Indiana: Be Alert for Post-Disaster Fraud

INDIANAPOLIS –  After disasters, con-artists and criminals may try to get money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors. Indiana residents recovering from the March 31 – April 1, 2023, severe storms and tornadoes need to pay attention for these risks and protect themselves.

Fraudulent Applications

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

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

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

Other Disaster-Related Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by the March 31 – April 1, 2023, severe storms and tornadoes. They have official identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.

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

Be careful of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. FEMA inspectors will have your FEMA application number.

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

Take Action

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department. Consumers may also report charity or disaster scams to the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of Indiana Attorney General online at indianaconsumer.com. 

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving FEMA’s disaster relief operations, you can report this to FEMA or DHS:

• FEMA Fraud Branch. Email: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.
• DHS Office of Inspector General. Use their online allegation form (Recommended), call: (866) 720-5721, fax: (202) 254-4297, or write to: DHS Office of Inspector General / MAIL STOP 0305, Attn: Office of Investigations – Hotline, 245 Murray Lane SW, Washington, DC 20528-0305.

If you suspect identity theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov.

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

For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.

FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

nicole.wilson Fri, 04/21/2023 - 16:15

Arkansans Should Notify FEMA of Insurance Settlements

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded more than $5.3 million in disaster assistance for Arkansas survivors of the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred March 31.

More than 7,000 Arkansans have applied for FEMA’s Individual Assistance. Disaster assistance can help with rental assistance, temporary housing, home repair and replacement, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. Both homeowners and renters may be eligible for assistance. 

Arkansans who have already applied for FEMA disaster assistance must let FEMA know about any insurance settlements or denials you receive. FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may cover damage that your insurance does not.

By law, FEMA cannot provide funding to individuals or households for losses covered by insurance or any other source. However, if you filed an insurance claim and have disaster-related needs that still need to be addressed, FEMA may consider you for its Other Needs Assistance program or refer you to an agency that can help.

Remember when you file a claim with your insurance agent or company, find out what your policy covers and be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work you have done to repair your home.

If you have already applied for FEMA assistance, here are some other reminders:  

• If your insurance settlement is delayed longer than 30 days, let FEMA know by writing a letter and including proof that you filed a claim. Any assistance FEMA provides would be considered an advance and would have to be repaid once you get the insurance settlement. Advance payments are limited to rental assistance only.
• If you received the maximum settlement from your insurance company and still have unmet disaster-related needs, write to FEMA and explain what your need is. Again, include documentation from the insurance company.
• If you spent the “additional living expense” provided by the insurance company and still need help with finding temporary housing, write to FEMA and explain your need. Attach documentation from the insurance company to prove you used the funds provided.
• If you receive a letter or notification saying “no decision” can be made at this time or you are not approved for assistance, don’t be discouraged or frustrated. You could be missing documents or FEMA may need more information. Read the entire letter to find out what’s needed for FEMA to continue processing your application. Many times, it’s a simple fix that can be addressed in an appeal.
• If you do not agree with the decision in the determination letter, you may also appeal.

Here’s how to stay in touch with FEMA:

• Log into your account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT seven days a week. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Fax FEMA at 800-827-8112 or send a letter to this address:

FEMA National Processing Service Center P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

alexa.brown Fri, 04/21/2023 - 15:41

A Disaster Recovery Center is Open in Mariposa County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Coulterville, where residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding that started on Feb. 21 can get information on disaster assistance.

Those affected by the disaster can meet with recovery specialists face-to-face if they need help applying for FEMA assistance. They can also get answers to questions or follow up on their applications. Recovery specialists can also provide information on any rental assistance available or fax any requested documents to a FEMA processing center. They can also scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.

Specialists at the centers can also direct you to operators who can communicate in Spanish and many other languages by request. The centers also offer printed material in multiple languages.

Disaster Recovery Centers are barrier-free and provide equal access to all visitors. If you use American Sign Language or assistive technology, and if you need accommodations to communicate, please notify FEMA staff at the center immediately.

