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FEMA ArtWorks Supported Exhibition to Open in Dickinson, N.D.
DENVER – An upcoming art exhibition highlighting climate change and resilience will open in Dickinson, N.D. on Aug. 2. The exhibition is part of FEMA’s ArtWorks initiative. Three artists are featured in an upcoming exhibition investigating and sharing the stories of resilience in a changing climate. From sublime foreshadowing to documentation of the real ways natural hazards affect our lives; artists shine a light on stories of loss and resilience.
The second stop of a three-city tour, the exhibition will be at SW Gallery & Science Center, 99 2nd Street E, Dickinson, N.D. from Aug. 2 – Aug. 30, 2024. An opening night event will be held on Aug. 2. The exhibition started in Denver and will also travel to Ogden, Utah.
Documentary Photographer Tamara Susa utilizes different times of exposure to underscore that climate change happens continuously and overtime and we are all connected to the change.
Painter and Sculptor Bill Nelson’s “Fragile” brings into frame the vulnerable lands to grab our attention. As we gaze through his steel viewfinder, we are encouraged to meditate on our role as stewards of the environment.
Independent Filmmaker Emilie Upczak’s film “Silt” is a climate justice story about a Diné botanist, grieving the death of a beloved aunt, who travels to northern Mexico, where she is nourished by images of the last trip they took together traversing the Colorado River.
FEMA ArtWorks is designed to raise risk awareness and start dialogues on the value of natural hazard mitigation. It does this through partnerships between FEMA, artists, and local communities.
anthony.mayne Tue, 07/30/2024 - 16:11FEMA Assistance Available to Renters after Hurricane Beryl
AUSTIN – FEMA assistance is available to renters, including students, as well as homeowners with uninsured losses from Hurricane Beryl.
FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Texans in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can apply for FEMA assistance for uninsured losses caused by Hurricane Beryl. To apply:
- Go online to disasterassistance.gov/.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 any day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For operating hours and addresses, go online to fema.gov/drc. These centers can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go online to: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance
U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), FEMA’s federal partner in disaster recovery, may also be able to help. FEMA has streamlined the application process so people can apply to FEMA and SBA at the same time. SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at the Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 for more information.
For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Tue, 07/30/2024 - 13:56FEMA Approves $1.7 Million for Boynton Beach Stormwater Infrastructure
LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA is announcing $1,737,750 in grant funding to reimburse the city of Boynton Beach for upgrades to stormwater infrastructure to mitigate flood risk.
This project will improve existing stormwater collection, conveyance and retention systems. Additionally, the project will install new stormwater infrastructure on many streets.
FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, local, territorial and tribal governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities.
Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.
For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
david.heckard Tue, 07/30/2024 - 13:36Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Fort Bend, Harris, Jackson Counties July 30
AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening Disaster Recovery Centers in Fort Bend, Harris and Jackson counties July 30 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl.
Center locations:
Fort Bend County
PublicTransportation Facility
3737 Bamore Rd.
Rosenberg, TX 77471
Harris County
Pasadena Convention Center
7902 Fairmont Parkway
Pasadena, TX 77507
Jackson County
Carancahua Community Center
829 County Road 477
Palacios, TX, 77465
The centers operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
To shorten wait times at Disaster Recovery Centers, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to disasterassistance.gov
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Mon, 07/29/2024 - 20:34FEMA Approves $2.3 Million for Sarasota Wind Protection Project
LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA is announcing $2,312,787 in grant funding to reimburse the city of Sarasota for a wind protection project improving the resiliency of existing traffic signals at three different intersections.
Hurricane Ian left wind damage to current signals resulting in traffic delays and increasing chances of accidents. This project will protect traffic signals against 170 mph winds to ensure they are operational during future storms.
FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, local, territorial and tribal governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities.
Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.
For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
david.heckard Mon, 07/29/2024 - 19:50Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Humboldt County
FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Humboldt County on Tuesday, July 30 to provide one-on-one help to people affected by recent severe storms and flooding.
Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.
Humboldt County
Humboldt County Engineer
Secondary Roads Bldg.
2221 220th St
Humboldt, IA 50548
Opens on Tuesday, July 30: 1-6 p.m. Then open daily from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.
FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Humboldt, Lyon, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pottawattamie, Sioux and Woodbury counties.
To save time, please apply with FEMA online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. They are open daily 8 a.m.– 6 p.m.
Cherokee County
Cherokee County Emergency Management
(Formerly the Cherokee County Work Services Bldg.)
