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FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Wyoming’s Pleasant Valley Fire

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 10:57
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Wyoming’s Pleasant Valley Fire

DENVER – FEMA has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Pleasant Valley Fire burning in Platte County, Wyoming near Hartville following a request from the state last night. 

FEMA Region 8 Deputy Administrator Katherine Fox approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request last night and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Pleasant Valley Fire was threatening 100 primary homes near Hartville as well as threatening buildings, infrastructure, utilities and watersheds in the area. The fire started July 30 and has burned more than 100 acres of state and private land with zero-percent containment.

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

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

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

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

anthony.mayne Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:57
Categories: DHS News

Updated FEMA Individual Assistance Benefits Kentuckians Affected by May 21-27 Severe Weather

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 10:34
Updated FEMA Individual Assistance Benefits Kentuckians Affected by May 21-27 Severe Weather

FRANKFORT, KY. – To better serve disaster survivors, FEMA has recently implemented significant updates to its Individual Assistance program. These updates apply to Kentuckians who were affected by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. The revised program offers new benefits, expanded eligibility, and a simplified application process.

New Benefits

Serious Needs Assistance 

FEMA may provide money to help you pay for essential items like food, water, baby formula, medication, and other emergency supplies. 

Displacement Assistance 

You may be eligible for money to help with immediate housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends, or other options while you look for an alternate housing solution. 

Expanded Eligibility

Simplified Other Needs Assistance 

Homeowners, renters and businessowners who need additional help to recover can apply for a low-interest disaster loan with the U.S. Small Business Administration at the same time as applying for assistance from FEMA.

Help Underinsured People

If you received an insurance payout that did not cover the cost of damage to your home or property, you may be eligible to receive money from FEMA. Keep in mind, FEMA assistance is not a replacement for home, renter’s or flood insurance, and will not cover all losses from a disaster.

Expanded Criteria for Home Repair Assistance

You may receive money to repair the parts of your home damaged by the disaster regardless of pre-existing conditions. You can also make repairs that prevent similar damage from future disasters.

Make Accessibility Improvements 

FEMA can also help by providing money to help you make accessibility repairs to your home (such as exterior ramp, grab bars, and paved path to the home entrance) if you have a disability. Repairs can be made when these items are damaged during a disaster. Improvements to the home can be made when these features were not present before the disaster but are needed due to a pre-existing disability or a disability caused by the disaster.

Simplified Assistance for Self Employed Applicants

If you are self-employed, FEMA may offer money to repair or replace the disaster-damaged tools and equipment needed to do your job. 

Expanded Assistance for Computing Devices 

You may now receive money for a personal or family computer that is damaged by a disaster. You may also receive money for additional computers required for work, school or access and functional needs.

Simplified Application Process

Streamlined Temporary Housing Assistance Applications

We have reduced the documentation requirements if you are seeking continued temporary housing assistance. Individual caseworkers will engage closely with you to offer support and increase transparency. 

Removed Barriers for Late Applicants

If you are requesting approval for a late application, you no longer have to provide documentation supporting the reason for your late application. 

Simplify the Process for Appeals 

If you disagree with a FEMA decision and wish to appeal, you will no longer need to provide a signed, written appeal letter to accompany the supporting documentation.   

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

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:34
Categories: DHS News

Five Steps to a More Disaster-Resilient Home

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 09:58
Five Steps to a More Disaster-Resilient Home
  • Reinforce Your Residence. Retrofitting your home can provide structural updates that didn’t exist when it was built. For example, a homeowner can install straps to their roof’s structural beams to make it strong enough to resist the "uplift" effect of high winds that can cause the roof to lift and collapse back down on the house.
  • Defend Those Doors. Garage or double-entry doors can fail under wind pressure. Garage doors can be reinforced with girds and by strengthening the wheel tracks. Double-entry doors can be reinforced with a heavy-duty deadbolt, adding slide bolts on one of the doors, and using longer hinge attachments on the door and frame.
  • Guard Your Glass. Storm shutters prevent windows from breaking when there is windborne debris. You can also add shatter-resistant film or stormproof high-impact glass to reduce the chances of glass breaking.
  • Trim and Tighten. Consider trimming tree branches that may pose a threat to your home and securing outdoor furniture and fuel tanks that can serve as projectiles during high wind events.
  • Ensure You’re Fully Insured. Take the time to review your insurance coverages and talk to your agent to verify your household is adequately insured for high-wind events and other disaster risks in your community.
Federal Funds Available to Help You Reduce Your Home’s Disaster Risk

Homeowners who received FEMA assistance may receive additional funds for specific risk reduction measures such as roof repairs to withstand higher winds. Learn more at Hazard Mitigation Under the Individuals and Households Program.

