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Disaster Recovery Center Revisits Clinton County
INDIANAPOLIS – A Disaster Recovery Center will revisit Clinton County on May 11-13 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.
Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
The center will be located at:
Clinton Emergency Management Building 1859 S Jackson St. Frankfort, IN 46041
Center hours on May 11-12 will be 8 a.m-6 p.m. Hours for May 13 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Additional recovery centers are open in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan and White counties can visit any open center for help. To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.
To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.
The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.
FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
nicole.wilson Thu, 05/11/2023 - 21:32Disaster Recovery Center Revisits Howard County
INDIANAPOLIS –A Disaster Recovery Center will revisit Howard County on May 11-13 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.
Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
The center will be located at:
220 North Main St. Kokomo, IN 46901
Center hours on May 11-12 will be 8 a.m-6 p.m. Hours for May 13 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Additional recovery centers are open in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan and White counties can visit any open center for help. To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.
To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.
The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.
FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
nicole.wilson Thu, 05/11/2023 - 21:30FEMA Administrator Remembers Those Lost to COVID-19, Recognizes Agency Workforce, First Responders for Unprecedented Service During Pandemic
WASHINGTON -- In a video released today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell thanked first responders, survivors, agency staff and others who stood strong in the face of unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We will always remember all of the lives that were lost, all of the lives that were upended as a result of this pandemic,” Criswell said in the video, released to coincide with the end of the Public Health Emergency and National Emergency declarations related to COVID-19. “I think that we will also take the lessons from COVID-19 and put them to use to prepare us for what the next emergency will be.”
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, FEMA has provided more than $104 billion in assistance to state, local, tribal and territorial governments, as well as non-profit organizations and survivors. Of those funds, almost $60 billion in funding went to a number of state, local, tribal and territorial governments and eligible private non-profits for more than 23,000 emergency projects. Another $2.9 billion was awarded in funeral assistance for more than 400,000 individuals and families, $37 billion in lost wages assistance and $386 million in crisis counseling services.
Criswell added: “I think what was unique about our response to COVID-19 is it really brought out the value that our emergency managers bring in leading the coordination of complex problems.”
While the COVID-19 incident period comes to an end today, FEMA will continue to provide funeral assistance until Sept. 30, 2025, to those who have lost loved ones due to this pandemic.
luther.wills-dudich Thu, 05/11/2023 - 21:18Disaster Damaged Houses of Worship May Be Eligible for FEMA Funding
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Houses of worship (HOW) and other private nonprofit organizations may be eligible for FEMA assistance to help reimburse costs for emergency protective measures, debris removal and restoration of facilities damaged by storms, straight-line-winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides affecting Kentucky between February 15-20, 2023.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program may provide financial assistance to certain private nonprofit organizations – including houses of worship – to restore facilities damaged or destroyed in this disaster. The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with the sub-recipients such as houses of worship.
Eligibility Requirements for Houses of Worship- Be located within the designated counties; and experienced property damage caused by February’s severe weather
- Provide a current ruling letter from the IRS granting tax exemption under Section 501 (c) (d) or (e) of the IRS Code of 1954, or documentation from the Kentucky Secretary of State indicating nonprofit status
- Provide proof of ownership or lease documents which establishes whose legal responsibility it is to repair incident-related impacts
- Eligible applicants must first apply to the U.S. Small Business Administration for a low-interest disaster loan before FEMA can determine if the organization is eligible for assistance.
- FEMA will provide financial assistance only if the house of worship is denied an SBA loan - or if the loan authorized is insufficient to cover repair costs.
- FEMA may only provide funding for eligible “Permanent Work” costs an SBA disaster loan does not cover.
- Permanent work includes, but is not limited to, roads, bridges, dams, reservoirs, levees, floodwalls and other water-control facilities, as well as buildings and equipment.
- Permanent Work usually has to be completed within 18-months from the date of disaster declaration, which was signed on May 9, unless an extension is authorized.
- Permanent work includes, but is not limited to, roads, bridges, dams, reservoirs, levees, floodwalls and other water-control facilities, as well as buildings and equipment.
