FEMA Approves More Than $2.7 Million for Sharkey County

MADISON, Miss. – FEMA has approved $2,797,036 to reimburse Sharkey County for staging temporary assets for first responders and volunteers following the March 24-25, 2023, severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes.

The severe storms created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public, requiring emergency response and protective measures. These assets included but were not limited to:

• Temporary Services
  • Restrooms 
  • Showers
  • Laundry
• Generators
• Temporary light towers
• Site management

All work and expenses took place between April 23 and Sept. 23, 2023.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grant reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster-damaged public facilities and infrastructure. 

For the latest information on recovery from the March tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

 

Gaynell.Tinsey Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:54

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close April 27 but FEMA Help Still Available

HONOLULU – The Lahaina Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently on Saturday, April 27, but that doesn’t mean FEMA won’t continue to help the people who were displaced by the August wildfires on Maui or that FEMA is leaving the state.  

Helping Maui recover will take time, and FEMA will be here for the long haul.

Even after the recovery center at Lahaina Civic Center Gymnasium closes at 3 p.m. on April 27, help from FEMA is just a phone call away. Survivors can get answers from trained specialists at the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Operators speak many languages and are available to answer your questions from 2 a.m. to 9 p.m. HST, seven days a week.

Survivors who are waiting to be placed in units offered under FEMA’s Direct Lease program can call 808-784-1600. Leave your nine-digit FEMA registration number and a phone number where you can be reached, and a case worker will return your call within 24 hours. 

Those who need continuing rental assistance can reach out to FEMA Helpline specialists. It is also important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily. Missing or wrong information could delay your assistance.

You can also update FEMA about changes to your personal information by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov. You may click on the green ‘Check Status’ button to create an online account. Use the same email you provided when you applied for assistance. If you applied online or used the FEMA app, you already have a disaster assistance account.

As of April 20, there have been more than 50,000 visits to the four Disaster Recovery Centers that began opening within a couple weeks after the Aug. 8 wildfires. Sixty percent, or more than 30,000, were repeat visits. 

Disaster Recovery Centers, which are accessible to people with disabilities and those with access and functional needs, are one-stop shops staffed with specially trained FEMA personnel as well as representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the American Red Cross. Survivors had access to information and advice, including from specialists at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Social Security Administration, the State of Hawaiʻi Offices of Language Access and Vital Records, the Salvation Army and Kaiser Permanente, a full-service healthcare provider.

As Maui survivors settle into interim and permanent housing and disaster workers identify new strategies and resources to meet long-term recovery needs, the State of Hawaiʻi is working to open a Community Resources Center to continue addressing those needs.

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. 

nicole.timonshipman Tue, 04/23/2024 - 20:46

President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda Supports Flood Reduction Infrastructure Project in Historic Savannah Community

$30 Million for Flood Risk Reduction Project Is Largest Mitigation Grant in Georgia History

ATLANTA -- Today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and White House Intergovernmental Affairs Director Tom Perez joined Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, along with Georgia elected officials to celebrate a $30.15 million grant from FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program. Plans are underway for a two-part project to reduce the flood risk of 17 neighborhoods and areas of unincorporated Chatham County, Georgia as a result of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. 

“As disasters become more frequent and costly with the effects of climate change, FEMA remains more committed than ever to working with communities to find ways to increase resilience,” said FEMA Administrator Criswell. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the people of Savannah will be able to protect against future flooding, especially in communities disproportionately impacted by disasters.” 

“The Biden-Harris Administration views all challenges and opportunities through an equity lens — including climate resilience,” said Senior Advisor to the President and Director of White House Intergovernmental Affairs Perez. “This grant will help ensure that the mostly Black and Brown communities in Carver Village, Cloverdale, and the west side of Savannah will be better protected from repetitive flooding for generations to come.”

The first project will widen and improve flood water drainage across 1.42 miles of the Springfield Canal, starting near Bowles C. Ford Park and ending by the Highway 17 on-ramp. The Springfield Canal enhancements will be designed in parallel with the city's Tide-to-Town project, which is a working collaboration between the city and multiple organizations to connect 75% of Savannah's neighborhood to walking and biking infrastructure.

The second project provides funds for upgrades to local stormwater drainage infrastructure in the historic Carver Village and Cloverdale neighborhoods, diverting runoff from the neighborhoods to the Springfield Canal and minimizing flooding potential within the community. Once finished, the changes will effectively discharge a 25-year flood, 24-hour flood event.

The Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 Initiative aims to deliver 40% of overall benefits of climate, clean energy, affordable and sustainable housing projects to disadvantaged communities through various FEMA programs. Project obligations like this in Carver Village —located in a historically Black neighborhood established in 1948 as an affordable housing community—help the administration meet this goal. 

