American Bar Association Offers Free Legal Aid to Hurricane Helene Survivors in South Carolina

Free legal assistance is available to disaster survivors in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation who were affected by Hurricane Helene in South Carolina. 

If you need help, you can call (803) 799-6653 ext. 120 or (803) 576-3815 8:30 a.m. -- noon; 1:00 -- 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If after business hours, survivors can leave a message. The hotline is available to connect survivors to free legal services in qualifying counties who cannot afford an attorney.

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

• FEMA and SBA financial benefits.
• Home repair contracts and property insurance claims.
• Re-doing wills and other important legal documents destroyed in the disaster.
• Price gouging, scams or identity theft.
• Landlord or tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure.
• Disability-related access to federal, state and local disaster programs.

The Disaster Legal Services program works with state and local partners to provide free legal help for low-income disaster survivors. The service is a partnership between the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, and various organizations and volunteer attorneys. 

Hotline partners cannot help in all cases. For example, the Disaster Legal Services program cannot take cases where a settlement could include legal fees or an award, but DLS can refer those cases to other legal help.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 10/22/2024 - 11:07

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Aiken, Allendale, Greenwood, Newberry Counties

Disaster Recovery Centers will be open in Aiken, Allendale, Greenwood and Newberry counties to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Aiken County
Aiken Technical College – Building B
2276 Jefferson Davis Highway
Graniteville, SC 29829
Open Oct. 21-24, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
Oct 25-26, 7:30 a.m.– 6 p.m.

Allendale County
James Brandt Building
398 Barnwell Highway
Allendale, SC 29810
Open Oct. 21-23, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

Greenwood County
United Way of the Lakelands
929 Phoenix St.
Greenwood, SC 29646
Open Oct. 21-30, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

Newberry County
Newberry County Sheriff’s Office
550 Wilson Road
Newberry, SC 29108
Open Oct. 21-24, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

These locations join the centers previously opened in Anderson, Greenville, Pickens and Union counties. 

Anderson County 
Anderson County Library
300 N. McDuffie St.
Anderson, SC 29621 
Open Oct. 20, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Oct. 21-24, 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 25-26, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Oct. 27, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Greenville County 
Freetown Community Center 
200 Alice Ave.  
Greenville, SC 29611 
Open through Oct. 24, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.  

Pickens County
Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library
304 Biltmore Road
Easley, SC 29640
Open through Oct. 21, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.   

Union County
Union County Library
300 E. South St.
Union, SC 29379
Open through Oct. 22, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.  

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. To find other center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

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

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 10/21/2024 - 22:42

Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in Virginia

BRISTOL, Va.—If you were affected by Tropical Storm Helene, visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to apply for assistance and learn about resources from FEMA, the Small Business Administration, the commonwealth of Virginia, and other organizations to aid you in your recovery.   

What is a DRC?

A DRC, or Disaster Recovery Center, is an accessible facility that you can visit in person to learn more about FEMA and other agencies providing disaster assistance in Virginia. Residents, property owners, business owners and farmers can go to a DRC to apply for assistance and obtain resources. 

This video provides an overview about what you can expect when you visit a DRC: Disaster Recovery Center (DRC): Your Resource After a Hurricane (youtube.com). 

What can I get help with? 

At a Disaster Recovery Center you can get one-on-one help with staff from the organizations present. FEMA staff at DRCs are happy to spend time with you to explain the types of assistance offered and help you apply. 

The specialists at a DRC can help you: 

• Apply for disaster grants from FEMA. 
• Submit additional documents for your application.
• Understand and respond to a letter from FEMA. 
• Apply for low-interest disaster loans for individuals and businesses with the Small Business Administration (SBA). 
• Find resources about agricultural recovery and assistance for farmers.
• Learn how to replace damaged documents like proof of address or birth certificates.
• Get connected to commonwealth of Virginia resources.
• Obtain information on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and how to mitigate against future losses.
• Find other sources of assistance, like nonprofit help.

Who is at a DRC? 

Every Disaster Recovery Center is a little different, based on the local community’s needs. 

All DRCs will have FEMA staff, trained in the Individual Assistance program, available to answer questions about the FEMA disaster assistance application process. FEMA hazard mitigation staff are also available to speak to survivors who want to learn about ways to make their properties safer from floods and build back better. All DRCs have staff from the Small Business Administration. 

