survivors on their road to recovery.”

Federal disaster assistance is available to residents of four counties: Lycoming, Potter, Tioga and Union. Survivors can apply for assistance is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov or visiting a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC).

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

Survivors do not have to visit a 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.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

 

 

 

Disaster Survivor Assistance teams speaking with a disaster survivor in Tioga County (Photo: Nicholas Monteleone / FEMA) 

 

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

 

###

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).

amanda.hancher Wed, 09/18/2024 - 16:36

Seven Year After María, FEMA Remains Focused on a Recovery that Mitigates Future Hazards

Strategies include a vision of reconstruction with nature-based solutions

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared 2024 as the Year of Resilience to address the need to translate disaster recovery into actions that take into account the effects of climate change.

Seven years after Hurricane María, Puerto Rico has nearly $34 billion in funding from the agency for over 11,000 projects. Of all those projects, 87 percent already have hazard mitigation measures that will specifically help infrastructure throughout the island sustain and reduce damage in the face of future weather events. 

“A large part of the projects that define and guide Puerto Rico’s recovery have already nearly $3.4 billion earmarked exclusively for mitigation. In addition to addressing the risks of future damage, we are also addressing a reconstruction that harmonizes human-made structures with the natural environment that surrounds them,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero. 

Four examples of these works include road infrastructure projects in the municipalities of Peñuelas, San Lorenzo, Yabucoa and Naranjito, which have over $2.2 million for their work.

There is a project in Peñuelas that will soon be published for bidding and that has about $881,000 from FEMA for the reconstruction of municipal roads in the communities of Hacienda Loyola and La Colacha in the Barreal neighborhood. 

As part of the nature-based solutions to mitigate hazards on these roads, infiltration trenches will be installed to allow rainwater to filter into the soil. These trenches help reduce the rate of water discharge to prevent erosion and landslides. To control erosion, geotextile fabric will also be installed. This is a material made of soil that helps with drainage. It also allows plants to take root and strengthens the soil against future rains and runoff. 

Meanwhile, in the Quebrada Arenas sector of the municipality of San Lorenzo, road repairs are already completed after an allocation of over $854,000. Geotextile fabric was also installed over the embankment to address erosion in this work. Additionally, live stakes and cuttings — or deep-rooted grass — were installed, which are carefully selected for their root development and how they stabilize the soil in the long term.

San Lorenzo’s Recovery Office director, Héctor Román, explained that the geography of Quebrada Arenas is characterized by its steep terrain, which requires that the more than 100 families in the area have safe infrastructure to move about their daily tasks. Román said that the use of cuttings and live stakes allows for greater water drainage when it rains without the soil losing sturdiness; and that this has created a sense of security for residents.

Diversifying the variety of species of cutting helps preserve genetic diversity and increase the ecosystem’s resistance to pests and diseases. This is one of many eco-sustainable recommendations that FEMA’s Puerto Rico office has worked with experts and nonprofit organizations to develop into three nature-based solution guides. The guides offer ecological alternatives specific to Puerto Rico and focus on three types of needs: shoreline and dune stabilization and restoration, streambank stabilization, and stormwater management.

“The infrastructure issue and being able to leave and return to their homes safely is something that Quebrada Arenas residents take into account in their daily lives. The municipality is therefore using FEMA funds to repair the infrastructure and improve the quality of life of the neighborhood’s residents,” the municipal official said.

In Yabucoa and with an allocation of about $280,000, the bridge on highway PR-90 was restored. The asphalt, guardrails, embankment and concrete gutters were repaired here, among other work.

As part of the nature-based solutions for mitigation in this project, the pavement was reinforced with geotextile fabric to prevent erosion and a jute mesh was applied. Jute is a plant fiber extracted from the stem and bark of a plant. This material allows time for plants to take root in the soil; live stakes and bunchgrass, known for the firmness and depth of their roots and how they help improve soil and water quality, are used here.

