Disaster Recovery Centers in Laurens, Screven and Wilkes Counties to Close Permanently Jan. 18

The Disaster Recovery Centers in Laurens, Screven and Wilkes counties are set to close permanently at 6 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18. They are currently open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

The recovery centers are at these locations:

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road 

Dublin, GA 31021

Screven County

Screven County Library

106 Community Drive

Sylvania, GA 30467

Wilkes County

Washington Fire Department

(Training Room)

212 E. Court St

Washington, GA 30673

There are other centers currently operating in Georgia. Residents can find the center closest to them by going to fema.gov/drc. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

1. FEMA provides help to all disaster survivors, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation,
2. religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Our top priority is ensuring that disaster assistance is reaching people in need.

If you are in an affected county, you are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. Survivors can also contact the Georgia Call Center at 678-547-2861 Monday through Saturday for assistance with their application.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne

jakia.randolph Thu, 01/16/2025 - 13:29

FEMA Announces 2025 Traditional Reinsurance Placement to Manage Future Flood Risk

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced its 2025 traditional reinsurance placement for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), continuing its risk management practice against catastrophic flood losses.  

The agency has transferred an additional $757.835 million of the NFIP’s financial risk to the private reinsurance market. This annual reinsurance agreement provides coverage in 2025 through the support of 27 private reinsurance companies. 

The 2025 reinsurance placement covers portions of NFIP losses above $7 billion arising from a single qualifying flood event. FEMA will pay total premium of $139.9 million for the coverage. 

The agreement is structured to cover:  

• 12.0334% of losses between $7 billion and $9 billion  
• 25.8584% of losses between $9 billion and $11 billion

Combined with the three capital markets reinsurance placements in 2022, 2023 and 2024, FEMA has transferred $2.058 billion of the NFIP’s flood risk to the private sector. If a named storm flood event is large enough to trigger all reinsurance agreements, FEMA will receive qualifying payments.   

“In addition to announcing this year’s traditional renewal, I’m also pleased to share that the NFIP has increased its reinsurer participation in the program,” said Elizabeth Asche, Ph.D., FEMA’s Assistant Administrator for Federal Insurance, and senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “We now have 27 reinsurers, up from 18 last year, strengthening FEMA’s commitment to use private sector reinsurance to enhance the NFIP’s ability to pay flood insurance claims.”

Reinsurance is a financial risk management tool used by private insurance companies and public entities to protect themselves from large financial losses. If a qualifying catastrophic flood event occurs, reinsurance companies cover a portion of the NFIP’s losses to enhance FEMA’s ability to pay flood insurance claims without borrowing from the U.S. Treasury. 

FEMA contracted with Guy Carpenter and Company, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, to provide broker services to assist in securing the reinsurance placement.

FEMA received authority to secure reinsurance through the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 and the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014.  FEMA’s 2025 reinsurance placement builds upon its previous reinsurance placements as further development toward a stronger financial framework. 

For more information, visit the NFIP Reinsurance Program webpage on FEMA.gov.
 

amy.ashbridge Wed, 01/15/2025 - 20:18

FEMA Transitional Sheltering Assistance Available for Los Angeles County Residents

LOS ANGELES - FEMA and the state of California are working to ensure that displaced survivors of the Los Angeles wildfires have access to safe, accessible temporary shelter. Reimbursement for out-of-pocket hotel costs, financial assistance towards rent and home repair and FEMA-provided temporary hotel or motel stays are currently being provided to eligible households. 

Renters and homeowners who have already applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA through the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) Program. This program is offered to enable displaced residents to work on their interim housing plan.

Affected residents do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email depending on the method of communication selected at the time of application for disaster assistance. 

TSA is a temporary program intended to provide short-term lodging for eligible disaster survivors whose primary residence is uninhabitable or inaccessible because of the disaster and are not covered by insurance additional living expenses or loss of use. Eligible applicants sign a terms and conditions document confirming their eligibility end date when they check into a participating hotel.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes, and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone, or movie rental. 

Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date. TSA is limited to participating hotels and motels. Applicants must refer to the TSA Locator to find a hotel, which will be visible to them when they go to DisasterAssistance.gov.

Emergency hotel and motel stays are just one of several ways FEMA is helping wildfire survivors with housing needs. FEMA is offering other forms of housing assistance such as Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, and/or Lodging Expense Reimbursement:

• Displacement Assistance helps survivors who can’t return to their home following a disaster by giving them up-front money to help with immediate housing needs. It is money you can use to stay in a hotel or motel, stay with family and friends, or for any other available housing options.
• Rental Assistance pays for alternate temporary housing if a homeowner or renter is displaced from their primary residence because of damages resulting from the wildfires in Los Angeles County. This may include renting an apartment, house or staying at a hotel, bed and breakfast or Airbnb.
• Lodging Expense Reimbursement (LER) pays out-of-pocket lodging expenses that are not covered by insurance benefits like additional living expenses or loss of use. The resident’s pre-disaster primary residence must be unlivable, inaccessible, or affected by an extended disaster-caused utility outage. Eligible expenses may include the cost of the room and taxes charged by a hotel or other lodging provider. This does not include costs for food, phone calls or transportation. LER is limited to reimbursement and is not provided in advance or in the form of direct payment to a hotel or motel. The costs must have also been incurred on or after Jan. 7, 2025. Residents can upload their receipts to their DisasterAssistance.gov account.

