$14 Million In FEMA Funds for Hospitals of the Mennonite Health System

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $14 million to the Mennonite General Hospital for repairs to its facilities in Aguas Buenas, Cayey, Cidra and Guayama. 

This figure is part of over $20 million for permanent projects that the agency has obligated to this nonprofit organization to address damage following Hurricane María.

“Hospitals are part of the essential services needed by communities before, during and after a disaster. The repairs will restore the infrastructure to its pre-hurricane condition, while addressing humidity problems and implementing mitigation measures to strengthen these buildings,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The Mennonite Health System was founded in 1944 in Aibonito and today has nearly 700 physicians and about 70 volunteers who provide services to the organization's various programs throughout its chain of hospitals in Puerto Rico. 

The allocations for these four Mennonite hospitals seek to remediate mold problems, replace acoustic ceilings, grids and doors, and insulate ductwork and pipes, among other work. Over $1 million of these funds were allocated primarily to mitigate high winds damages and rain infiltration in the buildings.

Mennonite Health System Executive Director Ricardo Hernández emphasized that as a health system that provides first response services in emergency situations and disaster events, "it is a priority to ensure that our caring environment is adequate, safe and effective to meet the health needs that may arise. The continuity of services is crucial, mainly in the mountain area where our facilities are located, and where we receive over 300,000 visits a year”.

Hernández also emphasized that this allocation of funds is important "so that our facilities always remain in compliance with the regulations and quality standards that characterize us”.

Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, highlighted one of the projects being developed at Centro Médico in Cayey, for the acquisition and installation of a combined heat and power system that would provide backup electricity, as well as a facility to treat and store water. 

“At COR3, we are working closely with hospital institutions to provide them with systems that increase their resilience in the event of any emergency or disaster. Recently, we also announced other projects for the development of power generation and water storage systems. In this way, we are providing redundancy of services for patients, the sector that needs our immediate attention in the event of a disaster,” said Laboy Rivera.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $32 billion for over 10,900 Hurricane María recovery projects. Of these funds, over $7.4 billion is earmarked for repairing public buildings and equipment that provide a variety of services across the island.

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.

Mennonite General Hospital, Cayey, Puerto Rico

CAYEY, Puerto Rico (March 1st, 2024) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $14 million to the Mennonite General Hospital for repairs to its facilities in Aguas Buenas, Cayey, Cidra and Guayama. One of the projects being developed at Centro Médico in Cayey is for the acquisition and installation of a combined heat and power system that would provide backup electricity, as well as a facility to treat and store water. Photo Fema / Eliezer Hernández

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 03/04/2024 - 11:36

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Wyoming's Happy Jack Fire

DENVER – This afternoon FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Happy Jack Fire burning in Laramie County, Wyoming, near the city of Cheyenne.

FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request this afternoon and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster. 

At the time of the request, the Happy Jack Fire had burned more than 4000 acres and was threatening homes in and around Cheyenne, Wyoming. The fire is also threatening 380 other structures including buildings, infrastructure, utilities, equipment and a watershed in the area. Mandatory evacuations are underway for approximately 50 homes. 

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. 

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

minh.phan Fri, 03/01/2024 - 22:36

One Week Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

Rhode Islanders affected by the severe storms that took place Sept. 10-13, 2023, have until March 7 to apply for federal disaster assistance. FEMA assistance can provide grants for home repair and other essential disaster-related expenses.

As of February 28, more than $3.2 million in federal assistance has been approved. This total includes:

• $2,362,240 in FEMA Assistance 
• $2,245,793 for Housing Assistance
• $116,446 for Other Needs Assistance
• $851,000 approved for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and cover economic injury.

To apply to FEMA, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Language translation services are available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. FEMA specialists will still be available at the hotline after the application deadline to answer questions. 

Residents who would like to apply in person can visit the Disaster Recovery Center in Johnston, where disaster recovery specialists can also answer questions, help upload documents and refer you to available resources. The address of the Johnston center is:

Johnston Senior Center

1291 Hartford Avenue

Johnston, Rhode Island 02919 

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday- CLOSED. 

The center will cease operations at the end of day on March 7. 

FEMA may refer you to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. SBA provides these disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters to help them recover. If you are referred to SBA, you are not required to take out a loan, but if you don’t fill out the application, you may not be eligible for certain FEMA grants. 