322 Lake St., Suite B
Cherokee, IA 51012
Clay County
Clay County Regional Events Center
Tower Gate Pavilion
800 W. 18th St.
Spencer, IA 51301
Emmet County
St. Patrick's Church - Gym
903 Central Ave.
Estherville, IA 51334
Lyon County
Forster Community Center
404 First Ave.
Rock Rapids, IA 51246
.
O’Brien County
Sheldon City Hall
(Community Services Center)
416 9th St.,
Sheldon, IA 51201
Sioux County
City Park Shelter House
1013 13th Ave.
Rock Valley, IA 51247
How to Apply with FEMA
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
- Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Download and use the FEMA app
- Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).
Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448.
thomas.wise Mon, 07/29/2024 - 16:55FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Park Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 27 at 3:15 p.m. PDT / 6:15 p.m. EDT to assist the state of California in combating the Park Fire burning in Tehama County. The Park Fire was previously approved for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) on July 24, 2024, for Butte County.
On July 27, the state of California submitted a request for an additional Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Park Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 779 homes in and around the communities of Campbellville, Paynes Valley, Mineral, and Dales Ponderosa Sky Ranch, with a combined population of around 1,815. Ninety-nine percent of the threatened homes are primary residences.
The fire started on July 24, 2024, and has burned more than 350,000 acres of federal, state, and private land. There are 21 other large fires currently burning within the state.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents.
Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.
FEMA Approves $2.3 Million for Sarasota Wind Protection Project
LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA is announcing $2,312,787 in grant funding to reimburse the city of Sarasota for a wind protection project improving the resiliency of existing traffic signals at three different intersections.
Hurricane Ian left wind damage to current signals resulting in traffic delays and increasing chances of accidents. This project will protect traffic signals against 170 mph winds to ensure they are operational during future storms.
FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, local, territorial and tribal governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities.
Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.
For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
david.heckard Mon, 07/29/2024 - 15:03Mobil Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Medanales
A Mobil Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) operated by the state of New Mexico and FEMA will open in Medanales on Tuesday, July 30, to help Rio Arriba County residents impacted by last month’s South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding.
The MDRC will be located at 214 County Road 142 in Medanales. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays.
Residents and business owners in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents, learn about available resources and get their questions answered in person. Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as well as, state, local, nonprofit and other community organizations will be available to meet with visitors.
The new MDRC (through Aug. 3 only) will be located at:
- Rio Arriba County
Senior Citizens Center
214 County Road 142
Medanales, NM
There are other DRCs open at:
- Lincoln County
Horton Complex
237 Service Road
Ruidoso, NM
Angus Church of the Nazarene
103 Bonita Park Road
Angus, NM - Mescalero Apache Reservation
Mescalero Library
148 Cottonwood Dr.
Mescalero, NM
Hours at all centers are:
Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Closed Sunday
New Mexicans can also gather information on resources such as SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment, insurance claim assistance, Disaster Case Management, vital records, mental health support and childcare assistance. No appointment is needed.
All Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. Language services are also available at the center. You do not have to visit the center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
For more information and assistance, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
kwei.nwaogu Mon, 07/29/2024 - 14:47FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Borel Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 27 at 12:07 a.m. PDT / 3:07 a.m. EDT to assist the state of California in combating the Borel Fire burning in Kern County.
On July 27, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 4,000 homes in multiple communities throughout Kern County, with a combined population of around 1,560. All the threatened homes are primary residences.
The fire started on July 25, 2024, and had burned more than 31,950 acres of state and private land. There are 21 other large fires currently burning uncontrolled within the state.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents.
Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.
One Month Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Survivors of the severe storms that ripped through eight counties in northern Arkansas May 24-27 have one more month to apply for federal assistance. The application deadline is August 28.
Everyone in the designated area who sustained damage during the storms is encouraged to apply by the deadline.
Arkansans who had loss or damage should apply with FEMA even if they don’t have repair estimates or insurance settlements yet. To be considered, people in the impacted areas need to register with FEMA to begin the process. FEMA will work with survivors to identify what information is needed to determine eligibility.
More than $19.9 million total federal assistance has been provided to survivors of the May storms. This includes:
- $6.2 million in FEMA assistance approved for 1,758 households.
- $13.7 million in U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans approved.
If you sustained losses in the severe storms and live in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion or Randolph counties, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses.
To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov,
- Download the FEMA App for your smartphone.