To apply for FEMA assistance, homeowners and renters can: 

• Go online at DisasterAssistance.gov and in Spanish language at DisasterAssistance.gov/es.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance in multiple languages.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.  
• Go to a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find one in your area, click here  or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 91001”)

If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4856

California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process. Resources for financial assistance, housing, funds for repair and more are available to help individuals and families. Visit CA.gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 01/15/2025 - 17:35

Survivors Begin Living In FEMA-Provided Housing As Their Recovery Continues

Individuals and families who lost their homes to Helene’s wrath are beginning to move back to areas near their homes. FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Assistance is available to eligible survivors in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties to bring some comfort and stability as survivors recover and their homes are restored. Travel trailers and manufactured housing units have arrived in Tennessee and survivors started moving into private sites this week. 

Preparing travel trailers and manufactured housing units for placement on private property can be a complex process that involves ordering, installation, permitting, utility hookups and inspection before they are ready for survivors to occupy. Just like a large construction project the process, leading to unit occupancy can encounter multiple challenges and delays such as non-functional utilities or right of entry permissions. FEMA does not permit units for occupancy but works closely with applicants and local governments to complete the process.

FEMA also leases space from available commercial parks, such as RV campgrounds located in affected areas to set up travel trailers. Once a survivor takes possession of a FEMA unit, they are required to do three things every 30 days:

• Demonstrate a continued need for housing assistance.
• Recertify their eligibility.
• Show they are making progress toward a permanent housing solution.

Occupants may be eligible to stay in FEMA provided units for up to 18 months from the date the disaster was declared while securing a permanent housing solution. Each housing recipient must sign and comply with a licensing agreement for the duration of their stay.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 01/15/2025 - 14:10

FEMA Public Assistance Available for Bamberg, Calhoun, Orangeburg Counties Following November Severe Storms and Flooding in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governmental agencies and certain nonprofits (including faith-based organizations) in Bamberg, Calhoun and Orangeburg counties in South Carolina that were affected by severe storms and flooding of Nov. 6-14, 2024, may be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance. This assistance can help cover costs for debris removal, protective measures, public buildings and equipment, public utilities, and more. 

This is a new major disaster declaration and separate from the declaration for Hurricane Helene.  

The Public Assistance Program provides federal funding on a cost-share basis to assist states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments and private nonprofits that provide essential social services to the public. It is FEMA’s largest grant program.

The state of South Carolina will conduct applicant briefings to inform potential applicants of the assistance available and how to apply. Applicants then file a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) and identify damage that resulted from the disaster. FEMA determines eligibility for reimbursement after state review.

The state will manage Public Assistance funds received from FEMA. This includes disbursing the funds to the applicant.

For more information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program, visit Assistance for Governments and Private Non-Profits After a Disaster | FEMA.gov

Additionally, all areas of the state are now eligible for Hazard Mitigation assistance.

For more information about disaster recovery operations in South Carolina, visit  fema.gov/severestormsflooding/south-carolina

martyce.allenjr Wed, 01/15/2025 - 13:32

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Fulton County

FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Fulton County to provide one-on-one help for Georgians affected by Tropical Storm Debby (damage Aug. 4—20, 2024) and Hurricane Helene (damage Sept. 24—Oct. 30, 2024). 

The center is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday – Saturday, through Saturday, February 8. It is located at:

Fulton County
Evelyn G Lowery Library at Cascade
3665 Cascade Road SW
Atlanta, GA 30331

Additional centers are open in the following counties:

Open Monday – Saturday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

Appling County 

Appling County Center
83 S. Oak St.

Baxley, GA 31513

Coffee County

The Atrium 
114 N. Peterson Avenue 

Douglas, GA 31533

Emanuel County

Southeastern Technical College 

Special Programs Bldg.

346 Kite Road, Building 1

Swainsboro, GA 30401

Jefferson County

National Guard Bid-EOC

1841 Hwy. 24 West

Louisville, GA 30434

 

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road 

Dublin, GA 31021

Closing permanently 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18

Lowndes County

Valdosta State University Foundation, Inc.