Finally, in Naranjito and with an obligation of over $227,000, a section of the PR-825 was reconstructed in the Los Espinell sector of the Achiote neighborhood. The embankment was also repaired here.

The nature-based solution highlighted for this project is the replacement of standard gabion walls with green gabions. These walls are made with stones; topsoil is added to fill the empty spaces and everything is covered with a coconut fiber blanket. The top of the wall is left open to make room for vegetation, such as grass and vetiver, which will protect the soil from erosion.

Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency, (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “Hurricane María was an event that not only transformed Puerto Rico, but also changed the way the Government and the people prepare for this type of disaster. Given the magnitude of this event, COR3 designed and implemented innovative, unprecedented measures, which received FEMA’s endorsement to address the hurricanes and earthquakes reconstruction process. COR3, which originated as a FEMA requirement, has a comprehensive mission as a liaison agency between municipalities, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. We remain committed to advancing reconstruction in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.”

You can access the video through the following link: Recovery Seven Years After Hurricane Maria.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 09/18/2024 - 16:14

Preliminary Flood Maps for Morris County, Texas, Ready for Public View

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

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

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

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

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

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv 
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal
• The Base Level Engineering-to-FIRM Viewer at https://webapps.usgs.gov/fema/ble_firm

For more information about the flood maps:

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

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

alexa.brown Wed, 09/18/2024 - 15:52

One Month After Vermont Disaster Declaration Over $4 Million Approved for Survivors

From July 9-11, 2024, seven counties in Vermont were hit with severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides. One month later, local, state, and federal support is continuing to help Vermonters move forward in their recovery including funds for home repair, emergency lodging, transportation, and other needs.

On August 20, 2024, President Joseph Biden declared a Major Disaster for the state of Vermont making federal funding available to affected individuals in Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orleans, and Washington counties. Within hours of the declaration, FEMA representatives were interacting with survivors to answer questions and help residents apply for disaster assistance.  

Federal funding was also made available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations in Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, and Washington counties for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities. 

Since the President’s declaration, families, businesses, and communities continue to rebuild with the help of federal assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). FEMA home inspectors have completed 1,245 inspections, moving applicants through their program eligibility review process. So far, $4,656,478.22 has been approved for Individual Assistance for more than 1,458 households. 

Of the total awarded, FEMA has approved $2,701,000.26 to help homeowners and renters with temporary housing and home repairs, including $787,044 to help more than 413 households repair their privately-owned access roads, driveways, or bridges that were damaged by the disaster. FEMA has also provided $1,955,477.96 to help Vermonters replace personal property and with storm-related necessities like childcare, storage, disaster medical and dental expenses, and other disaster-related items, including over $1.7 million in new flexible funding benefits. Flexible funding, introduced under recent reforms to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program, will help survivors pay for essential items like food and baby formula, as well as provide displacement assistance to help with immediate housing needs.

Across the state, SBA has approved over $448,900 in loans to both businesses and homeowners since the start of the declaration. 

“We work with our state and local partners to ensure everyone who is eligible for FEMA assistance receives it in the most equitable manner,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Will Roy. “I thank Governor Phil Scott and Vermont Emergency Management for being excellent partners throughout this process and the FEMA employees deployed to Vermont who are selflessly carrying out our agency’s mission of helping people before, during, and after disasters.” 

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists have reached out to over 12,333 survivors to provide information about registering and have visited over 419 community locations including faith-based organizations and 914 private sector businesses. 

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) have seen 755 individuals and have taken 360 registrations. DRCs are a great opportunity for individuals to meet with FEMA specialists for in-person one-on-one support. Five DRCs – in Barre, Hinesburg, Island Pond, Lyndonville, and Waterbury – are currently open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

You do not need an appointment to visit a DRC.

FEMA specialists and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which can provide low-interest disaster loans to survivors, will be on hand to discuss available assistance. 