“For decades, we’ve seen success after success working with communities in the aftermath of a disaster to build back stronger and mitigate their future risk,” said Regional Administrator Robert Samaan. “The key to the BRIC program is how we work with communities before there is a crisis, applying the lessons we’ve learned from our 45 years of disaster recovery to solve these kinds of problems.”

Through the BRIC program, FEMA invests in a variety of mitigation activities with an added focus on infrastructure projects benefitting disadvantaged communities, nature-based solutions, climate resilience and adaption and adopting hazard resistant building codes. Unlike most FEMA assistance which goes to rebuilding communities after a disaster, BRIC funding is available to the entire nation on a competitive, pre-disaster basis.

Since the BRIC program began in 2021, the application process is opened annually for communities to submit competitive project proposals. Projects that are chosen from the initial review are then funded through phase one, where studies on design, engineering and environmental impact are run to ensure project feasibility. Once phase one is complete and approved, the project moves to the construction phase and has 36 months to be completed at a federal cost share of 70%. The total estimated cost of the Savannah project is $42,923,800.

Since taking office, President Biden has continued to provide additional funding to FEMA’s annual resilience grant programs, increasing them from $700 million when he took office to $1.8 billion for FY 23. This increased funding allows FEMA to expand its geographic scope in funding selections and protect more of our nation’s communities that are most in harm’s way from the effects of climate change and extreme weather. Overall, the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides FEMA nearly $7 billion to help communities proactively reduce their vulnerability to flood, hurricanes, drought, wildfires, extreme heat and other climate-fueled hazards.

In addition to the improvements to the Springfield Canal and community flood protection, Chatham County has multiple additional BRIC projects in the process of being developed for consideration in the next round of the competitive grant process.

For more information about FEMA’s BRIC program, visit fema.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 04/23/2024 - 20:35

FEMA commits $384 million to rebuild educational facilities on St. Croix and St. Thomas

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – A commitment of $384.8 million to demolish and replace three elementary schools on St. Croix, one on St. Thomas and repair a school lunch warehouse on St. Thomas mark the latest milestones in FEMA’s collaboration with the Territory to rebuild school infrastructure across the U.S. Virgin Islands which were damaged during hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. 

The prudent replacement of Lew Muckle Elementary School is made possible under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 which clears a path for the demolition and rebuilding of seven of the 11 buildings located on a 3.94-acre parcel in Sion Farm.

Eulalie Rivera Elementary school in Grove Place is also receiving prudent replacement costs to repair damages to school grounds and replace 12 structures including bleachers, athletic field bathroom and classrooms. 

FEMA has also obligated funds to repair the grounds and replace ten buildings at the Juanita Gardine Elementary School in Estate Richmond. Buildings to be replaced at this school include classrooms, offices, the auditorium, and an auxiliary building. 

On St. Thomas, FEMA has committed funds to assist in replacing the Leonard Dober Elementary School. This school was built in 1938 and suffered greatly in the 2017 hurricanes. Funds will be used to repair the school grounds and replace three buildings and fencing. 

Funds have also been obligated to assist in repairing a 7,000 sq ft lunch warehouse on St. Thomas back to pre-disaster design, capacity, and function within the existing footprint.

FEMA along with the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands and its departments, including the V.I. Department of Education, continues to focus on repairing and replacing hurricane-damaged facilities, paving a path for safe and modern school facilities from which to deliver education in an equitable manner for the youngest members of our communities.

“I am pleased to approve these latest obligations that help bring the Virgin Islands closer to post-hurricane recovery,” said Kristen A. Hodge, the Director for FEMA’s Recovery Office in the U.S. Virgin Islands. “FEMAs resolve to work with our partners in the USVI to repair and rebuild facilities and infrastructure damaged by Irma and Maria remains a high priority for team members who live here in the territory as well as those in leadership roles at the regional and national levels. Our commitment to help the future leaders of the Virgin Islands by providing them safe facilities in which to receive their education remains strong.” 

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

gina.callaghan Tue, 04/23/2024 - 18:27

60-Day Snapshot: Federal Assistance Exceeds $22 Million as San Diego County Disaster Recovery Makes Progress

San Diego, Calif. — The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and FEMA, along with other state, county and local partners in San Diego County, have been working tirelessly to restore homes and businesses to pre-disaster conditions following the Jan. 21-23, 2024 severe storm and flooding disaster. In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), numerous volunteers, and private aid organizations have worked hard to fund recovery and get survivors back on their feet. 

Below is a snapshot of the recovery efforts over the last two months since the Feb. 19, 2024 Presidential Major Disaster Declaration.

Individual Assistance

• More than 2,898 households have been approved for FEMA grants, including:
  • $18.3 million in housing grants, including short-term rental assistance and home repair costs.
  • Nearly $3.9 million approved for other essential disaster-related needs, such as expenses related to medical expenses and lost personal possessions.
• FEMA’s door-to-door crews have visited 14,969 households to help survivors apply for assistance.
• Over 76% of homeowners who applied for assistance received some additional funds for mitigation efforts.
• Two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) provided face-to-face assistance to 7,134 survivors.

