You are here
Feed aggregator
FEMA Calls May Come from Unfamiliar Phone Numbers
BATON ROUGE, La. – After Louisiana residents apply for disaster assistance, FEMA may call to schedule an inspection of the damaged home or to obtain more information to process the application. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers.
It is important to answer the call. A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, functional and accessible. If an inspection cannot be scheduled, that may cause a delay in FEMA’s review of the application.
FEMA specialists may call to obtain more information to process an application, or they may contact applicants who started an application and did not complete it. The specialists will already have the applicant’s nine-digit FEMA registration number and will not ask you for it.
Here are quick ways to apply for FEMA assistance: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices. You may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m., seven days a week, and specialists speak many languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Thu, 11/07/2024 - 16:34Georgians Have More Time to Apply for Assistance after Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene
ATLANTA – At the request of the state of Georgia, homeowners and renters in counties approved for individual assistance due to Hurricane Helene or Tropical Storm Debby now have until Jan. 7, 2025, to apply for FEMA assistance.
Homeowners and renters with damage and losses related to Tropical Storm Debby whose primary home is in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long and Screven counties may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for serious needs, displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses.
Likewise, homeowners and renters with damage and losses related to Hurricane Helene whose primary home is 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 may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for serious needs, displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses.
People with damage related to Hurricane Helene and/or Tropical Storm Debby, damage Aug. 4-22, must apply separately for assistance for each disaster, but only once for each disaster. People with homeowners, renters or flood insurance should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If an insurance policy does not cover all disaster expenses, people may be eligible for federal assistance.
The quickest way to apply is online on DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center in person, by using the FEMA App, or by calling toll-free 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 (VRS), 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 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 Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.
minh.phan Thu, 11/07/2024 - 15:08Help Remains After Disaster Recovery Center Closes in St. Mary Parish
BATON ROUGE, La. –– The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Morgan City will close at 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 8. However, help is just a mouse click, phone call or a tap on the FEMA app away.
The Morgan City DRC that will close is located at:
St. Mary Parish
Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
728 Myrtle St.
Morgan City, LA 70380
Hours: Thursday, Nov. 7, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 8, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Individuals affected by Hurricane Francine in the nine designated parishes can still get help by:
- Logging into their account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Visiting the Terrebonne DRC located at
Terrebonne Parish
Terrebonne Parish Library
151 Library Dr.
Houma, LA 70360
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday.
Residents in all nine parishes can visit the DRCs to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center.
The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
- The centers have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff.
- Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request.
- Real-time captioning as well as information in Braille, large-print, audio and electronic versions are available.
- The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.
- Specialists at the centers can also direct you to operators who can communicate in languages other than English and printed material in multiple languages.
- Specialists can help you update your FEMA applications and learn about state and community programs and other available assistance. They can clarify information you have received from FEMA or other agencies; they can explain the rental assistance available to homeowners and renters; and they can fax your requested documents to a FEMA processing center and scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Thu, 11/07/2024 - 13:49Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Saluda County
A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Saluda County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.
Saluda County
County Administration Building
407 W. Butler Ave.
Saluda, SC 29138
Open Nov. 7-10 and Nov. 12-13, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Nov. 11, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
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 calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.
FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
kwei.nwaogu Thu, 11/07/2024 - 11:53FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Mountain Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on November 6 at 2:36 p.m. PST / 5:36 p.m. EST to assist the state of California in combating the Mountain Fire, currently burning in Ventura County.
On November 6, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 3,500 homes in and around the communities of Somis, Camarillo, and Saticoy, California with a combined population 30,000. One hundred percent of the threatened homes are primary residences.
The fire started on November 6, 2024, and had burned more than 9,000 acres of state and private land.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents.
Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
###
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.
FEMA in the Field: Assisting Flood Survivors Door-to-Door
Once a disaster is declared, FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are ready to go into impacted communities. Because of this, they are often called FEMA’s “boots on the ground”. They often walk through affected areas or set up in small groups in a neighborhood facility.
In coordination with the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM), FEMA DSA teams are prepared to knock on doors in Chaves County following the Oct. 19-20 storms and flooding.