Those affected by the disaster do not have to visit a DRC in order to apply. Survivors can also register in one of the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. The FEMA website is accessible and includes language translation options. 
• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
• Download FEMA’s Mobile App. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 1-833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

adrien.urbani Wed, 09/18/2024 - 14:00

FEMA Assistance Won’t Affect Other Federal Benefits

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – If you live in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, or Union counties and you had loss or damage from the severe storms and flooding that occurred June 16 – July 8, you may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA assistance is not taxable. Applying for disaster assistance will not affect other federal benefits you may receive. 

Accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), Child Care Assistance, or other federal or state benefit programs.

Disaster funds help survivors pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property replacement, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is October 15, 2024.

1. How to Apply with FEMA

• 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. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

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

Disaster recovery 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.

# # #

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

tiana.suber Wed, 09/18/2024 - 13:29

Biden-Harris Administration and FEMA Selects La Jolla Band of the Luiseño Indians

OAKLAND, Calif. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and Robert J. Fenton today announced that the La Jolla Band of the Luiseño Indians was one of the selections for a combined $150 million in capitalization grants to help communities reduce vulnerability to natural hazards.

Funding through the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program will provide $5.1 million to La Jolla Band of the Luiseño Indians to administer a revolving loan fund that will help governments carry out hazard mitigation projects and build community climate resilience. Through this program, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, eligible federally recognized tribes can direct loans to authorized tribal organizations and states can direct loans to local governments to mitigate the effects of events like drought, intense heat, wildfires, floods and earthquakes.

"Helping communities invest in resilient infrastructure is the best defense we have as a nation to withstand tomorrow’s hazards," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, the STORM program will provide states with the funding they need to help communities build resilience to protect against future hazards. I encourage more of our state, tribal, and territorial partners to apply for these funds to help keep their communities safe."

The La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians will use this funding to strengthen critical infrastructure and enhance resilience to natural hazards and climate change. Projects will include road hardening, improved flood drainage, and fuel reduction to prevent wildfires. The funding will also support flood control planning, earthquake hazard mitigation, and other initiatives outlined in the Tribal Hazard Mitigation Plan.

The announcement aligns with the 2024 FEMA Year of Resilience theme to build capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.

Today’s funding announcements were made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides $500 million to fund the Safeguarding Tomorrow RLF program through 2026. Applicants have flexibility to use funding for projects to enhance natural hazard resiliency for critical infrastructure such as roads, public housing, water treatment facilities, dams, levees and coastal structures. This includes improving flood control, implementing changes in zoning and land-use planning needed to adapt to a changing climate and enforcing adoption of resilient building codes.

Along with the La Jolla Band of the Luiseño Indians, FEMA selected 11 other applications for a combined total of $150 million in capitalization grants. Selected applicants will use funding to make direct loans to governments and organizations through a revolving fund.

The full list of applicants and amounts selected for this funding cycle are:

District of Columbia: $12 million

Iowa: $17.4 million

La Jolla Band of the Luiseño Indians: $5.1 million

Maryland: $14.2 million

Michigan: $17.4 million

North Dakota: $16.6 million

New Jersey: $15 million

New York: $13.6 million

South Carolina: $9.2 million

Tennessee: $7 million

Virginia: $13.6 million

West Virginia: $9 million

As these loans are paid back to the tribal nations and states, the funding can be used to finance additional mitigation projects, providing a sustainable local source of financing for protecting communities.

This is the second round of Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program selections. In September 2023, FEMA announced seven states, and the District of Columbia received a combined $50 million in capitalization grants. Seven of the selections—the District of Columbia, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina and Virginia—applied in 2023 and submitted applications for the 2024 cycle.

The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program complements FEMA’s hazard mitigation grant portfolio to support mitigation projects at the local government level and increase the nation’s resilience to natural hazards and climate change.

In support of the Justice40 initiative, the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program aims that 40 percent of the overall benefits generated by entity loan funds flow to disadvantaged communities. The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund program encourages applicants to develop revolving loan funds that target these areas. How these goals will be achieved is determined by the applicant.