Local Call Center Support and Door-to-Door Teams

• A locally-based team of Individual Assistance personnel has been working hard to make sure FEMA reaches all survivors who experienced damage from the Jan. 21-23, 2024 severe storm and flooding disaster. 
• Using FEMA’s Enhanced Applicant Services initiative that identifies applications of at-risk survivors, the team has already contacted nearly 3,845 applicants by phone to assist them with completing the process.
• To date, more than 1,377  of these applicants, including older adults and those with access and functional needs, have received grants totaling nearly $3.9 million as a result of this follow-up.
• In addition to call-outs, door-to-door teams have worked through the most impacted neighborhoods to ensure every San Diego survivor was registered for assistance.
• These teams worked with the county and non-profits to register survivors at the 65 hotels where survivors stayed following the storm.

Voluntary Agency Liaisons (VALs)

• FEMA Voluntary Agency Liaison (VAL), State VAL and members of San Diego Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD), Community Based Organizations, Faith Based Partners, and other local nonprofits have been assisting those affected by January 21-23, 2024 severe storm and flooding disaster. 
• San Diego VOAD opened a Crisis Cleanup site where 425 households signed up for cleanup and mold remediation assistance. 
• Over 1,200 individuals have signed up with San Diego VOAD for help. VOAD has assisted over 1,000 households with referrals and resources. 
• SDVOAD member agency, The Harvey Foundation, has served 32,290 meals. Meals were served to 225 households (750 individuals).
• Partnering with National VOAD Partner, Global Empowerment Mission, SDVOAD is operating a Donations Warehouse with items a survivor needs as they move through the phases of Recovery.

For the latest FEMA information on the Jan. 21-23, 2024 San Diego County severe storms and flooding, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4758. 

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, or economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

camille.schuetze Tue, 04/23/2024 - 15:31

FEMA Funding Can Assist Everyone Who is Eligible

Federal assistance can help Mainers in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties recover from the January 9-13 severe storms and flooding. Here are ten facts to know about the help that may be available to you:

1. You won’t be taking money away from someone else by applying. FEMA will distribute funds to every eligible applicant regardless of how many people apply. 
2. FEMA assistance is available to homeowners and renters, including owners and renters of mobile homes.
3. Eligible homeowners and renters will receive FEMA assistance as grants that do not have to be repaid. 
4. You can apply for FEMA assistance even before your insurance claim is processed. Report any settlement or denial letter from your insurance company to FEMA. FEMA cannot provide duplicate benefits, so inform FEMA of your insurance coverage when you apply for assistance.
5. FEMA assistance is nontaxable, and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal or state benefits. 
6. You can ask questions and get in-person help applying for assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center. Centers are currently open at: 
   • York County: Wells Fire Station, 585 N Berwick Rd, Wells, ME 04090
   • Hancock County: Moore Community Center, 125 State St, Ellsworth, ME 04605
   • Cumberland County: Old Orr’s Island Schoolhouse, 1594 Harpswell Islands Road, Orr’s Island, ME  04066
   • Washington County: University of Maine, Torrey Building, 40 University Drive, Machias, ME  04654

Centers are open Monday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Closed Sundays. 

7. If your insurance is delayed by 30 days or more and you need money to relocate immediately, FEMA may be able to help. There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call 800-621-3362 to apply before the May 20, 2024 deadline. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
8. If your car was damaged by the disaster, you may be eligible for money to repair or replace it. Apply with FEMA first, then, if referred, submit a U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan application to determine eligibility. 
9. If FEMA refers you to the Small Business Administration, you should apply. SBA’s long-term, low-interest disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds – and applying allows FEMA to evaluate you for more types of aid. SBA may be able to increase your loan amount by up to 20 percent of your damage so you can make improvements to make your home safer. To learn more, visit SBA.gov/disaster.
10. Calling 211 or applying for assistance through another organization or agency does not automatically register you with FEMA. To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. 

FEMA has plenty of funds to support our operations in Maine for the January 9-13 severe storms and flooding. If you were impacted, apply for assistance, and if you qualify, you will receive it. 

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 04/23/2024 - 15:04

FEMA Announces $117 Million for Emergency Food and Shelter Program to Fight Hunger, Homelessness

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA awarded $117 million to help fight hunger and homelessness in America, which will improve community responses by providing funding to numerous local organizations across the country to lift people out of dire conditions.

Congress appropriated $117 million through the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024 to FEMA’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP). By law, FEMA must award the full $117 million to the program’s National Board. The National Board then allocates the funds to local organizations dedicated to feeding, sheltering and providing critical resources to people with economic emergencies. The funds are used to provide shelter, food and supportive services to individuals and families who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, hunger or homelessness. 