The first step is to submit a Request for Public Assistance, which needs to happen by June 8, 2023.
For more information on submitting a Request for Public Assistance, click on this link: How to Apply for Public Assistance. Applicants should also contact their county emergency manager, Kentucky Emergency Management or email pa.help@KY-em.org.
For the latest information on disaster recovery in Kentucky, visit fema.gov/disaster/4711 and follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4. You can also visit the Governor’s website at governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.
luther.wills-dudich Thu, 05/11/2023 - 20:23Disaster Recovery Centers to Close but FEMA Help Still Available
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Disaster Recovery Centers serving survivors of the recent storms and tornadoes will begin closing Saturday, May 13. But FEMA specialists are still available to answer your questions, provide updates about your case and direct you to federal, state and community programs and assistance.
Three Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers in Haywood, Lewis and Rutherford counties will close permanently at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 13. Three other recovery centers in McNairy, Tipton and Wayne counties will remain open for another week, until 5 p.m. Saturday, May 20.
Disaster Recovery Centers are a one-stop shop where survivors of the March 31 to April 1, 2023, tornadoes can get information and advice about community, state and federal agencies and other available assistance. The centers are accessible to people with disabilities and those with access and functional needs.
Even with the scheduled closings, FEMA specialists are just a phone call away. Survivors may call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. It is important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily. Missing or wrong information could delay your assistance.
Locations and hours for the Disaster Recovery Centers are:
DRCs by County
Address
Hours of Operation/Days (Central Daylight Time)
McNairy
The Latta Theater
205 W. Court Avenue
Selmer, TN 38375
May 11 and May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
May 15 to May 19: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 20: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closes 5 p.m. Saturday, May 20
Tipton
Dyersburg State Community College
Public Library
3149 Highway 51 South
Covington, TN 38019
May 11 and May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
May 15 to May 19: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 20: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closes 5 p.m. Saturday, May 20
Wayne
Lincoln Brass Works
309 Hurricane Meadows Drive
Waynesboro, TN 38485
May 11 and May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
May 15 to May 19: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 20: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closes 5 p.m. Saturday, May 20
MOBILE DRCs by County
Address
Hours of Operation/Days (Central Daylight Time)
Haywood
Haywood County Justice Complex
100 S. Dupree Avenue
Brownsville, TN 38012
May 11 and May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closes 5 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Lewis
Lewis County 911 Center
116 Commerce Street
Hohenwald, TN 38462
May 11 and May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closes 5 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Rutherford
Rockvale Community Center
9972 Rockvale Road
Rockvale, TN 37153
May 11 and May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closes 5 p.m. Saturday, May 13
The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Tuesday, June 6. Here’s how to apply:
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
- Use the FEMA mobile app
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Daylight Time daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
- For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6
- If you need help to apply, you may visit any Disaster Recovery Center. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov)
For the latest information on Tennessee’s recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4701. You may also follow TN.gov/TEMA; Twitter.com/TEMA, Facebook.com/TNDisasterInfo, @FEMARegion4/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.
sandra.habib Thu, 05/11/2023 - 17:12FEMA Approves Nearly $6 Million for Lee County Beach Work
LAKE MARY, Fla. – On April 6, FEMA Public Assistance approved a grant of $5,978,207 to reimburse Lee County for emergency work after Hurricane Ian at Fort Myers Beach.
The Sept. 28, 2022, storm caused extensive damage to the beach. The county constructed emergency berms with 86,969 cubic yards of sand and 29,100 native plants to stabilize the beach and protect it from a 5-year storm. The work covers 28,000 linear feet of beach.
With this grant, FEMA Public Assistance funding for Lee County to date totals $35.9 million (federal share). The total for all applicants within Lee County is $144.3 million.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.
Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) 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/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
bree-constance… Thu, 05/11/2023 - 16:33Museums Will Be Restored to Preserve Puerto Rican History and Culture
San Juan, Puerto Rico – Several museums in Ponce have already been allocated funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair these structures tasked with preserving historic treasures. The approval represents nearly $2.1 million earmarked for repairs after Hurricane María; and over $379,000 to address damages after the 2020 Earthquakes.