FEMA encourages applicants to develop revolving loan funds that target low-income geographic areas and underserved communities. Entities selected for awards will use funding based on their unique needs and priorities to become more resilient to natural hazards.

The agency will continue to offer technical assistance through webinars, office hours, on-demand videos and program support materials that are publicly available to assist and encourage existing and future applicants to participate and make use of this innovative program.

 

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.

brandi.richard… Wed, 09/18/2024 - 00:28

Disaster Recovery Center in Lycoming County, Pa. will open Sept. 18

HARRISBURG, Pa. – A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open in Lycoming County at the Hepburn Township Volunteer Fire Company located at 615 State Route 973 East in Cogan Station on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024. Disaster survivors residing in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga, and Union counties can visit any DRC to receive assistance. 

The center is located at:

Lycoming County 

Hepburn Township Volunteer Fire Company 

615 State Route 973 East 

Cogan Station, PA 17728

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.*

Closed on Sunday

*The DRC will not open on Saturday, Sept. 21, Saturday Oct. 19, and Tuesday, Nov. 5 when the DRC will be temporarily closed. On Wednesday, Sept. 25 the DRC open at 12:00 p.m. due to previously scheduled activities. 

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

Survivors do not have to visit a 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.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps.  DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

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

###

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).

melissa.wiehenstroer Tue, 09/17/2024 - 22:01

FEMA to Host Housing and Preparedness Summit

MADISON, Miss. — FEMA will host a free housing and preparedness summit to help community members that were affected by the March 2023 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes on Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Mississippi Christian Family Services, 394 Pine St., Rolling Fork, Mississippi. 

During the summit, survivors will get help with homeownership and housing information; home loan applications; credit repair; homelessness prevention; and foreclosure prevention. 

“The summit will be a great opportunity for community members to meet with FEMA and other agencies who can assist them with their long-term recovery efforts,” said Gloria Lewis, FEMA federal disaster recovery officer.

Other summit highlights include safety preparedness information such as making a plan and what to include in a to-go-bag. 

“We also will be teaching survivors how to document and insure their property; establish a family communications plan; and how to partner with their organizations,” Lewis added.

All are welcome to attend the summit and anyone requiring reasonable accommodations should email gloria.lewis@fema.dhs.gov by Sept. 18. 

For the latest information on the March 2023 recovery, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4@femaregion4.

erika.suzuki Tue, 09/17/2024 - 19:53

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Louisiana After Hurricane Francine

BATON ROUGE, LA.  – Louisiana homeowners and renters in eight parishes who sustained losses caused by Hurricane Francine 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. Financial assistance is available to eligible homeowners and renters in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes.

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

New Benefits Available

• Serious Needs Assistance: A one-time $750 payment per household to help pay for essential 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 Assistance: Money to help with immediate 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 for other options while you look for temporary housing.

Serious Needs Assistance and Displacement Assistance are both funded after a completed inspection confirms eligibility.

How to Apply to FEMA

Homeowners and renters can apply several ways:

• Go online to disasterassistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 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.

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

Additional Assistance

• Streamlined application process so people can apply to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and FEMA at the same time.
• Support for underinsured people to help cover some home repair costs that insurance companies won’t pay for but which the homeowner can’t afford.
• Help for self-employed people to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment.
• Expanded help to make homes safer after a disaster.
• Help making a home more accessible for people with disabilities.
• Streamlined process for people who need to extend temporary housing assistance.
• Simplified process for appeal of FEMA’s decision, eliminating the need for a signed letter.
• Help for people who need to repair or replace a disaster-damaged computer.

