New Mexicans Urged to Visit FEMA Community Outreach

SANTA FE, New Mexico — FEMA Mitigation experts are available at Home Depot in Roswell, through Saturday, Dec. 21, to offer free advice and tips on how to rebuild stronger and safer against disasters. FEMA encourages New Mexicans, especially those affected by the Oct. 19-20 storm and flooding in Chaves County, to make the most of this free assistance and learn how to reduce future risk.

The FEMA specialists are also available at the Disaster Recovery Center in Roswell Mall. They will answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work. 

Days and hours at Home Depot, through Dec. 21 are:

Home Depot
2350 North Main St. 
Roswell, NM 88201

Monday-Saturday
7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

DRC Roswell Mall next to Bath and Body Works
4501 North Main St,
Roswell, NM 88201

Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FEMA Mitigation teams have engaged with 3,000 New Mexicans this year, providing support to communities impacted by storms, floods and wildfires. FEMA has Mitigation Specialists, through the Community Education and Outreach Program (CEO), available across multiple platforms to help you navigate repairs and rebuilds to reduce future damages due to natural disasters. 

The FEMA Mitigation Helpline is open, free of charge, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This service is staffed with specialists who, if unavailable at the time of your call, will return the call within 24 hours. Call 833-336-2487 for help and advice.

If you need to update information for your application, or check the application status,  visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The FEMA Helpline is available 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Help is available in most languages.

For the latest information on New Mexico’s recovery visit fema.gov/disaster/4843. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6. 

alexa.brown Thu, 12/19/2024 - 18:54

Georgia Storm Survivors Should Stay in Touch with FEMA

ATLANTA – After you apply for federal disaster assistance, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from unidentified or out of area numbers.

If there are changes in your phone number, current address, banking or insurance information, please let FEMA know as soon as possible or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence.

FEMA may need to call some survivors to continue processing their application for assistance after Tropical Storm Debby, Aug. 4–20, 2024, or Hurricane Helene, Sept. 24—Oct. 30, 2024. FEMA also may contact some survivors to obtain more information for their application.

You can update your contact information in several ways: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. Survivors can also call the Georgia Call Center at 678-547-2861 Monday through Saturday.

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.

larissa.hale Thu, 12/19/2024 - 16:44

Keep Your Recovery on Track During the Holidays

HICKORY, N.C. – Amid a busy holiday season, Tropical Storm Helene survivors who applied for FEMA assistance should continue to stay in touch with the agency to update application details with any new information.

It is critical to keep FEMA advised. Missing or outdated material could delay your getting help. Information that needs to be updated may include:

• Your current housing situation, phone number or mailing address.
• Adding or removing the name of a person designated to speak for you.
• Adding or changing names of household members and number of people living in the home.
• Changes in your application for FEMA help.
• Correcting or verifying home and property damage.
• Updating your payment preference

The easiest way to provide missing or new information is to create an account at DisasterAssistance.gov. If you don’t have Internet access or need services not on the FEMA website, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline is open every day and help is available in most languages. 

When contacting FEMA, be sure to refer to the nine-digit application number you were issued when you applied. This number is included in all correspondence you get from FEMA. 

Applicants who sustained housing damage and received an eligibility letter pertaining to FEMA assistance may also need to submit additional documentation. That documentation may include: 

• Proof of insurance coverage (documentation from insurance provider, policy number)
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider 
• Proof of identity (driver’s license, state or federally issued id, or social security card)
• Proof of occupancy (utility bills)
• Proof of ownership (deed, property tax bill)
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of disaster.

You can learn how to replace lost or damaged documents by reading the fact sheet How To Replace Lost Documents in North Carolina.

If you have questions or disagree with the initial decision, you may call the FEMA Helpline to find out what additional information is needed.  If you would like to appeal, the eligibility letter includes an optional appeal form that must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.

You may submit an appeal and supporting documentation in the following ways:

• Online through DisasterAssistance.gov.
• By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
• By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA

If you have not yet applied for FEMA help, please visit DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, by using the FEMA Mobile App, or by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center for in-person assistance. Disaster Recovery Center hours vary and may be limited due to the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is Jan. 7, 2025.

Applicants should mention any access or functional needs they may have when applying. FEMA can provide interpreters, real-time captioning, and information in alternate formats such as Braille, large-print audio, and electronic versions. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit: 

Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – You Tube.

angela.ambroise Thu, 12/19/2024 - 15:18

FEMA Extends Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – At the request of the state of South Carolina, FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program has been extended to Jan. 11, 2025, for Helene survivors who continue to need temporary shelter.