- Visit the Recovery Center at the Northwest Arkansas Community College, Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technologies (Building 15) at 1000 SE Eagle Way, Room B103 in Bentonville.
- Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The phone line is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CDT, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). The line is open M-F 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CDT.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Mon, 07/29/2024 - 13:06Additional FEMA Funding for PRASA’s Essential Infrastructure
Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated nearly $22.6 million to the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) for two projects that will restore the island’s water infrastructure from damage following Hurricane María.
“The restoration of this equipment is crucial to ensure that water reaches communities effectively and without interruption. These interventions will guarantee a more reliable water supply and improve the quality of life for thousands of residents in the area,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.
One of PRASA’s projects to replace water pipes in the metropolitan region will benefit about 4,900 families, located in the Loíza Valley community of Canóvanas; in the Villa Fontana community of Carolina; in the Country Club community and Juan Ponce de León Avenue area in San Juan; and in the Amelia neighborhood in Guaynabo.
The infrastructure suffered significant damage due to erosion, flooding and other effects of the hurricane. Some of this damage includes continuous leaks due to deterioration and high-water pressure because of hydraulic issues.
This first phase of the project, with an allocation of nearly $10.1 million, involves the installation of new PVC pipelines and interconnection with existing systems. Additionally, hydrants will be replaced and service connection improvements will be carried out.
PRASA’s Executive President Doriel Pagán Crespo said that “this project is extremely important for the Metro Region. The replacement and renovation of pipes in the area will reduce water losses due to leaks. This, in turn, will result in a more stable service for subscribers and a more accurate reading for the billing process. With projects like this, we continue to strengthen the Authority’s infrastructure.”
Moreover, PRASA also has a federal allocation to repair the raw water treatment plant in the Jagüeyes community of Villalba. This facility receives raw water from the community through drains and sewer pipes. The project, with a federal investment of over $12.5 million, will increase the plant’s capacity.
Structural and mechanical improvements at the plant will benefit approximately 2,400 customers. A new structure will be built to include the electrical and mechanical systems; among them, the control room, a laboratory and a new filter operating area. The roof of the existing building will also be treated to repair cracks.
The executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “the Aqueduct and Sewer Authority has stood out as one of the most proactive subrecipients. To date, the corporation has managed to complete 113 projects with an allocation of $58 million. In addition to this, another 131 projects are in the reconstruction stage with obligations exceeding $1.4 billion. The agency has also received approximately $340 million from FEMA’s Working Capital Advance (WCA) pilot program, which advances funds to support ongoing operations and recovery efforts.”
To date, FEMA has allocated nearly $34 billion for more than 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María. Through FEMA’s Accelerated Obligation Strategy (FAASt), PRASA has over $3.6 billion of these funds to repair its infrastructure.
For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 07/29/2024 - 12:09
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Panola County July 28
Center location:
Carthage Fire Department Training Bldg.
808 W. Panola St.
Carthage, TX 75633
The center will operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Residents in Anderson, Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Navarro, Newton, Panola, Polk, San Jacinto, Rusk, Sabine, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
To apply, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to disasterassistance.gov
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
larissa.hale Sun, 07/28/2024 - 13:21Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Wharton County July 28
AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Wharton County July 28 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl.
Center location
Wharton Civic Center
1924 N. Fulton St.
Wharton, TX, 77488
The center operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
To apply, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Sat, 07/27/2024 - 18:15FEMA Teams Coming to a Neighborhood Near You
Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have begun visiting 10 Missouri counties impacted by the May 19-27 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding to help register affected individuals and households for FEMA assistance.
Over the coming days and weeks, teams of two each will spread out to Barry, Butler, Carter, Howell, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas counties to augment individual efforts to access federal disaster assistance.
The teams help survivors apply with FEMA and address immediate and emerging needs. They also can provide application status updates and referrals to community resources.
FEMA staff can easily be identified by their federal photo identification. Residents are encouraged to ask for official photo ID before providing personal information.
You do not have to wait to see a Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) team to register for assistance or get the status of your case. You can go online to disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-3362 to do both. The team visits are an extra effort to help make sure everyone knows about, and has access to, disaster assistance.
Through its Individual and Households Program, FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants to help pay for a temporary place to live, make minimal home repairs, help with serious needs and potentially assist with other needs not covered by insurance.
6 Tips to Know about FEMA Help- Access to FEMA assistance is voluntary and free. No one is required to apply for FEMA aid. However, some nonprofit organizations and other governmental agencies who help in disasters may require a FEMA case to qualify for their programs.
