Notify FEMA About Insurance Settlements and Update Your Current Information

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Survivors of Hurricane Ian in South Carolina who have already applied for disaster assistance are encouraged to let FEMA know about any insurance settlements you receive. FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may cover damage that your insurance does not.

If you’re insured, FEMA will confirm that you have filed a claim with your insurance company. 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.

By law, FEMA cannot pay for expenses already covered by insurance or other sources such as crowd funding or financial assistance from voluntary agencies. 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 a state or community agency that can help.

Hurricane Ian lashed South Carolina Sept. 25 to Oct. 4. Under the president’s major disaster declaration, affected individuals and households in three FEMA-designated counties, Charleston, Georgetown and Horry, are eligible to apply for assistance. If you were among those who had damage or losses to your primary home, the application deadline is Monday, Jan. 23, 2023.

Here are some other reminders:

• If your insurance settlement is delayed longer than 30 days, let FEMA know by writing a letter and include proof that you filed a claim. Any assistance FEMA provides would be considered an advance and would have to be repaid once you receive your insurance settlement.
• 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. Also include your permanent housing plan.

Here’s how to update FEMA with your current information:

• Log into your account at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• 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

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 12/15/2022 - 15:52

FEMA Awards Over $1.1 Million to City of New Haven for COVID Response Expenses

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.1 million to the State of Connecticut to reimburse the City of New Haven for the cost of steps taken to protect the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,139,935 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the city for emergency protective measures undertaken between April 2020 and May 2022, including providing 2,000 meals for vulnerable homeless populations.

The city also purchased and distributed disinfectant solution, sanitizer, bleach, trigger sprayers and nitrile gloves, and rented four trailers for the storage of personal protective equipment (PPE) to support the residents affected by COVID-19 in three non-congregate shelters.

Finally, New Haven provided transportation to COVID-19 testing sites for vulnerable senior populations and provided nursing support and technical assistance for 44 schools in the New Haven district and technical support for a temporary COVID-19 testing facility.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the City of New Haven with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $597 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 12/15/2022 - 14:51

FEMA Awards Nearly $21 Million to Tufts University for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $21 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Tufts University for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $20,598,197 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private university in Medford for the cost of contracting to administer 1,457,783 tests at its four campuses in the greater Boston area between August 2020 and March 2022.

The grant will also reimburse Tufts for the cost of 31,359 pool tests and courier services for 40,840 tests.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Tufts University with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 12/15/2022 - 14:47

FEMA Provides Assistance for Other Disaster-Related Needs

San Juan, Puerto Rico — FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program not only provides financial assistance to Hurricane Fiona survivors with disaster-damaged homes, but can also provide financial help to cover other necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. Through the Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program, FEMA may provide financial assistance to cover medical, dental, funeral and burial expenses, and transportation assistance.

Medical and Dental Assistance: May assist with medical or dental expenses caused by the disaster, which may include injury, illness, loss of prescribed medication and equipment, insurance co-payments, or loss or injury to a service animal.

Funeral Assistance: May assist eligible individuals and households who incur or will incur expenses related to a death or disinterment attributed directly or indirectly to a declared emergency or major disaster.

Transportation Assistance: May assist eligible individuals with the repair or replacement of a vehicle that was damaged directly by the disaster and is no longer operable or safe to drive. Cosmetic repairs such as minor dents or scratches, will not be covered. Other conditions of eligibility apply.

To be eligible for some types of FEMA assistance, individuals must first apply for a low-interest disaster loan through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Know that you are never obligated to accept a loan. 

Important Reminders:

• If you have already applied with FEMA for Housing Assistance, you do not need to apply separately for ONA.

• If you receive a letter from FEMA requesting documentation, you should quickly respond to ensure FEMA has the most updated information. Submit missing or additional documentation as soon as possible.

Survivors can apply and view the status of their application online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using FEMA’s mobile app. Individuals can also call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to discuss their case with a FEMA representative. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

For more information you can visit: Assistance for Housing and Other Needs | FEMA.gov.