Their mission is to help affected residents apply to FEMA for federal financial grant assistance and provide registration inquiry and update services.
Once a presidential disaster declaration has been issued, DSA primarily focuses on addressing the needs of disaster New Mexicans by collecting critical information to support leadership and operational decision-making.
DSA crews are equipped to help residents apply for assistance, even in the toughest of conditions. They will also be wearing a FEMA vest and their official FEMA identification badge.
DSA crews primarily focus on addressing the needs of populations. Their duties include:
- Providing on-site guidance to survivors about the FEMA application process, and an overview of FEMA disaster assistance.
- Reviewing survivors’ applications, providing basic information about application status and other eligible assistance, and collecting new information or documents for case files.
- Engaging disaster survivors and local officials in identifying immediate unmet needs for a quick resolution via FEMA and/or its partners including voluntary agencies.
Supporting community outreach and partnerships with the local, state, tribal or territorial emergency managers, disability partners, private sector, voluntary agencies, faith-based and community organizations to foster a culture of strengthened alliances to support the delivery of inclusive and equitable services to survivors.
angela.ambroise Wed, 11/06/2024 - 22:13Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance
SPRINGFIELD – Homeowners and renters with disaster-related damage or loss from the July 13 – 16 severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding in Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago counties have just two weeks left to apply for assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance and an SBA Physical Disaster Loan is Tuesday, November 19, 2024. If insured, you do not need to wait for a settlement letter to apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits covered by insurance or other sources, so insurance documentation will be requested, but can be submitted after applying.
FEMA assistance may include grants for temporary housing, 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 for FEMA assistance 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, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Residents can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for assistance in-person. To find a center nearest you, visit, FEMA.gov/DRC.
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. 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.
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. As of Oct. 15, funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended; while no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.
The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance and an SBA Physical Disaster Loan is November 19. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.
kimberly.keblish Wed, 11/06/2024 - 22:11Two Additional Georgia Counties Now Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene
ATLANTA -- Homeowners and renters in Stephens and Wilkes counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene can now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Previously, 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, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne and Wheeler counties were authorized for assistance to households.
There are several ways to apply: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, 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.
To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
The deadline to apply is Jan. 7, 2025.
What You’ll Need When You Apply- A current phone number where you can be contacted.
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
- Your Social Security number.
- A general list of damage and losses.
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
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 Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.
larissa.hale Wed, 11/06/2024 - 20:06FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Liberty County Closing, Georgians Can Visit Other Centers
ATLANTA – The Disaster Recovery Center located in Liberty County is closing Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 5:30 p.m. However, people can still visit any other open Disaster Recovery Center located in the state. Survivors can also apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, on the free FEMA App or by calling 1-800-621-3362 any day of the week.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.
Georgians can visit any of the centers listed below and additional centers are planned to open in the coming days and weeks:
Open Monday – Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sundays 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Appling County
Appling County Agricultural Center
2761 Blackshear Highway
Baxley, GA 31513
Chatham County
Savannah Technical College
Student Enrichment Center Building
5717 White Bluff Road, Savannah, GA 31405
Coffee County
The Atrium
114 N. Peterson Avenue
Douglas, GA 31533
Emanuel County
Southeastern Technical College
Special Programs Building
346 Kite Road, Building 1
Swainsboro, GA 30401
Laurens County
Old West Laurens Middle School
338 West Laurens School Road
Dublin, GA 31021
Lowndes County
City of Valdosta
4434 North Forrest Street Extension
Valdosta, GA 31605
McDuffie County
111 Railroad Street
Thomson, GA 30824
Richmond County
Hub for Community Innovation
631 Chafee Avenue
Augusta, GA 30904
Tift County
202 Baldwin Drive
Tifton, GA 31794
Toombs County
Georgia Department of Human Services
162 Oxley Drive
Lyons, GA 30436
Washington County
Sandersville School Building Authority
514 North Harris Street
Sandersville, GA 31082
FEMA Mobile Disaster Recovery Center location and hours
Atkinson County
Atkinson County Emergency Operations Center
Parking Lot
33 West Austin Avenue
Pearson, GA 31642
Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Wednesday, Nov. 6
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Brantley County
Brantley Recreation Department
3540 Baker Creek Road
Nahunta, GA 31553
Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Saturday, Nov. 9
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Jeff Davis
Jeff Davis County Recreation Department
83 Buford Road
Hazlehurst, GA 31539
Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Saturday, Nov. 9
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
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.