Residents don’t have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. They can apply to FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. (Helpline operators are available from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT daily.)  If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language. For an accessible video on how to apply, go to FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance

The address of the center is:

Greeley Hill Community Hall 10332 Fiske Road Coulterville, CA 95311

Hours:  09:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available at the recovery centers to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans. These loans are offered to homeowners and renters, business owners and private nonprofits.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation specialists can share home-improvement tips and techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes.

For the latest information on California’s recovery from the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, visit FEMA.gov/disaster/4699. You may also follow twitter.com/Cal_OES,  facebook.com/CaliforniaOES, @FEMARegion9/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 04/20/2023 - 20:51

FEMA Joins Lafayette Libraries to Provide Inclusive Preparedness Information During Disability Book Week

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA is partnering with state, local and non-profit agencies to present a workshop on preparedness for persons with disabilities.

Anyone who may have access and functional needs requiring more time or effort to prepare for a natural disaster, or to evacuate, as well as their caretakers are encouraged to attend. You do not need to sign up in advance.

Disability Book Week and Preparedness Events - Lafayette

Tuesday, April 25, from 9:30 a.m. - Noon

South Regional Library

6101 Johnston St.

Lafayette, LA 70503

Thursday, April 27, from 9 a.m. - Noon

Lafayette Public Library

301 W. Congress St.

Lafayette, LA 70502

The Lafayette workshops will be on “Utilizing Libraries in Disaster Recovery” and cover library resources to scan and upload documents as well as using platforms such as Google Drive to create an Emergency Preparedness folder that can be accessed from the user’s phone with items such as insurance and medical paperwork.

Disability specialists will be on hand to answer questions. American Sign Language interpreters will be provided. And American Red Cross staff will provide a reading of “Prepare with Pedro” for children.

This event is a collaboration between FEMA Disability Integration, Louisiana Governor's Office of Disability Affairs, NOLA Ready, Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, New Orleans Public Library System, Lafayette Public Library System and Families Helping Families. The Governor has signed a Proclamation for Disability Book Week.

alexa.brown Thu, 04/20/2023 - 14:38

FEMA Joins New Orleans Library to Provide Inclusive Preparedness Information During Disability Book Week

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA is partnering with state, local and non-profit agencies to present a workshop on preparedness for persons with disabilities.

Anyone who may have access and functional needs requiring more time or effort to prepare for a natural disaster, or to evacuate, as well as their caretakers are encouraged to attend. You do not need to sign up in advance.

Disability Book Week and Preparedness Event - New Orleans

Monday, April 24, from Noon - 3 p.m.

East New Orleans Public Library

5641 Read Blvd.

New Orleans, LA 70127

The digital literacy workshop in New Orleans will focus on accessible computer settings and accessing websites such as damage.la.gov and Ready.gov/disability. Disability specialists will be on hand to answer questions.

This event is a collaboration between FEMA Disability Integration, Louisiana Governor's Office of Disability Affairs, NOLA Ready, Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, New Orleans Public Library System, Lafayette Public Library System, and Families Helping Families. The Governor has signed a Proclamation for Disability Book Week.

alexa.brown Thu, 04/20/2023 - 14:33

Million-Dollar Allocation from FEMA to Repair Coliseums

San Juan, Puerto Rico –The Raymond Dalmau Coliseum is “the home of sports.” That is how the mayor of the municipality of Quebradillas, Heriberto Vélez Vélez, described the home of the Pirates of the National Superior Basketball League (BSN). That facility hosts about 15 minor league tournaments and some 200,000 people visit it annually for the BSN season, something that is repeated to a greater or lesser extent in the various sports centers on the island.

To repair these and other coliseums on the island, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently approved nearly $16 million, so that these structures recover from damage as a result of Hurricane María.

“There are already over $1.1 billion that the agency has earmarked to address emergency measures and permanent repairs at parks and recreational facilities throughout the island. Following the repairs to these coliseums, the municipalities and communities will be able to resume activities required for their development. We’re not only talking about sports: coliseums also serve as distribution centers and shelters during hurricane season, among other important functions,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

For the Raymond Dalmau Coliseum, nearly $3.6 million was allocated to repair the roof, cafeteria, offices, parking lot, storage room and training room, among other areas. The project’s mitigation measures will reinforce sliding doors, parking fences and the roof.