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, 09/17/2024 - 19:04

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $205 Million to Help Communities Address Impacts from Growing Flooding Threats

WASHINGTON -- As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing efforts to reduce flooding impacts, FEMA today announced that 12 states and one territory are eligible for up to $205 million in funding to reduce flood risks. The funding is available through the Fiscal Year 2024 Swift Current funding opportunity, totaling $300 million, made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“Swift Current expedites funding to help communities build resilience against future flooding events,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The current application period is under-way and states and a territory who have experienced recent flooding disasters have already been approved. I look forward to working with our state, territorial, and tribal partners to leverage this critical federal funding to help flood-prone communities rebuild faster and more resilient.”

Dedicated funding is distributed on a rolling basis to state, local, territorial and Tribal governments for projects after presidentially declared flood events. Eligible projects include property acquisition, demolition, elevation and relocation for buildings insured through the National Flood Insurance Program.

The amounts below have been set-aside to the following states and territory:

• Florida, $40 million
• Hawaii, $10 million
• Iowa, $20 million
• Minnesota, $10 million
• Mississippi, $10 million
• Missouri, $10 million
• Nebraska, $10 million
• New Hampshire, $20 million
• Puerto Rico, $5 million
• South Dakota, $10 million
• Tennessee, $10 million
• Texas, $40 million
• Vermont, $10 million

FEMA will distribute funding on a rolling basis as eligible applicants submit applications until the total available funding amount of $300 million is exhausted. These are the first activations for this funding cycle which closes in late-May 2025.

This is the third round of Swift Current funding. This announcement complements 22 applicants eligible for the $300 million Fiscal Year 2023 funding opportunity. In the first year of Swift Current, four applicants affected by Hurricane Ida were selected in a $60 million funding opportunity.

To strengthen America’s climate resilience, President Biden secured more than $50 billion for climate resilience and adaptation through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act and established a National Climate Resilience Framework, which is advancing locally-tailored, community-driven climate resilience strategies. The funding announced today comes from the $3.5 billion provided for the Flood Mitigation Assistance program through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Swift Current is designed to get funding distributed as soon as possible after a declared flood-related disaster to help communities implement resilience activities to reduce their flood risk. This funding will support National Flood Insurance Program policyholders who have experienced repetitive or substantial flood-damage to eligible buildings. Each of the states had a presidentially declared major disaster related to flooding since June 2024.

FEMA continues to help build local capacity to withstand future events. The announcement comes during FEMA’s National Resilience Month, which is focused on highlighting significant investments to help states, local and territorial governments and Tribal Nations build resilience. The announcement also aligns with the FEMA 2024 Year of Resilience theme to build local capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.

This announcement advances the President’s Justice40 Initiative, which set a goal to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that have been marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Swift Current provides more equitable access to mitigation grants by increasing the federal cost share for eligible applicants above the standard 75% cost share up to 100% to support disadvantaged communities that often face challenges meeting their non-federal match.

FEMA will work with states, territories the District of Columbia, Tribal Nations and territories to explore their participation during the Fiscal Year 2024 application period. Potential applicants who have questions may contact their FEMA regional office, while interested subapplicants should contact their state or territory hazard mitigation officer.

mashana.davis Tue, 09/17/2024 - 17:57

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Louisiana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Francine from Sept. 9-12, 2024.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes. 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, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes for debris removal and emergency work including direct federal assistance. 

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

Sandra L. Eslinger 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 Tue, 09/17/2024 - 16:24

One Month Later: South Dakota Disaster Recovery Update

SIOUX FALLS, S.D.– In the month since President Biden’s major disaster declaration for South Dakota, federal agencies have approved $10,570,374 in grants and loans to assist in recovery as of September 15, 2024.

To date, a total of 1,162 people in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties have applied with FEMA for assistance. FEMA has approved $6,927,074 through the Individuals and Households program, consisting of $4,683,825 in Housing Assistance for home repairs and rental expenses, and $2,243,249 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 $3,643,300 in low interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance and/or SBA disaster loans is October 15, 2024.