 

kimberly.keblish Thu, 12/15/2022 - 13:31

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close but FEMA Help Still Available

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Disaster Recovery Centers in Charleston, Georgetown and Horry counties are closing next week but that does not mean that FEMA is leaving the state.

FEMA specialists are still available to help Hurricane Ian disaster survivors update information in your accounts and direct you to federal, state and community programs and assistance. FEMA is also continuing its work with the state and other partners to help South Carolina recover from the storm.

Regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Center operations will wrap up as follows:

• Charleston: North Charleston Public Works, 5800 Casper Padgett Way, North Charleston, SC 29406

• 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19

• Georgetown: Waccamaw Regional Recreation Center, 83 Duncan Ave., Pawleys Island, SC 29585

• 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21

• Horry: Carolina Forest Recreation Center, Multipurpose Room B, 2254 Carolina Forest Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29579

• 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22

More than 600 disaster survivors have visited the three centers to get information or referrals to programs offered by FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and other federal, state and local partners.

Even with the scheduled closings, help from FEMA is just a phone call away. Survivors can get answers from specialists at the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language. It is important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily.

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Monday, Jan. 23, 2023.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 12/14/2022 - 21:01

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Hays County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the cities of Austin, Buda, Dripping Springs, Hays, Kyle, Mountain City, San Marcos, Wimberley and Woodcreek; the Village of Bear Creek; and unincorporated areas of Hays County, Texas.

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

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Hays County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

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 FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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

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 FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 12/14/2022 - 21:01

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration to Help Floridians Recover from Hurricane Nicole

WASHINGTON ­-- Hurricane Nicole survivors and Florida infrastructure and beaches will now be eligible for federal disaster assistance at the direction of President Biden.

FEMA announced today that additional assistance has been made available to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Nicole during the period of Nov. 7-30, 2022. Assistance for Category G costs, specifically for damaged engineered beaches and the costs to restore them, is also being made available to the state of Florida.

This critical assistance for survivors and state infrastructure is in addition to the over $3.69 billion the Biden-Harris Administration has provided to the State of Florida in response to Hurricane Ian, including $814 million FEMA has put directly into the hands of survivors to help jumpstart their recovery. FEMA has also provided more than $1.2 billion dollars to National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders to date.

FEMA will continue to work with the state of Florida to help survivors recover from Hurricane Ian, while also ensuring that those affected by Hurricane Nicole have the resources they need to begin their road recovery.

Assistance for Hurricane Nicole can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster, and will be available to affected individuals in Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Putnam, St. Johns and Volusia counties.

Federal funding is also available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Nicole in Brevard, Duval, Flagler, Indian River, Martin, Nassau, Palm Beach, St. Johns, St. Lucie and Volusia counties.

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

Affected survivors can apply for disaster assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile 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.

Thomas J. McCool has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

FEMA will continue to work with the state of Florida.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 12/14/2022 - 17:54

FEMA Awards Over $2.7 Million To Maine Medical Center for Covid-19 Expenses

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2.7 million to the State of Maine to reimburse Maine Medical Center in Portland for the added costs of operating safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,741,060 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the 637-bed teaching hospital and flagship facility for MaineHealth for steps taken to protect staff, patients and the public between May 2021 and March 2022.

The hospital purchased disinfectant supplies; personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N95 respirator masks, safety glasses, shoe covers, gowns and gloves; and ventilator circuits and filters for use in patient treatment.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Maine Medical Center with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

So far, FEMA has provided almost $179 million in Public Assistance grants to Maine to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:16

FEMA Awards Almost $11 Million to Boston Public Health Commission for COVID-19 Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $11 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the costs of providing testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $10,661,026 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the commission for contracting to set up and operate multiple community-based testing sites around the city between January and June 2022, providing 72,318 tests to the public.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Boston Public Health Commission with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided nearly $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:13