901 N. Patterson St.

Valdosta, GA 31601

McDuffie County
Thomson Depot                                                                                     111 Railroad Street

Thomson, GA 30824

Richmond County

Hub for Community Innovation

631 Chafee Avenue 

Augusta, GA 30904

Screven County

Screven County Library

106 Community Drive

Sylvania, GA 30467

Closing permanently 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18

Wilkes County

Washington Fire Department (Training Room)

212 E. Court St.

Washington, GA 30673

FEMA Mobile Registration Center location and hours

Bulloch County

Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairground

16942 GA-67

Statesboro, GA 30458

Monday, Dec. 23—Friday, Jan. 17, 2025

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

To find center locations in the state, visit FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Georgia Page, FEMA’s DRC Locator or text “DRC” and your Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Homeowners and renters in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Fulton, Glascock, Glynn, Hancock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, McIntosh, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Stephens, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Wheeler and Wilkes counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Georgia and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

If you are in an affected county, you are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne.

jakia.randolph Wed, 01/15/2025 - 13:23

FEMA Determination Letters are Important First Step to Receive Assistance

WASHINGTON - Los Angeles County wildfires survivors who registered for FEMA assistance will receive a letter from FEMA. If the letter says you are “not approved” for assistance, it does not mean you have been denied assistance. It may simply mean that FEMA cannot approve your application with the information submitted so far. 

People with Insurance May Receive an Initial “Not Approved” Decision; FEMA Assistance May Still Be Available

FEMA may need your insurance determination to be finalized in order to continue processing your FEMA application to make sure you are not receiving funding for the same damage twice. By law, FEMA cannot pay for costs related to the wildfires that your insurance already covers. 

Once 30 days or more have passed since you filed your insurance claim and you have not received your settlement, please contact the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance in multiple languages. FEMA may be able to provide some initial funds while you wait for your insurance payout. 

FEMA Wants to Keep You on Track Towards Recovery

Often, a “not approved” decision may mean that you only need to send additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue reviewing your application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage.
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider.
• Proof of identity.
• Proof of occupancy.
• Proof of ownership.
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.

Be careful to enter your information correctly. Typos and missing numbers or information may also cause delays or an initial “not approved” determination letter.

If you have questions about your letter, call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Assistance is available in multiple languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

You Can Appeal FEMA’s Decision

It is important to read your FEMA letter carefully because it will include the amount of money FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of that money. The letter will also explain your application status and advise what you need to do to appeal if you do not agree with FEMA’s decision.

You can appeal any FEMA decision or award amount by sending documents that show you qualify and need more help, like estimates for repairs, receipts, bills, etc. Each determination letter you receive from FEMA explains the types of documents that may help you appeal FEMA’s decision or award amount for that type of assistance.

With the letter, FEMA will provide an appeal form that may be used to provide additional information, if you choose to do so. You may also download the appeal form. When submitting any documentation or information to FEMA, you must include your FEMA application number and disaster number (DR-4856-CA) on every page.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. However, those who are underinsured may receive further assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled by submitting their insurance settlement or denial documents to FEMA. FEMA does not provide funding for insurance deductibles.

If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, that person must sign it and provide FEMA with a signed statement authorizing the individual to act on behalf of the applicant.

Other ways to submit documents include:

• Mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055
• Fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA
• At a Disaster Recovery Center: To find the nearest one, visit fema.gov/drc

Other Federal Support May Be Available

Regardless of your eligibility for FEMA assistance, homeowners, renters and business owners can receive low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Homeowners can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters can borrow up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

Businesses may receive up to $2 million for physical damage or economic injury. The SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the disaster damage from occurring in the future. Information and details on the location of future disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/14/2025 - 22:40

FEMA’s National Preparedness Report Highlights Mass Care Services, Public Information and Warning, Infrastructure Systems and Cybersecurity for a Resilient Nation

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has released a report providing an overview of the nation’s current disaster risk and capability landscape.

The 13th annual National Preparedness Report (NPR) outlines progress toward achieving the national preparedness goal of a secure and resilient country. It highlights the nation’s preparedness across all sectors and levels of government for events ranging from extreme weather to sophisticated cyber incidents. 

As the nation navigates these complex challenges, resilience must continue to be a collective endeavor, requiring the active participation of the whole community. This year, the report places particular emphasis on four core capabilities: Mass Care Services, Public Information and Warning, Infrastructure Systems and Cybersecurity. These areas—identified through ongoing assessments, leadership priorities and recent disaster impacts—continue to present significant challenges, but also opportunities for enhancing our national resilience.

“The 2024 NPR addresses the work that needs to be done at all levels – federal, state, local, tribal and territorial – to strengthen national preparedness. While emerging threats and hazards will test us as a nation, our collective efforts across the whole community will drive our progress toward a safer, more resilient future,” said FEMA Administrator Criswell. “Together, we can ensure every individual and community is better prepared to face the uncertainties of tomorrow.”