National Flood Insurance Program

The National Flood Insurance Program has provided $4,521,702 on 52 flood insurance claims for the South Dakota disaster as of 9/16/2024.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides assistance to governmental agencies and certain eligible private non-profits providing critical and certain non-critical services. The program has a 75 percent federal cost share.

FEMA and the State of South Dakota received 216 requests for public assistance from local governments, state agencies, and Tribal governments to be reimbursed for costs incurred as a result of the disaster.

FEMA is scheduling meetings with communities to begin the process of documenting eligible damages for reimbursement through FEMA’s Public Assistance program.

Disaster Recovery Centers 

465 applicants have been assisted at Disaster Recovery Centers for a total of 677 visits.

Hours for all Disaster Recovery Centers in South Dakota are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. The Centers are closed on Sundays.

Union County

305 S Derby Lane

North Sioux City, SD 57049

Lincoln County

Canton Depot

600 W. 5th St.

Canton, SD 57013

Turner County (Permanently closing Sept. 20)

Viborg Community Center

101 East Sorenson St. 

Viborg, SD 57070

Dates Open: Now through Sept. 20

Davison County (Permanently closing Sept. 28)

Davison County Fairgrounds

3200 West Havens Ave

Mitchell, SD 57301

Dates Open: Sept. 23 through Sept. 28. Sept. 23 hours begin at 1 p.m.

Assistance for Farmers and Ranchers

Farmers and ranchers who have homes, private wells or septic systems that have been impacted by the disaster should apply for assistance with FEMA.

Farmers and ranchers whose farming operations were impacted by this summer’s disaster should contact their local Farm Service Agency office for information on potential assistance through U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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. 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.

# # #

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

jamie.casterton Mon, 09/16/2024 - 20:48

Flood Insurance an Important Resource for Floridians

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Flooding can happen anywhere, often to the surprise of residents who thought they were covered for disasters. When flooding happens, the damage is not covered by most homeowners' insurance policies. One inch of floodwater can cause more than $25,000 of damage in a home. 

Property owners can protect themselves from financial losses by having a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Flood insurance coverage is available regardless of federal disaster declarations. Insurance for contents is also available to homeowners and renters. There is a 30-day waiting period before new policies go into effect, an important consideration during hurricane season. 

Coverage is available for residential and commercial buildings and contents: 

• Up to $250,000 for structure damage and $100,000 for contents damage. 
• Up to $500,000 for the building and $500,000 for the building contents. 
•  Up to $100,000 for contents-only coverage. 

Since 1978, 361,000 NFIP claims totaling $10 billion have been paid to Florida policyholders. Currently, 1.1 million policyholders in Florida hold $321 billion in coverage. But many Floridians have no flood coverage. 

Residents can purchase a flood insurance policy if their community participates in the NFIP, no matter their flood risk. Even in areas that are not flood-prone, insurance is a good idea. More than 30 percent of flood claims come from people who live outside of high-risk flood zones. NFIP insurance is available to anyone living in one of 23,000 participating communities.

How to buy: 

Contact your insurance company or agent. If you need help finding a provider, go to FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider or call the NFIP at 877-336-2627. In addition to the NFIP, flood insurance is also available from some private insurance providers. For more information, visit FloodSmart.gov. 

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Mon, 09/16/2024 - 19:36

FEMA Encourages Families with Diverse Immigration Status to Apply

Des Moines, Iowa — If you had flood related damage or storm-caused expenses and live or own a business in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Humboldt, Lyon, Monona, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pottawattamie, Sioux and Woodbury counties, FEMA assistance can provide grants to help cover temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster related needs. 

You or a member of your household must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen to apply. 

Families with diverse immigration status, including adults who are undocumented, may still apply for assistance if: 

• Another adult member of your household meets the eligibility criteria and certifies their citizenship status during the application process or signs the Declaration and Release form, or 
• The parent or guardian of a minor child who is a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or a qualified non-citizen applies for assistance on behalf of the child living in the same household. The parent or legal guardian must register as the co-applicant, and the child must be under age 18 as of May 24, 2024, the first day of the incident period. 