FEMA Awards Almost $2.2 Million to Cape Cod Hospital for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $2.2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Cape Cod Hospital for the costs of purchasing test kits and supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,169,504 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the non-profit regional medical center located in Hyannis for purchasing various testing products between October and December 2021, including 220,135 test kits from Hologic, 24,120 test kits from Fisher Scientific Company, and 1,800 test kits from McKesson Medical Surgical, Inc.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Cape Cod Hospital with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:11

FEMA Awards Over $1.8 Million to Williams College for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $1.8 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Williams College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,827,926 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private liberal arts women’s college in Northampton for the cost of contracting to administer 119,447 tests between January and June 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Williams College with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:09

FEMA Awards Almost $6.7 Million to Mass. College of Pharmacy and Health Science for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $6.7 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $6,674,333 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private health sciences university headquartered in Boston for the cost of contracting to administer 322,759 tests at its Massachusetts facilities between July 2020 and July 2022.

The tests were used to promote the safe opening and operation of facilities at the Boston Campus’ Matricaria/White Building, the Worcester Campus’ Lincoln Square Academic and Student Center, and Worcester Campus’ Mechanic Street Building.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $1.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/13/2022 - 21:07

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Chesterfield County

PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Chesterfield County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

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

The 90-day appeal period started on December 12, 2022. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

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

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

Submit appeals and comments by contacting Christopher Workman, Inspections and Floodplain Manager, at (804) 796-7106 or email WorkmanC@chesterfield.gov.

The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/08aCSy.

For more information about the flood maps:

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

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Chesterfield County Flood Mapping Milestones

• April 28, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• June 14, 2021 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• July 22, 2021 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• June 30, 2022 — Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• On December 12, 2022 – Appeal Period started.
• February 2024* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

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If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.  

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 Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

charles.elison Tue, 12/13/2022 - 20:13

FEMA Advances Accessibility: Policy Change Provides Over $117 Million to Disaster Survivors for Cleaning and Sanitizing Homes

WASHINGTON -- This week, FEMA announced over $117 million was provided to survivors in additional assistance due to a policy update which expanded cleaning and sanitizing assistance following a disaster. Because of the policy update, more than 391,000 additional applicants have been able to get financial help.

Under the Clean and Sanitize Assistance (CSA) program, if a survivor received minor damage to their home, but was able to live in the home, FEMA may be able to provide up to $300 to help prevent additional losses and to protect the health and safety of the survivor’s home. This assistance is for eligible homeowners and renters and can be used to pay for supplies or a service to clean up.

In August 2021, under the leadership of FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, the agency implemented these policy changes to help simplify the disaster assistance process and provide greater equity to all disaster survivors.

“The Clean and Sanitize Assistance program is yet another critical resource FEMA provides to help protect the health and safety of people recovering from disasters,” said Administrator Criswell. “FEMA is using every tool at our disposal to ensure that all people affected by disaster, including those from low-income and underserved communities, are better able to access the resources they need to stay safe and protect their home.”

As a result of this initiative, over $31 million in additional cleaning and sanitizing assistance has gone to Hurricane Ian survivors, and over $59 million in additional assistance has been distributed to survivors of Hurricane Fiona.

To qualify for the CSA Program, one must meet the following criteria:

• An occupancy verified by FEMA
• A pre-disaster primary home located in a designated county, parish or municipality for Individual Assistance
• The inspection noted that clean-up actions are needed or have been taken (for renters)
• Damage that is not covered by one's insurance
• The primary residence had disaster damage but is still safe to occupy

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 12/13/2022 - 17:00

What to Do if your home is still inaccessible due to Hurricane Ian

BRANDON, Fla. – Some Florida homes are still inaccessible due to hurricane-damaged roads, rising water, fallen trees and other storm-related issues - especially in and around Sanibel Island. If you cannot access your primary residence due to storm damage you may be eligible for FEMA rental assistance.

If you live in one of the 26 counties designated for federal disaster assistance and have not already applied for FEMA assistance, you should call FEMA to apply The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

If flooding, damage or debris prevent a FEMA housing inspector from reaching a damaged residence, the inspector will notify FEMA. It’s important you call the FEMA Helpline once your home is accessible.