This allows households additional time to identify other housing solution or make repairs to their home. This will continue providing free hotel and motel rooms to more than 6,000 families who are already checked into area hotels.

“Extending the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program through the holiday season provides much-needed relief and support to South Carolinians rebuilding their lives after this disaster,” said Kim Stenson, South Carolina Emergency Management Director.

The program has been extended through the night of Jan. 10, 2025, for South Carolina Helene survivors who continue to need temporary shelter. They will check out of lodging Jan. 11, 2025.

To date, more than 10,000 households have taken temporary shelter in Transitional Sheltering Assistance participating hotels; more than one-third have found suitable, longer-term housing and moved on with their recovery.

FEMA will notify households approximately seven days before their checkout dates with the method of communication they selected when originally applying for assistance. A message is also sent to their participants’ disaster assistance accounts if they have set them up on DisasterAssistance.gov.

For more information, survivors should contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

martyce.allenjr Thu, 12/19/2024 - 13:40

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Lee County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Lee County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Survivors of Hurricane Debby can also be served by the center. 

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

Center location:

Lee County

Museum of Medical History-Building AA
8099 College Parkway
Fort Myers, FL 33919
Hours: 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

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

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

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

brindisi.chan Wed, 12/18/2024 - 23:05

Butler County Residents Invited to Review Flood Maps

CHICAGO — Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Butler County, Ohio. Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal period begins today, December 18, 2024. The preliminary maps and changes from current maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state, and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. Contact your local floodplain administrator to do so. 

• Appeals must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. 
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress. 
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information, such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary, they can submit a written comment. 

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps. 

For more information about the flood maps: 

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon during operating hours). 
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone toll-free at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.  

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting www.FloodSmart.gov. 

For more information, contact the FEMA Mapping Team at FEMA-R5-MAP@fema.dhs.gov.

kimberly.keblish Wed, 12/18/2024 - 21:49

Caldwell County Disaster Recovery Center to Temporarily Close Dec. 20 for Holidays

Hickory, NC – In partnership with the state and local government, FEMA will close the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Caldwell County for the holidays at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20. The Center will reopen Jan. 2 at 8 a.m.

Center Location:

Caldwell County Health and Human Services Building (3rd floor)

2345 Morganton Blvd. SW

Lenoir, NC 28645

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

Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  To find those center locations, go to https: www.fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a ZIP code to 43362.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Jan. 7, 2025.

joseph.arbid Wed, 12/18/2024 - 18:15

FEMA Extends Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – At the request of the state of South Carolina, FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program has been extended to Jan. 11, 2025, for Helene survivors who continue to need temporary shelter.

This allows households additional time to identify other housing solution or make repairs to their home. This will continue providing free hotel and motel rooms to more than 6,000 families who are already checked into area hotels.

“Extending the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program through the holiday season provides much-needed relief and support to South Carolinians rebuilding their lives after this disaster,” said Kim Stenson, South Carolina Emergency Management Director. 

The program has been extended through the night of Jan. 10, 2025, for South Carolina Helene survivors who continue to need temporary shelter. They will check out of lodging Jan. 11, 2025.

To date, more than 10,000 households have taken temporary shelter in Transitional Sheltering Assistance participating hotels; more than one-third have found suitable, longer-term housing and moved on with their recovery.

FEMA will notify households approximately seven days before their checkout dates with the method of communication they selected when originally applying for assistance. A message is also sent to their participants’ disaster assistance accounts if they have set them up on DisasterAssistance.gov.

For more information, survivors should contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

gerard.hammink Wed, 12/18/2024 - 17:30

FEMA Strengthens Community Safety by Repairing Municipal Police Stations

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico ― The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to support Puerto Rico's recovery by allocating funds to three municipal police stations in Vega Baja, Cataño and Gurabo to strengthen their infrastructure due to damage following Hurricane María.

“Municipal police stations provide multiple services to the community throughout the year. The safety that the police provide is key to enjoy various events during this festive season, whether they are downtown or within our family spaces,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

One of the facilities that received FEMA funds and has already completed its repairs is the Vega Baja headquarters located on Betances Street. Among the services offered to the public are preventive patrols, community orientation, security during activities, as well as assistance to the state police and attention to all types of complaints. 