These repairs will result in a safer and more welcoming space for basketball fans. According to Luis Gabriel Miranda Ramos, general manager of the Quebradillas Pirates, it is important for residents to have the Coliseum available and nearby since many of the fans arrive on foot or even by bike. Miranda Ramos also highlighted the income that the franchise generates for Quebradillas: six months of work for many families, in addition to the economic impact that is distributed in restaurants and inns around the region.

“Sports are everything for Quebradillas and the Pirates are the brand that has represented the town for almost 100 years. All the towns are distinguished by different things, but I believe that Quebradillas is the only town on the island that stands out for its basketball team,” the general manager explained.

For the fans of this franchise, this team stands out for its passion and longevity. Juan Antonio Hernández says that one of the things he enjoys most about going to the coliseum is the community’s integration and being able to go with his mother, who passed on to him her passion for the Pirates. For Henry Lugo and Daisy Tosado, another aspect that excites them about the games is the fan’s warmth and euphoria. “Once the gates open, the field is always full. Even if we are losing, the fans always keep going.”.

The new repairs will also allow for the continuation of other minor league volleyball and basketball sports activities, as well as Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) workshops, cooperative and public employee union assemblies, American Red Cross blood drives, screening tests, and vaccinations. It also serves as a distribution center during hurricane season.

Likewise, the Fernando “Rube” Hernández Coliseum in the municipality of Gurabo has close to $1.9 million from the agency for repairs to its facilities, including its volleyball and basketball courts. The “Rube” Hernández hosts graduations for the Police Academy and the Humacao Campus of the University of Puerto Rico. It will also be the Puerto Rico Olympic Committee headquarters to select those athletes who will represent the island in boxing, fencing, judo, karate, wrestling and taekwondo.

Similarly, another $4.4 million were obligated for the Lenín López Coliseum in Guayanilla, which has been closed since Hurricane María. According to the municipal director of Recreation and Sports, César Díaz Laporte, for the municipal government the Coliseum is an “emblematic structure, since it serves as the main axis for the development of sports, culture and recreation for the people of our town.”

The executive director of Puerto Rico’s Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency, (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, stated that “following these obligations, sports fans will soon enjoy resilient facilities in good conditions to serve as a meeting point for the enjoyment of our people, as well as a shelter or assistance center in times of emergency. At COR3, we will continue to assist municipalities in the development of these permanent works until they are completed, including those that are executed under category G of parks and recreational facilities that belong to municipalities, for which FEMA has obligated over $891.7 million for permanent work”.

To date, FEMA has allocated over $30.3 billion in Public Assistance funds to more than 10,600 projects that will contribute to rebuilding a more resilient Puerto Rico.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 04/20/2023 - 13:52

A Disaster Recovery Center is Open in Mariposa County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Coulterville, where residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding that started on Feb. 21 can get information on disaster assistance.

Those affected by the disaster can meet with recovery specialists face-to-face if they need help applying for FEMA assistance. They can also get answers to questions or follow up on their applications. Recovery specialists can also provide information on any rental assistance available or fax any requested documents to a FEMA processing center. They can also scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.

Specialists at the centers can also direct you to operators who can communicate in Spanish and many other languages by request. The centers also offer printed material in multiple languages.

Disaster Recovery Centers are barrier-free and provide equal access to all visitors. If you use American Sign Language or assistive technology, and if you need accommodations to communicate, please notify FEMA staff at the center immediately.

Residents don’t have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. They can apply to FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. (Helpline operators are available from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT daily.)  If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language. For an accessible video on how to apply, go to FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance

The address of the center is:

Greeley Hill Community Hall
10332 Fiske Road
Coulterville, CA 95311

Hours:  09:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available at the recovery centers to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans. These loans are offered to homeowners and renters, business owners and private nonprofits.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation specialists can share home-improvement tips and techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes.