DRCs will have representatives from the commonwealth of Virginia, though the specific agencies will differ from location to location. If you need help from a specific agency, you can still come to a DRC where staff can share information and get you in touch with the agency you need. 

DRCs may have representatives from nonprofit organizations as well as other local agencies. 

What should I bring?

You do not need to bring anything to visit a DRC – just yourself. However, depending on the help you are looking for, it can be helpful to prepare ahead of time. 

Applying for Assistance: If you are starting or resuming an application for assistance, you should bring the following with you: 

• Insurance information, if available 
• The address and zip code of your disaster-damaged home
• Condition of your damaged home
• Social Security number 
• Phone number, address, and email (if you have one) where you can be contacted
• Bank account information, if you would like to set up direct deposit 

For examples of these documents and a more detailed application checklist, see the application checklist on DisasterAssistance.gov.

If you have questions about a FEMA determination letter it will be helpful if you bring the letter and any documents requested in the letter. If you have a FEMA ID number, write that down and bring it with you. If you don’t have it, staff can ask you other questions to access your application information.

What should I expect? 

DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

Every DRC is laid out differently to make best use of the space. You can watch a quick video that walks through a DRC in New York from 2021.  

DRCs will always have signs out front, indicating where to enter.

Once you walk in the front doors, you will be greeted, and you will sign in. All DRCs have security guards present at the entrance. You may have to wait for a few moments for the specialist you need to be available. If so, you can sit down in designated chairs or a waiting area. Most of the time, you will not need to wait and will be helped immediately. 

As soon as a specialist is available, they will work with you personally to help answer your questions, help you register for assistance or understand your documents, connect you with available resources, and more.

Where do I find a DRC near me? 

As of Oct. 21, there are six DRCs open across southwest Virginia. New DRCs will continue to open over the coming weeks.  To find a DRC near you, including addresses and hours, go to FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

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

 

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

connor.dacey Mon, 10/21/2024 - 21:06

State of Alaska and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Flooding Survivors

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – FEMA Individual Assistance is now available for residents in the City and Borough of Juneau affected by the flooding that occurred August 5-6, 2024. Assistance may include funds for home repairs, temporary rental assistance, damaged vehicles and essential personal property, loss of subsistence items, as well as medical, dental, and funeral expenses caused by the disaster.

FEMA assistance is unable to duplicate benefits offered through insurance, state programs, or other programs. But if your losses or damage go beyond disaster assistance available from other sources – or include items or categories not covered by other assistance – you may be eligible for additional funds from FEMA. Even if you have already registered for the State of Alaska's disaster assistance program, you must also register with FEMA to determine if you may be eligible to receive additional funds through FEMA. 

• Residents are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance by calling the FEMA Region 10 Call Center at 866-342-1699 between 7 a.m.-4 p.m. AKT, Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. AKT, Saturday. The FEMA Region 10 Call Center has staff trained to answer Alaska-specific questions. You can also apply by visiting disasterassistance.gov or using the FEMA mobile app.
• If a reasonable accommodation – such as language translation or interpretation, mobility assistance, or sign language interpretation is needed – email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also notify FEMA staff through the FEMA Region 10 Call Center Helpline.

The U.S. Small Business Administration also offers long-term disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, as well as homeowners and renters to pay for repair or replacement costs not fully compensated by insurance or other assistance. For more information, go to: www.sba.gov/disaster or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

In addition to Individual Assistance, designated areas in the City and Borough of Juneau have also been approved for Public Assistance which will reimburse the State of Alaska, on a cost-share basis, for emergency protective measures taken in response to the disaster. The State of Alaska has also been approved for additional funding, on a cost-share basis, for hazard mitigation measures.

Additional designations may be made at a later date. 

erika.suzuki Mon, 10/21/2024 - 20:54

FEMA, SBA and USDA create Recovery Resource Guide for Local Business Owners

WASHINGTON – FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have collaborated to create a guide to help local businesses affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton access recovery resources.

The agencies created a one-stop-shop resource with information about federal support that is available to assist local businesses with their recovery. The guide—tailored for each affected state—is available on FEMA’s website at the links below:

• Florida
• Georgia
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Virginia 

Many local business owners are also disaster survivors. This means they’re dealing with two separate recoveries, one for their household and another for their business.