minh.phan Wed, 11/06/2024 - 19:24Disaster Recovery Center in Newport Scheduled to Close on November 9
The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) located at the Newport City Municipal Building at 222 Main Street is scheduled to permanently close at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9. The center’s hours until then are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The center was opened for residents affected by the storms and flooding that took place July 9-11 and July 29-31 and who wanted to speak to FEMA and other disaster recovery specialists in person.
Residents don’t need to visit the DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. Other ways to register before the Nov. 25th deadline include:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- With the FEMA mobile app
- Calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in multiple languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or another relay service, give FEMA your number for that service when you call. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.
After the deadline, FEMA specialists will still be available to help applicants. Those who have already applied to FEMA, can ask questions, update contact information and applications and get advice on appealing a FEMA determination by calling the helpline.
adrien.urbani Wed, 11/06/2024 - 15:50One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Debby
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Floridians who sustained loss from Hurricane Debby have one week remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is Nov. 12, 2024.
Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Baker, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties with losses from Hurricane Debby may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses.
The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. 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 Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
###
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.
wesley.lagenour Wed, 11/06/2024 - 12:49President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the Seminole Tribe of Florida
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Seminole Tribe of Florida to supplement the tribe’s efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Milton beginning on Oct. 5, 2024, and continuing.
The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available to the Seminole Tribe of Florida and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Milton. For a period of 90 days of the tribe’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period, assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program is authorized at 100% of the total eligible costs.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
Leda M. Khoury has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using 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.
mashana.davis Wed, 11/06/2024 - 12:37Child Care Assistance Is Available for South Carolinians Affected by Hurricane Helene
South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA Child Care Assistance even if they did not have property damage.
FEMA may award payment for Child Care Assistance under its Other Needs Assistance program to those with disaster-caused child care expenses following Hurricane Helene. Residents 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 are eligible to apply.
Child Care Assistance covers standard child care service fees and/or personal assistance services for children with a disability, as defined by federal law.
Assistance may be available for up to eight weeks per child or household, up to a maximum of $150 per child.
Eligibility CriteriaFEMA Child Care Assistance addresses disaster-related expenses for eligible households with children aged 13 and under and/or households with children with a disability up to age 21, who need assistance with activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence, and more.
Eligibility begins on the date of the incident period for the declared disaster and continues through the end of the 18-month period of assistance unless the time is extended.
Child care registration fees and health inventory fees are eligible expenses for applicants who require a new child care service provider.
- A registration fee is a one-time fee when registering an eligible child with an authorized child care provider.
- A health inventory fee is a medical office fee for processing required medical paperwork as part of the registration process.
To qualify for Child Care Assistance, the general conditions must be met for FEMA Individual Assistance eligibility, and the applicant must have necessary expenses (child care facility damaged or inoperable) caused by the disaster. In addition to meeting the general conditions of eligibility as a direct result of the disaster, households must have a disaster-caused increase in financial burden for child care.
- The applicant’s gross household income has decreased; or
- The applicant’s child care expenses have increased.
Households must certify they cannot utilize child care services provided by any other source to qualify for Child Care Assistance. Households must submit documents showing a disaster-caused need for Child Care Assistance and amount of eligible expenses.
Documents Required- Pre- and post-disaster gross household income documentation.
- Pre-disaster receipts, contract, or signed letter from the child care provider for child care expenses.
- Post-disaster receipts or estimates for child care fees, registration, and/or health inventory fees.
- A post-disaster child care provider’s license and post-disaster child care contract or agreement.
- Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), 504 plan, or a medical professional’s statement, if applicable, to verify disability for children up to age 21 who need assistance.
- A signed, written statement from the applicant.
If a child is a member of multiple households, FEMA will only award Child Care Assistance to the primary custodial parent or guardian responsible for child care costs.
FEMA will not help with any of the following:
- Fees for extra-curricular activities, educational services and additional services.