For the Vega Baja municipal police commissioner, Israel Ramos Pabón, “the service we provide to citizens is the greatest satisfaction we can have”. He said that what he enjoys most about his work is “sharing with extraordinary men and women who are willing to give their lives to serve our people.” 

The municipality of Vega Baja received over $251,000 for repairs to the police station. Acoustic panels, lighting and air conditioners were replaced on the building; and the painting of interiors and exteriors was carried out. The funds included over $50,100 for mitigation measures to anchor the air conditioners to the roof and waterproof the exterior walls to prevent similar damage in the future.

Three 2006 patrol cars were also replaced with new 2023 vehicles. The new SUV patrol cars are equipped for daily police work with radios, light bars and signage. As rapid response vehicles, the new models are more stable and reliable when driving.

Likewise, the municipality of Cataño received over $405,000 for work on the municipal police station on Las Nereidas Avenue. This building has a reception area, gym, administrative offices and cells. Part of the work in progress includes painting and replacing door access systems and locks, as well as replacing televisions and antennas.

The police station receives about 35 people weekly and offers services such as complaints, security at activities, funeral escorts, roadside assistance and educational talks at schools. 

According to Cataño’s municipal police commissioner, Eliezer Vargas, the police station is part of the community and provides safety and protection to citizens all year round. Vargas stressed that it is important to preserve the municipal police station because “the police stations are like a house: they must be preserved to provide excellent services.”

The allocation for this project includes $13,000 for hazard mitigation works to strengthen the structure against strong winds and to protect the windows from the impact of debris.

Meanwhile, FEMA allocated nearly $46,000 to the municipality of Gurabo for their repairs in progress to the public safety building, which houses the Municipal Emergency Management Office and its municipal headquarters. Here, the weather station, lighting, data servers, communication console and camera system were replaced. 

The funds include over $10,000 for mitigation measures such as protecting electrical equipment from voltage fluctuations, improving drainage, and reinforcing doors and windows to protect them from any other natural events. 

FEMA has approved over $34.5 billion for nearly 11,100 projects to address Puerto Rico’s 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 Wed, 12/18/2024 - 13:34

Several FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Georgia Closing This Week

ATLANTA –FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Chatham, Toombs, and Columbia counties are closing this week, and a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Candler County has been extended until the end of this week.

Regular hours at all centers are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday; closed Sundays.

Chatham County -- Closing permanently 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19:

Savannah Technical College

Student Enrichment Center Building

5717 White Bluff Road 

Savannah, GA 31405

Toombs County -- Closing permanently 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19:

Georgia Department of Human Services 

162 Oxley Drive

Lyons, GA 30436

Columbia County -- Closing permanently 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20:

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Friday, Dec. 20

Columbia County Emergency Mgt. Agency

650 Ronald Reagan Drive

Evans, GA 30809

Candler County – Extended until 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21

Candler Recreation Center

621 W. Pine St. 

Metter, GA 30439

Although these recovery centers are closing, FEMA is still here to support recovery in Georgia. Survivors may visit any open recovery center to get one-on-one help applying for federal assistance, receive updates on their applications and learn about the appeals process. 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. 

If you are in an affected county, you are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is 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.

larissa.hale Tue, 12/17/2024 - 17:44

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Sumter County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Sumter County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Milton. Survivors of Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Debby can also be served by the center.

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

Center location:

Sumter County
Webster Community Center
49 SE 1st St. 
Webster, FL 33597
Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Saturday.

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

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

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

connor.terzino Tue, 12/17/2024 - 16:11

Deadline Extended to Jan. 7 for Disaster Unemployment Assistance

The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance from the State of Tennessee is extended to Tuesday, Jan. 7, which coincides with the last day to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

If you lost your job or your work hours were reduced or interrupted as a result of Tropical Storm Helene, you may apply for disaster unemployment benefits. You can apply if you live in, work in or travel to your job through Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi or Washington County. 

Disaster unemployment benefits cover Sept. 29 to April 5, 2025, if your unemployment continues to be a direct result of Helene.

To apply, visit TN.gov/Jobs4TNor call 877-813-0950 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday to Friday. If you file online, specify on your application that you were impacted by a disaster.

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

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 12/16/2024 - 21:21

Two Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Open; Others Closing This Week

ATLANTA – Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Brooks and Pierce counties. The recovery center Coffee County will temporarily close for two days; and the center in Toombs will close permanently.