The museums that will benefit tell Puerto Rican history from various angles: the development of trade and agriculture, the remembrance of significant events and the preservation of popular music.
“Museums are an essential component to learn about our ancestors and the origins of the traditions that define who we are today. The restoration of these museums will contribute to the economic recovery of the municipalities and will allow them to reaffirm their identity and history, to which Hurricane María and the earthquakes definitely added a footprint,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.
One of the main attractions of the Stately City is the Museum Castillo Serrallés, which welcomes about 4,000 visitors a month. Once the residence of businessman Juan Eugenio Serrallés Colón and his family, today it’s a museum that exhibits the development of the sugar industry.
Over $385,000 were allocated for repairs to windows, slabs and other parts of the museum due to damage after Hurricane María; while $26,000 were allocated to seal cracks in parts of the structure as a result of the 2020 Earthquakes, both for the museum and the Cruceta El Vigía.
Frances Torruella de Alustiza, president of the Castillo Serrallés Board of Trustees, said it is important to preserve the castle because it is one of the few remaining architectural jewels in Puerto Rico. She added that the castle has a great economic impact because it attracts a lot of tourism and business.
“A lot of weddings are celebrated here. People stay in hotels, use the caterers, the music bands... they also celebrate quinceañeros, graduations; everything. [We also] have a tour where people come to see how rum is made,” Torruella said.
Also within the municipality’s urban area is the Museum of Puerto Rico Music, which promotes the island’s cultural traditions and popular art. The facilities have $1.7 million assigned to the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture (ICP) to repair damage caused by Hurricane María. The work includes the replacement of ceiling panels, electrical transformers, lighting fixtures and the elevator, among other tasks.
Meanwhile, the Folkloric Research Center, headquartered in the Casa Paoli, will benefit from over $230,000 to address the damage caused by the 2020 Earthquakes to this neoclassical building with 20th century elements. The Casa Paoli, which opened in 1976, is part of Puerto Rico’s general heritage and was once home to Puerto Rican tenor Antonio Paoli. Today, the space is a cultural center for exhibitions, workshops and public events, and is filled with historical archives on the life and work of great island artists, musical genres and folklore.
For his part, Néstor Murray Irizarry, executive director and founder of the Center, said: “These funds are important because we have to preserve the cultural heritage we have here. We have to repair the serious problems we have in order to continue to serve our people more effectively and to provide the services we have traditionally offered, such as exhibitions, concerts, book presentations and recitals.”
On the other hand, the municipality also has nearly $123,000 for the repair of other museums, among them the Ponce History Museum — or the Casas Salazar and Zapater — and the Casa Mameyes, a museum that houses the history of the Mameyes landslides; a tragedy that took the lives of some 120 people in the early morning of October 7, 1985.
Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said: “Recently, with the executive director of the ICP, Carlos Ruiz, I visited several museums in Ponce that will soon begin their reconstruction. At COR3 we are committed to continue supporting them in the development of their permanent works aimed at preserving the history and culture of Puerto Rico. Currently, ICP leads 48 permanent works that have $32.6 million obligated by FEMA.”
To date, FEMA has allocated nearly $30,400 million in Public Assistance funds to over 10,600 projects that will contribute to the reconstruction of a more resilient Puerto Rico.
For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 y recovery.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 05/11/2023 - 13:41Just Two Weeks Left for Mississippi Storm Survivors to Apply for Federal Support
MADISON, Miss. – Mississippi homeowners and renters who sustained damage to their primary property from the March 24-25 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes have just two weeks left to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is May 25, 2023.
FEMA assistance for individuals affected by the March storms may cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is non-taxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, or other benefits.
Homeowners and renters in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola and Sharkey counties can apply for assistance the following ways:
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is open and help is available from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time daily 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.
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). To find a center closest to you, go online to: fema.gov/drc.