Those would like to apply directly to SBA can do so at SBA.gov/disaster or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955. Email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.

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

adrien.urbani Fri, 03/01/2024 - 21:22

Maine Recovery Well Under Way One Month After Declaration

One month after the president issued a federal disaster declaration for the state of Maine for the severe storm and flooding that took place December 17-21, 2023, more than $3.6 million has been approved to help 630 applicants in Androscoggin, Franklin, Kennebec, Oxford and Somerset counties. Disaster recovery specialists have been in the field, visiting over three dozen communities so far, to make sure affected residents receive all assistance for which they may be eligible. 

As of February 29,  this federal disaster assistance includes:

• $3,190,429 in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• More than $475,965 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.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $60,000 for 3 long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and cover economic injury. 

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 addition to going door-to-door to homes, businesses and nonprofit organizations, the teams have made sure to reach affected residents during winter community events such as farmer markets, the Roxbury Ice Fishing Derby and the Winter Sled Festival in Skowhegan. 

In total, DSA personnel had 6,547 interactions with residents and visited more than 22,489 households and 1,323 businesses to help survivors apply for assistance. 

In addition, five Disaster Recovery Centers have been opened in affected counties to provide information for residents who would 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 DRCs. 

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 DRC know.  Hours are:  9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Following are DRC locations.

• Kennebec County
  • Manchester Fire Department, 37 Readfield Rd., Manchester
    • This location will close permanently March 4 at 5 p.m.
• Franklin County
  • University of Maine – Roberts Learning Center, 270 Main St., Farmington
• Oxford County 
  • Rumford Municipal Building, 150 River St., Rumford
• Somerset County
  • Somerset County Emergency Operations Center, 4 County Dr., Skowhegan
• Androscoggin County
  • Lewiston Armory, 65 Central Ave., Lewiston

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 April 1, 2024.

adrien.urbani Fri, 03/01/2024 - 20:40

Recovery Mission Hits One Month in West Virginia

CHARLESTON, W.VA. – One month after President Joe Biden signed a major disaster declaration for Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha counties, FEMA has now provided flooding survivors with more than $1 million in federal disaster assistance. The work is just beginning. It is a mission closely shared with the state of West Virginia, West Virginia Emergency Management Division, state offices, local governments and community and faith-based organizations that are also fully engaged.

As of March 1, 2024, FEMA has approved more than $1 million to help homeowners and renters with temporary housing in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha counties following the Aug. 28-30 storms. FEMA also provided $72 thousand to help survivors with storm-related necessities like childcare, storage, disaster medical and dental expenses, and cleaning supplies.

“FEMA and our partners hit the ground running one month ago, and that dedication to helping survivors has paid off: more than $1 million in Individual Assistance is in survivors’ hands,” Federal Coordinating Officer Jeff Jones said. “While it’s exciting to reach these milestones, I want to assure West Virginians that FEMA and the whole disaster recovery community will remain here until the job is done.”

FEMA home inspectors have completed almost 300 inspections, pushing more applications forward for review.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists knocked on approximately 2,800 doors, interacting with more than 1,000 individuals, in an undertaking to meet survivors where they are and answer questions about federal disaster assistance.

FEMA continues to ensure federal support is available to all affected communities, including people with disabilities, people with access or functional needs, and those in underserved populations.

There are also six Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC’s) in the designated counties, which provide one-on-one assistance to survivors. More than 300 survivors and their families have spoken with specialists at a DRC. To find the closest center to you, visit DRC Locator. 

How to Apply to FEMA 

Federal disaster recovery funds may be available for eligible individuals in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha counties who suffered damage from the Aug. 28-30, 2023, heavy rain event that caused landslides, mudslides, and flooding. 

Residents who sustained storm-related property damage should register with FEMA. To do so, survivors can:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Download the FEMA mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store; or
• Call FEMA’s toll-free helpline at 800-621-3362, open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time with language translation available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA with your number for that service when you apply.
• Visit one of our Disaster Recovery Centers for a list of locations and more information visit the DRC Locator. 

Impacted residents may be referred to SBA to request a low-interest disaster loan after you submit your FEMA application. Survivors are encouraged to go through the entire process, as this may open the door for additional resources for your recovery. 