For the latest information on California’s recovery from the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, visit FEMA.gov/disaster/4699. You may also follow twitter.com/Cal_OES,  facebook.com/CaliforniaOES, @FEMARegion9/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 04/19/2023 - 19:43

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Mississippi

PEARL, Miss. – A public notice has been posted to the FEMA and Mississippi Emergency Management Agency websites which describes available FEMA disaster assistance and proposed FEMA-funded actions, including activities that may affect historic properties, threatened and endangered species, critical habitat, or wetlands and floodplains in Mississippi.

FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the agency’s Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grants programs.

The public notice addresses FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged by the March 24-25 tornadoes in designated counties.

The public notice is posted at: https://www.msema.org/march-24-2023-severe-weather-disaster-information/ and DR-4697-MS Public Notice 001 | FEMA.gov.

This may be the only public notice given regarding these FEMA actions. Questions should be directed to FEMA Region 4 EHP at 3005 Chamblee Tucker Rd., Atlanta, GA 30341 or by email at FEMA-R4-NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov, within 30 days of this notice. Comments should include a subject line of “DR 4697-MS EHAD”.

sandra.habib Wed, 04/19/2023 - 19:11

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Reimbursement of Transportation Funds for Hurricane Fiona

San Juan, Puerto Rico — FEMA posted a final public notice on its website describing the programmatic review of proposed repair and reconstruction actions related to roads, culverts and bridges. The programmatic review is in accordance with procedures set forth in Executive Orders 11988 and 11990 on floodplain management and the protection of wetlands. This public notice includes activities that may affect various territorial, municipal, and local transportation agencies in all 78 municipalities of Puerto Rico.

FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities through the agency’s Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grants programs.

This public notice addresses the agency’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for cost to repair and replace eligible transportation facilities damaged by Hurricane Fiona. This is the final public notice for these classes of actions with regards to compliance with executive orders 11988 and 11990.

The public notice is posted at: DR-4671-PR Public Notice 001

Questions should be directed to U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region II, Caribbean Area Division, P.O. Box 848, Guaynabo, PR 00970 or by email at FEMA-EHP-DR4671@fema.dhs.gov , within 15 days of this notice. Comments should include a subject line of “DR 4671-PR EHAD”.

manuel.deleon Wed, 04/19/2023 - 18:00

Fair Market Rent Rate to Begin for FEMA Housing Units

BATON ROUGE, La. – Starting June 1, 2023, FEMA’s normal rent policies will apply to Hurricane Ida survivors living in FEMA’s mobile housing units (MHUs). FEMA had previously authorized a blanket rent reduction for all MHU occupants through May 2023 for survivors of Hurricane Ida.

FEMA will begin sending letters to survivors notifying them of their change in the rent amount along with the rent waiver appeal process by the end of April. Survivors can appeal FEMA’s rent determination if the rent is a financial hardship. The appeal will be based on the family’s income to debt ratio verified by supporting documents regarding expenses and income of the household.

FEMA is committed to providing temporary housing to eligible Hurricane Ida survivors as they continue the long-term work of recovery. Since Ida made landfall, FEMA has housed more than 3,800 families in mobile homes, travel trailers and other ready-to-occupy housing.

kirsten.chambers Wed, 04/19/2023 - 16:39

Ellis County, Texas, Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Oct. 19, 2023, for Ellis County, Texas. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps.

Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.

• To use the live chat service, visit floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 877-FEMA MAP (877-336-2627) or send an email to 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, 04/19/2023 - 14:04

FEMA en el campo: Equipo de Asistencia a Sobrevivientes del Desastre ayudan a los sobrevivientes de Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS- A partir del 19 de abril y durante las próximas semanas, los equipos de Asistencia a Sobrevivientes del Desastre (DSA) irán casa por casa en vecindarios de los condados Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan y White para ayudar a los residentes a solicitar asistencia de FEMA. El personal de DSA les ofrece a los sobrevivientes:

• Ayuda para solicitar asistencia de FEMA o actualizar una solicitud establecida en FEMA,
• Respuestas a preguntas sobre la asistencia federal, y
• Conexiones con agencias locales, estatales, federales y voluntarias para obtener apoyo adicional.