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app.
• Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish)

1. U.S. Citizens
2. Anyone born in the U.S.; a person born outside of the U.S. to at least one U.S. parent; or a naturalized citizen.
3. Non-Citizen Nationals

A non-citizen national is a person born in an outlying possession of the U.S. – for example, the Republic of the Marshall Islands -- on or after the date the U.S. acquired the possession, or a person whose parents are U.S. non-citizen nationals. All U.S. citizens are U.S. nationals, but not every U.S. national is a U.S. citizen.

1. Qualified Non-Citizens

• A legal permanent resident (“green card” holder)
• An asylee, refugee or a non-citizen whose deportation is being withheld
• Non-citizen paroled into the U.S. for at least one year
• Non-citizen granted conditional entry (per law in effect prior to April 1, 1980)
• A Cuban or Haitian entrant
• Certain non-citizens in the U.S. who have been abused, subject to battery or extreme cruelty by a spouse or other family/ household member or have been a victim of a severe form of human trafficking, including people with a “T” or “U” visa.

1. Resources

See Citizenship and Immigration Status Requirements for Federal Public Benefits for more information in multiple languages at fema.gov/assistance/individual/program/citizenship-immigration-status.

If you’re unsure of your immigration status, talk to an immigration expert to learn if your status falls within the immigration status requirements for FEMA disaster assistance. Visit nvoad.org/ to learn about other voluntary organizations.

Iowa homeowners and renters affected by the flooding on June 16 through July 23, 2024, now have until October 22, 2024, to apply for FEMA assistance.

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. For Spanish, press 2. 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 Mon, 09/16/2024 - 18:18

Free Disaster Legal Assistance for Texans Affected by Hurricane Beryl

AUSTIN – Free legal assistance is available to Texans who were affected by Hurricane Beryl.

Texans with disaster-related legal issues may receive free legal assistance by calling the State Bar of Texas Legal Hotline at 800-504-7030. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Phones are answered in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Legal aid may be able to help survivors in the following ways:

• Clarify home ownership/heir’s property.
• Assist with benefits, applications and appeals.
• Support with fraud issues or landlord disputes.
• Assist with disability issues related to the disaster.
• Provide insurance policy assistance.
• Assist community groups that support long-term recovery.

This assistance is available to eligible homeowners and renters in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties. 

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Mon, 09/16/2024 - 18:00

Biden-Harris Administration Announces Funding to Enhance Resilience of Critical Infrastructure, Protect Against Extreme Weather Events

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today announced selections for a combined $150 million in capitalization grants to help communities reduce vulnerability to natural hazards. Funding through the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program will enable 10 states, a Tribal Nation and the District of Columbia to administer revolving loan funds that will help local governments carry out hazard mitigation projects and build community climate resilience. Through this program, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, states can direct loans to local governments to mitigate the effects of events like drought, intense heat, wildfires, floods and earthquakes.

"Helping communities invest in resilient infrastructure is the best defense we have as a nation to withstand tomorrow’s hazards," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, the STORM program will provide states with the funding they need to help communities build resilience to protect against future hazards. I encourage more of our state, tribal and territorial partners to apply for these funds to help keep their communities safe."

The announcement aligns with the 2024 FEMA Year of Resilience theme to build capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.

Today’s funding announcements were made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides $500 million to fund the Safeguarding Tomorrow RLF program through 2026. Local governments have flexibility to use funding for projects to enhance natural hazard resilience for critical infrastructure such as roads, public housing, water treatment facilities, dams, levees and coastal structures. This includes improving flood control, implementing changes in zoning and land-use planning needed to adapt to a changing climate, and enforcing adoption of resilient building codes. 

FEMA selected 12 applications for a combined total of $150 million in capitalization grants. These applicants will use funding to make direct loans to local governments through a revolving fund. 