Recovery for local businesses after events like Helene and Milton may seem daunting. FEMA encourages chambers of commerce and other civic organizations to share this guide to help local businesses recover.
Below are examples of the resources available to local businesses and their owners:

• FEMA grants to make home repairs.
• Low interest disaster loans from the SBA to repair homes and businesses. Business owners may also qualify for loans for economic injury.
• Disaster Recovery Centers where business owners and survivors can meet representatives from various federal agencies who may be able to help. Centers are open in every state affected by Helene and Milton.
• SBA Business Physical Disaster Loans. The SBA provides long-term low interest loans up to $2 million to cover disaster losses not fully covered by insurance.  
• SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans. The SBA provides long-term low interest loans up to $2 million for working capital to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private nonprofit organizations impacted by a disaster meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations until normal operations resume.  
• Livestock indemnity. The USDA provides benefits to livestock owners and contract growers for livestock deaths. 
• Emergency loans. The USDA provides loans to help producers recover from production and physical losses.

A full list of more than 70 resources from 17 federal agencies is available on disasterassistance.gov.

President Biden has declared a major disaster for six states affected by Helene—Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia—and Florida for Milton.

FEMA reminds survivors affected by hurricanes Helene or Milton that they can apply for FEMA assistance in four ways: online at disasterassistance.gov, on the FEMA App, calling 800-621-3362, or in person at a local Disaster Recovery Center.

erika.suzuki Mon, 10/21/2024 - 20:20

President Joseph R. Biden Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Carolina to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight from Sept. 16-20, 2024. 

Federal funding is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities in Brunswick, Carteret, New Hanover and Onslow counties.

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

E. Craig Levy, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

erika.suzuki Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:23

FEMA Inspecting Homes After Florida Hurricanes

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- After Floridians apply for FEMA assistance following Hurricanes Milton, Helene or Debby, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine the extent of damage and whether the home is safe, sanitary and livable.

Inspectors do not make decisions regarding eligibility for assistance. Information gathered during the inspection is part of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance. 

The inspector will consider:

• The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.
• Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.
• Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.

Applications for more than one storm may require a separate inspection.

Inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming. They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number. They carry photo identification. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed or recorded. Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money. Their service is free. 

The inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home. They will leave messages and/or texts on the phone number listed on the FEMA application. These communications may come from unfamiliar phone numbers and it is important that applicants respond so their application can be processed.

A typical home inspection may take up to 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 or lookup their application status on DisasterAssistance.gov or the FEMA mobile App.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806 . Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:17

FEMA Offers Equal Access to Assistance for All Georgia Disaster Survivors

ATLANTA – FEMA is committed to providing equal access to federal assistance for Georgians who were affected by Tropical Storm Debby, damage Aug. 4-20, and/or Hurricane Helene. Anyone with an accessibility need who is applying for FEMA assistance should let FEMA know.  

If you or anyone in your household has a disability or language need---as well as a need to interact with FEMA or have disability-related losses due to the storms, it is important to answer “yes” to the appropriate questions when completing the application for FEMA disaster assistance. You will be asked to identify what you need to help you throughout your recovery process. Questions will also help identify other services for which you may be eligible to receive reimbursement.

Examples of the type of questions you can expect include:

• Do you have a disability or language need that requires an accommodation to interact with FEMA staff and/or access FEMA programs?
• Do you or anyone in your household have a disability that affects your ability to perform activities of daily living or requires an assistive device?
• Did you have any disability-related assistive devices or medically required equipment/supplies/support services damaged, destroyed, lost, or disrupted because of the disaster?

A disaster can take away the key components that enable people with disabilities and people with other access and functional needs to live independently or to communicate with others. These may include a wheelchair, scooter, walker, CPAP machine, hearing aids, eyeglasses, or screen reader. You may be eligible to receive FEMA funds to replace these items. 

The First Step is to Apply

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to apply. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available: 

• Address of your disaster damaged home with zip code
• A description of your disaster caused losses, which may include the condition of your damaged home
• Insurance information, if available
• Social Security number
• Phone number where you can be contacted
• Address where you can receive mail or email address to receive electronic notifications

If you need an accommodation or assistance due to a disability or language need, ask FEMA at the time of applying or anytime throughout the assistance process.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4821 or fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

larissa.hale Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:11

Biden-Harris Administration Provides Billions in Federal Assistance for Helene Response and Recovery, Announces Initial Hiring Effort with New Community Liaison Program to Ensure Community-Driven Long-Term Recovery

FEMA to Hire Community Liaisons in North Carolina Assist with Recovery Efforts, Provide Local Jobs to Community

WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration has provided nearly $2 billion in federal assistance for individuals and communities affected by Hurricane Helene and Milton. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today announced that the agency will create a brand-new program and will hire Community Liaisons to assist impacted communities with their recovery and rebuilding efforts. These dedicated Community Liaisons will interface between the people of North Carolina and FEMA to ensure their needs are met and serve as trusted messengers for the community. Administrator Deanne Criswell joined North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper today to provide an update on recovery efforts, as the federal government continues to work alongside it state and local partners to ensure that survivors receive the resources they need to jumpstart their recovery.
    