FEMA is working closely with the state of West Virginia and the West Virginia Emergency Management Division to support those residents in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Kanawha, and Harrison counties who were impacted by the Aug. 2023 flooding. There are many partners involved, including local and state agencies, nonprofits, voluntary and faith-based organizations, and the private sector, to assist in survivor recovery.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Fri, 03/01/2024 - 20:26

A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Calhoun County Will Close Permanently on March 2, 2024

Charleston, W.Va.– A state-federal Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Calhoun County will close permanently on March 2, 2024, at 5 p.m.

Residents of all counties can continue to visit other DRCs in West Virginia. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists at the following centers until they close permanently.

The center is located at:

 Calhoun DRC Closing Permanently on March 2, 2024

80 Spring Run Rd., Arnoldsburg, WV 25234 

Closing at 5 p.m. on March 2, 2024

West Virginians can also visit disasterassistance.gov/ for help with registration and updating their application or can call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Thu, 02/29/2024 - 22:48

Deadline for West Virginians in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha Counties to Apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance is March 6, 2024

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Individuals living or working in these five West Virginia counties who became unemployed due to the severe storms may apply for federal unemployment benefits. Claims must be filed by March 6, 2024.

The DUA benefits are available to individuals who are not eligible for regular state unemployment insurance and self-employed workers, including farmers. People who apply must provide proof of past earnings, such as business records or bank statements and income tax forms, no more than 21 days after the application has been filed.

Unemployed individuals due to the August 28, 2023, severe storms must contact WorkForce West Virginia by sending an email to ucpolicy@wv.gov or by calling 304-558-3340 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Individuals eligible for DUA benefits include:

• Individuals who are unable to reach their job or self-employment location because they must travel through the affected area and are prevented from doing so by the disaster
• Individuals who were to commence employment or self-employment but were prevented by the disaster 
• Individuals who cannot work or perform services in self-employment because of an injury caused as a direct result of the disaster.

Unemployment is a direct result of the major disaster if the unemployment resulted from:

• The physical damage or destruction of the place of employment
• The physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal, state or local government in immediate response to the disaster
• Lack of work, or loss of revenues, if, prior to the disaster, the employer or self-employed business received at least a majority of its revenue or income from an entity in the major disaster area that was damaged or destroyed in the disaster or an entity in the major disaster area closed by the federal, state or local government.

In addition to helping file a DUA claim, WorkForce West Virginia offers reemployment services, including resume services, job search assistance and job placement. For more information or to report fraud, call 1-800-252-JOBS (5627).

1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Thu, 02/29/2024 - 22:30

Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in San Diego County

San Diego, Calif. – The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), the County of San Diego and FEMA, along with state and local partners, will open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in San Diego County starting Friday,

March 1, 2024. These temporary facilities are set up to help survivors recover from the severe storm and flooding from Jan. 21-23, 2024.

Survivors have through April 19, 2024 to apply for assistance. Immigration status checks are not available at the DRCs.

All centers operate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT, seven days a week unless otherwise noted.

Mountainview Community Center
641 South Boundary Street
San Diego, CA 92113

Spring Valley Library
836 Kempton Street
Spring Valley, CA 91977

DRCs provide disaster survivors with information from California state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. At a DRC, survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, updating applications and learning about other available resources.

Each DRC is accessible to people with disabilities. Assistive technology equipment is available to help disaster survivors interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is also available, and the centers have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms. If you need accommodations to communicate, please notify FEMA staff at the center immediately.

If you need ASL support at a DRC, please contact Aaron Kubey aaron.kubey@fema.dhs.gov in advance to schedule a date and time for an ASL interpreter to meet you there.

It is not necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline operators are available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT daily. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS),
Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in San Diego County 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.

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.

brandi.richard… Thu, 02/29/2024 - 20:44

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Spokane County

Spokane, Wash.  - Two Disaster Recovery Centers will open Thursday, Feb. 29, in Spokane County to assist residents who were affected by the Gray and Oregon Road Wildfires. The Centers are a temporary facility established to help survivors navigate through the various local, state and federal assistance programs that may be available to them.