To be eligible for temporary rental assistance:

• You must first apply with FEMA.
• The home must be your primary residence.
• The home is either destroyed, uninhabitable or inaccessible as a result of Hurricane Ian.
• Insurance proceeds does not fully cover additional living expenses and/or home repairs.

If you need to apply for federal disaster assistance, go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET., or visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). Several DRCs are operating throughout Florida’s disaster-damaged counties. To find one close to you, go online to: DRC Locator or floridadisaster.org, or text DRC along with your zip code to 43362.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

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

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.

bree-constance… Tue, 12/13/2022 - 15:09

More Public Meetings Added, Online Option Still Open for Comments on Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act

SANTA FE, New Mexico – The Hermit’s Peak/Canyon Fire Assistance Act provides compensation for those impacted by the fire. Compensation may cover eligible losses, including personal injury, loss of property, business loss or financial loss.

FEMA’s Interim Final Rule guides the claims process and describes necessary documentation, evaluation criteria and compensation available for those impacted by the fire and subsequent flooding. The rule also provides additional guidance for appeal rights, arbitration and judicial review.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is holding six meetings in the most heavily impacted communities to collect public comments. Each meeting runs from 5:30-7 p.m. MT. Doors open at 5 p.m. so attendees can sign up to speak. Two meetings have already been held in Las Vegas and Mora and each city will host a second meeting. Additional meetings have been added in Peñasco and Angel Fire.

Dec. 15, 2022, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT Old Memorial Middle School 947 Legion Drive, Las Vegas, NM 87701

Jan. 4, 2023, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT Peñasco Independent School Complex 13 School Road, Peñasco, NM 87553

Jan. 5, 2023, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT Mora High School 10 Ranger Road, Mora, NM 87701

Jan. 9, 2023, 5:30 - 7 p.m. MT New Mexico Bank & Trust Community Room 1 First National Place Angel Fire, NM 87710

These meetings will include an overview of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Regulations and allow members of the public to provide verbal comments for the record. The meetings will not serve as a forum for questions and answers.

The meetings will be staffed by English and Spanish speakers and American Sign Language interpreters.

Submit Comments Online Through Jan. 13, 2023

In addition to the providing feedback in person at the meetings, the public can also submit comments online. The public comment period of 60 days, which started Nov. 14, runs through Jan. 13, 2023.

To submit a comment online, go to regulations.gov/document/FEMA-2022-0037-0001 and click the word “Comment” in the box on the left at the top of the page. To review all Federal Notices about the Act, visit regulations.gov/ and then put FEMA-2022-0037 in the search bar at the middle of the top of the page to find all notices by the docket number.

For step-by-step instructions on submitting comments in-person or online, visit fema.gov/hermits-peak and go to the Resources section.

About the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act: On Sept. 30, President Joe Biden signed the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act that provides $2.5 billion to compensate New Mexicans and Tribal Nations impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The funding may cover eligible loss including personal injury, loss of property, business loss or financial loss. For more information, visit fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 12/13/2022 - 15:05

FEMA Gives Free Rebuilding Advice at National Lumber and Walmart the Week of Dec. 19

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Disaster survivors who are repairing their homes after Hurricane Fiona can visit Walmart in Bayamón and Isabela and National Lumber hardware stores in Bayamón, Cidra, Fajardo, Peñuelas, Salinas and Yauco, to talk with FEMA mitigation specialists about their damage and discuss how to make homes stronger and safer during the rebuilding process.

FEMA mitigation specialists will share tips about rebuilding and protecting homes from future disaster-related damage, such as high winds and water. They will also provide information on topics such as selecting contractors, understanding flood insurance coverage and emergency preparedness. No appointment is needed.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be available at the following locations from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., December 19 – December 24:

Walmart

Walmart Bayamón

Ave. West Main 725, Suite 100

Bayamón, PR 00961

Walmart Isabela

Ave. Militar Núm. 3535, Suite 193

Isabela, PR 00662

Ferreterías National Lumber

National Lumber Bayamón

Carr. Núm. 167

Victory Shopping Center

Bayamón, PR 00959

National Lumber Fajardo

Carr. Núm. 3, Hm. 5

Urb. Baralt

Fajardo, PR 00738

National Lumber Salinas

Carr. Núm. 1, Km. 1, Hm. 8

Calle Luis Muñoz Rivera

Monserrate Mall

Salinas, PR 00751

National Lumber Cidra

Carr. Núm. 171, Km. 0, Hm. 5

Cidra Industrial Park

Cidra, PR 00739

National Lumber Peñuelas

Carr. 385, Km. 0.4

Parque Industrial PR

Peñuelas, PR 00624

National Lumber Yauco

Carr. Núm. 27

Ave. 25 de Julio, Km. 230.3

Yauco, PR 00698

 

kimberly.keblish Tue, 12/13/2022 - 12:53

Hurricane Ian Flood Insurance Payments Surpass $1 Billion, FEMA Encourages Policyholders to Take Advantage of Extended Grace Period

WASHINGTON -- More than $1.2 billion has gone to National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders to help their Hurricane Ian recovery, with over 46,000 policyholders having filed claims following the storm’s landfall.

More than $237 million of those dollars were in the form of advance payments, where policyholders could receive up to $20,000 after filing a claim. Over 10,000 policyholders received advance payments as they worked their claims.

FEMA now estimates Hurricane Ian could potentially result in NFIP claims losses between $3.7-$5.2 billion. The losses include flood insurance claims received from five states, with the majority of claims coming from Florida.

“Since Hurricane Ian made landfall, FEMA and the entire federal family have provided billions of dollars in support to help Florida recover and affected residents jumpstart their recovery,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The $1.2 billion paid to NFIP policyholders represents our continued commitment to this critical mission and underscores the importance of purchasing flood insurance. That’s why we continue to encourage Floridians who may have let their flood insurance coverage lapse to take advantage of our extended grace period and renew their coverage today by contacting their insurance company or agent.”

The NFIP announced in October that it extended the grace period to renew one’s policy from 30 days to 90 days for certain Florida policyholders in counties where Individual Assistance has been authorized. 

The 90-day extension means once the policy is renewed, if the policyholder suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian or another flood, they may file a claim. As of this release, the grace period applies to NFIP flood insurance policies with expiration dates between Sept. 13, 2022, and Oct. 23, 2022.  

This means for policyholders whose renewal date of Oct. 23, 2022, the policy may be renewed on or before Jan. 20, 2023.

Over 8,000 NFIP policyholders in Florida may still be able to renew their policy due to the grace period extension.

To maximize awareness of the grace period extension, FEMA has taken the extraordinary step of going door-to-door to notify policyholders of this opportunity, while flood insurance companies and insurance agents have also been instructed to contact their clients.

There are 26 Florida counties designated for FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program where policyholders can take advantage of the grace period. FEMA encourages all affected policyholders residing in these counties to support their recovery by renewing their expired flood insurance policies today.

Contact Your Insurance Agent or Company to Renew an Expired Policy

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period for Hurricane Ian should contact their agent or insurance company today. Policyholders who do not have their insurance agent or company’s contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance.

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 12/12/2022 - 19:52

Federal Support for Hurricane Ian Tops $3.69 Billion

WASHINGTON -- More than $3.69 billion in federal grants, disaster loans and flood insurance payments have been provided to the state of Florida and to households after Hurricane Ian to help survivors jumpstart their recovery.

FEMA has provided $814 million to households and $401 million to the state for emergency response, while the U.S. Small Business Administration has provided $1.2 billion in disaster loans and the National Flood Insurance Program has paid $1.25 billion in claims.