- Download the free FEMA mobile app for smartphones.
Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.
SBA Disaster Loans Application DeadlineThe May 25 deadline also applies to applications for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA is the federal government’s primary source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps businesses of all sizes, nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters fund repair or rebuilding efforts and covers the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property.
Disaster loan information and application forms may be obtained from the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to https://youtu.be/LU7wzRjByhI
For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4).
Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Thu, 05/11/2023 - 12:47FEMA approves Nearly $16 Million in Federal Funding for the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management
FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved nearly $16 million for the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) to support their emergency operations center (EOC) in response to the severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides last summer.
During the incident period residents were forced to evacuate their homes with little notice, this created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public.
FEMA approved $15,996,314 for KYEM to utilize contractors, rental equipment, and materials to provide supplies and commodities for displaced citizens. These items included mobile laundry, shower, bathroom trailers, hand washing sinks, food and bottled water, tents, bleach, gloves, first aid kits, laundry detergent, weather radios, flashlights, rakes and wheelbarrows.
FEMA Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program. Due to of the magnitude of damage from this storm, President Biden authorized a cost share reimbursement of 100% federal funding for this project. All work and costs were between July 28, and Aug. 26, 2022.
For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
luther.wills-dudich Wed, 05/10/2023 - 19:02FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Helps Families Return Home in Western Kentucky
Frankfort, KY – Eighteen months after a major disaster was declared for Western Kentucky due to tornadoes and severe storms, FEMA’s temporary housing program is scheduled to end for survivors Friday, June 12, 2023.
To date, 92 households have been licensed into temporary housing in Western Kentucky. Of that number, 70 households have found permanent housing with the help of this program.
Kentuckians participating in this program have been informed via mail that this program is concluding, they will also receive a hand-delivered letter 30 days before the program ends. The letter will state that the Direct Temporary Housing program will end on June 12, survivors will have until June 15, 2023, to move to alternate housing.
While this FEMA program is scheduled to end, help is still available. Homeowners and renters getting temporary housing assistance from FEMA still have options. Survivors in temporary housing are strongly encouraged to contact their Disaster Case Manager for help. They may also reach out to voluntary agencies and long-term recovery groups in their area for assistance finding suitable housing before the June deadline.
For more information, survivors are encouraged to contact their disaster case manager or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.
This housing program helps to fill the need for short-term housing allowing survivors time to identify permanent housing solutions. Survivors work directly with Disaster Case Managers to assess their housing needs and help them build a permanent housing plan. Temporary housing was available in the following counties: Caldwell, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg, and Warren.
For the latest information on Kentucky disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630 and follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.
luther.wills-dudich Wed, 05/10/2023 - 18:46ICYMI: Secretary Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Honored Fallen Firefighters and Discussed National Fire Strategy to Prevent Firefighter Deaths
42nd National Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial Weekend took place at National Emergency Management Center on May 7
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell delivered remarks during the 42nd National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) Memorial Weekend on May 7 in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The Secretary and the Fire Administrator paid tribute to the 79 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2022 and 65 firefighters who died in previous years.
EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas delivers remarks during the 42nd National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. (DHS photo)
“The emergencies to which a fire fighter responds are varied as a life can be. One thing is constant throughout it all: the qualities of courage, devotion to duty, service and sacrifice that define the character of a fire fighter,” Secretary Mayorkas stated during his remarks. “Rare is the individual who runs toward danger and rarer still, is the individual who does so only to help others. That is the fire fighter. That is the 144 fallen heroes we honor this weekend. Heroes who gave their lives to save others.”
Mayorkas also stated that fires are increasingly a threat to our homeland security, and firefighters need the personnel, tools, training and resources to be prepared to face these challenges. “Our Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) and Assistance to Firefighter Grants programs provide funds directly to fire departments to hire, maintain, equip and train frontline personnel. This year we will award $684 million through these two grant programs, helping fire departments like the College Park Volunteer Fire Department here in Maryland, which is using grant funding to grow its program to attract and retain firefighters.”
