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FEMA Extends Direct Housing Program for Hurricane Ian Survivors
FEMA Extends Direct Housing Program for Hurricane Ian Survivors
LAKE MARY, Fla. – Because of a shortage of affordable rental housing and delays in repair contractor availability, FEMA has approved the state of Florida’s request to extend the federal direct housing program by six months.
Survivors temporarily living in FEMA-provided manufactured housing units in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Lee, Sarasota and Volusia counties now have until March 29, 2025 to complete their permanent housing plan, if they remain eligible.
Those continuing to live in FEMA temporary housing units after Sept. 29, 2024 must:
- Make timely rent payments;
- Document their progress toward a permanent housing plan;
- Work with their housing advisor for recertification at least every two weeks; and,
- Follow health, safety, and other terms and conditions in the licensing agreement.
Survivors will receive a letter from FEMA about their individual situation and can contact their housing advisor with any questions. Disaster case managers are also working one-on-one with survivors to support permanent housing plan completion.
Since Hurricane Ian, FEMA has provided temporary housing units for more than 1,300 displaced families in the state. Working with the Florida Division of Emergency Management and local partners, more than 80 percent of families have found a permanent home.
For the latest information on Florida's recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673 Follow FEMA on X at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) and at facebook.com/fema.
vernice.casey Tue, 09/03/2024 - 14:02Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Pottawattamie County
FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Oakland on Tuesday, Sept. 3 in Pottawattamie County to provide one-on-one help to people affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding this spring.
Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.
The DRC will open in Oakland on Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 1 p.m. at:
Pottawattamie County
Oakland Community Center
614 Dr. Van Zee Rd.
Oakland, Iowa 51560
Open 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
until Saturday, Sept. 7
To save time, apply online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center by:
- Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
- Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Using the FEMA app
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as amplified phones, caption phones, video phones, wheelchair ramps and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.
Anyone using a relay service, such as a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated
against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Press 2 for Spanish. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
thomas.wise Fri, 08/30/2024 - 22:36South Dakota Disaster Recovery Update
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – In the two weeks since President Biden’s major disaster declaration for South Dakota, federal agencies have approved more than $4.9 million in grants and loans to assist in recovery as of August 29, 2024.
To date, a total of 703 people in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties have applied with FEMA for assistance. FEMA has approved $4,112,755.86 through the Individuals and Households program, consisting of $2,957,964.80 in Housing Assistance for home repairs and rental expenses, and $1,154,791.06 in Other Needs Assistance for repair or replacement of personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, moving expenses and other disaster-related needs.
In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $795,500 in low interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses.
Federal/state disaster recovery centers are currently operating at 600 W. 5th St. in Canton and at 305 S Derby Lane, North Sioux City. The centers are open 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily. Starting September 3, hours for recovery centers will change to 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
How to Apply for Disaster Assistance
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in person.
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
- Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
- Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.
For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
FEMA Public Assistance
FEMA’s Public Assistance Program (PA) is a grant program which provides funding for rebuilding necessary infrastructure to state and local governments and certain types of private nonprofit organizations following a presidential disaster declaration. Assistance is available for debris removal and emergency protective measures taken to promote public safety. The federal cost share for eligible work is no less that 75 percent. The state is conducting informational briefings for potential applicants on how to apply for this assistance.
Brian.Hvinden Fri, 08/30/2024 - 22:32FEMA to Open Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Serving Davison and Turner Counties
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – FEMA will operate a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center serving Davison and Turner Counties over the next month. The Center will alternate operations between Mitchell and Viborg, initially opening in Mitchell on Tuesday, Sept. 3. The full schedule for September is below.
The center provides one-on-one assistance for people affected by the recent severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding. Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain disaster assistance programs, help people complete or check the status of applications for federal assistance, and get information on additional resources offered by the State of South Dakota.
Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Locations and Dates:
Table 1: Davison and Turner County Disaster Recovery Centers Schedule.
LocationDates and Hours of OperationDavison County Fairgrounds- V-Tel Room
3200 West Havens Ave
Mitchell, SD 57301
Tuesday, Sept 3 – Sunday, Sept 8
8 a.m. – 7 p.m.*
*Sept 3 hours begin at 1 p.m.
Viborg Community Center
101 East Sorenson St.
Viborg, SD 57070
Monday, Sept 9 – Friday, Sept 20 (closed Saturday, Sept 14)
8 a.m. – 7 p.m.*
*Sept 9 & Sept 15 hours begin at 1 p.m.
Davison County Fairgrounds- V-Tel Room
3200 West Havens Ave
Mitchell, SD 57301
Monday, Sept 23 – Sunday, Sept 29
8 a.m. – 7 p.m.*
*Sept 23 hours begin at 1:00 p.m.