In addition, U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans can be increased up to 20 percent to make building upgrades to help protect a home or business against future disasters.

Learn more at SBA Mitigation Assistance.

For even more tips to protect your home in high-wind events, you may also visit Protect Your Property From Severe Winds Brochure 2023 (fema.gov).

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or visit the Disaster Recovery Center at Northwest Arkansas Community College’s Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technologies (Building 15) at 1000 SE Eagle Way, Room B103. The phone line is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. The deadline for applications is August 28, 2024

If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). Line is open M-F 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

bree-constance… Wed, 07/31/2024 - 13:58
Categories: DHS News

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Major Disaster Declaration for Minnesota, Authorizing Additional Federal Assistance to Help Individuals and Families Jumpstart Recovery Following Severe Storms and Flooding

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 17:24
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Major Disaster Declaration for Minnesota, Authorizing Additional Federal Assistance to Help Individuals and Families Jumpstart Recovery Following Severe Storms and Flooding

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional federal assistance available to disaster survivors to aid in their recovery from severe storms and flooding that occurred from June 16 – July 4, 2024. 

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Blue Earth, Cook, Cottonwood, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Itasca, Jackson, Lake, Le Sueur, Mower, Nicollet, Nobles, Rice, Rock, St. Louis, Steele, Waseca and Watonwan counties. Assistance 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. 

John F. Boyle has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

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

amy.ashbridge Tue, 07/30/2024 - 21:24
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Fort Bend County July 31

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 16:52
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Fort Bend County July 31

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Fort Bend County July 31 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center location:

William B. Travis Building

301 Jackson St.

Richmond, TX 77469

The center will operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

To shorten wait times at Disaster Recovery Centers, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:

  • Go online to disasterassistance.gov.
  • Download the FEMA App  for mobile devices
  • Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
  • Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

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

alexa.brown Tue, 07/30/2024 - 20:52
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Rusk County July 31

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 15:25
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Rusk County July 31

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Rusk County to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding April 26 – June 5.

Center location:

Rusk County Youth EXPO
3303 FM 13 W (parking lot)
Henderson, TX 75654

The center will operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday- Saturday, closed Sunday. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Residents in Anderson, Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Navarro, Newton, Panola, Polk, San Jacinto, Rusk, Sabine, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

To shorten wait times at Disaster Recovery Centers, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:

  • Go online to disasterassistance.gov 
  • Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
  • Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
  • Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

larissa.hale Tue, 07/30/2024 - 19:25
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Assistance for Survivors of April Storms Tops $6 Million

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 12:29
Disaster Assistance for Survivors of April Storms Tops $6 Million

News Release

Disaster Assistance for Survivors of April Storms Tops $6 Million 

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – More than $6 million has been approved for homeowners and renters in West Virginia after the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides of April 2-6, 2024.   

Federal disaster assistance is available to residents of 11 counties: Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln, Marshall, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Wayne and Wetzel. The application deadline was July 22. West Virginians can still get assistance with applications by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov or an in-person Disaster Recovery Center. 

FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continue response and recovery efforts to support West Virginians who were impacted by the April 2-6 storm. More than 130 disaster loan applications, primarily for homes, have been received by the SBA with more than $1.6 million approved.

For a current list of open disaster centers, please visit DRC Locator online. If it is not possible to visit a center, call 800-621- FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4783 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

###

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

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

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

issa.mansaray Tue, 07/30/2024 - 16:29
Categories: DHS News

FEMA ArtWorks Supported Exhibition to Open in Ogden, Utah

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 12:17
FEMA ArtWorks Supported Exhibition to Open in Ogden, Utah

DENVER – An upcoming art exhibition highlighting climate change and resilience will open in Ogden, Utah on Aug. 9. The exhibition is part of FEMA’s ArtWorks initiative. Three artists are featured in an upcoming exhibition investigating and sharing the stories of resilience in a changing climate. From sublime foreshadowing to documentation of the real ways natural hazards affect our lives; artists shine a light on stories of loss and resilience.

The third stop of a three-city tour, the exhibition will be at Ogden Contemporary Arts, 455 25th Street, Ogden, Utah from Aug. 9 – Sept. 30, 2024. An opening night event will be held on Aug. 9. The exhibition also traveled to Denver and Dickinson, N.D.