The Disaster Recovery Centers are located in the community of Elk and the city of Medical Lake:

• Elk
  Country Church of the Open Bible
  40015 North Collins Road 
  Elk, WA 99009
   
• Medical Lake
  Medical Lake City Hall
  124 South Lefevre Street 
  Medical Lake, WA 99022
   

Hours of operations for both centers:

• Monday, Tuesday, Friday 8:30 am – 6:30 pm
  (*The Medical Lake Center will close early at 6 pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month)
  Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 am – 3:30 pm
  Saturday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
  Sundays closed. 

Disaster Recovery Centers are open to those who would like to speak, in person, to specialists from FEMA, the U.S Small Business Administration, the Washington Emergency Management Division, and Spokane County Emergency Management. These representatives will be available to help survivors apply for disaster assistance, answer questions about the registration process and meet with Disaster Case Managers. However, you do not need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to register for FEMA Assistance.

Specialists from the SBA, which provides low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes, can also answer questions about assistance programs as well as clarify next steps and give helpful information. 

FEMA mitigation advisers will be at the Disaster Recovery Center to offer tips about rebuilding and protecting homes from disaster-related damages. Most of the information provided is geared toward do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Additionally, representatives from governmental and non-governmental agencies will be on-site to help provide access to vital programs like food benefits, cash assistance and basic medical coverage for people who qualify. A representative from the Office of the Insurance Commissioner will be present to help answer questions related to insurance policies and coverage.

Be sure to apply for both state and FEMA disaster assistance so that you can receive all the assistance from FEMA that may be available based on your eligibility. 

How to Apply for Assistance

FEMA assistance is unable to duplicate benefits offered through insurance, state programs, or other programs, but if your losses or damage go beyond disaster assistance available from other sources – or include items or categories not covered by other assistance – you may be eligible for additional funds from FEMA. All survivors affected by the Gray and Oregon Road Fires are encouraged to contact and register with FEMA to determine eligibility. 

• You can apply for FEMA assistance by visiting disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 1-800-621-3362. 
• Survivors who apply for disaster assistance from FEMA may be referred to SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
• Stay in touch and continue to partner with or register through your Disaster Case Managers for the Gray Fire and Oregon Road Fire. For more information and resources, text the word “recovery” to 99411 or visit The Spokane Region Long Term Recovery Group | Disaster Relief (srltrg.org). 

If you require a reasonable accommodation -- such as language translation or interpretation, mobility assistance, or sign language interpretation -- email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov or notify staff in the field.

For Disaster Recovery Center location and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation visit fema.gov/disaster/4759.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

mary.j.edmon Thu, 02/29/2024 - 19:03

Calls From FEMA May Come From Unidentified Numbers

NASHVILLE – FEMA may need to contact Tennessee residents who applied for assistance after the Dec. 9, 2023, storms and tornadoes. Applicants should be aware that the calls may come from out-of-state or unidentified numbers.

It is important to answer these calls because FEMA may need more information to continue processing an application. Although the application deadline ended Feb. 12, FEMA specialists are continuing to reach out to applicants to follow-up on their applications.

Applicants are asked to update FEMA about changes in contact information. Missing or wrong information could delay the delivery of assistance. Residents can get information about their application or provide updates to FEMA using the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362. The Helpline is toll free and available in many languages.

For information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4751. Follow FEMA on X, formerly Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema. Follow Tennessee Emergency Management Agency at facebook.com/TennesseeEMA.

sandra.habib Thu, 02/29/2024 - 16:15

FEMA Approves $17.1M for Hurricane Ian Debris Removal in Charlotte County

FEMA has approved $17,146,064 in grant funding to reimburse Charlotte County for debris removal expenses after Hurricane Ian.

The storm left extensive debris, resulting in a threat to public health and safety. Approximately 1,667,497 cubic yards of vegetative debris and 241,794 cubic yards of hurricane-generated debris were removed from roads and public property. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, local, territorial and tribal governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X, formerly Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

thomas.wise Thu, 02/29/2024 - 14:59

FEMA Awards Kentucky Department of Education More Than $1.1 Million to Restore Knott County Area Technology Center

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved $1,142,754 in federal funding to The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) for damage caused by the July 2022 floods in Eastern Kentucky. 

During the incident period, severe storms, heavy rain, and flooding caused overland surface flood waters to enter the Knott County Area Technology Center through doors and windows. Standing water remained in KDE facilities for approximately 10 days. 