To search for Disaster Recovery Centers, visit www.fema.gov/drc or text DRC and your Zip Code to 43362 for a list of centers closest to you.
As of August 29, 2024, FEMA has approved over $4.1 million in assistance to individuals for the South Dakota disaster recovery.
How to Apply for Disaster Assistance
Residents can apply for disaster assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center, or in the following ways:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
- Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
- Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362) anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.
For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as assistive listening devices, resources for low vision, and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448.
Brian.Hvinden Fri, 08/30/2024 - 22:31FEMA Team is Back at Village Ace Hardware in Ruidoso
As New Mexicans continue to repair and rebuild after the South Fork and Salt Fires as well as the flooding, FEMA is making a return visit to Village Ace Hardware in Ruidoso to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by natural disasters stronger and safer.
FEMA specialists, who visited with Ruidoso homeowners here in early August, will again be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work.
Residents with fire or flood-impacted homes will pick up tips on re-building smart, strong and safe to prevent future damage. Smart building includes mitigating damage against floods, strong winds and even tornadoes. Visitors will learn how such simple mitigation measures as elevating electrical and heating systems and anchoring fuel storage tanks can provide protection against severe conditions, and much more. Bring your questions.
In addition, FEMA Hazard Mitigation insurance specialists from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will be on hand to answer questions about flood insurance.
These experts will be available Saturday, Aug. 31 through Saturday, Sept. 14, at 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. excluding Sundays and this Monday, Sept. 12 due to the Labor Day Holiday at:
Village Ace Hardware
2815 Sudderth Dr.
Ruidoso, NM 86345
Levy County Disaster Recovery Center to Relocate
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Center in Levy County will close at noon Aug. 31 and reopen in a new location Sept. 3.
Current location:
Inglis Town Hall
135 Highway 40 W
Inglis, FL 34449
Open 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- noon Saturday, closed Sunday
New location Sept. 3:
Chiefland City Hall
214 East Park Ave.
Chiefland, FL 32626
Open 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- noon Saturday, closed Sunday
For other Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
Gaynell.Tinsey Fri, 08/30/2024 - 19:26Hamilton County Disaster Recovery Center Closing Sept. 1
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– A Disaster Recovery Center in Hamilton County will close permanently at noon Sept. 1.
Center location:
Hamilton County
Court House Annex/Chamber of Commerce
1153 NW U.S. Highway 41
Jasper, FL 32052
Open 4 p.m.–8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.--12 p.m. Saturday
For other Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
Gaynell.Tinsey Fri, 08/30/2024 - 19:19
FEMA Introduces “Kids Korner” at Disaster Recovery Centers
FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA invites you and your children to visit "Kids Korner" at the Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky. This family-focused initiative offers fun and interactive activities to help your family prepare for emergencies.
At the Disaster Recovery Center, families can engage in hands-on learning about disaster preparedness. Children can participate in educational activities, including getting a disaster preparedness coloring book filled with important safety information presented in a fun, child-friendly way.
Parents are encouraged to join their children in these activities. In addition to engaging with FEMA representatives, parents will learn how to enhance their family’s safety plan. These activities not only educate children on emergency response but also empower parents to play an active role in ensuring their family's safety.
This “Kids Korner” initiative is part of a broader effort to build stronger, more resilient communities by empowering families with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe during emergencies.
To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, please visit fema.gov/drc. At the DRC, you can also get in-person assistance with applying for federal disaster assistance.
Other ways to connect with FEMA:
- Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators 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.
- Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download and use the FEMA app.
FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.
gerard.hammink Fri, 08/30/2024 - 19:03Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Harris County August 31
AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Harris County on Aug. 31 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl.
Center location:
Crosby Community Center
409 Hare Road
Crosby, TX 77532
Disaster Recovery Centers operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday. Any DRC can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26 - June 5 storms and flooding. To find a center location near you, go to fema.gov/drc.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Residents in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
To shorten wait times at Disaster Recovery Centers, Texans are encouraged first to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App. To apply, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Fri, 08/30/2024 - 17:51FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Lyndon
A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is now open in Lyndon, at the Lyndonville Public Safety Facility from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The joint DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between Lyndon, the state of Vermont and FEMA, has disaster assistance specialists available to help disaster survivors apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.
The DRC is located at:
- Lyndonville Public Safety Facility - 316 Main St., Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Hours: Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
You do not need an appointment to visit a DRC.
Other DRCs open include:
- Waterbury Armory - 294 Armory Blvd, Waterbury, VT 05676
- Barre Auditorium - 20 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
- Goddard College - 123 Pitkin Road, Plainfield, VT 05667
All locations are open Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
FEMA specialists and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which can provide low-interest disaster loans to survivors, will be on hand at all DRCs to discuss available assistance.