For more than a decade, FEMA has been reporting on the state of national preparedness to identify the risks and opportunities that inform emergency management decision-making. This annual report once again offers practical insights into preparedness and capabilities at the federal, state, local, tribal and territorial levels as well as the individual household level to inform decisions about program priorities and resource allocations that increase community resilience. 

Analysis presented in this report shows the nation faces persistent challenges in an evolving threat and hazard landscape. Awareness of these challenges mitigates risks, lessens vulnerabilities and drives all levels of governments to strategically direct investments to build resilience.

Disasters are becoming costlier and deadlier. 
Since 1980, the U.S. experienced 376 individual billion-dollar weather and climate disasters, amounting to a cumulative cost exceeding $2.665 trillion. Since 1980, around 16,350 fatalities occurred in association with billion-dollar disasters. 

Sophisticated data analysis tools are essential to develop effective, place-based recovery strategies.
Of the top five most stressing threats and hazards identified by communities in 2023, four were natural hazards including earthquakes, hurricanes/typhoons, tornadoes and floods. Leveraging sophisticated tools with large-scale data processing helps identify and prioritize top threats and hazards based on community input, ultimately facilitating more effective recovery strategies.

Individuals and households are taking disaster preparedness more seriously and improving their risk literacy. 
FEMA’s 2023 National Household Survey found that 51 percent of adults believed they were prepared for a disaster, which is a 9 percent increase in preparedness perception from 42 percent in 2017. The survey also indicates that people are becoming more proactive and better informed about their risks.

Decaying legacy infrastructure and outdated building codes continue to pose a significant vulnerability nationwide for the foreseeable future. 
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding are only a starting point for addressing residential, institutional and commercial building safety across this nation, which increases vulnerability to threats and hazards. Outdated infrastructure can leave communities and the nation vulnerable to critical system disruptions, impacting transportation routes, services and the economy.

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology allows determined adversaries to strike harder and with less warning. 
The proliferation of accessible AI tools likely will bolster our adversaries’ tactics. Cyber actors use AI to develop new tools that allow them to compromise more victims and enable larger scale cyber-attacks, while nation-states seeking to undermine trust in our government institutions, social cohesion and democratic processes are using AI to create more believable foreign malign influence campaigns. Of particular concern are impacts of AI attacks on critical infrastructure, which could result in nefarious actors disrupting or denying activities related to Internet of Things (IoT) technologies or networked industrial systems. 

National assessments enhance our understanding of evolving risk and resilience challenges for disadvantaged communities. 
Risk and resilience across the nation is evolving, but not uniformly. Publicly available risk assessment tools and resources including the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s (CEQ) Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST), the U.S. Global Change Research Program’s (USGCRP) 5th National Climate Assessment and FEMA tools such as the National Risk Index (NRI), Community Disaster Resilience Zones (CDRZ), Community Resilience Challenges Index (CRCI), HAZUS 6.1 and Building Code Adoption Tracking (BCAT) highlight these changes and how they intersect. These tools support decision making, enable collaboration with governmental and private sector partners and identify areas for improvement within resilience. 

The National Preparedness Report was established in Presidential Policy Directive/PPD-8, signed on March 30, 2011, which required the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit to the President the first national preparedness report based on the National Preparedness Goal.

To read the full report, go to fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness#reports.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/14/2025 - 22:36

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for California Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of California for emergency work undertaken as a result of wildfires and straight-line winds beginning on January 7, 2025, and continuing.

The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased from 75% to 100% for a period of 180 days of the state’s choosing within the first 270 days of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and other needs assistance for total eligible costs.         

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/14/2025 - 22:32

Biden-Harris Administration Announces Third Opportunity to Help Communities Receive Low-Interest Loans for Resilience Projects from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

$178 Million is available for the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund 

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is announcing the third funding opportunity for the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) grant program to make communities safer from natural hazards. This program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides capitalization grants to eligible applicants nationwide.

States, territories, eligible Tribal Nations and the District of Columbia are eligible for a total of $178 million, the largest amount available in a single fiscal year for the program. Funding enables these entities to administer revolving loan funds that will help local governments carry out hazard mitigation projects and build community climate resilience. 

“Low-income communities are often the hardest hit in natural disasters,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, increased funding will now be more accessible to communities to help strengthen their resiliency against intensifying climate threats.”

Current participants are using funding in diverse ways, from addressing earthquakes, heat, floods and several other hazards. FEMA also designed the program to assist residents of communities who are at increased risk to these hazards.

As part of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.’s Investing in America agenda, states can direct loans to local governments through this program to mitigate the effects of events such as drought, intense heat, wildfires, floods and earthquakes. It is one of several Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs that fund improvements to make communities more resilient to natural hazards.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides $500 million to fund the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund Program through fiscal year 2026, providing low-interest loans to local governments to reduce their vulnerability to disasters, foster greater resilience and reduce disaster impacts.