The mobile recovery center in Brooks County is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 16, through Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, except Sundays, at this location:

Brooks County

Brooks County AG Building

400 E. Courtland Ave.

Quitman, GA 31643

The mobile recovery center in Pierce County is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 16, through Saturday, Dec. 21, at this location:

Pierce County

Pierce County Extension Office

705 College Ave.

Blackshear, GA 31516

The recovery center in Coffee County will be closed temporarily Wednesday, Dec. 18, and Thursday, Dec. 19. It will reopen at 8 a.m. Friday, Dec. 20. The location is:

Coffee County

The Atrium

114 N. Peterson Ave.

Douglas, GA 31533

Valdosta, GA 31601

The recovery center in Toombs County will close permanently at 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 19. The location is:

Toombs County

GA Department of Human Services

162 Oxley Drive

Lyons, GA 30436

Survivors may visit any open recovery center to get one-on-one help applying for federal assistance, receive updates on their applications and learn about the appeals process. They can find the center closest to them by going to fema.gov/drc, or texting “DRC” and their Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

FEMA provides help to all disaster survivors, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, 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. The quickest way to apply is 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.

larissa.hale Mon, 12/16/2024 - 19:17

Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in Spartanburg County

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Disaster Recovery Center and a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center will open in Spartanburg County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene. The Mobile Disaster Recovery Center will open Dec. 14 and the Disaster Recovery Center will open Dec. 16. Their locations and operating hours are:

Spartanburg County

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Inman Library, 50 Mill St., Inman, SC 29349

Open Dec. 14, 16-19, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Closed Dec. 15.

 

Disaster Recovery Center

C.C. Woodson Community Center, 210 Bomar Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29306

Open Dec. 16-21, 30-31, 2024, Jan. 2-4, Jan. 6-7, 2025, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Closed Dec. 22-29, 2024, Jan. 1, Jan. 5, 2025

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

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

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

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

martyce.allenjr Mon, 12/16/2024 - 14:10

FEMA Continues the Debris Removal Mission on Maui

YouTube Video Here: Lahaina Debris Removal: Clearing the Path for Recovery

LAHAINA, Maui – Following the Maui wildfires on Aug. 8, 2023, debris removal cleanup has been one of the major challenges facing residents, business owners and government agencies during the recovery process. 

The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) was mission assigned by FEMA to complete both residential and commercial debris clearing for this disaster. 

By Aug. 2024 debris and ash was cleared from all 1,390 residential properties. Then in Sept. 2024 the properties were transferred back to the County of Maui once soil sampling and erosion control measures were completed. This milestone allowed members of the community to apply for building permits and begin rebuilding. Following a six-month building process, the first family moved into their new home in Lahaina just in time for Thanksgiving.  

The focus has now shifted to commercial debris removal. Currently, all but eight commercial properties in Lahaina have been cleared and completed. All commercial properties are projected to be completed by early 2025.  

As debris clearing nears completion, Lahaina residents are seeing more of their town reopen and fewer trucks transporting debris to the Temporary Disposal Site in Olowalu, West Maui. Once a permanent debris storage site is available, FEMA will manage the transfer of debris and return the temporary site to its original condition. 

Throughout the debris clearing process special consideration was given to the unique cultural context in Hawaiʻi. 

“The culture in Hawaiʻi is so paramount that we could not ignore it when we were putting our debris plan together,” said Joseph Grunditz, FEMA Debris Task Force Lead. 

FEMA and USACE staff received cultural training and cultural monitoring is always conducted on site to protect Hawaiʻi’s cultural heritage and honor Native Hawaiian traditions. Native Hawaiian, Maui-based cultural advisors were hired to lead this effort.

Historic properties also received special care. A designated USACE team assessed each historic landmark structure. One such structure is the Hawaiian Kingdom Courthouse that has been assessed and will be repaired. USACE serving as the project manager, has subcontracted 95% of work to local construction companies, supporting local economy. 

Overall, USACE identified 29 historic and culturally significant properties that would require extra steps to save the buildings. Six of those properties were selected for a technique called shoring and bracing which will allow preservation of the remaining shells for restoration. Four of the six identified properties have been cleared of debris and completed. 

As the mission continues FEMA and USACE remain committed to the local community and look forward to the future of Maui.  