How FEMA is Helping Floridians  

• FEMA has made individual assistance available to 26 counties in Florida. Residents in Brevard, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties are eligible to apply for Individual Assistance. Deadline for applications is Jan. 12, 2023.
• FEMA is meeting survivors where they are to help jumpstart their recoveries. Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists are going door-to-door in Florida neighborhoods to help individuals register for assistance. These teams have visited 324,000 homes and interacted with 148,000 survivors in counties designated for Individual Assistance.
• 30 Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in impacted areas, with more than 91,000 visits by survivors.
• FEMA is providing Transitional Sheltering Assistance in 26 counties to survivors eligible for temporary hotel stays. As of today, the program is providing housing for 1,600 households with 3,906 members.
• Hundreds of FEMA inspectors have performed more than 243,000 home inspections for survivors who applied for federal disaster assistance.
• FEMA is providing temporary housing to eligible Hurricane Ian survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Lee, Sarasota and Volusia counties. FEMA approved Direct Temporary Housing Assistance to provide options for those whose homes are uninhabitable because of the hurricane. FEMA determined that rental assistance is insufficient to meet the housing need in those counties because of a lack of available housing resources. FEMA will notify applicants who are eligible for direct housing. It will take time to transport, permit, install and inspect these units before they are available. Direct Temporary Housing Assistance may be provided for up to 18 months from Sept. 29, 2022, the date of the federal disaster declaration, to March 28, 2024.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved $1.2 billion in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and business owners. Business Recovery Centers are located in Collier, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee and Seminole counties.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has received more than 45,200 flood insurance claims and paid more than $1.25 billion to policyholders.
• NFIP policyholders may receive up to $1,000 to reimburse the purchase of supplies like sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber. They may also receive up to $1,000 in storage expenses if they moved insured property. Policyholders should file a claim for flood loss avoidance reimbursement, regardless of whether it was successful in preventing flood damage.
• FEMA is conducting local hiring for more than 300 jobs in Brandon, Fort Myers, Kissimmee, Orlando and Sarasota. These positions are full-time, 120-day appointments that may be extended depending on operational needs. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through USAJobs.gov.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians can file a claim for loss of income caused by Hurricane Ian by going to Disaster Unemployment Assistance - FloridaJobs.org and selecting “Apply for Hurricane Ian DUA,” visiting a local CareerSource Career Center, or calling  800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
• Low-income Florida residents recovering from Hurricane Ian may be eligible for assistance from the Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Survivors can find more information on Florida’s D-SNAP program by visiting the Florida Department of Children and Families’ Hurricane Ian Response & Recovery website.
• Operation Blue Roof installed 20,119 roofs in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. (Mission completed.)
• National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25, 2022 through Oct. 23, 2022. Policyholders whose renewal date is in this range should contact their agent or insurance company. FEMA also extended the proof of loss requirement for flood insurance policyholders in Florida who experienced flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days. For more information on how to file a flood insurance claim, visit How to Start Your Flood Insurance Claim.
• If you or a member of your household uses adaptive or accessibility items that were damaged by Hurricane Ian, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for those items. For homeowners, items can include an exterior ramp, grab bars and a paved pathway to the home’s entrance from a vehicle. Awards do not count toward your Housing Assistance or Personal Property maximum awards. For more information for homeowners and renters, visit Update to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 12/12/2022 - 16:27

One Year Later, Tornado Recovery Continues to Make Progress

FRANKFORT, Ky.– On the night of Dec. 10, 2021, deadly tornadoes swept through Western Kentucky, causing an estimated $305 million in damage to homes, churches and businesses in Mayfield, Dawson Springs, Bowling Green and other communities.

In Mayfield alone – a city of 10,000 residents -- the deadly tornadoes destroyed 257 homes and damaged another 1,000, according to the city. Most of its historic town center was destroyed.

In the aftermath, first responders and emergency managers, nonprofits, Commonwealth and FEMA officials rushed to the scene, making an all-out effort to assess the damage and assist to survivors.

Gov. Andy Beshear established the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, which received 150,000 donations totaling $52 million. The money went to help with recovery needs, including funeral expenses for each of the victims, construction of new homes, funding for insured and uninsured homeowners and renters and local farmers impacted by the destruction of the Mayfield Grain Co.

The governor expressed his gratitude to the individuals and organizations that donated to the fund.

“Every single donation made a difference in our rebuilding and recovery efforts,” Gov. Beshear said.