Eligible projects include construction or modification of natural or built infrastructure to increase resilience, building code adoption and enforcement, local zoning, land use planning changes and developing local hazard mitigation plans. Deferred maintenance of mitigation infrastructure and paying the non-federal cost share of other FEMA hazard mitigation projects are also eligible.

Emphasis on Local Communities, Tribal Nations

Entities that participate in the program may set loan terms for local communities that are more flexible, with up to 20 years for repayment. This provides a more accessible funding source for construction of resilience infrastructure than traditional financing options.

Revolving loans are intended to reach local governments most in need of financing assistance including, for example, low-income geographic areas. These areas have more flexible loan terms with up to 30 years for repayment. FEMA encourages governments to take full advantage of the broad range of activities and projects eligible through this program and include mitigation measures that are not typically submitted under other programs.

Also, $15 million has been set aside exclusively for Tribal Nations to ensure they have the opportunity to receive funds from the program. 

The Safeguarding Tomorrow RLF funding notice is available at Grants.gov. Eligible entities must apply for funding using the FEMA Grants Outcome (FEMA GO) system. Applications may be submitted a rolling basis through Sept. 30, 2025.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/14/2025 - 17:32

Damaged Wells, Furnaces, Private Roads and Bridges, and Septic Systems May Be Covered by FEMA

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Homeowners typically apply for disaster assistance for structural damages to their property, such as roofs or floors. But other parts of a residence or private property, not covered by insurance, can also be repaired or replaced under FEMA programs.

Damages to your furnace, septic system, private road and/or bridge, or your private well may also be covered by financial assistance from FEMA. 

Residents of Mercer County, whose primary residences were damaged by the Sept. 25-27, 2024, remnants of Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible to apply. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Feb. 7, 2025.

FEMA disaster assistance may provide reimbursement for the cost of a professional and licensed technician’s estimate of the repair or replacement of these items. You may also receive assistance for the actual repair or replacement of these items not typically covered by homeowner’s insurance.

When applying for assistance, be sure to include damages to furnaces, septic systems, private roads, private bridges, or private wells on your form. 

There are four ways to apply:

• Apply in person at our Mercer County Disaster Recovery Center in Princeton

Princeton Disaster Recovery Center

Lifeline Princeton Church of God

250 Oakvale Road 

Princeton, WV 24740

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

• Visit fema.gov/drc to find the latest recovery center information
• Apply by phone at 800-621-3362
• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Apply with the FEMA App
• Download the free FEMA mobile app, available at Google Play or the Apple App Store

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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

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

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

erika.osullivan Tue, 01/14/2025 - 17:17

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES – Two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will open tomorrow in Los Angeles County to assist Californians who experienced damage to their primary home, personal property loss or have disaster-caused emergency needs related to the wildfires. At the center, people can get help applying for federal assistance, speak to representatives from state and federal agencies, receive updates on their FEMA application for assistance and learn about the appeals process.

The centers open Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. PST.  After Tuesday, Jan. 14, the hours and locations will be as follows:

• UCLA Research Park West<
  10850 West Pico Blvd.
  Los Angeles, CA 90064
  Hours of operation – Daily: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Pasadena City College Community Education Center
  3035 East Foothill Blvd.
  Pasadena, CA 91106
  Hours of operation – Daily: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone, or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

Los Angeles County survivors who register for FEMA assistance will receive a decision letter by mail or on their DisasterAssistance.gov account. If the letter says you are “not approved” for some categories of assistance, it does not mean you have been denied assistance.

It is important to read the letter carefully as it will explain your application status and advise what you need to do to continue the process.

The State of California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process. Resources for financial assistance, housing, funds for repair and more are available to help individuals and families. Visit CA.gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance.

If you have questions about your FEMA letter, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. 

For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4856. Follow FEMA Region 9 @FEMARegion9 on X or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/14/2025 - 17:02

Damaged Wells, Furnaces, Private Roads and Bridges, and Septic Systems May Be Covered by FEMA

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Homeowners typically apply for disaster assistance for structural damages to their property, such as roofs or floors. But other parts of a residence or private property, not covered by insurance, can also be repaired or replaced under FEMA programs.

Damages to your furnace, septic system, private road and/or bridge, or your private well may also be covered by financial assistance from FEMA. 

Residents of Mercer County, whose primary residences were damaged by the Sept. 25-27, 2024, remnants of Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible to apply. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Feb. 7, 2025.

FEMA disaster assistance may provide reimbursement for the cost of a professional and licensed technician’s estimate of the repair or replacement of these items. You may also receive assistance for the actual repair or replacement of these items not typically covered by homeowner’s insurance.

When applying for assistance, be sure to include damages to furnaces, septic systems, private roads, private bridges, or private wells on your form. 