The program’s National Board allocates funds to local boards in qualifying jurisdictions using the most recent national population, unemployment and poverty data. Local boards then advertise the availability of grant funding in their communities, review applications and award grants to organizations that provide services to those in need. Services can include: 

• Food, in the form of served meals or groceries.
• Lodging in a mass shelter or hotel.
• Rental or mortgage assistance to prevent evictions.
• Utility payment to prevent service cut-offs.
• Transportation costs associated with the provision of food or shelter.
• Supplies and equipment necessary to feed or shelter people.

The National Board is chaired by FEMA, with representatives from American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, The Jewish Federations of North America, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Salvation Army and United Way Worldwide. United Way Worldwide, the National Board’s Secretariat and Fiscal Agent, are responsible for the day-to-day administration of the program. 

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program has helped make our nation more resilient by distributing more than $4.4 billion to over 14,000 human service agencies in more than 2,500 communities across the country. This collaborative effort between the private and public sectors has helped provide food, shelter and other critical support to hundreds of thousands of people during some of the most challenging periods in their lives.

This program is separate from the former EFSP-Humanitarian program, which assisted migrants encountered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security at the southern border. Migrant assistance is now provided through the Shelter and Services Program.

For more information, including how funds are made available by the EFSP National Board to local service providers, visit the EFSP Website (unitedway.org).

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 04/22/2024 - 21:23

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Vermont

FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Vermont to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm from Jan. 9-13, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storm in Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Lamoille and Orleans counties. 

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

William F. Roy has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 04/22/2024 - 18:37

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for New Hampshire

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of New Hampshire to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms and flooding from Jan. 9-14, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and flooding in Grafton and Rockingham counties.  

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

William F. Roy has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 04/22/2024 - 18:31

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Morongo Band of Mission Indians to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from Jan. 31 to Feb. 9, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal Nation and eligible non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and flooding.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Andrew F. Grant has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 04/22/2024 - 15:52

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Hoopa Valley Tribe

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Hoopa Valley Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe winter storm from Jan. 30-31, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal Nation and eligible non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storm.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Andrew F. Grant has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 04/22/2024 - 15:25

In Honor of Earth Month, FEMA Helps Communities Prepare for Climate Related Hazards and Disasters

Biden-Harris Administration to Host Events to Help Communities Prepare for Extreme Heat and Wildfire Smoke

WASHINGTON -- Each Earth Day, the nation comes together to recognize the need for continued commitment to building a safe and sustainable planet. Throughout April, FEMA worked with partners across the nation to recognize the effects of a changing climate and how communities can build resilience to withstand the risk of today, and those anticipated in the future. 

“We’re looking at a future defined by climate change, one that requires FEMA to lean harder into our role as resilience-builders,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “We’ve already seen a year of unprecedented weather events, and we need to use innovative solutions to tackle these problems today, to ensure a stronger nation tomorrow. And thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, we have historic-level funding to ensure communities have the resources and tools they need to prepare for future disasters.”

Throughout Earth Month, FEMA has and will continue to host activities supporting climate-change resilience, including upcoming webinars, open public comment periods on resilience-building guidance and continued commitment to actions that protect our planet. These activities and resilience-building opportunities include:

• Convening Partners to Share Best Practices: On April 3, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell opened the 2024 Partners in Emergency Preparedness Conference. In her remarks to this gathering of Pacific Northwest emergency management, government, public and private sector professionals, Administrator Criswell pledged the agency’s support of their work to prepare their communities for the effects of climate-driven hazards and challenged participants to leverage partnerships to ensure the communities they serve get the help they need and deserve. On April 17, FEMA and the DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships co-hosted a Multi-Faith Leader Climate Resilience Roundtable to address climate change and convene federal partners and faith-based organizations focused on climate resilience. The event provided a platform for sharing resources, including FEMA’s Guide to Expanding Mitigation: Making the Connection to Faith-Based Partners, and discussed opportunities for technical assistance for climate-related outreach and engagement.
• Hosting Events to Help Communities Prepare for Extreme Heat and Wildfires: FEMA will host two #SummerReady Extreme Heat summits and an interagency Wildfire Webinar: These events will focus on understanding the dangers and defining actionable ways to combat and prepare for these increasing risks across the country. 
  • The first event on April 26 will feature Biden-Harris Administration officials including welcoming remarks from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. FEMA Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for Resilience Victoria Salinas will moderate roundtable panel discussions examining federal, state and local initiatives to combat extreme heat risks. A second panel will include emergency managers, resilience officers and other leaders on the front lines of extreme heat.
  • On May 21, FEMA’s Extreme Heat series concludes with a hybrid in-person-virtual summit hosted by FEMA Region 5 in Chicago. Building on the lessons learned from the 2023 Extreme Heat Summit, this two-day engagement will offer opportunities for discussion, networking and cross-collaboration between all levels of government and community partners.
  • To help individuals and communities protect themselves from the risks and effects of wildfire smoke, the Biden-Harris Administration through FEMA is hosting the first-ever Wildfire Smoke Resilience Summit on April 29. The summit is an opportunity to learn about resources, get information about funding and hear wildfire smoke best practices. United States Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell will present along with federal partners from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. FEMA Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for Resilience Victoria Salinas will moderate roundtable discussions. 
• Building National Resilience: On April 23, FEMA is releasing the final version of  “Climate Adaptation Planning: Guidance for Emergency Managers.”  The guide helps emergency managers incorporate climate adaptation into emergency management planning. FEMA also released a new 30-day public engagement of the draft National Resilience Guidance, which highlights the importance a resilient natural environment plays in community and national resilience. 
• Training Emergency Managers on Climate Change: This fall, FEMA will offer a new Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Certificate Program through FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute. This certificate program will be an opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills needed to lead climate-resilient initiatives in their community on a schedule that suits their professional and personal needs. 
• Telling the Story of Resilience: To underscore the work FEMA and its partners do to build a nation more resilient to the threats of stronger and more frequent weather events, FEMA publishes case studies that spotlight the projects and ideas being used across the country to increase local capacity to prevent, mitigate against, respond to and recover from both natural and man-made threats. 
• Promoting Resources for Communities to Combat Climate Change, Funding Net-Zero Energy Projects: Furthering President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program Grants will now cover post-disaster infrastructure investments to critical community infrastructure including schools, hospitals and fire stations. Using technologies including solar power, heat pumps and efficient appliances can increase energy security and resilience.  
• The agency is also funding net-zero energy projects for its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), HMGP Post-Fire and Pre-Disaster Mitigation program, while offering incentives through its Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) annual grant program. FEMA also funds low-carbon construction materials for Public Assistance, HMGP and BRIC. These activities are enabled by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the largest investment in clean energy and climate action in the history of the nation.
• Preparing Communities for the Increase in Severe Weather Events: All year long, FEMA’s Ready Campaign helps people understand the risk they face and outlines steps they can take to stay safe. This includes making a plan to protect themselves and their families, knowing the types of flood risk where they live, having trusted sources to receive warnings and purchasing flood insurance.
   

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 04/22/2024 - 15:07

Rhode Island Recovery Well Under Way One Month After Declaration

CRANSTON, RI. – One month after the president issued a federal disaster declaration for the state of Rhode Island for the severe storms and flooding that took place December 17-21, 2023 and January 9-13, 2024, more than $5.8 million has been approved to help 1,305 applicants help in Kent, Providence and Washington counties. Disaster recovery specialists have been in the field, visiting communities to make sure affected residents receive all assistance for which they may be eligible. 

As of April 19, 423 applicants were approved for a total amount of $1,756,322 in FEMA assistance for the storms that took place December 17-19, 2023. Of that total:

• $1,703,898 in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• $52,423 in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for replacement of personal property and other serious storm-related needs such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.

As of April 19, 882 applicants were approved for a total amount of $4,094,430 in FEMA assistance for the storms that took place January 9-13, 2024. Of that total:

• $3,956,501 in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• $137,929 in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for replacement of personal property and other serious storm-related needs such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) have been visiting to storm-affected neighborhoods in every designated county to help residents apply, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies for additional support. In total, DSA personnel had 2,603 interactions with residents and visited more than 22,000 households and 544 businesses to help survivors apply for assistance. 

In addition, five recovery centers were opened in the affected counties to provide information for residents who prefer face-to-face assistance in applying to FEMA, updating applications or for follow-up questions. Representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and state agencies are available at these centers. 

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please let someone at the center know.  

Currently, the following recovery centers are operating: 

• Coventry Town Hall Annex, 1675 Flat River Rd, Coventry, RI 02816
  Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 am– 6:30 pm, Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

• William Winsor Elementary School, 562 Putnam Pike, Greenville, RI 02808
  Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 am– 6:30 pm, Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  Operating through: April 24

   

• Cumberland Public Library (tents outside), 1464 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland, RI 02864
  Hours: 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Inclement weather could change the hours. 
  Operating through May 4.

   

• Knightsville Manor (Community Room), 85 Briggs Street, Cranston, Rhode Island 02920
  Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  Operating from April 22 – May 4.

Three ways to apply for FEMA assistance include:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Download the FEMA App; or,
• Call 1-800-621-3362. Help is available in most 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.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is May 20, 2024.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information visit 4765 | FEMA.gov or 4766 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

For updates on the Rhode Island response and recovery, follow the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at twitter.com/RhodeIslandEMA, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandEMA, or visit www.riema.ri.gov.  

barbara.murien… Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:28

FEMA Employees in Puerto Rico Receive Administrator’s Award

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - Two teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Puerto Rico Joint Recovery Office (JRO) were honored with the 2023 FEMA Administrator's Award, one of the highest awards given to agency employees across the United States.