- Apply with FEMA. If you have already applied with another organization or agency for disaster help, such as the American Red Cross, that application does not automatically register you with FEMA. A separate FEMA application is needed.
- The fastest way to get started is online at www.disasterassistance.gov.
- Survivors also can call FEMA directly at 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or download the FEMA App.
- Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
- Keep track of your FEMA Registration Number. It will be assigned to you when you apply. That Case Number is basically your personal identification with FEMA. You will need that number to update your information, submit documentation if asked and/or access your case at any time.
- FEMA cannot duplicate assistance you have already received from insurance or other sources so keep track of anything you’ve gotten so far. We can help sort it out. FEMA aid is intended to help with uninsured or underinsured losses.
- One size does not fit all. While there are specific laws and guidelines that outline federal disaster assistance and how to qualify, FEMA works with each person or household on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility and type/amount of assistance granted based on their specific losses. So, it is possible that neighbors who were impacted by the same storm will not receive the same type or amount of help.
- Grants. FEMA assistance to individuals and households is in the form of grants that do not need to be repaid if the money is used for the reason(s) identified in the letter you’ll be sent explaining what the funds are intended to cover.
For more disaster-related information, visit the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency online at www.sema.dps.mo.gov or FEMA at www.fema.gov and www.fema.gov/disaster/4803.
thomas.wise Sat, 07/27/2024 - 17:49FEMA Housing Inspectors Evaluating Storm-Damaged Missouri Residences for Possible Disaster Aid
Just three days after President Joe Biden approved federal disaster assistance for Missouri because of severe weather in late May, FEMA housing inspectors are already looking at storm-damaged residences to help expedite federal aid.
Housing inspections are triggered when someone registers with FEMA for disaster assistance and indicates their residence was damaged and/or they lost personal property because of the May 19-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding and their losses or needs were not covered by insurance.
FEMA inspectors document personal property losses and disaster impacts to an applicant’s residence, particularly whether the house is safe, sanitary and livable. The inspectors do not make outright FEMA eligibility decisions on site. Rather, they gather information that is among many factors used to determine if, or how FEMA may be able to help.
The housing inspector will consider:
- The structural soundness of the house, both inside and out.
- Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are in working order.
- Whether the house is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.
- Whether any accessibility features that existed before the disaster are damaged or if any may need to be added to make the house livable.
- Personal property losses.
How a FEMA Inspection Works:
- Storm survivors first must have initiated a no-cost FEMA application for disaster assistance.
- Once registered, a housing inspector will call or text an applicant and make an appointment to meet at the damaged dwelling. This communication may come from an unfamiliar phone number so it’s important to answer the call or text so an appointment can be set.
- Applicants must be present for the inspection and be able to prove occupancy and/or ownership for the dwelling by showing a utility bill or a copy of a deed or mortgage with their name on it. The inspector will not take copies of those documents.
- A typical home inspection takes about 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days to hear back from FEMA.
Legitimate housing inspectors are FEMA employees. The inspector will already know an applicant’s FEMA case number, will present their official FEMA identification and will never ask for, or accept money. This service is free.
If someone is concerned about a person claiming to be a FEMA inspector, they should not provide personal information but rather contact local law enforcement.
Apply for FEMA assistance in one of 3 ways:
- Online: www.disasterassistance.gov
- Phone: 800-621-3362 (FEMA)
- Download and use the FEMA app
- Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
Disaster survivors who have questions about the status of their application can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.
thomas.wise Sat, 07/27/2024 - 17:44FEMA Further Advances Americans with Disabilities Act Anniversary with Programs that Improve Assistance for People with Disabilities
WASHINGTON -- On July 26, FEMA commemorates the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and FEMA’s efforts to incorporate it into our mission. The ADA guides FEMA’s commitment to improving services and programs so that they are equitably available to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
“We have made significant updates to survivor assistance. These changes drastically improve our ability to meaningfully help people with disabilities,” said Administrator Criswell. “This is part of the work we are doing to reach communities disproportionately impacted by disasters more effectively to empower them to rebuild their lives.”
When the ADA legislation passed in 1990, it added to the protections afforded to people with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which provided civil rights legislation that protects people with disabilities from discrimination by federal agencies and federally funded programs. It ensures that FEMA, including members of the workforce with disabilities, community and disability stakeholders and governmental partners at every level have a strong foundation to work together so that disaster survivors with disabilities have equitable access to services and programs, while preserving their independence.