There are four ways to apply:

• Apply in person at our Mercer County Disaster Recovery Center in Princeton

Princeton Disaster Recovery Center

Lifeline Princeton Church of God

250 Oakvale Road 

Princeton, WV 24740

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

• Visit fema.gov/drc to find the latest recovery center information
• Apply by phone at 800-621-3362
• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Apply with the FEMA App
• Download the free FEMA mobile app, available at Google Play or the Apple App Store

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

In addition to damage to your home, damages to your furnace, wells, septic system or private bridge may also be eligible for assistance from FEMA.  (Philip Maramba/FEMA)

tiana.suber Tue, 01/14/2025 - 16:38

2 Weeks Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – If you have sustained damage or losses due to Hurricane Helene in South Carolina, it is important to act quickly, as the deadline to apply for federal assistance is approaching. While the deadline has been extended to Jan. 28, there are only two weeks remaining to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. 

FEMA still strongly urges survivors to apply as soon as possible, even with the extended deadline. After Jan. 28, you may still be able to submit documents, update your contact information and stay in contact with FEMA regarding your application, but you must apply before the deadline.

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

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

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

martyce.allenjr Tue, 01/14/2025 - 13:42

FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Pasco and Pinellas Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster through construction and remodeling best practices. 

An insurance specialist will be present to answer National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) questions. Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will be on hand to provide updates on FEMA applications and answer questions. 

FEMA specialists will be available from Jan. 13 through Jan. 18 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET Monday - Friday and from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET Saturday at the following locations:

Pasco County: CVS, 5432 US-19, New Port Richey, FL 34652

Pinellas County: Lowe’s, 41800 US Hwy 19 N, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Stay in Touch with FEMA

It is important to let FEMA know about any changes to your contact information. You may update contact information or check on the status of your application by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Using the FEMA app
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. Go to FEMA.gov/DRC or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 32344”).

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

sixto.valentin… Tue, 01/14/2025 - 12:20

FEMA Offers Recovery Tips for California Wildfire Survivors

WASHINGTON -- While fire suppression activities are still ongoing in parts of Southern California, affected individuals and families are taking steps toward recovery. 

FEMA is helping people jumpstart their recovery. You may be eligible for FEMA assistance, even if you have insurance. More than $5.3 million so far are in the hands of survivors to help pay for emergency supplies like food, water and baby formula as well as to replace personal property and pay for a temporary place to stay. Below are tips to help Californians recover from the historic wildfires.

If your primary home was affected by the fires, FEMA may be able to help you cover certain costs – like paying for essential items, finding a place to stay, replacing personal property or making basic repairs to your home. However, FEMA assistance is designed to help you if you do not have insurance or if your insurance policies don’t cover basic needs. If you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible and be ready to provide your coverage information when applying to FEMA. 

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance: 

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov and in Spanish language at DisasterAssistance.gov/es.
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance in multiple languages.
• On the FEMA App for mobile devices.  

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance or en Español. 

Los Angeles County residents and renters should know that FEMA does not hand out gift cards, vouchers or any other type of credit to guarantee assistance. FEMA only provides assistance through check or direct deposit.

Replace Your Lost Documents

FEMA understands that people may have lost important documents like passports, property titles, government issued IDs or other vital personal records during the wildfires. Visit ca.gov for a directory of the state’s departments to request your driver’s license, state tax records, birth certificates and other paperwork.

To submit an application for FEMA disaster assistance, people only need:

• Names of everyone living in your home at the time of the fires.
• Social Security number (yours or your child’s).
• Household income.
• Contact information.
• Information of property damage/emergency needs.

Clean Up Safely

Only return to your property if local authorities say it is safe to do so. Avoid hot ash, charred trees, smoldering debris and live embers. The ground may contain heat pockets that can burn you or spark another fire.

When cleaning, wear protective clothing – including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Use a respirator to limit your exposure, and, if possible, wet debris to minimize breathing dust particles. People with asthma, COPD and/or other lung conditions should take precautions in areas with poor air quality, as it can worsen symptoms.

Ask for Help if You Need It 

The wildfires can take an emotional toll on residents, children and the first responder community. Anyone feeling overwhelmed or in distress because of the fires can call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990 to receive free crisis counseling.

State and nonprofit partners like the American Red Cross and others are providing a safe place to stay, meals and emotional comfort to people. To find a shelter, text SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362, visit redcross.org/shelter or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). You can also call this number if you need assistance locating a missing loved one because of the fires.            

amy.ashbridge Mon, 01/13/2025 - 20:13

FEMA Coming to Pryor for One Week

CROW AGENCY – FEMA disaster assistance specialists will be coming to several Crow Tribe communities to continuing helping people apply for disaster assistance. 

Crow Tribe members who had damage to a home, rental home, trailer or mobile home, or had damage to property caused by the August 6, 2024 severe storm and straight-line winds can apply for help with repairs and other needs. 