“I can't wait to see how the community rebuilds this beautiful town,” said Joseph Grunditz, FEMA Debris Task Force Lead.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. 

shannon.carley Fri, 12/13/2024 - 23:20

Disaster Recovery Center in Bluefield, W.Va. Opening Dec. 16

News Release

1. Disaster Recovery Center in Bluefield, W.Va. Opening Dec. 16 

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Mercer County at Maple View Church of Christ in Bluefield at 10 a.m., Monday, Dec. 16. 

The center is located at: 

1. Bluefield Disaster Recovery Center

Maple View Church of Christ

194 Robins Rest Rd. 

Bluefield, WV 24701

 

Hours of operation:

Monday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 17 – Friday, Dec. 20, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 21, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed on Sundays

 

Additional hours to follow.

 

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register with FEMA. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone. 

 The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Feb. 7, 2025. 

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a Mercer County resident who applied previously in Virginia for damage from Hurricane Helene, please contact FEMA at 800-621-3362 or online at disasterassistance.gov to discuss your application. Please use the FEMA registration number you were assigned when you applied.

 

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 the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

kelly.magarity Fri, 12/13/2024 - 20:35

Support for Virginians Impacted by Helene Continues

BRISTOL, Va.— Over two months have passed since Hurricane Helene first impacted southwest Virginia. In that time, the commonwealth of Virginia and FEMA have made significant strides to support individuals, families and communities on their road to recovery. 

Graphic

“A lot of progress has been achieved over the last two months to support survivors. I am grateful for our partnership with Virginia and local communities to make sure we had the right resources in place to meet the immediate needs of those impacted by Helene,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy Pheil. “Our work is far from over and we are still here in southwest Virginia, working in partnership with Virginia agencies to help communities with long-term recovery and ensure they can rebuild safer, strong and more resilient.” 

Since early October, 10,520 Virginians have registered for FEMA assistance. FEMA has approved more than $12.9 million for individuals and households through the Individual Assistance Program. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams walked door to door, visiting over 35,000 homes. The Commonwealth and FEMA opened 10 Disaster Recovery Centers throughout southwest Virginia, serving over 4,000 individuals who came to apply for assistance or receive additional help.

A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Specialist speaks with a Damascus, Va., resident regarding his destroyed home on Oct. 3, 2024. A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Team arrived in Damascus to help survivors of Tropical Storm Helene apply for federal aid. (Philip Maramba/FEMA) 

FEMA’s Enhanced Applicant Services staff are continuing to follow up with applicants who may have been denied some assistance due to missing or incomplete information. They have made over 2,200 calls to applicants and have helped Virginians receive an additional $2.2 million in assistance. FEMA encourages survivors to update their contact information with any changes to phone number or address and to answer letters and calls from FEMA. 

“We are in the early stages of this long-term recovery process following the impacts of Hurricane Helene in Southwest Virginia," said VDEM State Coordinator Shawn Talmadge. "The collaboration between VDEM, FEMA, other state agencies, non-profits, businesses, and the community will continue on the ground supporting those affected by Helene."

Virginia, USDA, and FEMA also hosted Agriculture Recovery Resource Days, daylong events for agricultural producers in the hardest-hit communities. These events, the first of their kind in the Southeast, brought resources directly to impacted areas. 272 individuals attended and over 20 federal, state, and local organizations participated. 

Impacted producers visit the Agriculture Recovery Resource Day in Smyth County on Nov. 12 (Johannes Webb / FEMA) 

FEMA knows that recovering from a disaster is a community effort. Disasters have unexpected impacts on infrastructure as well as local industries and economies.

FEMA works directly with state, local, territorial and tribal communities as well as certain nonprofit organizations to rebuild infrastructure and reduce the likelihood of damage in the future. FEMA provides this help primarily through Hazard Mitigation Assistance, which funds activities and projects that reduce risk to people and property from future disasters and Public Assistance, which provide reimbursement grants to state and local governments.  FEMA has received 118 applications for Public Assistance and a total of $20.4 million of federal assistance has already been obligated across three projects.

On Sunday, Dec.8, the President increased federal support for debris removal in Virginia. The federal government will now pay for 100% of total eligible debris removal cost for 120 days of the commonwealth’s choosing, within six months of Helene’s impact. 

FEMA continues to coordinate with other federal and state agencies on debris removal in streams and creeks, notably in the Claytor Lake and South Holston Lake areas. This debris removal helps restore wildlife habitats, recreation spaces, and sites of economic growth for southwest Virginia. 

Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and FEMA staff survey cleanup progress on Claytor Lake on Nov. 19, 2024 (FEMA). 

FEMA’s Interagency Recovery Coordination staff brings federal agencies, state agencies, academia, and nonprofits together to find creative solutions for recovery needs that persist after a disaster. FEMA is working with Virginia’s Chief Transformation Officer, Robert Ward, who is leading the Office of Hurricane Helene Recovery and Rebuilding, and local communities to promote small business recovery, increase local communities’ capabilities through grant writing and training, coordinate resources and technical support for industries and localities that need additional help with recovery, and enhance the resilience of VA communities.

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

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

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. 

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of persons with disabilities. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by the federal government, federal contractors, and by recipients of federal financial assistance. Any recipient or sub-recipient of federal funds is required to make their programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. Its protections apply to all programs and businesses receiving any federal funds. This applies to all elements of physical/architectural, programmatic and communication accessibility in all services and activities conducted by or funded by FEMA. FEMA intends to comply with the Rehabilitation Act in all federally conducted and assisted programs in alignment with the principals of whole community inclusion and universal accessibility.

kelly.magarity Fri, 12/13/2024 - 20:26

Georgia Disaster Recovery Centers Update

ATLANTA – The Disaster Recovery Centers in Butts and Tift counties are set to close permanently this weekend. The recovery center in Lowndes County will close for one day while they move.

Butts County

Butts Park & Recreation Building (Ernest Biles Youth Center)

576 Ernest Biles Drive 

Jackson, GA 30233

The recovery center in Butts County will close permanently today, Dec. 13.

Tift County

Tift County Swimming Pool

202 Baldwin Drive

Tifton, GA 31794

The center in Tift County will close permanently at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14.

Lowndes County

The center in Lowndes County will close at its current location at 7 p.m. today, Dec. 13; it will reopen at 8 a.m., Monday, Dec. 16, at this new location:

Valdosta State University Foundation Inc.

901 North Patterson St.

Valdosta, GA 31601

 

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. 

FEMA provides help to all disaster survivors, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, 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. The quickest way to apply is 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 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.

larissa.hale Fri, 12/13/2024 - 18:54

FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Pasco County

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. 

Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will be on hand to help survivors apply for assistance. An insurance specialist will also be present to answer National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) questions.

FEMA specialists will be available at the following location from Dec. 16 through Jan. 4: 

The Home Depot
8445 Little Rd
New Port Richey, FL 34654

• 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday – Friday
• 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET, Saturday 

Homeowners and renters impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance before the Jan. 7 deadline.

The quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center to register for assistance. To find a center close to you, visit 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.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights can be contacted at FEMA-OCR@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

sixto.valentin… Fri, 12/13/2024 - 18:18

Tomorrow is the Final Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance

SPRINGFIELD – Homeowners and renters with damage or loss caused by the July 13 – 16 flooding, tornadoes and severe storms in Illinois have until 11:59 p.m., December 13 to apply for FEMA assistance. Illinoisans in the seven designated counties including Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will and Winnebago are urged to apply as soon as possible.

After December 13, you may still submit documents, update your contact information and stay in contact with FEMA regarding your application, but you must apply before the deadline to be considered.

FEMA assistance may include grants for temporary housing such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs, basic home repair or replacement and other disaster-related expenses such as moving and storage costs, primary vehicle repair or replacement, essential furniture and appliances, medical and dental costs, and childcare costs.

The fastest way to apply is by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

To apply with FEMA, you must have a Social Security number and be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen. At least one member in the impacted residence must meet this eligibility criteria to apply for assistance for the household. A parent or guardian, who doesn’t meet citizenship criteria, can apply on behalf of a minor child under age 18 who has a Social Security number and lives in the same household with them.

SBA Physical Disaster Loans

After you apply for FEMA assistance, don’t wait to apply for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) too. The deadline to apply for an SBA Physical Disaster Loan is tomorrow, December 13. You aren’t required to apply for an SBA loan to be considered for FEMA grants, but you could miss out on SBA’s help with disaster-related expenses that FEMA assistance doesn’t cover. There is no cost to apply, and you are under no obligation to accept a loan if approved.

Homeowners, renters, businesses and certain private non-profit organizations can learn more about SBA long-term, low-interest Physical Disaster Loans that can go towards repairing and replacing disaster-damaged property, by going online to sba.gov/disaster.

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

kimberly.keblish Thu, 12/12/2024 - 21:48