Los equipos de DSA visten uniforme de FEMA y portan credenciales federales de identificación con fotografía. No se cobra por el servicio. Si sospecha de fraude, debe reportarlo de inmediato. Llame a la policía u oficina del sheriff local, también puede llamar a la línea de ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362.

No es necesario esperar una visita de los miembros del equipo DSA para solicitar asistencia. Los sobrevivientes pueden ingresar por Internet a DisasterAssistance.gov, llamar al 800-621-3362 o utilizar la aplicación móvil de FEMA. La línea de ayuda está abierta y disponible desde las 7 a.m. hasta las 1 a.m., hora del este, en la mayoría de los idiomas. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como un Servicio de Retransmisión de Video (VRS), teléfono con subtítulos u otro servicio, proporcione a FEMA el número de dicho servicio.

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

Para más información sobre la recuperación en Indiana, visite fema.gov/disaster/4704. Síganos en nuestra página de Facebook en Facebook.com/FEMA y en Twitter en @femaRegion5.

FEMA no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, orientación sexual, religión, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o situación económica.

nicole.wilson Wed, 04/19/2023 - 12:16

FEMA in the Field: Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams Help Indiana Survivors

INDIANAPOLIS–  Beginning April 19, and over the next several weeks, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will be going door-to-door in neighborhoods throughout Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties to help residents apply for FEMA assistance. DSA personnel offer survivors:

• Help registering with FEMA or updating an existing FEMA application,
• Answers to questions about federal assistance, and
• Connections to local, state, federal and voluntary agencies for additional support.

DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service. If you suspect fraud, report it immediately. Call your local police or sheriff’s office or you can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

It is not necessary to wait for a visit from DSA team members to apply for assistance. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. The helpline is open and available from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. Eastern Time in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.

FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

nicole.wilson Wed, 04/19/2023 - 09:06

FEMA is Hiring – Join our Team in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an immediate need to fill temporary positions in Frankfort, Bowling Green, Mayfield, Hazard, Warren, and Chavies, Ky. to assist with recovery from the recent flooding and severe storms.

FEMA is looking for qualified candidates with diverse backgrounds to fill a number of positions in hazard mitigation and as public assistance program delivery managers. The temporary positions are for 120 days and may be extended, based on the needs of the disaster.

Kentuckians who wish to apply for these positions can go to https://tinyurl.com/FEMAjobsKY to learn more and submit their applications. Salaries range from $19.44/hour to $29.12/hour. Detailed information is provided for each position including pay and benefits.

These job postings will close May 15, if you are interested, apply as soon as possible. Applicants may be contacted via email, phone, or mail regarding the interview, hiring and selection process.

For information on Kentucky’s recovery from the floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 04/18/2023 - 18:10

FEMA Seeks New Members for its National Advisory Council

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is seeking qualified individuals to lend their expertise and serve on the agency’s National Advisory Council.

The council includes a geographically diverse and substantive cross-section of 40 members who advise the FEMA Administrator on all aspects of emergency management, ensuring input from, and coordination with, state, local, tribal and territorial governments, as well as the private and nonprofit sectors.

“We value the diverse backgrounds and skillsets of our members, and the experience they bring to FEMA through the advisory council is invaluable,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Their willingness to volunteer their time and expertise to further FEMA’s mission will not only benefit our singular agency, but the broader emergency management enterprise nationwide.”

Individuals appointed to the council bring their experience and diversity of views to provide the Administrator consensus recommendations on a broad range of issues. They will have the opportunity to be a part of, and help shape, the future not only of FEMA, but also the entire field of emergency management for our country.

Administrator Criswell will appoint up to nine members who will begin serving on the council in December 2023. Selected council members will guide future recommendations on topics including climate, readiness and workforce, which align to the FEMA strategic plan and projects as directed by the Administrator.

The agency is accepting applications for seven discipline-specific positions and up to two Administrator-selected positions. Discipline-specific positions include a specialty in any one of the following fields: disabilities, access and functional needs; elected tribal government official; emergency management; emergency response provider; non-elected tribal government official; health scientist; and standards setting and accrediting. For a description of each position, please go to the Charter.