In addition to the Disaster Recovery Center at the Black Lodge Community Center, a traveling Disaster Recovery Center will be coming to other Crow Tribe Districts for one week visits beginning in Pryor: 

What: Traveling Disaster Recovery Center 
Where: Pryor Community Center, 306 Makpua Avenue, Pryor, Montana 59101 
When: Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025; 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 

 

People who have already applied can also come to the Pryor location to check on their application, ask questions and provide additional documentation. Other traveling Disaster Recovery Center locations will be announced soon. 

The Disaster Recovery Center at the Black Lodge Community Center will remain open with regular hours: 
Black Lodge Community Center, 6772 Crow River Road (I-90 at the Dunmore exit, #503), 
Hardin, Montana 59034
Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mon.– Sat. (Closed Sundays and holidays)

FEMA is helping all Crow Tribe members with storm damage apply for disaster assistance, even if you live off the reservation. Come talk with a specialist to see if we can help with repairs and other needs. FEMA help is a grant, not a loan. There is no credit check, it doesn’t matter how many people live in your home, it doesn’t matter how much money you make or if you own or rent. Any Crow Tribe member with damage from the August 6 storm can apply. 

A recovery specialist from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be available to explain their disaster loan program.

minh.phan Mon, 01/13/2025 - 14:40

FEMA Awards Nearly $10.5 Million for the Central Specialized School of Visual Arts

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated nearly $10.5 million to restore the Central Specialized School of Visual Arts, a century-old institution included in Puerto Rico's National Register of Historic Places.

“La Central”, as it is colloquially known, belongs to a select group of specialized schools of the Puerto Rico Department of Education, created to develop specific skills in the fine arts, sports and academic programs. 

“This FEMA award is crucial to restore an institution that is part of our historical heritage, vital for the formation of future artists. Its preservation guarantees that it will continue to be a benchmark in Puerto Rico's art education, while strengthening its resilience in the face of future disasters,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The Central Specialized School of Visual Arts is one of the most important schools on the island. It was built in the early 1920s and shows the solemn design used by early 20th century U.S. architects, known as “school specialists." In this trend, the magnificence of the architectural design serves as a vehicle to evoke the academic and cultural aspirations of the student body. 

The wide and long windows take advantage of the location of the campus in an elevated and spacious green area to provide natural light and ventilation inside the school's U-shaped aisles. This attribute, although aesthetic and functional, contributed to the damage caused by Hurricane Maria, as many of these windows succumbed to the force of the hurricane winds.

The approved funds will restore structural damage to the roofs, doors and windows, architectural elements that reflect the historic character of the building. Other areas to be restored include floor and ceiling slabs, light fixtures, air conditioners and the interior gymnasium, whose beams and columns will be replaced. To strengthen the campus, FEMA approved a mitigation item of over $1.1 million, which will allow for the installation of impact- and hurricane-proof windows.

FEMA works in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Historic Preservation Office (OCHPR, in Spanish) to ensure the compliance with the current environmental and historic laws, regulations and executive orders during the restoration of buildings and structures of historic value such as “La Central”. In this way, it seeks to ensure that all historic elements are considered when evaluating the project to avoid, minimize and mitigate the possible adverse effects that the proposed repair may have on the structure.

“For FEMA, preservation of historic buildings and environmental resources is a key issue during the review and approval of reconstruction projects. This component is fundamental in the approval process for federal funds,” Baquero said.

FEMA has allocated over $34.6 million for about 11,060 projects that address the recovery following Hurricane María.

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.

manuel.deleon Mon, 01/13/2025 - 13:03

As Coordinated Wildfire Response Efforts Continue, FEMA Encourages Californians to Apply for Aid

WASHINGTON -- As wildfire response efforts continue, Californians should listen to instructions from state and local officials and take steps to stay safe like immediately evacuating if told to do so, paying attention to local alerts and using a face covering when outdoors.

Los Angeles County Residents with Wildfire Damage Are Encouraged to Apply for FEMA Assistance

If your primary home was affected by the fires, FEMA may be able to help you cover certain costs – like paying for essential items, finding a place to stay, replacing personal property or making basic repairs to your home. However, FEMA assistance is designed to help you if you do not have insurance or if your insurance policies don’t cover basic needs. If you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible and be ready to provide your coverage information when applying to FEMA. 

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance: 

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov and in Spanish language at DisasterAssistance.gov/es.
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance in multiple languages.
• On the FEMA App for mobile devices.  

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance or en Español. 

FEMA and the Federal Government Remain Steadfast as Disaster Response Continues

In addition to helping individuals and families recover, FEMA is supporting the state and local governments by funding 100 percent of the cost of debris removal and lifesaving and life sustaining activities – including fire suppression efforts — for 180 days.