- Fees not related to the day-to-day child care services provided to the eligible child.
- Fuel expenses related to transporting the child to and from the child care provider.
- Medical care or services.
- Recreational camps or clubs.
Households who did not have child care expenses pre-disaster but have incurred or will incur child care expenses because of the disaster may also be eligible, but must meet additional eligibility requirements.
For additional information, contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center near you, visit fema.gov/drc.
It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.
FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
kwei.nwaogu Wed, 11/06/2024 - 03:28Hancock and Sevier Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance
FEMA has added Hancock and Sevier counties to the Oct. 2 major presidential declaration for Tropical Storm Helene, meaning state and local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in both counties may seek funding under FEMA’s Public Assistance program.
Hancock and Sevier counties are now authorized to recover eligible costs under FEMA Public Assistance funding for emergency work including debris removal and emergency protective measures; and permanent work that includes projects to permanently restore community infrastructure affected by Helene.
FEMA had previously approved Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington counties for Public Assistance funding for Helene, which swept across Eastern Tennessee Sept. 26-30.
The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities pay for emergency work to save lives and protect property, for debris removal, and for repairs to roads, bridges, water control facilities, public buildings, public utilities, parks and recreational facilities.
Federal funding is typically available on a cost-sharing basis, with FEMA reimbursing Tennessee applicants 75% of eligible costs and the state responsible for the non-federal share, or up to 25%.
For Helene damage in Tennessee, President Biden authorized 100% federal funding for emergency work generated by the disaster. This means FEMA may cover all eligible costs incurred during any 45-day period of the state’s choosing during the first 120 days from the start of the disaster, or Sept. 26. This allows communities to maximize cost savings by selecting the 45 days when the greatest costs occurred.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement for eligible costs to local and state government agencies, and certain private nonprofits including houses of worship.
Learn about Assistance for Governments and Private Non-Profits After a Disaster | FEMA.gov.
kwei.nwaogu Tue, 11/05/2024 - 22:03One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance
Harrisburg – There are only seven days left to apply for disaster assistance from FEMA before the November 12 deadline. Residents affected by Tropical Storm Debbie August 9 and 10 who live in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga and Union counties are eligible to apply for federal help.
The application process is simple and there are four ways to do it:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
- Download the FEMA App.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc. (Closed Nov. 5)
For the latest information about Pennsylvania’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4815 .
# # #
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
FEMA Civil Rights Office works to ensure assistance is distributed equitably, without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available by pressing #2 for Spanish.
For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Pennsylvania, visit fema.gov/disaster/4815.
erika.osullivan Tue, 11/05/2024 - 21:24
Biden-Harris Administration Provides More Than $2.7 Billion in FEMA Assistance to Help Helene and Milton-Affected Communities
WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration has approved more than $1.5 billion in direct assistance to Hurricanes Helene and Milton survivors. These funds help survivors with housing repairs, personal property replacement and other essential recovery efforts. Additionally, over $1.2 billion has been approved for debris removal and emergency protective measures, which are necessary to save lives, protect public health and prevent further damage to public and private property.
FEMA personnel remain on the ground in communities across the Southeast conducting damage assessments, coordinating with local officials and helping individuals apply for disaster assistance programs. More than 1,400 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members are in affected neighborhoods helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.
Applying for assistance is a critical first step towards recovery. Disaster survivors in certain areas of Georgia, Florida (Helene), Florida (Milton), North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. Federal assistance for individuals may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies.
Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Applicants may be eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance, which provides survivors with a safe, temporary place to stay, like a hotel or motel, until they can find a short or longer-term housing solution. To date, more than 30,400 households have checked into FEMA provided hotels.
Individuals affected by the hurricanes are encouraged to apply as soon as they are able to by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, which is the fastest way to get an application started. Individuals can also apply using the FEMA App, calling 1-800-621-3362 or going in person to a local Disaster Recovery Center.
Disaster Recovery Centers can provide survivors in-person help with their applications. FEMA now has 85 Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the hurricane affected communities. Center locations can be found at FEMA.gov/DRC. FEMA also has Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in the field supporting survivors and helping them with the application process.