Newly selected members will serve up to a three-year term on the council. If other positions open, FEMA may select qualified candidates from the pool of applications. 

If you are interested in applying to serve on FEMA’s National Advisory Council, please follow these instructions for submitting an application package no later than 11:59 p.m. ET May 21, 2023. Per the Federal Advisory Committee Act, federal employees are ineligible to apply.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 04/18/2023 - 16:16

FEMA Issues Public Notice for Counties Affected by March-April Tornadoes

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A public notice has been published that addresses FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible government agencies and nonprofit organizations in 10 Tennessee counties on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work during the March 31 to April 1, 2023, storms and tornadoes.

The public notice is posted on FEMA’s Tennessee disaster website as FEMA Public Notice and on the state website at TN Public Notice. The notice describes proposed activities that may affect historic properties and activities and critical actions that may affect wetlands and floodplains.

The president approved a major disaster declaration April 7 for the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes that struck Tennessee.

Ten counties were designated for assistance under the FEMA Public Assistance program: Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne. The major disaster declaration also authorized FEMA to provide Individual Assistance in the form of financial assistance and direct services funding to eligible individuals and households in the same 10 counties.

FEMA is required by law to share the public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities through its Public Assistance program and its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

Under Public Assistance, FEMA’s largest grant program, FEMA provides funds to assist communities as they respond to and recover from presidentially declared major disasters or emergencies. The program provides funding for emergency assistance to save lives and protect property, and if permanent work is authorized also helps fund permanently restoring community infrastructure affected by a federally declared incident. The program also encourages protection of these damaged facilities from future events by providing assistance for hazard mitigation measures.

Under Public Assistance categories A and B, which have been authorized for this disaster, eligible applicants in the 10 counties designated in Tennessee can seek reimbursement for emergency debris removal and emergency work to protect lives and secure property. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, or funding for use in mitigating future hazards, is available statewide.

To obtain information about FEMA’s actions or a specific project, write to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency – Region IV - EHP, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, GA 30341-4112 or send an email to FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Include in the subject line of the email: “DR 4701-TN.”

For the latest information on Tennessee’s recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4701. You may also follow TN.gov/TEMA; Twitter.com/TEMA, Facebook.com/TNDisasterInfo, @FEMARegion4/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

sandra.habib Tue, 04/18/2023 - 12:45

Cómo solicitar asistencia de FEMA tras las tormentas severas y tornados en Indiana

CHICAGO – Los propietarios de viviendas e inquilinos en los condados Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan y White de Indiana que se vieron afectados por las tormentas severas, vientos en línea recta y tornados del 31 de marzo al 1 de abril, pueden solicitar asistencia por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés).

Los sobrevivientes pueden solicitar por internet en DisasterAssistance.gov/es, por teléfono al 800-621-3362 o por medio de la aplicación móvil de FEMA. La línea de ayuda está abierta de 7 a.m. a 1 a.m., hora del Este, y disponible en la mayoría de los idiomas. Si usa un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión de video (VRS), servicio telefónico con subtítulos u otros, provéale a FEMA el número de dicho servicio.

La declaración de desastre incluye Asistencia Individual para las familias de los condados Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan y White. La ayuda para pérdidas no aseguradas puede incluir alojamiento provisional, reparaciones básicas del hogar y otros gastos relacionados con el desastre.

Si tiene seguro de propietario o inquilino, debe presentar una reclamación lo antes posible. FEMA no puede duplicar los beneficios por pérdidas cubiertas por un seguro. La asistencia de FEMA no puede reemplazar todas las pérdidas, pero si su póliza no cubre todos sus gastos por desastre, usted puede ser elegible para recibir asistencia federal.

Cuando solicite asistencia, tenga disponible la siguiente información:

• Un número de teléfono actual donde puedan localizar
• Su dirección al momento del desastre y la dirección en la que se encuentra actualmente
• Su número de Seguro Social
• Una lista general de daños y pérdidas
• Información bancaria si opta por recibir un depósito directo
• Si está asegurado, el número de póliza o el nombre del agente y/o de la compañía de seguros

La fecha límite para solicitar asistencia de FEMA es el 14 de junio de 2023. Para ver un vídeo sobre cómo solicitar asistencia, visite 3 maneras para solicitar asistencia de FEMA en YouTube.