“The ADA goes beyond ensuring fairness, dignity and access for people with disabilities by accelerating recovery for survivors who rely on medications, medical devices, service animals and personal care services to function,” said FEMA Disability Coordinator and Office of Disability Integration and Coordination Director Dr. Sherman Gillums, Jr. “Our office works year-round to make communities more resilient when ADA compliance is made part of a preparedness strategy to be executed before, during, and after disasters.”
To support the disability community, earlier this year, FEMA made major changes to the Individual Assistance (IA) programs. These changes address historic challenges faced by disaster survivors and increase accessibility for people, families and communities. The changes fall into three main categories:
Established new benefits: FEMA now offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors early in the recovery process when they need it most.
One new benefit eligible survivors may receive is Displacement Assistance—money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a more permanent housing solution.
For people with disabilities, Displacement Assistance can also help pay for accessible accommodations, such as one-story, short-term lodging, lodging approved for service animals, or a facility with assistive listening or reading devices. For people with disabilities, the prime beneficiaries are those who face greater health risks when access to disability-related necessities is delayed.
Expanded eligibility: Expanded eligibility means we can reach more people to help them recover faster while building their homes back stronger.
FEMA is making accessibility improvements to help eligible survivors with disabilities improve their living conditions by making their homes even more accessible than they were pre-disaster. For example, FEMA can pay for wheelchair ramps, grab bars and paved pathways for a home that was damaged by a disaster - even if these items were not there before the disaster and the disaster did not cause a disability. This will not count against the federal Housing Assistance maximum.
Simplified application process: A simpler application process will help to meet a disaster survivor’s individual needs and ultimately help more people.
With the new changes, FEMA will now be able to help underinsured survivors. For example, when the insurance payment for home damage isn’t enough to cover what happened, FEMA may be able to help up to the maximum allowable amount of assistance to make that home safe, sanitary and functional. The money will help cover that gap for people who are underinsured. FEMA assistance is not a substitute for insurance and can’t compensate for all disaster losses. So, survivors need to apply with their insurance companies if they’re insured after the disaster.
For Fiscal Year 2024, the Housing Assistance maximum is $42,500, and the Other Needs Assistance maximum is $42,500. This amount will be adjusted each fiscal year. Before the changes, survivors with disabilities, who received the federal assistance maximum or more for insurance payments for damage to their home were not eligible for home repair assistance from FEMA. This update will provide more of a financial cushion for people with disabilities who already bear the cost of higher rates for coverage that includes grab bars, ramps, and other accessibility enhancements to a home.
For more information on all the updates made to the Individual Assistance program, please visit fema.gov/ia.
Nationwide, disability stakeholders are part of the agency’s whole community approach and work with FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination teams to create a path to independence for people with disabilities impacted by disasters.
To learn more about FEMA’s support to people with disabilities, go to Office of Disability Integration and Coordination.
amy.ashbridge Fri, 07/26/2024 - 20:56FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Retreat Fire in Washington
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Retreat Fire burning in Yakima County, Washington.
The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 12:27 a.m. PT. He determined that the Retreat Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the fourth FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Washington wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the City of Tieton, community of Cowiche, and Town of Naches. The fire also threatened multiple state highways, local cemeteries, churches, schools, recreation areas, local cultural and historical hunting and gathering grounds of the Yakama Nation, power lines, the Rimrock Dam and the Yakima Tieton Irrigation District.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $1,313,482 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
natalie.shaver Fri, 07/26/2024 - 18:53
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Gwen Fire in Idaho
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Gwen Fire burning in the Nez Perce Reservation and in Nez Perce and Latah counties, Idaho.
The state of Idaho’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 12:23 a.m. PT. He determined that the Gwen Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the second FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Idaho wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Juliaetta, Myrtle, Arrow Junction and Lenore and the city of Lapwai. The fire also threatened private and nonprofit public utilities and critical community infrastructure such as roads, bridges, public businesses and recreational areas.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $985,111 will be available to Idaho through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
natalie.shaver Fri, 07/26/2024 - 18:47
Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance
MADISON, Miss. – Homeowners and renters in Hancock, Hinds, Humphreys, Madison, Neshoba and Scott counties who were affected by the April 8-11, 2024, severe storms have two weeks left to apply for assistance.
Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance the following ways:
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in most languages. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download the FEMA mobile app
FEMA assistance 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.
Survivors have until August 9, 2024, to apply for assistance.
For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4@femaregion4.
Gaynell.Tinsey Fri, 07/26/2024 - 16:41Pages