“Hurricane Helene was an unprecedented incident that requires an unprecedented response and recovery. I have learned from past recoveries across the nation and know that they work best when the community doesn’t just have a seat at the table, but they have a leading role in the recovery process,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Today, I am announcing a new commitment – we will be hiring Community Liaisons, who will work alongside us at FEMA to make sure that local voices and local considerations are part of this recovery. They will be embedded in every impacted county, working directly with county administrators, mayors and community leaders. In the weeks and months to come, I anticipate we will hire even more people from the community and we encourage people of the community to apply.”

In response to Helene, FEMA has approved over $1.2 billion in assistance for communities. This includes $746 million in assistance for individuals and families, along with more than $524 million for debris removal and efforts to protect public health and safety. As ongoing response efforts continue in western North Carolina, FEMA has approved over $130 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 89,500 households. 

FEMA has spent approximately $4.3 billion on Hurricane Helene response and recovery. This number not only includes direct assistance to survivors and communities, but also encompasses broader response and recovery efforts such as mission assignments for Urban Search and Rescue and Army Corps of Engineers for debris removal, as well as Disaster Recovery Center set up and maintenance. 

Currently, FEMA has deployed more than 4,900 personnel to the affected areas, contributing to a total of over 7,035 federal responders who are working together to support state and local governments in their recovery efforts. FEMA personnel on the ground are actively coordinating with local officials, conducting damage assessments, and helping individuals apply for disaster assistance programs. To support response and recovery efforts, FEMA delivered over 12.6 million meals, and 13.2 million liters of water to states impacted by Helene.
 
More than 8,400 families, effect by Helene, have checked into FEMA provided hotels, allowing them a safe and warm place to stay while they recover. Shelter numbers remain steady, with 11 shelters housing just over 470 occupants.  

FEMA continues to open Disaster Recovery Centers in affected communities, offering in-person assistance, information on available resources and help with FEMA assistance applications. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are also on the ground in all affected states, helping survivors apply for aid and connect with additional resources from state, local, federal, and voluntary agencies. 

In North Carolina, there are over 420 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also 14 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lenoir, Marion, Sylva and Waynesville where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.

erika.suzuki Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:09

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available to Tennesseans

If you lost your job or had work hours reduced or interrupted as a result of Tropical Storm Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance from the State of Tennessee.

You can apply for disaster unemployment benefits if you live in, work in or travel to your job through Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi or Washington County. These benefits will cover Sept. 29 to April 5, 2025, if your unemployment continues to be a direct result of the storm. 

The deadline to apply is Monday, Dec. 2.

To apply,visit TN.gov/Jobs4TN or call 877-813-0950 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. If you file online, specify on your application that you were impacted by a disaster.

Eligibility

You may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance if:

• Your place of employment was damaged or destroyed
• You can’t get to work because the disaster left roads damaged or closed
• You cannot perform work or self-employment because of an injury caused by the disaster; or
• You became the major household support because of the death of the head of household due to the disaster.

And:

• You worked, were self-employed or were scheduled to begin work or self-employment in the disaster area;
• The work or self-employment you can no longer perform was your primary source of income; and
• You have applied for and used all regular unemployment benefits from any state, or do not qualify for unemployment benefits.
  • Regular unemployment insurance and disaster unemployment benefits cannot be paid at the same time.

The Disaster Unemployment Assistance program is funded by FEMA and operated by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 10/21/2024 - 18:12

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Mecklenburg County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Monday, Oct. 21 in Charlotte (Mecklenburg County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene. 

The Mecklenburg County DRC is located at: 

Corvian Community School
9501 David Taylor Drive
Charlotte, NC 28262
Open: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.

Centers are already open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lenoir, Marion, Morganton, Newland, Old Fort, Sparta, Sylva and Waynesville. To find those center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a zip code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will open soon. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed. 