U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell remarked on the bravery and service of firefighters and paramedics and encouraged all those who had lost loved ones in the line of duty to never forget their impact.
“Firefighter and paramedics are a special breed -- you know that. Many times, I have asked them, ‘Why do you do this? Why did you become a firefighter?’ Their response far and above is ‘To serve others,’” remarked Administrator Moore-Merrell. “Today, I encourage you to remember the good in your firefighter. Remember the laughs, a meal that you had with them, perhaps a gift they gave you. Remember the influence and impact they had on your life, whether you were family, a close friend, or even an acquaintance. Remember how they made you feel when they spoke or laughed. Remember their service and the hope they gave to others.”
The Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend is partly supported by a grant from the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance and in partnership with the U.S. Fire Administration, a component of the Department of Homeland Security.
EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell address members of the National Fire Service. (DHS photo)
Before delivering his remarks, Secretary Mayorkas met and led a discussion with the fire service leaders on the U.S. Fire Strategy and its goals, including preparing firefighters for climate driven changes, establishing a cancer strategy, investing in a national recruitment and retention program, providing behavioral wellness resources, implementing and enforcing codes and standards and elevating the fire service to a national level of visibility.
Fire service leaders in the meeting included: Ron Siarnicki; NFFF Executive Director, Troy Markel; NFFF Board Chair, Bill Webb; NFFF Board Vice-Chair and CFSI Executive Director, Donna Black; President, International Association of Fire Chiefs, John Butler; Vice-President, International Association of Fire Chiefs, Pat Morrison; International Association of Fire Fighters, Kevin Quinn; Vice-Chair, National Volunteer Fire Council , Jim Pauley; President & CEO, National Fire Protection Association , Victor Stagnaro; NFFF Managing Director.
EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas and Dr. Moore-Merrell stand with members of the National Fire Service. (DHS photo)
EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Secretary Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell honor fallen firefighters at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. (DHS photo)
After the meeting, U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell accompanied Secretary Mayorkas to the September 11th memorial on campus through the brick Walk of Honor and to the National Fallen Firefighters Monument.
The U.S. Congress created the federation to lead a nationwide effort to honor America's fallen firefighters. The mission is to honor America's fallen fire heroes, support their families, colleagues and organizations and reduce preventable firefighter death and injury.
luther.wills-dudich Wed, 05/10/2023 - 17:40Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Making Stop in Greenville
Madison, Miss. – A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) run by FEMA and the state of Mississippi is now open in Greenville. FEMA and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) want to serve the survivors staying in the Greenville area following the May 24-25 tornadoes and severe storms.
- Location: Red Rempson Memorial Expo Building, Washington County Convention Center, 1040 S. Raceway Road, Greenville, MS 38703
- Dates: May 9 – 13, 15 - 20
This location will have specialists from MEMA on site in addition to FEMA and the Small Business Administration.
What help is available at a Disaster Recovery Center?Recovery centers offer customer service for disaster survivors. Survivors can get help with:
- Applying for federal assistance
- Updating their applications
- Submitting documents
- Completing a disaster loan application
- Appealing a FEMA determination
In addition to mobile centers, there are five fixed DRCs operating across the state. They are staffed by specialists from FEMA, MEMA, SBA and other agencies at the following locations:
- Humphreys County: Humphreys County Library, 105 Hayden St., Belzoni, MS 39038
- Monroe County: Monroe County Government Complex, 1619 Highway 25, Amory, MS 38821
- Montgomery County: Montgomery County Coliseum, 200 Recreation Drive, Winona, MS 38967
- Panola County: Mississippi State University Extension Center, 245 Eureka St., Suite C, Batesville, MS 38606
- Sharkey County: Sharkey Issaquena Nursing Home, 463 West Race St., Rolling Fork, MS 39159
- 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays; closed Sundays.
Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply. They can create an application online at disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app for smartphones or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 anytime between 6 a.m. and midnight Central Time seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
For the latest information on recovery, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and fema.gov/disaster/4697. On Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4).
sandra.habib Tue, 05/09/2023 - 21:47President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides Feb. 15-20, 2023.