KDE will use department resources and/or contractors to restore facilities and contents. Contents from the following rooms will be replaced: Administrative offices, automotive shop, building and apartment maintenance shop, business classroom, carpentry shop, health science classroom, IT classroom and janitorial supply. 

Funding for this Public Assistance (PA) project is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. PA funds reimburse eligible applicants for the cost of debris removal; life-saving emergency protective measures; and the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged facilities like buildings, roads and utilities.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop project worksheets and scopes of work. Following approvals by FEMA and KYEM, FEMA obligates funding for the project.

The FEMA PA program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

The federal share for this Public Assistance project is 75 percent of the eligible with the remaining non-federal share of 25% to be contributed by other sources.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 02/28/2024 - 22:37

Deadline to File for Flood Insurance Through the Claims Office is April 1

SANTA FE, N.M. – The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is making five years of flood insurance available to individuals and business impacted by the fire. To receive a federally backed National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy, you must submit a claim for flood insurance no later than April 1. In most cases, there is a 30-day mandatory waiting period for all new NFIP policies. Submitting a claim for flood insurance coverage by April 1 will help to ensure coverage goes into effect before spring snow melt and monsoon season begin. 

People have two options for obtaining flood insurance through the Claims Office:

• The Claims Office can pay up to five-years of flood insurance coverage through the NFIP. There are no out of pocket expenses, the Claims Office will pay for the premium directly. 
• You can be reimbursed for a policy you purchased through a private insurance company after the fire.

Eligible claimants include:

• Households that were not required to carry flood insurance prior to the start of the fire on April 6, 2022. 
• Properties located in NFIP-participating communities in Mora and San Miguel counties.
• Properties outside of Mora and San Miguel counties but in proximity to the burn scar may be eligible on a case-by-case basis to those who can demonstrate an increased risk of flooding.

If your property was required to carry flood insurance before the fire, you are not eligible to obtain flood insurance through the Claims Office. If your community is not an NFIP participating community, you are only eligible to be reimbursed for flood insurance purchased through the private market. To find out if your community is a participating NFIP community contact your Navigator or call the Helpline at 505-995-7133.

If you have already submitted a Notice of Loss and would like to discuss eligibility for a new flood insurance policy, reach out to your navigator to discuss options. 

If you have not yet submitted a Notice of Loss but would like to discuss your eligibility for a flood insurance policy through the Claims Office, you may call the Claims Office Helpline, 505-995-7133, or reach out by email, fema-hermits-peak@fema.dhs.gov.

The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. The Claims Office has approved 1,589 claims, which is 68 percent of the 2,340 claims with documentation submitted. More than $406 million in payments have been approved. FEMA is only permitted to pay claims that have a signed Proof of Loss form and supporting documentation. Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is welcome to visit any one of our three Claims Offices. Visit fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak/contact-us for locations and hours.

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 02/28/2024 - 19:33

WV Disaster Recovery Centers’ Hours Change

Charleston, W.Va.– The state-federal Disaster Recovery Centers in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha counties will have new hours starting Feb. 29, 2024. 

The centers will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and are located at:

Boone CountyCalhoun County

38 John Slack Circle, Racine, WV 26165 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

80 Spring Run Rd., Arnoldsburg, WV 25234 

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 Clay County Harrison County

Located at 223 Main Street Clay, 25043, WV

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Harrison County Courthouse

301 W. Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Kanawha County (Belle) Kanawha County (Penn VA)

Belle Town Hall

1100 E. Dupont Ave. Belle, WV 25015

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Penn VA Coal Carbon Center

13905 MacCorkle Ave, Charleston, WV 25301

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If it is not possible to visit the Disaster Recovery Center or to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Wed, 02/28/2024 - 19:25

WV Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers will Close Early Today Feb. 28, 2024

Charleston, W.Va.– Effective immediately, the state-federal Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers in Boone, Calhoun, and Clay counties will be closing on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, due to inclement weather. 

The Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers will reopen at 9 a.m. on Thursday Feb. 29, 2024.