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
 

aubrey.pound Sun, 10/20/2024 - 19:20

Georgians Who Lost Income Due to Storms May Be Eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance

ATLANTA – Employees or self-employed Georgians who became unemployed as a direct consequence of Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene may be eligible to receive Federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance. Receiving this assistance does not affect your ability to apply for or receive other FEMA assistance. 

Disaster Unemployment Assistance is a FEMA-funded, state managed federal program that helps workers whose primary income is lost or interrupted as a direct result of a disaster declared by the President. Unlike regular state unemployment insurance, it provides benefits to people who are self-employed, farmers, diversified farming operators, loggers, commission-paid employees, and others who are not eligible under the state's program. 

In Georgia, the deadlines to apply depend on the disaster declaration dates.

For Tropical Storm Debby:

• Nov. 25 for residents in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long and Screven counties.

For Hurricane Helene: 

• Dec. 2 for residents in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Bulloch, Burke, Candler, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Echols, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Lowndes, McDuffie, Montgomery, Pierce, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Washington and Wheeler counties.
• Dec. 3 for residents in Effingham, Elbert, Rabun and Tift counties.
• Dec. 6 for residents in Brantley, Bryan, Butts, Camden, Charlton, Dodge, Fulton, Glynn, Hancock, Long, McIntosh, Newton, Thomas, Warren and Wayne counties.

Additional counties may be added at a later date. Please visit the Georgia Department of Labor Federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance page to learn what you need to file an application and see a list of disaster-related benefit facts. 

To apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Georgians must first apply for regular unemployment insurance on the Georgia Department of Labor website at dol.georgia.gov or in person at any GDOL career center. Only those who are ineligible for regular unemployment insurance can be considered eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits. 

The Georgia Department of Labor will notify you if you are eligible to file for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. Income verification may be required when applying for these benefits. People should be prepared to provide proof of earnings for the most recently completed tax year. Acceptable proof of earnings includes copies of the most recently completed income tax returns, quarterly estimated income tax payment records, or similar documents.

For additional information on Disaster Unemployment Assistance, visit dol.georgia.gov or call the Georgia Department of Labor toll-free customer service line at 1-877-709-8185.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4821 and fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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

 

 

larissa.hale Sun, 10/20/2024 - 14:54

Hillsborough and Manatee Counties Disaster Recovery Centers to Relocate

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– Disaster Recovery Centers at the David Barksdale Senior Center in Hillsborough County and GT Bray Park in Manatee County will close at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20. The centers will reopen in new locations and announcements will be made.

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Sun, 10/20/2024 - 14:07

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Milton. Survivors of any of the storms can visit any center. 

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers. 

Center locations:

Indian River County
Intergenerational Recreation (IG) Center
1590 9th St. SW
Vero Beach, FL 32962
Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

Martin County
Martin County Fairgrounds, Buildings F&G
2616 SE Dixie Hwy.
Stuart, FL 34996
Hours: 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

St. Lucie County
Havert L. Fenn Center
2000 Virginia Ave. 
Fort Pierce, FL 34982
Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday

To find other center locations go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Sun, 10/20/2024 - 13:54

Martin County Disaster Recovery Center Hours Change

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– Beginning Sunday, Oct. 20, the Disaster Recovery Center in Martin County will now be open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. 

Martin County
Martin County Fairgrounds, Buildings F&G
2616 SE Dixie Hwy.
Stuart, FL 34996
Hours: 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834.. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Sun, 10/20/2024 - 13:28

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Broadview

SPRINGFIELD – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open on Sunday, October 20 to help residents kickstart their recovery after the July 13 - 16, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding.

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Illinois and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

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

Beverly Center
3031 South 25th Ave.
Broadview, IL 60155
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Additional recovery centers will be opening in other impacted counties soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may visit any center for assistance.

Assistance in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials are available at these centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available at all centers. 

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is November 19.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.  

kimberly.keblish Sat, 10/19/2024 - 19:11

FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Helene in South Carolina Tops $150M

As of Oct. 19, FEMA has approved more than $154 million in federal disaster assistance to help more than 211,047 South Carolina households recover from Hurricane Helene. This includes: 

• More than $11 million in housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• More than $142 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs, such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.

FEMA has completed more than 23,000 home inspections for Hurricane Helene survivors. Along with state and federal partners, nine Disaster Recovery Centers have been opened with more to come in affected areas.