The applicants and amounts selected for this funding cycle are: 

• District of Columbia: $12 million
• Iowa: $17 million
• La Jolla Band of the Luiseño Indians: $5.1 million
• Maryland: $14.2 million
• Michigan: $17.3 million
• North Dakota: $16.6 million 
• New Jersey: $15 million
• New York: $13.5 million
• South Carolina: $9.1 million
• Tennessee: $7 million
• Virginia: $13.5 million
• West Virginia: $9 million
   

As these loans are paid back to the states, the funding can be used to finance additional mitigation projects, providing a sustainable local source of financing for protecting communities.

This is the second round of Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program selections. In September 2023, FEMA announced seven states and the District of Columbia received a combined $50 million in capitalization grants. Seven of the selections—the District of Columbia, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina and Virginia—applied in 2023 and also submitted applications for the 2024 cycle.

The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program complements FEMA’s hazard mitigation grant portfolio to support mitigation projects at the local government level and increase the nation’s resilience to natural hazards and climate change. 

In support of the Justice40 initiative, the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program aims that 40 percent of the overall benefits generated by entity loan funds flow to disadvantaged communities. The Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund program encourages applicants to develop revolving loan funds that target these areas. How these goals will be achieved is determined by the applicant.

FEMA encourages applicants to develop revolving loan funds that target low-income geographic areas and underserved communities. Entities selected for awards will use funding based on their unique needs and priorities to become more resilient to natural hazards.

The agency will continue to offer technical assistance through webinars, office hours, on-demand videos and program support materials that are publicly available to assist and encourage existing and future applicants to participate and make use of this innovative program.

erika.suzuki Mon, 09/16/2024 - 15:44

Less Than One Week Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance After May 21-27 Severe Storms

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Homeowners and renters in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties who have loss and damage caused by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides have less than one week to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is Sept. 23.  

How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

• Visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest center, visit fema.gov/drc.
• Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available daily, 7 a.m.-midnight ET. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download and use the FEMA app.

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

In-Person Assistance Is Available at the Following Disaster Recovery Center

• Muhlenberg County (DRC): Muhlenberg County Training Center, 61 Career Way, Central City, KY 42330. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. This center will close permanently at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21.

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

For the latest information 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. 

To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.

gerard.hammink Mon, 09/16/2024 - 14:33

FEMA Assistance Now Available

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Residents of Lycoming, Potter, Tioga and Union counties are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from damage and losses caused by Tropical Storm Debby from Aug. 9-10, 2024. 

FEMA may be able to help you pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other needs caused by the disaster, including:

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

There are four ways to apply:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
  • Calls are accepted from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time. Help is available in most languages; if you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service.
• In coordination with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and county officials, FEMA will be opening Disaster Recovery Centers soon. 
  • Disaster Recovery Centers are where you can get in-person help applying for federal assistance, update your application and learn about other resources available. 

If you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA can’t pay for losses your insurance will cover.

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

FEMA and Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency officials surveying damage from Tropical Storm Debby (Photo: Erika O’Sullivan/FEMA) 

In addition, FEMA teams have been in affected communities since Friday, Sept. 14. FEMA staff are answering questions about applications for Individual Assistance as well as helping those who have not yet registered. 

Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams help survivors in different ways, including conducting outreach in impacted counties, helping survivors register for FEMA assistance in their communities, checking the status of applications and making minor corrections to applications. 

While FEMA staff will be making neighborhood visits, residents of the affected counties should also be aware of potential fraud and scams by people claiming to represent FEMA:

• FEMA representatives never charge a fee or ask for payment.
• FEMA representatives will have a laminated identification badge and, if you have already applied, your FEMA registration number. They will not ask for your Social Security number or income and banking information. 
• Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number. Legitimate FEMA representatives will only ask for the last four digits as part of the verification process. The inspector will complete the process by providing the applicant with the first four digits of the registration ID.

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

###

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).

melissa.wiehenstroer Sun, 09/15/2024 - 13:49