Documentary Photographer Tamara Susa utilizes different times of exposure to underscore that climate change happens continuously and overtime and we are all connected to the change.

Painter and Sculptor Bill Nelson’s “Fragile” brings into frame the vulnerable lands to grab our attention.  As we gaze through his steel viewfinder, we are encouraged to meditate on our role as stewards of the environment.

Independent Filmmaker Emilie Upczak’s film “Silt” is a climate justice story about a Diné botanist, grieving the death of a beloved aunt, who travels to northern Mexico, where she is nourished by images of the last trip they took together traversing the Colorado River.

FEMA ArtWorks is designed to raise risk awareness and start dialogues on the value of natural hazard mitigation. It does this through partnerships between FEMA, artists, and local communities.

anthony.mayne Tue, 07/30/2024 - 16:17
Categories: DHS News

FEMA ArtWorks Supported Exhibition to Open in Dickinson, N.D.

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 12:11
FEMA ArtWorks Supported Exhibition to Open in Dickinson, N.D.

DENVER – An upcoming art exhibition highlighting climate change and resilience will open in Dickinson, N.D. on Aug. 2. The exhibition is part of FEMA’s ArtWorks initiative. Three artists are featured in an upcoming exhibition investigating and sharing the stories of resilience in a changing climate. From sublime foreshadowing to documentation of the real ways natural hazards affect our lives; artists shine a light on stories of loss and resilience.

The second stop of a three-city tour, the exhibition will be at SW Gallery & Science Center, 99 2nd Street E, Dickinson, N.D. from Aug. 2 – Aug. 30, 2024. An opening night event will be held on Aug. 2. The exhibition started in Denver and will also travel to Ogden, Utah.

Documentary Photographer Tamara Susa utilizes different times of exposure to underscore that climate change happens continuously and overtime and we are all connected to the change.

Painter and Sculptor Bill Nelson’s “Fragile” brings into frame the vulnerable lands to grab our attention.  As we gaze through his steel viewfinder, we are encouraged to meditate on our role as stewards of the environment.

Independent Filmmaker Emilie Upczak’s film “Silt” is a climate justice story about a Diné botanist, grieving the death of a beloved aunt, who travels to northern Mexico, where she is nourished by images of the last trip they took together traversing the Colorado River.

FEMA ArtWorks is designed to raise risk awareness and start dialogues on the value of natural hazard mitigation. It does this through partnerships between FEMA, artists, and local communities.

anthony.mayne Tue, 07/30/2024 - 16:11
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Assistance Available to Renters after Hurricane Beryl

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 09:56
FEMA Assistance Available to Renters after Hurricane Beryl

AUSTIN – FEMA assistance is available to renters, including students, as well as homeowners with uninsured losses from Hurricane Beryl. 

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Texans in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can apply for FEMA assistance for uninsured losses caused by Hurricane Beryl. To apply:

  • Go online to disasterassistance.gov/.
  • Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
  • Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 any day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
  • Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For operating hours and addresses, go online to fema.gov/drc. These centers can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go online to: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance

U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loans

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), FEMA’s federal partner in disaster recovery, may also be able to help. FEMA has streamlined the application process so people can apply to FEMA and SBA at the same time. SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at the Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 for more information.

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

alexa.brown Tue, 07/30/2024 - 13:56
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Approves $1.7 Million for Boynton Beach Stormwater Infrastructure

DHS News and Updates - Tue, 07/30/2024 - 09:36
FEMA Approves $1.7 Million for Boynton Beach Stormwater Infrastructure

LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA is announcing $1,737,750 in grant funding to reimburse the city of Boynton Beach for upgrades to stormwater infrastructure to mitigate flood risk.  

This project will improve existing stormwater collection, conveyance and retention systems. Additionally, the project will install new stormwater infrastructure on many streets. 

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, local, territorial and tribal governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities.

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Tue, 07/30/2024 - 13:36
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Fort Bend, Harris, Jackson Counties July 30

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 16:34
Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Fort Bend, Harris, Jackson Counties July 30

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening Disaster Recovery Centers in Fort Bend, Harris and Jackson counties July 30 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center locations:

Fort Bend County

PublicTransportation Facility

3737 Bamore Rd.

Rosenberg, TX 77471

Harris County

Pasadena Convention Center 

7902 Fairmont Parkway

Pasadena, TX 77507

Jackson County

Carancahua Community Center 

829 County Road 477

Palacios, TX, 77465

The centers operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

To shorten wait times at Disaster Recovery Centers, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:

  • Go online to disasterassistance.gov  
  • Download the FEMA App  for mobile devices
  • Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
  • Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

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

alexa.brown Mon, 07/29/2024 - 20:34
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Approves $2.3 Million for Sarasota Wind Protection Project

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 15:50
FEMA Approves $2.3 Million for Sarasota Wind Protection Project

LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA is announcing $2,312,787 in grant funding to reimburse the city of Sarasota for a wind protection project improving the resiliency of existing traffic signals at three different intersections.  