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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

Para más información sobre la recuperación de Indiana, visite fema.gov/es/disaster/4704. Síganos en nuestra página Facebook.com/FEMA y en Twitter en @femaRegion5.

FEMA no discrimina a las personas por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, sexo, orientación sexual, religión, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o situación económica.

nicole.wilson Mon, 04/17/2023 - 21:03

McNairy County Disaster Recovery Center to Open April 18

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Disaster Recovery Center will open at 7 a.m. Tuesday, April 18, in McNairy County to accommodate residents who were affected by the storms and tornadoes and want to update their existing FEMA applications or learn about state and community programs and other available assistance.

Under the major disaster declaration, 10 Tennessee counties were designated for FEMA Individual Assistance, meaning residents who had uninsured or underinsured damage or losses from the March 31 to April 1, 2023, storms and tornadoes may apply for FEMA assistance. The designated counties are Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne.

You do not need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply to FEMA. But do first file a claim with your insurance company or agent before applying for FEMA assistance.

The McNairy County Disaster Recovery Center is located at:

The Latta Theater

205 W. Court Avenue

Selmer, TN 38375

Opens: 7 a.m. CDT Tuesday, April 18

Regular hours: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. CDT Sunday; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CDT Monday to Saturday

Specialists at Disaster Recovery Centers can clarify information you have received from FEMA or other agencies; they can explain the rental assistance available to homeowners and renters; and they can submit your requested documents to a FEMA processing center and scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.

Here are the ways to apply for FEMA assistance:

• Go to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app
• Call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators are available from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Daylight Time daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6
• As Disaster Recovery Centers open across western Tennessee, you may decide to visit any recovery center to get help. To find one near you, go to:  https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator 

For the latest information on Tennessee’s recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4701. You may also follow TN.gov/TEMA; Twitter.com/TEMA, Facebook.com/TNDisasterInfo, @FEMARegion4/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

sandra.habib Mon, 04/17/2023 - 19:33

Use FEMA Grants for Intended Purposes

LITTLE ROCK – FEMA reminds Arkansas residents, who receive federal disaster assistance for the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred March 31, to use the money for its intended purpose and to keep all receipts.

Disaster assistance is intended to help survivors pay for basic expenses caused by the disaster. A letter explaining what the payment is to be used for arrives within a day or two of the check or direct deposit payment.

Approved uses for grants include:

• Repairs to make a home livable;
• Rental assistance to temporarily pay for a place to stay;
• Repair or replacement of a disaster-damaged essential vehicle;
• Medical care for an injury caused by the disaster;
• Replacing clothing, occupational tools and educational materials; and
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster.

Disaster grants should not be used for travel, entertainment, regular living expenses or any discretionary expenses not related to the disaster. If applicants spend the payment on anything other than the purpose for which it is intended, they may be denied future disaster assistance. In some cases, FEMA may ask that the money be returned.

Those receiving assistance are urged to keep receipts for their disaster spending for three years to document the money was used to meet disaster-related expenses. If you receive an insurance settlement to cover the same expenses, you must reimburse FEMA. Audits are conducted to confirm funds were spent properly.

Survivors in Cross, Lonoke and Pulaski counties can apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT seven days a week. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

alexa.brown Mon, 04/17/2023 - 18:16

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Indiana Severe Storms and Tornadoes

CHICAGO –  Indiana homeowners and renters in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties who were affected by the March 31 – April 1 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Survivors can apply by going online at DisasterAssistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362, or using the FEMA mobile app. The helpline is open and available from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. Eastern Time in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

The disaster declaration includes Individual Assistance to households in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties. Assistance for uninsured losses may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.

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

When you apply for assistance, please have the following information ready: 

• 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

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is June 14, 2023. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

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

nicole.wilson Mon, 04/17/2023 - 17:33