The entire federal government is committed to supporting response activities in California and helping the community recover. FEMA is the lead federal coordinating agency for the state-led response and relies on the expertise of the federal interagency for this historic response and recovery mission. 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is providing engineering and public works expertise on the ground to assist with the planning and coordination among its disaster response partners. 

More than 880 National Guard members from California, Nevada and Wyoming are activated and engaged in multiple air and ground firefighting efforts. 

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that small businesses, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters can apply for federal disaster loans to offset losses from physical damage caused by the wildfires. People should not wait on the decision for a FEMA grant to apply for an SBA loan. To apply online and learn more, sba.gov/disaster. 

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared a public health emergency for California, providing health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility to meet emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. The HHS Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response is supporting regional and state operation centers and monitoring state and local public health and medical needs.

The U.S. Department of Defense has 500 active-duty troops stationed in California ready to support state and federal requests for route clearance, commodity distribution, search and rescue, airlift and other activities. 

The California National Guard is supporting law enforcement efforts in the region and is adding two Modular Air Firefighting System units while two more are being readied by the Nevada National Guard. 

Free Mental Health Support and Other Forms of Care Are Available for Wildfire Survivors and Their Loved Ones

Anyone feeling overwhelmed or in distress because of the fires can call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990 to receive free crisis counseling.

State and nonprofit partners like the American Red Cross and others are providing a safe place to stay, meals and emotional comfort to people. To find a shelter, text SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362, visit redcross.org/shelter or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). You can also call this number if you need assistance locating a missing loved one because of the fires.

Anyone Can Help: Here’s How

The best way to help the affected communities is by donating cash directly to recognized disaster relief organizations. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, supporting economic recovery. People can also connect with trusted organizations operating in the affected area to know where volunteers are needed.

amy.ashbridge Sun, 01/12/2025 - 17:36

Five Things to Know About FEMA, Federal and Nonprofit Support to the California Wildfires Response

WASHINGTON -- As state, local and federal responders continue efforts to save lives, homes and public property in the areas affected by the wildfires, residents should remain vigilant as conditions are still dangerous and severely degraded air quality in Los Angeles county poses a threat to residents. Follow instructions from local officials and evacuate immediately if told to do so. 

Los Angeles County Residents Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

FEMA understands that you may not have all of your personal documents with you or that they may have been lost in the fires. To apply for assistance, you only need: 

• Names of everyone living in your home at the time of the fires.
• Social Security number (yours or your child’s).
• Household income.
• Contact information.
• Information of property damage/emergency needs.

If you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA assistance is available to help jumpstart your recovery if you have uninsured or underinsured damage. If insurance does not cover all your damage, FEMA may provide additional help. There are three ways to apply: 

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov and in Spanish language at DisasterAssistance.gov/es.
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance in multiple languages. 
• On the FEMA App for mobile devices.  

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

Applying for FEMA Assistance Is a Process 

After applying for assistance, you will receive a letter from FEMA by mail or email and you can find it on your DisasterAssistance.gov account, based on the preference you indicated when you applied. The letter will explain whether FEMA has found you eligible for assistance, how much and how the assistance must be used.

In some cases, you may receive a letter stating you are “not approved” for help from FEMA. While this may seem like a denial, you may still be eligible for FEMA assistance. Oftentimes, survivors are “not approved” because FEMA needs additional information to make a determination. The letter will explain the reason for the initial decision. Read the letter carefully. The fastest way to submit additional documents is to upload to your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance.gov. 

State and Local Governments May Receive 100% Reimbursement for Emergency Work

President Biden approved the 100% cost share for Public Assistance Categories A and B for 180 days. This means that FEMA will fund 100% of the cost of debris removal and lifesaving and life sustaining activities the state and local governments take—including fire suppression efforts —as they work to save lives. 

The assistance FEMA provides through its Public Assistance Program is subject to a federal cost share, normally 75%, which means that FEMA provides funding for a portion of the project and the state, territory, local government or nonprofit is responsible for the remaining portion. 

For debris removal and emergency protective measures specifically, the federal cost share may be increased in limited circumstances, and for limited periods of time, as with the California wildfires and a number of other major disasters.

Disaster Response Is a Whole of Government Effort

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency for California, providing health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility to meet emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. 

The U.S. Department of Defense is providing firefighting personnel and capabilities as well as Navy helicopters with water delivery buckets to assist with aerial fire suppression. 

Anyone feeling overwhelmed or in distress because of the fires can call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990 to receive free crisis counseling. 

State and nonprofit partners like the American Red Cross and others are providing a safe place to stay, meals and emotional comfort to people. To find a shelter, text SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362, visit redcross.org/shelter or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). You can also call this number if you need assistance locating a missing loved one because of the fires. 

People Can Help Affected Communities Recover

Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery.

People can connect with trusted organizations operating in the affected area to know where volunteers are needed.

luther.wills-dudich Sat, 01/11/2025 - 18:07