The centers are located at:

Boone CountyCalhoun County

38 John Slack Circle, Racine, WV 26165 

Hours of operation:

Closing Today 

Reopening 9 a.m. Thursday Feb 29, 2024

80 Spring Run Rd., Arnoldsburg, WV 25234 

 

Hours of operation:

Closing Today 

Reopening 9 a.m. Thursday Feb 29, 2024

 Clay County

Located at 223 Main Street Clay, 25043, WV

Hours of operation:

Closing Today 

Reopening 9 a.m. Thursday Feb 29, 2024

Centers in Harrison and Kanawha counties will remain open until 6 p.m. today to assist survivors.

If it is not possible to visit the Disaster Recovery Center or to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Wed, 02/28/2024 - 19:07

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

Survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA after the December 17-21 severe storm and flooding will receive a letter from FEMA explaining the status of your application.

Read your letter carefully.

If you are found eligible for assistance, the letter will explain the amount of assistance FEMA provided and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds. 

If you are found ineligible, the letter will explain the reason for denial and what may be needed to submit with an appeal.

You may only need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to reprocess your application. Examples of missing documentation may include:

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

The FEMA application is a process, and we want to make sure survivors receive all the assistance they are eligible for.

Questions about your letter can be answered by calling the disaster assistance help line at 800-621-3362 or visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 04074)

Survivors who disagree with the decision of ineligibility, or with the amount or purpose of assistance approved can appeal FEMA’s determination. The appeal process is explained in the letter. 

For an accessible video on the FEMA eligibility letter go to,  FEMA Accessible: Understanding Your Letter - YouTube.

adrien.urbani Wed, 02/28/2024 - 16:01

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

WASHINGTON --- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of New Hampshire to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding from Dec. 17-21, 2023.

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 storm and flooding in Carroll, Coos and Grafton counties.

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

William F. Roy has been named as Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 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 Tue, 02/27/2024 - 22:40

Disaster Assistance Tops $1 Million for West Virginia Survivors

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– Since the disaster declaration on Jan. 30, 2024, more than $1 million in FEMA disaster assistance has been provided to more than 250 West Virginia households to assist with disaster recovery efforts.

"We are excited FEMA disbursements have exceeded the $1 million mark for Individual Assistance; we are not slowing down!" said Jeff Jones, FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer for the disaster.

He also encouraged West Virginians to reach out to FEMA to register for assistance. 

“If you, or someone you know, suffered damages during the late August flooding and reside in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Kanawha, and Harrison counties give us a call today at 1-800-621-3362 or visit disasterassistance.gov,” Jones said. “FEMA is here to support West Virginians recover from the August flooding event.”

Federal Support in West Virginia 

• The presidential disaster declaration ensures FEMA Individual Assistance is available to residents of Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties, and FEMA Hazard Mitigation Programs are available to all 55 West Virginia counties. Under the Individual Assistance program, residents of Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha counties can apply for assistance to cover uninsured or under-insured expenses that resulted from the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred from Aug. 28-30, 2023.
• FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach teams are providing information to survivors at Disaster Recovery Centers on mitigation grants and ways to repair and rebuild damaged homes to be more resilient to future disasters. They have engaged with more than 115 individuals.
• FEMA inspectors have conducted more than 285 home inspections for survivors who registered for federal disaster assistance.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available to eligible survivors. DUA is a part of the federal disaster assistance process but is administered by WorkForce West Virginia. Individuals living or working in these counties who lost their job due to the severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides may apply for federal unemployment benefits. Claims must be filed by March 6, 2024.Visit https://workforcewv.org/ for more information.
• Disaster Legal Services (DLS) is also available. Survivors can receive free legal assistance for certain disaster-related issues. This service is provided by the Young Lawyers Division of the American Bar Association in collaboration with FEMA and Legal Aid of West Virginia. Survivors can call 1-866-255-4370 or apply online at any time at: https://legalaidwv.org/get-help/apply-for-help/. The hotline is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• SBA low interest loans are also available to those West Virginia residents who were impacted.  Visit sba.gov/disaster, in person at a Disaster Recovery Center or call 1800-659-2955 for more information. Businesses can receive up to $2 million for physical damages and working capital needs, homeowners are eligible for up to $500k to repair or replace homes. Homeowners and renters can receive up to $100k to replace personal property including automobiles.

FEMA is working closely with the state of West Virginia and the West Virginia Emergency Management Division to support those residents in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Kanawha, and Harrison counties who were impacted by the August 2023 flooding. There are many partners involved including local and state agencies, nonprofits, voluntary and faith-based organizations, and the private sector to assist in survivor recovery.