Support for North CarolinaFEMA has approved over $213 million for over 126,000 households and other types of assistance. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $202 million for debris removal and reimbursement of emergency protective measures for the state.
More than 7,600 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.
There are 378 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in communities providing support. There are also 25 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Asheville (Mobile), Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Bryson City, Burnsville, Charlotte, Conover, Dallas, Fairview, Franklin, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lake Lure, Lenoir, Marion, Marshall, Mill Spring, Morganton, Newland, Old Fort, Sparta, Swannanoa, Sylva and Waynesville where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.
Support for FloridaIn response to Helene, FEMA has approved over $474 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 141,000 households. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $345 million in Public Assistance for debris removal and emergency work. In response to Milton, FEMA has approved over $369 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 209,000 households. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $700 million in Public Assistance for debris removal and emergency work.
More than 18,200 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.
There are 474 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in communities to provide support. There are also 23 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Bartow, Branford, Brooksville, Crawfordville (Mobile), Dade (Mobile), Englewood (Mobile), Fort Pierce, Homosassa, Jupiter (Mobile), Lake City, Largo, Live Oak, Madison, Old Town, Orlando, Palmetto (Mobile), Perry, Punta Gorda (Mobile), Saint Petersburg, Sarasota, Stuart, Vero Beach and Zolfo Springs supporting survivors from Debby, Helene and Milton where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.
Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.
Support for South CarolinaFEMA has approved over $210 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 209,000 households.
More than 4,500 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.
There are 179 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in communities providing support. There are also nine Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Anderson, Barnwell, Camden, Graniteville, Greenville, Laurens, McCormick, Rock Hill and Spartanburg where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.
Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133.
Support for GeorgiaFEMA has approved over $207 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 172,000 households.
There are 256 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in communities providing support. There are also 15 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Augusta, Baxley, Douglas, Dublin, Hazlehurst, Lyons, Midway, Nahunta (Mobile), Pearson (Mobile), Sandersville, Savannah, Swainsboro, Thomson, Tifton and Valdosta where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.
Residents can find additional resources at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.
Support for VirginiaTo date, FEMA has approved over $9.4 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 3,200 households.
There are about 69 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in communities providing support. There are also eight Disaster Recovery Centers open in Damascus, Dublin, Galax, Independence, Marion, Pembroke, Tazewell and Wytheville where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.
Residents can find additional resources at: Recover – Hurricane Helene | VDEM (vaemergency.gov).
Support for TennesseeFEMA has approved more than $17.5 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 5,500 households.
There are more than 55 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in communities providing support. There are now five Disaster Recovery Center open in Elizabethton (Mobile), Erwin, Greenville, Morristown and Newport where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.
Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.
mashana.davis Tue, 11/05/2024 - 18:20FEMA Releases over $83 million to Help Vermont Communities Rebuild
FEMA has provided the state of Vermont with $83,600,591 in Public Assistance funding to help communities rebuild after the devastating storms and flooding that occurred in July 2023. FEMA’s Public Assistance program reimburses the state and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, for debris removal, emergency protective measures and restoration of disaster-damaged public facilities.
Of the total Public Assistance funding obligated so far, $40,311,699 was allotted for debris removal and emergency work, which includes efforts to save lives and protect property, such as overtime for first responders, distribution of food and water and temporary repairs to access roads. FEMA allotted another $43,288,892 for permanent repair and replacement work for roads and bridges, water control and treatment plants, public buildings and parks, utilities, recreational facilities and administrative costs.
In August, FEMA implemented restrictions on its Disaster Relief Fund to prioritize funding for response and urgent recovery efforts. When those restrictions were lifted in October, FEMA was able to resume funding for Vermont recovery projects that were temporarily paused.
“These projects are vital to communities across Vermont as they recover from and mitigate against disasters, and we will continue to work with our local and state partners to help communities rebuild from last year’s storms,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Will Roy. “Soon after the flooding, FEMA provided over $26 million to residents to help rebuild and replace their homes and personal property, and we will continue to work with our local officials and state partners to provide funding for recovery projects. FEMA’s Public Assistance program is a long-term operation, and we are committed to seeing it through.”