This year, the Puerto Rico Island Wide Benefit-Cost Analysis (IWBCA) team received an award for its work in Climate Resilience, while the office of External Affairs received the Innovation Award. 

“Since FEMA established the Joint Recovery Office in response to recent disasters, we have assembled a team of highly skilled professionals capable of providing novel and effective solutions to the challenges we face on a daily basis. These awards exemplify the commitment and exceptional work of this group of employees,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The IWBCA team implemented a system to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of hazard mitigation measures in Electric Power Authority (PREPA) projects. The system developed by the IWBCA group contributes to Puerto Rico's climate resilience by allowing multiple projects to be evaluated simultaneously through a single analysis, including a cost-effectiveness analysis based on future costs.

This system increases the agency's efficiency because it avoids double counting of benefits, the duplication of programs and it strengthens the system's resilience to disasters.

Furthermore, the award for Innovation for the office of External Affairs highlighted the communications work performed after the recovery from Hurricane María and the 2020 Earthquakes. Their specialized projects include recovery visits throughout the island, informative videos to share the progress of the communities and an updated webpage that shows not only the progress of the recovery, but also the lessons learned. In addition, the External Affairs team created a historical archive with nearly 200 interviews and testimonials on various phases of the island's recovery process, which will serve as a valuable tool to assist FEMA operations locally and nationally in future disasters.

The FEMA Administrator's Award is given to employees who promote efficiency and innovation, abide by the highest standards of moral and ethical conduct, foster pride in public service and excel in their professional field.

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.

2023 FEMA Administrator’s Awards Honorees

WASHINGTON, DC (April 18, 2024)– The Innovation award for FEMA's External Affairs office in Puerto Rico highlighted the communications work they have done in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria and the 2020 earthquakes. In the photo, two officials from the External Affairs office, Ana Igartúa and Carmen E. Torres. Photo/FEMA

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:00

One-Month Recovery Snapshot: More Than 338 Households Helped, More Than $1.45 Million in Support

One month after President Joe Biden signed a federal disaster declaration for storm-impacted Maine, FEMA has provided survivors with more than $1.45 million in federal disaster assistance. The work is just beginning. It is a mission closely shared with the state of Maine, state and national nonprofits, voluntary agencies, and faith-based organizations.

As of April 22, FEMA has approved nearly $1,365,000 to help homeowners and renters with temporary housing, home repairs and personal property in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties following the January 9-13 storms. FEMA has also provided more than $85,700 to help survivors with storm-related necessities like childcare, storage, disaster medical and dental expenses, and cleaning supplies.

“Everyone’s recovery from a disaster is a personal, unique experience. We at FEMA will continue to help survivors in any way we can. Mainers who were impacted by the January storms are making great strides towards recovery as federal, state, local, faith-based and volunteer organizations provide ongoing assistance,” said FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer, Bob Fogel.

FEMA home inspectors have completed more than 520 inspections, pushing more applications forward for review.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists have knocked on 15,257 doors, interacting with more than 5,781 individuals, in an undertaking to meet survivors where they are, helping them to apply for assistance and answer questions about the assistance.

FEMA continues to ensure federal support is available to all affected communities, including people with disabilities, Limited English Proficiency (LEP), and those in underserved populations.

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance before the May 20, 2024 deadline:

• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. There are currently Disaster Recovery Centers in Cumberland, Hancock, York and Washington counties to provide one-on-one assistance. To find the closest center to you, visit fema.gov/drc.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:00

FEMA Awards Over $22 Million to Vermont for July Storms and Flooding Recovery Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $22 million to the State of Vermont to reimburse it for the cost of debris removal and measures taken to stabilize state office buildings following the July 2023 storms and flooding.

The $22,263,530 in Public Assistance grants will reimburse the Department of Buildings and General Services (BGS) for the cost of debris removal and steps taken to protect state buildings in downtown Montpelier from further damage after the flooding.

One grant of $1,067,183 will reimburse BGS for contracting to have 2,165 cubic yards (CY) of vegetative debris and 11,840 tons of construction and demolition (C&D) debris removed from roads and public property, including rights of way, and hauled to a disposal site.

Two grants of $14,375,582 and $6,820,765 will reimburse the state for the cost of contracting to remove contaminated floodwater from and de-humidify fourteen state buildings in Montpelier.