Public Assistance federal funding is available to the commonwealth, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides in Bell, Breathitt, Caldwell, Carter, Clay, Elliott, Floyd, Harlan, Hart, Johnson, Knott, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Whitley and Wolfe counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Myra M. Shird has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
luther.wills-dudich Tue, 05/09/2023 - 20:17U.S. Fire Administration Announces Effort to Launch New Fire Information and Analytics Platform
WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) announces the launch of the modernization effort to develop a new, interoperable fire information and analytics platform, known as the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS), for the American fire and emergency services. This effort is being carried out as a partnership between USFA and the US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate (S&T). The goal of NERIS is to empower the local fire and emergency service community by equipping them with near real-time information and analytic tools that support data informed decision making for enhanced preparedness and response to incidents involving all-hazards.
“Once launched, the new NERIS platform will provide capabilities for documenting and introducing community risk reduction efforts, associated resilience and mitigation efforts into the overall preparedness and resilience equation — providing greater insights into vulnerability gaps where resources can be used to harden communities and minimize future emergency and disaster events,” said U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell.
The platform will integrate data from multiple federal data sets, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and other authoritative live data sources — to inform community risks including vulnerable populations, the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), drought areas and flood plains. Further, it will support rapid data capture from hostile event response, including response to structure fires, emergency medical incidents and hazardous materials events.
This project is made possible through a research & development contract awarded through S&T’s Long-Range Broad Agency Announcement program awarded to The Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI). FSRI is a part of UL Research Institutes, the nonprofit safety science organization within the UL enterprise. In collaboration with USFA, DHS S&T and the American fire service, FSRI will develop and provide the new NERIS platform for use by fire and emergency service departments nationwide.
The new NERIS platform will replace the legacy data system (known as the National Fire Incident Reporting System — NFIRS) with a secure, cloud-hosted platform that will fulfill the USFA’s National Fire Data Center’s (NFDC) obligation under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 (PL 93-498) — to mitigate the fire problem, reduce loss of life and property and educate the public on fire prevention and protection, as well as effects of all-hazards.
Once NERIS is developed and operational, USFA will work to migrate fire and emergency service departments onto the new platform. The legacy NFIRS will remain operational throughout the transition process so all fire and emergency services departments should continue to use the current NFIRS data system and maintain status quo until migrated to the new platform. For the latest information on NERIS development, visit www.USFA.FEMA.gov/nfirs/Neris.
luther.wills-dudich Tue, 05/09/2023 - 17:47One Month Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Homeowners and renters in Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties who had damage or losses in the recent storms and tornadoes have until Tuesday, June 6, 2023, to apply for federal disaster assistance.
Residents are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property and vehicles before applying with FEMA. FEMA assistance is not taxed and will not affect Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. But you must have had losses or property damage in the March 31 to April 1 tornadoes.
As an applicant, you may be eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, which assists disaster survivors with basic critical needs such as finding a safe, accessible and functional place to live. The grants can help pay for temporary housing and for home repairs to your primary home. They may also cover personal property loss, childcare, medical or dental care, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.
If you had damage and applied for FEMA assistance, you can expect a call, text or email from FEMA to schedule an appointment for an inspection. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from an unknown number and your case will be locked if the inspector cannot reach you after three attempts.
FEMA may refer individuals to the U.S. Small Business Administration even if they do not own a business or home. SBA loans are the largest source of federal disaster funding for people impacted by disasters. The deadline to apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the SBA is also June 6.
If approved for an SBA loan, there is no obligation to accept the loan. If SBA cannot approve your loan application, SBA will refer you to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance.
To apply to SBA online or to download applications, go to https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/. You may call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov for more information or to have a loan application mailed to you. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services.
Completed paper loan applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. You may also apply with the help of an SBA representative or submit your loan application at a Business Recovery Center. To find one, click https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20230421/its-important-return-your-sba-loan-application.