FEMA also stepped in early at the request of the governor. The tornado-stricken counties received a presidential declaration two days after the tornadoes struck. The declaration allowed residents and communities to apply for federal assistance for a variety of recovery programs.

“FEMA has been in Kentucky since the beginning, coordinating efforts with the commonwealth, and providing much needed assistance to individuals and communities,” said Federal Coordinating Officer in charge of Kentucky recovery Myra Shird. “We’ve provided dollars directly to survivors, we’ve brought technical support from our federal partners like the Army Corp of Engineers, and we’ve worked with the commonwealth to provide temporary housing to those who lost everything.”

Now, one year after the tornado disaster, families, businesses and communities are rebuilding. It’s estimated that between $50 to $100 million in insurance payments have flowed into these communities helping homeowners and businesses rebuild safer and stronger. While an additional more than $75 million in federal assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration has helped those with disaster-related needs not met by insurance or other assistance.

Federal Assistance By the Numbers

As of Dec. 2, 2022

FEMA INDIVIDUAL ASSISTANCE

Sixteen counties were designated for federal assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program: Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren.

• More than $15.9 million approved for individuals and households, including:
  • More than $11.5 million approved for Housing Assistance
  • Nearly $4.4 million approved for Other Needs Assistance, which helps to replace essential household items and other critical disaster-related needs

TEMPORARY HOUSING

 

• Currently, 55 families are participating in FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing program in six designated counties: Caldwell, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg and Warren.
  • 37 families have moved out of FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing and into their permanent housing.
• Nearly 1,600 families received temporary rental assistance from FEMA. They receive up to 18 months of rental assistance while they repair their tornado-damaged homes or find other permanent housing.

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

 

• 654 disaster loans approved for homeowners, renters, and businesses for nearly $59.8 million.
  • More than $50.6 million in home loans
  • Nearly $9.2 million in business loans

FEMA PUBLIC ASSISTANCE

Twenty-three counties are eligible for Public Assistance: Barren, Breckinridge, Bullitt, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Grayson, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Meade, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Shelby, Spencer, Taylor, Todd and Warren.

Under FEMA’s Public Assistance program, communities get help with the cost of repair, rebuilding and emergency work including reimbursements for debris removal, damaged roads and infrastructure

In total, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program has approved more than $30.6 million for Western Kentucky.

“Whenever there is a disaster the name FEMA is on the tip of everyone’s tongue, but disaster recovery is always a team effort,” said FCO Shird, “it’s local and voluntary agencies, communities and individuals. We all have a stake in this recovery. FEMA will continue to support the commonwealth to help meet their vision of what the future of these communities looks like.” As the recovery progresses, nonprofits continue to help with activities ranging from building homes to helping survivors with their critical needs such as home repairs, appliances and vehicle repair or replacement.

Here are examples of recovery efforts during the past year:

Nonprofit Organizations and Citizens’ Groups

The Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund pledged $16 million to build 300 homes in the tornado-devastated areas, and nonprofits have been tapped to help with construction. To date, 35 families have received keys to a new home built in cooperation with Homes and Hope for Kentucky, Habitat for Humanity and the Fuller Center on Housing plan.

Local long-term recovery groups have been operating in Caldwell, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg and Ohio counties as well as the City of Mayfield and the City of Bowling Green.

These groups are focused on temporary rental, utility and security deposit assistance as well as structural repairs to survivors’ homes. They may provide spiritual and emotional resources, essential appliances for homes and transportation needs for medical transportation, work and school.

One long-term recovery group, the Mayfield Graves County Long-Term Recovery Group, is organizing Home for the Holidays for tornado survivors. This program is trying to place 25 families into 25 homes by Dec. 25, 2022. The goal is to place homeless renters into permanent housing by utilizing existing vacant homes throughout the community.

“We have made a lot of progress, but our work will continue until every structure and life is rebuilt,” Gov. Beshear said. “We will continue bringing new economic promise to this area to ensure these communities have a brighter future than ever before.”

For information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Mon, 12/12/2022 - 16:17