In addition, the National Flood Insurance Program has received 302 claims from South Carolina policyholders and has paid out $213,000.

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation who were affected by Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance at this time. Residents can apply for FEMA assistance in several ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. (This is the fastest way to apply.)
• In person at any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 29169).
• On your phone using the FEMA mobile app.
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. The telephone line is open every day. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link. FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

kwei.nwaogu Sat, 10/19/2024 - 17:38

FEMA is Hiring in Tennessee

FEMA is hiring Tennessee residents to support the recovery from Tropical Storm Helene. Jobs are available in Knoxville and Nashville.

Qualified candidates with diverse backgrounds and a desire to serve are needed immediately. These temporary positions start as 120-day appointments and may be extended based on the needs of the recovery mission. Benefits include sick leave and up to 11 paid holidays. 

FEMA is accepting applications for the following positions:

• Apply by 11:59 p.m. ET Wednesday, Oct. 23:
  • Human Resources Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Administrative Assistant: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Emergency Management Specialist 3: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Emergency Management Specialist 2: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Apply by 11:59 p.m. ET Thursday, Oct. 24:
  • Logistics Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Situation Unit Lead: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Environmental Floodplain Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Site Inspector Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Environmental Compliance Review Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Geospatial and Data Analytics Cell Analyst: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Geospatial and Data Analytics Cell Manager: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Apply by 11:59 p.m. ET Sunday, Oct. 27:
  • Public Assistance Program Delivery Manager: USAJOBS - Job Announcement

All positions will close at 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date or when 100 applications are received. More positions may be added later. To see all open roles, visit USAJobs.gov, type “local hire” in the keywords section and “Tennessee” for location.

For tips, including how to prepare your resume and navigate the website, visit USAJOBS Help Center - Application Process.

Hiring locally helps build FEMA’s disaster recovery workforce. Many career FEMA employees began as local hires.

All applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes fingerprinting and a credit check. Employees are also required to participate in direct deposit or electronic funds transfer for salary payment. If you are found qualified, you may be called for an interview.

kwei.nwaogu Sat, 10/19/2024 - 16:45

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Union County

A Disaster Recovery Center will be open in Union County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Union County
Union County Library
300 E. South St.
Union, SC 29379
Open Oct. 20-22, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. 

This location joins the centers previously opened in Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville and Pickens counties. 

Anderson County 
Anderson County Library
300 N. McDuffie St.
Anderson, SC 29621 
Open Oct. 20, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Oct. 21-24, 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 25-26, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Oct. 27, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Cherokee County
East Gaffney Baptist Church
2308 Cherokee Ave.
Gaffney, SC 29340
Open Oct. 17-20, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.  

Greenville County 
Freetown Community Center 
200 Alice Ave.  
Greenville, SC 29611 
Open daily, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.  

Pickens County
Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library
304 Biltmore Road
Easley, SC 29640
Open through Oct. 21, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.   

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. To find other center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

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

kwei.nwaogu Sat, 10/19/2024 - 16:27

Georgia Residents Reminded to Spend FEMA Grant Money Wisely

ATLANTA -- If you are a disaster survivor in Georgia who received a federal disaster assistance grant from FEMA after Tropical Storm Debby, Aug. 4 - 20, 2024 or Hurricane Helene, it’s important to use the money only for disaster related expenses. 

To help you make sure you’re using the money you received, FEMA sends a letter explaining what you can use the funds for, and listing the ways the money can be used. Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses. You should keep receipts for all expense for at least three years because FEMA can require you to repay the grant If you spend it on anything other than the purpose for which it is intended.

Examples of expenses this grant covers include:

• Home repairs such as structure, water, septic and sewage systems.
• Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit.
• Repair or replacement of a flooded essential vehicle.
• Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster.
• Repair of occupational specialized tools.
• Necessary educational materials such as computers, schoolbooks, supplies.
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster.
• Increased childcare expenses.

Please read your FEMA determination letter carefully to make sure you include all required documents and information.

It’s also important to make sure FEMA has your most up-to-date contact information, including addresses, phone numbers and bank accounts. If FEMA does not have your correct information, you may miss letters or phone calls about your assistance application or payment status. 

If you have any questions about your FEMA disaster assistance grant, call the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit FEMA’s Hurricane Debby Georgia page or FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Georgia page. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

minh.phan Sat, 10/19/2024 - 13:59