Hurricane Ian left wind damage to current signals resulting in traffic delays and increasing chances of accidents. This project will protect traffic signals against 170 mph winds to ensure they are operational during future storms.  

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, local, territorial and tribal governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities.

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Mon, 07/29/2024 - 19:50
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Humboldt County

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 12:55
Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Humboldt County

FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Humboldt County on Tuesday, July 30 to provide one-on-one help to people affected by recent severe storms and flooding.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.

Humboldt County

Humboldt County Engineer

Secondary Roads Bldg.

2221 220th St

Humboldt, IA 50548

Opens on Tuesday, July 30: 1-6 p.m. Then open daily from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.

FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Humboldt, Lyon, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pottawattamie, Sioux and Woodbury counties. 

To save time, please apply with FEMA online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. They are open daily 8 a.m.– 6 p.m.

Cherokee County 

Cherokee County Emergency Management

(Formerly the Cherokee County Work Services Bldg.)

322 Lake St., Suite B

Cherokee, IA 51012

Clay County

Clay County Regional Events Center

Tower Gate Pavilion

800 W. 18th St.

Spencer, IA 51301

Emmet County

St. Patrick's Church - Gym

903 Central Ave.

Estherville, IA 51334

 

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

.

O’Brien County

Sheldon City Hall

 (Community Services Center)

416 9th St.,

Sheldon, IA 51201

 

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

How to Apply with FEMA

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

Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448.

thomas.wise Mon, 07/29/2024 - 16:55
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Park Fire

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 11:34
FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Park Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 27 at 3:15 p.m. PDT / 6:15 p.m. EDT to assist the state of California in combating the Park Fire burning in Tehama County. The Park Fire was previously approved for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) on July 24, 2024, for Butte County.

On July 27, the state of California submitted a request for an additional Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Park Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 779 homes in and around the communities of Campbellville, Paynes Valley, Mineral, and Dales Ponderosa Sky Ranch, with a combined population of around 1,815. Ninety-nine percent of the threatened homes are primary residences.

The fire started on July 24, 2024, and has burned more than 350,000 acres of federal, state, and private land. There are 21 other large fires currently burning within the state.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents.
 

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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

 

brandi.richard… Mon, 07/29/2024 - 15:34
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Approves $2.3 Million for Sarasota Wind Protection Project

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 11:03
FEMA Approves $2.3 Million for Sarasota Wind Protection Project

LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA is announcing $2,312,787 in grant funding to reimburse the city of Sarasota for a wind protection project improving the resiliency of existing traffic signals at three different intersections.  

Hurricane Ian left wind damage to current signals resulting in traffic delays and increasing chances of accidents. This project will protect traffic signals against 170 mph winds to ensure they are operational during future storms.  

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, local, territorial and tribal governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities.

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Mon, 07/29/2024 - 15:03
Categories: DHS News

Mobil Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Medanales

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 10:47
Mobil Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Medanales

A Mobil Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) operated by the state of New Mexico and FEMA will open in Medanales on Tuesday, July 30, to help Rio Arriba County residents impacted by last month’s South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding. 

The MDRC will be located at 214 County Road 142 in Medanales. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays.

Residents and business owners in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents, learn about available resources and get their questions answered in person. Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as well as, state, local, nonprofit and other community organizations will be available to meet with visitors.

The new MDRC (through Aug. 3 only) will be located at:

  • Rio Arriba County
    Senior Citizens Center
    214 County Road 142
    Medanales, NM

There are other DRCs open at:

  • Lincoln County
    Horton Complex 
    237 Service Road
    Ruidoso, NM

    Angus Church of the Nazarene
    103 Bonita Park Road
    Angus, NM 
  • Mescalero Apache Reservation 
    Mescalero Library 
    148 Cottonwood Dr.
    Mescalero, NM 

Hours at all centers are:
Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Closed Sunday

New Mexicans can also gather information on resources such as SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment, insurance claim assistance, Disaster Case Management, vital records, mental health support and childcare assistance. No appointment is needed. 

All Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. Language services are also available at the center. You do not have to visit the center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. 