1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Tue, 02/27/2024 - 20:05

Returning SBA Applications

LANSING, Mich. – Survivors of the August 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

If you are asked to submit an SBA disaster loan application, there are benefits to filling it out and sending it in right away. You are not obligated to accept the SBA loan if approved, but failure to return the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA grants to pay for disaster-related expenses such as car repairs or replacement, essential household items and other costs.

SBA programs can help homeowners and renters, as well as large and small businesses and certain nonprofit agencies. Homeowners may be eligible for up to $500,000 in low-interest disaster loans to repair or replace their home. Renters and homeowners who lost personal possessions in the disaster may be eligible to borrow up to $100,000 to replace necessary items such as clothing, furniture or a vehicle.

Business owners affected by the August storms who are in need of assistance also may be eligible for loans.

SBA offers loans that fits personal budgets. For applicants unable to obtain credit elsewhere, the interest rates are 2.5% for home loans, 4% for business loans and 2.375% for nonprofits. The first payment will not be due for up to 12 months and no interest will be charged for those 12 months. You may have up to 30 years to repay the loan; there is no pre-payment penalty or fees.

If you already have a mortgage on damaged property, SBA specialists may help with a low-interest loan you can afford. In some cases, SBA may refinance all or part of an existing mortgage.

By submitting your SBA loan application, you keep the full range of disaster assistance available as an option. If SBA does not approve a loan for you – or approves a small loan that doesn’t cover all your needs – you may be referred to other programs for grants to replace essential household items or replace or repair a damaged vehicle, among other serious disaster-related needs. But if you do not submit the loan application from SBA, the assistance process may stop.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster-recovery funds for survivors. SBA disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance, FEMA grants or other resources. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. They may discover they were underinsured for the deductible or labor and materials required to repair or replace their home.

Eligible SBA disaster loan applicants may choose to receive expanded funding to help mitigate their home or business against future disasters. SBA disaster loans can be increased up to 20% to make building upgrades.

Whether you’re recovering from a declared disaster or planning on how to protect your home and family, business, and employees, mitigation assistance not only helps you rebuild and get back to business, but the money can also be used to make property improvements that eliminate future damage or save lives.

SBA approval of mitigating measures is required before any loan increase can be made. There is no cost to apply.

Even simple things can strengthen your home or business today to avoid damage and unplanned costs in the future.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757. 

kirsten.chambers Tue, 02/27/2024 - 19:12

Two Disaster Recovery Centers to Open in Wayne County

LANSING, Mich. – Two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will open at 8 a.m. in Wayne County Feb. 27 to help residents in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties kickstart their recovery after the August 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. 

Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration at the center can help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, learn about ways to make their property more disaster resistant and get their questions answered in person.

Assistance in languages other than English, including American Sign Language (ASL), and translated materials are available at the centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available. 

All recovery centers are open 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Monday to Saturday; closed Sundays.

Wayne County (South East): Opening 8 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 27, at:
Wayne County Community College Downriver Campus
21000 Northline Road
Taylor, MI 48180

Wayne County (Canton West Central) Opening 8 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 27, at:
Canton Human Services Building
50430 School House Road
Canton, MI 48187

Additional centers are open at these locations:

Eaton County: Opened 8 a.m., Monday, Feb. 26
Lansing Community College –West Campus
5708 Cornerstone Drive
Lansing, MI 48917
Closing permanently 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 2.

Wayne County: Opened 8 a.m., Monday, Feb. 26
Gibraltar City Hall
29450 Munro St.
Gibraltar, MI 48173
Closing permanently 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 2.

Macomb County: Opened 8 a.m. Friday, Feb. 23, at:
Chesterfield Township Fire Department Central Station
33991 23 Mile Road
Chesterfield, MI 48047
Open until further notice.

Ingham County: Opened 8 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 22, at:
Northeast Ingham Emergency Services Authority
1296 W. Grand River Ave.
Williamston, MI 48895
Closing permanently 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 2.

Additional recovery centers will be opening soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may
visit any center for assistance.

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App. 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. The deadline to apply for assistance is April 8, 2024.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757. 

kirsten.chambers Tue, 02/27/2024 - 18:58