Those included the Defender General’s office at 6 Baldwin Ave; the Division of Liquor Control at 13 Green Mtn. Drive; the Pavilion Office Building at 109 State Street; the Department of State's Attorneys and Sheriffs office at 110 State Street; the Supreme Court Building at 111 State St.; the Agriculture Agency building at 116 State St.; the Office of Veterans Affairs building at 118 State St.; the Vermont Commission on Women offices at 126 State St.; the Secretary of State building at 128 State Street; the State Auditor’s building at 132 State St.; the Tax Department at 133 State St.; the Vermont Arts Council at 136 State St.; the State Information Center at 134 State St.; and the Green Mountain Care Board offices at 144 State St.

BGS also contracted to remove moisture from the buildings to prevent further damage using portable generators, air moving equipment, lighting, and portable cameras to monitor unmanned equipment.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Vermont with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred as a result of this disaster is an important part of the state’s recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. So far, FEMA has provided more than $36 million in grants to Vermont to reimburse eligible applicants for expenses related to the July 2023 storms and flooding.

adrien.urbani Fri, 04/19/2024 - 19:40

Biden-Harris Administration Announces Extreme Heat Summit Series to Advance Nationwide Climate Resilience Goals

WASHINGTON -- In advance of the summer and underscoring the Biden-Harris Administration’s focus on community resilience to address climate change, FEMA will host a virtual and in-person Extreme Heat Summit series focused on understanding extreme heat impacts and defining actionable ways to combat and prepare for these increasing risks across the country. Well ahead of the start to summer, January through March 2024 clocked in as the fifth-warmest start to a year in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s 130-year climate record. NOAA predicts odds for above-normal temperatures across the midwestern, western and southern lower 48 states during the summer 2024 season.

In honor of Earth Month, the two-part series kicks off with a virtual summit on April 26, 2024, featuring remarks from Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and roundtable discussions examining federal, state and local initiatives to combat extreme heat risks. Speakers include representatives from the U.S. Fire Administration, the National Park Service, Occupational Health and Safety and the Department of Health & Human Services.

“Extreme heat is becoming a more aggressive threat to well-being across the country,” said Administrator Criswell. “We want to arm our emergency responders—and communities across America—with the health and safety information needed to stay healthy when the temperatures soar. Just this week, we saw temperatures in the 80s and 90s over larger parts of the country. The time to be summer ready is now.”

FEMA’s Extreme Heat Series concludes with an in-person summit hosted in Chicago on May 21, 2024. Building on the lessons learned from FEMA’s 2023 Extreme Heat Summit, this engagement is open to government leaders and resilience focused private sector, nonprofit and academic organizations. FEMA will offer opportunities for discussion, networking and cross-collaboration between all levels of government and community partners. Presentations and panel discussions will be led by subject matter experts, local emergency managers and climate resilience practitioners. Speakers will focus on raising awareness of the increasing frequency and severity of extreme heat events, highlighting mitigation best practices across the country, and discussing ways of communicating extreme heat risks and implications to communities and stakeholders.

Attendance to the virtual and in-person extreme heat summits are open to the public. Register for the April 26 virtual summit at #SummerReady Extreme Heat Summit | FEMA.gov and register for the May 21 in-person Chicago summit at cvent.me/Z8lAk3.

For questions or additional information about the Extreme Heat Summit series, please contact FEMA-extreme-heat-summit@fema.dhs.gov.

To learn more about extreme heat preparedness, visit FEMA’s Ready.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 04/19/2024 - 18:38

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $26 Million in Awards for the State Assistance Dam Safety Grant Program

Made Possible by President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda Provide Funding to Protect Dams and Protect Communities from Disasters

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today announced the Biden-Harris Administration will commit $26.3 million in funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to enhance dam safety efforts across the nation to ensure that communities have the critical infrastructure needed to protect against future disasters like extreme drought and flooding. 

"Dams are a critical part of the nation’s infrastructure, yet many are aging and deteriorating and dam failure may occur within hours of the first signs of breaching because of intense storms. Empowered by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these funds will go toward providing effective programs like training personnel, increasing inspections and identifying repairs to ensure their dams continue to protect human life," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "These programs are valuable investments given how critical dams are in communities. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has empowered FEMA to take similar actions across the agency to ensure that our nation's vital infrastructure is able to withstand the effects of climate change.”

This investment for the National Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Program is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This infrastructure funding will help protect communities from flooding, avoid disaster costs and strengthen resilience to climate change. This announcement aligns with the FEMA Year of Resilience theme to build local capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing nearly $6.8 billion toward community-wide resilience to reduce disaster suffering and avoid future disaster costs for five FEMA grant programs. FEMA’s two dam safety programs received funding over five years to help state, territorial and local governments take action to address high hazard potential dams that pose dangers to life and property if they fail. The grant awards may be viewed on FEMA’s website.

The National Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Program is available for any state or territory with an enacted dam safety program. These grants establish and maintain effective state programs to ensure dam safety and protect communities from increasing threats from climate change.  