For more information and assistance, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 07/29/2024 - 14:47
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Borel Fire

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 10:41
FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Borel Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 27 at 12:07 a.m. PDT / 3:07 a.m. EDT to assist the state of California in combating the Borel Fire burning in Kern County.

On July 27, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 4,000 homes in multiple communities throughout Kern County, with a combined population of around 1,560. All the threatened homes are primary residences.

The fire started on July 25, 2024, and had burned more than 31,950 acres of state and private land. There are 21 other large fires currently burning uncontrolled within the state.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents.
 

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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

 

brandi.richard… Mon, 07/29/2024 - 14:41
Categories: DHS News

One Month Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 09:06
One Month Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Survivors of the severe storms that ripped through eight counties in northern Arkansas May 24-27 have one more month to apply for federal assistance. The application deadline is August 28.

Everyone in the designated area who sustained damage during the storms is encouraged to apply by the deadline.

Arkansans who had loss or damage should apply with FEMA even if they don’t have repair estimates or insurance settlements yet. To be considered, people in the impacted areas need to register with FEMA to begin the process. FEMA will work with survivors to identify what information is needed to determine eligibility.

More than $19.9 million total federal assistance has been provided to survivors of the May storms. This includes:

  • $6.2 million in FEMA assistance approved for 1,758 households. 
  • $13.7 million in U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans approved.

If you sustained losses in the severe storms and live in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion or Randolph counties, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

  • Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov,
  • Download the FEMA App for your smartphone.
  • Visit the Recovery Center at the Northwest Arkansas Community College, Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technologies (Building 15) at 1000 SE Eagle Way, Room B103 in Bentonville.
  • Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The phone line is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CDT, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).  The line is open M-F 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CDT.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/

alexa.brown Mon, 07/29/2024 - 13:06
Categories: DHS News

Additional FEMA Funding for PRASA’s Essential Infrastructure

DHS News and Updates - Mon, 07/29/2024 - 08:09
Additional FEMA Funding for PRASA’s Essential Infrastructure

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated nearly $22.6 million to the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) for two projects that will restore the island’s water infrastructure from damage following Hurricane María. 

“The restoration of this equipment is crucial to ensure that water reaches communities effectively and without interruption. These interventions will guarantee a more reliable water supply and improve the quality of life for thousands of residents in the area,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

One of PRASA’s projects to replace water pipes in the metropolitan region will benefit about 4,900 families, located in the Loíza Valley community of Canóvanas; in the Villa Fontana community of Carolina; in the Country Club community and Juan Ponce de León Avenue area in San Juan; and in the Amelia neighborhood in Guaynabo.

The infrastructure suffered significant damage due to erosion, flooding and other effects of the hurricane. Some of this damage includes continuous leaks due to deterioration and high-water pressure because of hydraulic issues.

This first phase of the project, with an allocation of nearly $10.1 million, involves the installation of new PVC pipelines and interconnection with existing systems. Additionally, hydrants will be replaced and service connection improvements will be carried out. 

PRASA’s Executive President Doriel Pagán Crespo said that “this project is extremely important for the Metro Region. The replacement and renovation of pipes in the area will reduce water losses due to leaks. This, in turn, will result in a more stable service for subscribers and a more accurate reading for the billing process. With projects like this, we continue to strengthen the Authority’s infrastructure.”

Moreover, PRASA also has a federal allocation to repair the raw water treatment plant in the Jagüeyes community of Villalba. This facility receives raw water from the community through drains and sewer pipes. The project, with a federal investment of over $12.5 million, will increase the plant’s capacity. 

Structural and mechanical improvements at the plant will benefit approximately 2,400 customers. A new structure will be built to include the electrical and mechanical systems; among them, the control room, a laboratory and a new filter operating area. The roof of the existing building will also be treated to repair cracks.

The executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “the Aqueduct and Sewer Authority has stood out as one of the most proactive subrecipients. To date, the corporation has managed to complete 113 projects with an allocation of $58 million. In addition to this, another 131 projects are in the reconstruction stage with obligations exceeding $1.4 billion. The agency has also received approximately $340 million from FEMA’s Working Capital Advance (WCA) pilot program, which advances funds to support ongoing operations and recovery efforts.”

To date, FEMA has allocated nearly $34 billion for more than 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María. Through FEMA’s Accelerated Obligation Strategy (FAASt), PRASA has over $3.6 billion of these funds to repair its infrastructure.  

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

 

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 07/29/2024 - 12:09
Categories: DHS News

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