Local officials work with FEMA on the scope and cost of each project. After final approval, FEMA obligates money for the projects to Vermont Emergency Management (VEM). Once funding is obligated, VEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments.
“We have been working diligently with our federal partners to help communities recover financially from the devastating impacts of last year’s flooding,” said Ben Rose of Vermont Emergency Management, Alternate State Coordinating Officer. “There is still a long way to go, but thanks to recent approval by Congress of additional funding to the Disaster Recovery Fund, FEMA has been able to release tens of millions of dollars of financial reimbursement for hard-hit communities, and that will be flowing to towns over the next few weeks.”
President Biden recently authorized an increase of the federal cost share for FEMA Public Assistance projects from 75 to 90 percent for recovery projects for the July 2023 flooding. The remaining 10 percent will be covered by the state and local governments.
For applicants that have already received funding, FEMA will automatically provide the 15 percent difference to the state of Vermont for distribution. All projects going forward will be at the 90 percent federal cost share except for those that the agency previously approved at 100 percent.
“And because the state will be covering most of the 10 percent non-federal share for the July flooding, the local community will only be responsible for 2.2 percent of the total cost of projects,” said Rose.
adrien.urbani Tue, 11/05/2024 - 17:22Avoid and Report Disaster Fraud
BATON ROUGE, La. Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person. If you have applied for disaster assistance after Hurricane Francine, FEMA will notify you of its decision. The agency may also contact you if it needs additional information to process your application. This may come in the form of a letter. In some instances, you may receive a phone call. Review your FEMA letters carefully.
If you still need to apply, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov to create an online account with FEMA. Be extremely careful when clicking any links.
Here is a list of other possible scams that may target Hurricane Francine survivors:
Identity theft
Disaster survivors should be aware con artists and criminals may try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.
If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you have not filed a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge. Tell the inspector you did not apply for FEMA assistance.
If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call our Helpline at 800-621-3362 any day between 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.
If you believe you are the victim of a contracting scam, price gouging or other fraudulent activity, contact local law enforcement and report it to your local police or sheriff's department or contact the Office of the Louisiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-351-4889. You may also contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ftc.gov/complaint.
Telephone calls
FEMA will only reach out if you have already applied for assistance. If you are contacted by someone asking you to apply for FEMA assistance or if you question someone’s intent, contact your local law enforcement agency.
Housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA
Be cautious if somebody asks for your nine-digit application number. A FEMA inspector will not ask for this. They already have it in their records and may provide it to you to confirm they are interacting with the correct person.
FEMA inspectors never ask for or confirm banking information.
Ask the inspector to show you their identification badge. Federal and contracted employees always wear an official government badge to identify themselves.
Someone comes to your home without a FEMA photo ID
Do not let someone into your home who claims to be a FEMA employee but does not have a FEMA photo ID. All FEMA representatives carry a laminated photo ID.
Fake offers of local or federal aid
Don’t trust someone who asks for money. Federal and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and staff from the Small Business Administration never charge for inspections or help in filling out a disaster assistance application.
Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant and asks for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.
If you suspect any fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.
Rental listings
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has information on how rental scams work. For instance, scammers know finding the right apartment or vacation rental can be hard work, and a seemingly good deal is hard to pass up when you need a place to stay. Learn more at www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0079-rental-listing-scams.
To view an accessible video about fraud, visit: FEMA Accessible: Fraud FEMA (youtube.com).
For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Tue, 11/05/2024 - 15:06Disaster Recovery Center Open in Hardee County
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Hardee 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:
Hardee County
Pioneer Park
231 Wilbur C. King Blvd.
Zolfo Springs, FL 33890
Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday-Sunday.
To find other center locations go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
###
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.
wesley.lagenour Mon, 11/04/2024 - 22:37Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Wakulla County
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Wakulla County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Helene. Survivors of Hurricane Milton 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:
Wakulla County
Wakulla County Community Center
318 Shadeville Road
Crawfordville, FL 32327
Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday-Saturday through Nov. 9, 2024.
When this center moves to a new location, details will be provided to the public.
To find other center locations go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
###
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.
wesley.lagenour Mon, 11/04/2024 - 21:50Pages