To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
- Use the FEMA mobile app
- Call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Daylight Time daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
- For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6
Disaster Recovery Centers are staffed with specialists who can help you update your FEMA applications and learn about Tennessee state and community programs and other available assistance. You may visit any Disaster Recovery Center; no appointment is needed. Find a center here: https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator
For the latest information on Tennessee’s recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4701. You may also follow TN.gov/TEMA; Twitter.com/TEMA, Facebook.com/TNDisasterInfo, @FEMARegion4/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.
sandra.habib Tue, 05/09/2023 - 15:35Cleveland County Disaster Survivors Now Eligible for FEMA
OKLAHOMA CITY – Cleveland County has been added to the major disaster declaration for Oklahoma’s tornadoes, straight-line wind and severe storms April 19-20. Residents who had damage or losses from the storms may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
The federal disaster declaration now allows FEMA to provide direct support to individuals and households in three counties under the Individual Assistance program: Cleveland, McClain and Pottawatomie.
Homeowners and renters in the three counties who had damage or losses as a direct result of the storms are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance. Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs as well as other serious disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses, transportation, childcare, and moving and storage expenses.
The fastest and easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.
If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
alexa.brown Tue, 05/09/2023 - 15:09Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Broward County
LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA are operating a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Broward County.
Location:
Hortt Park, 1700 SW 14TH Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Sundays.
Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.
In addition to visiting a center, you can apply by going online to disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. 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.
Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.
In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews are canvassing communities affected by the April 12-14 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Broward County to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and to answer questions about federal assistance. DSA crews wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.
FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For more information about recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4709 and floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.
bree-constance… Mon, 05/08/2023 - 18:16ICYMI: Administrator Criswell Delivers Commencement Address at Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell delivered the 2023 commencement address at Pennsylvania State University’s College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) on Saturday.
Administrator Criswell Delivers Commencement Address at Pennsylvania State University’s College of Information Sciences and Technology (Photo Credit: Penn State)
Administrator’s Criswell’s remarks highlighted technological advances that help FEMA and the emergency management enterprise respond to disasters, including COVID-19, but reminded the new graduates that it is the people behind the technology that are the real heroes.
“Technology helped fast-track the development of COVID vaccines, but it took people to get the shots in arms. Technology enabled virtual medical appointments, but it took people to work through the complex process of protecting patient information. And when it came to your college education, technology brought you into virtual classrooms, but it took your professors and administrators to maintain the experience of a world-class education,” remarked Administrator Criswell. “We can never forget that it is the people behind the technology that has helped us get here today. Technology is only one part of the solution -- you are the other.”
The Administrator also challenged the IST class of 2023 to continue to question and challenge the status quo in order to make change in their own communities, nationwide and across the globe.
“Regardless of the career you choose, I challenge you to give back to the places you call home. Use your skills to make a difference, change a life and perhaps save one too.”
You can read the Administrator’s full remarks here, and watch her commencement speech here.
luther.wills-dudich Mon, 05/08/2023 - 15:02Disaster Recovery Center Open in Allen County
INDIANAPOLIS – The state of Indiana and FEMA will open a Disaster Recovery Center in Allen County from May 8-10 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.
Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
The center will be located at:
Saint Joseph Township Community Center
6033 Maple Crest Rd.
Ft . Wayne, IN 46835, Door 10
Center hours on May 8-9 will be 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Hours for May 10 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Additional recovery centers are open or will be opening soon in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties can visit any open center for help. To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.
To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.
The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.
FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
nicole.wilson Mon, 05/08/2023 - 14:06Disaster Recovery Center Open in Monroe County
INDIANAPOLIS – The state of Indiana and FEMA will open a Disaster Recovery Center in Monroe County from May 8- 10 and May 18-20 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.
Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
The center will be located at: 7973 W Main St. Stinesville, IN 47464
Center hours on May 8-9 and 18-19 will be 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Hours for May 10 and 20 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Additional recovery centers are open or will be opening soon in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties can visit any open center for help. To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.
To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.
The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.
FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
nicole.wilson Mon, 05/08/2023 - 14:01Pages