The state administrative agency, or an equivalent state agency, is eligible to apply. Each eligible state or territory may submit only one grant application. The program’s goals are:

• Reduce risks to life and property associated with dams.
• Increase awareness of the benefits and risks associated with dam infrastructure.
• Advance the state of practice of dam safety and dam risk management.

The application period for this grant cycle closed on Feb. 29, 2024. For more information, visit FEMA’s dam safety webpage on FEMA.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 04/19/2024 - 15:51

Survivors Have Until Midnight Today to Apply for FEMA Assistance

San Diego, Calif. — Survivors of the Jan. 21-23, 2024 San Diego County severe storm and flooding disaster have until midnight tonight, April 19, to apply for FEMA assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related expenses.

Ongoing FEMA Assistance

After the application deadline, survivors can continue to update their applications, submit additional documentation and check their application status online or by phone.

• The easiest way to contact FEMA is to call the Helpline. 
  • Call toll-free 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT, daily.
  • Multilingual operators are available to answer questions, update applications and assist with appeals.
• Survivors have access to FEMA 24/7/365 on the website and mobile app.
  • Apply for FEMA assistance, update information, submit documents and file an appeal at DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • Use the FEMA Mobile App to apply and review application progress.

SBA Disaster Assistance Loans

The deadline for SBA applications is also Friday, April 19. Survivors who applied for disaster assistance from FEMA may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA disaster loans may cover losses that are not fully covered by insurance or other sources. Completing the application may make you eligible for other FEMA assistance, such as disaster related car repairs, essential household items, and other expenses. If your application is approved, you are not required to accept an SBA disaster loan. 

Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or working capital (Economic Injury Disaster Loans). Homeowners may borrow up to $500,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $100,000 to repair or replace personal property. 

Applicants may apply online at sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

For the latest FEMA information on the Jan. 21-23, 2024 San Diego County severe storms and flooding, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4758. 

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, or economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

camille.schuetze Fri, 04/19/2024 - 15:28

FEMA and Operation HOPE Partner to Help People Build Financial Resiliency After Disasters

WASHINGTON -- FEMA and Operation HOPE, an organization that provides free financial information and guidance to people and businesses that are affected by major disasters and emergencies, signed an agreement this week to continue assisting communities in their recoveries. This partnership will enable more effective and efficient recoveries by amplifying the role of nonprofits as key collaborators to help people understand the value in learning about financial recovery.  

“Operation HOPE’s mission to expand economic opportunity and promote financial resilience is a critical facet of helping people and communities jumpstart their recoveries. Our partnership has flourished over the past two decades and today’s signing means it will grow even stronger in the coming years,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “I am incredibly proud of the support they have given to wildfire survivors in Maui through the formation of the Coalition of the Willing and their continued efforts to empower communities.”

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left) and Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE John Hope Bryant (right) sign a memorandum of understanding for further partnership. (FEMA photo)

Operation HOPE has been a key partner in helping wildfire survivors on Maui, including housing assistance to families in need of emergency housing, engaging thousands of residents through community outreach and various free community disaster recovery events, and collaboration with local organizations, including several Native Hawaiian groups.

Some of the joint efforts to help communities across the country recover effectively after an emergency include sharing financial assistance and guidance on recovery best practices, providing information on FEMA mitigation programs and conducting disaster preparedness seminars in Community Disaster Resilience Zones. These services and many others are always provided to individuals, families and businesses free of charge.

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left) and Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE John Hope Bryant (right) holding the signed memorandum of agreement. (FEMA photo)

“FEMA is thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with Operation HOPE. Signing this agreement represents a critical milestone that ensures our organizations’ focus on what matters most: helping people cope with disaster financial shocks and rebuild their homes and lives. This agreement formalizes our joint commitment to equip individuals and families with the financial tools they need to prepare and recover from disasters,” said FEMA Director of Individual Assistance, Frank Matranga.

“We are honored to continue our longstanding partnership with FEMA and thanks to Administrator Criswell for her incredible leadership responding to people in times of unforeseen disasters. We especially applaud the efforts of FEMA during the recent Maui wildfires, and the many public and private sector partners who so readily answered the call,” said John Hope Bryant, Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE. “We are proud to have been associated with FEMA for the past two decades, along with the American Red Cross and so many countless other partners. By joining with other front-line organizations like the members of the National Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD), we are able to support people with the long-term implications from a disaster, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to rebuild and recover."
 

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left seated) and Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE John Hope Bryant (right seated) along with representatives from FEMA and Operation HOPE and other financial groups following the memorandum of understanding signing. (FEMA photo)

FEMA works with a number of organizations like Operation HOPE to ensure recovery efforts encompass the whole community and help people, including those who are disproportionately affected by disasters, recover and rebuild their lives.
 

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 04/18/2024 - 21:25