Those affected by the disaster do not have to visit a DRC in order to apply. Survivors can also register in one of the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. The FEMA website is accessible and includes language translation options.
- By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
- Download FEMA’s Mobile App. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 1-833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
adrien.urbani Fri, 08/30/2024 - 14:15Two West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Open Labor Day
Aug. 30, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-010
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov
Media Advisory
Two West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Open Labor Day
CHARLESTON, W.Va. –Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Boone and Roane counties will be open Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, to help West Virginia residents of Boone, Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel and Wood counties impacted by the April 11-12, 2024, storms and flooding. The deadline to apply is Nov. 2, 2024.
The recovery centers are located at:
Boone County Disaster Recovery CenterMadison City Hall
255 Washington Ave.
Madison, WV 25130
Hours of operation:
Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Roane County Mobile Disaster Recovery CenterOld National Guard Armory Parking Lot
206 E Main St.
Spencer, WV 25276
Hours of operation:
Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed on Sundays
Survivors do not have to visit a center to register with FEMA. They may do so by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. They can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app on their smartphone.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
issa.mansaray Fri, 08/30/2024 - 12:52FEMA Adjusts Services for Labor Day, September 2
Cape Girardeau, MO – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster operation in Missouri is making service adjustments in observance of the upcoming Labor Day holiday on Monday, Sept. 2, 2024.
Disaster Recovery Centers:- Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Sikeston and Doniphan will be closed on Labor Day. The centers already are closed on Sundays. Both DRCs will reopen at 8 a.m. on Tuesday and resume operating hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Fri.; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
- The Sikeston DRC is located at the YMCA, 511 Taylor Street in Sikeston.
- The Doniphan DRC is located at 209 West Highway St. Doniphan.
- The Disaster Recovery Center in Dexter at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission building, 105 E North Main Street closes permanently at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30.
- FEMA inspections of storm-damaged properties that have already been scheduled for Monday, Sept. 2 at the request of the applicantwill take place.
- FEMA inspectors will not be calling to schedule inspections for Monday, Sept. 2.
- FEMA inspectors also will not be making phone calls on Monday to schedule inspections for a later date. Those calls will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 3.
- There are just three weeks left to apply for FEMA Assistance. Deadline is Sept. 23.
- Anyone who was impacted by the May 19-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding living in one of 10 Missouri counties is eligible to apply for FEMA assistance.
- The 10 counties are: Barry, Butler, Carter, Howell, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas.
- Labor Day will not affect a person’s ability to apply for FEMA. There are 3 ways to apply:
- Online at www.disasterassistance.gov
- Call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Download the FEMA App and apply using a mobile device.
- Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.
- FEMA assistance for individuals and households is in the form of grants that can help pay for eligible, disaster-related costs associated with a temporary place to stay, minimal home repairs and/or other serious needs not covered by insurance or other programs. The grants also can pay for features to help persons with a disability to repair or improve accessibility to their houses.
- FEMA has a toll-free Helpline available to provide disaster survivors the ability to call agency representatives directly to register for assistance, update the contact information for an existing application and/or ask questions about their cases.
- Helpline Number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Hours: Daily, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT
- The FEMA Helpline will operate on Labor Day during its regular business hours and can take new applications.
- Disaster case specialists will not work on existing applications on Labor Day. That work will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 3.
For more disaster-related information, visit the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency online at www.sema.dps.mo.gov or FEMA at www.fema.gov and www.fema.gov/disaster/4803.
thomas.wise Fri, 08/30/2024 - 12:32President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for New York
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available for the state of New York to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm, tornadoes and flooding from July 10-11, 2024.
Public assistance federal funding is available to state, tribal 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, tornadoes and flooding in Cortland, Essex, Hamilton, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Lai Sun Yee has been named 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.
amy.ashbridge Thu, 08/29/2024 - 19:03Disaster Recovery Centers Closed for Labor Day
FRANKFORT, Ky. – All Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky will be closed Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. The centers will reopen 10 a.m. local time, Tuesday, Sept. 3.
To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, you can visit fema.gov/drc. FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
Survivors in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers. FEMA representatives can help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to assist survivors.
It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance or receive help with a pending application or appeal. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call
800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.
To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.
Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.
For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4and at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:42Disaster Recovery Centers in Buena Vista, O’Brien, Palo Alto and Pottawattamie Counties to Close
The Disaster Recovery Centers in Buena Vista, O’Brien and Palo Alto will close permanently on Friday, August 30 at 6 p.m. The DRC in Pottawattamie will also close on Friday, Aug. 30 and reopen in alternate locations after Labor Day.
The DRCs are located at:
Buena Vista County
Sioux Rapids
Municipal Pool
201 Eighth St.
Sioux Rapids, IA 50585
O’Brien County
City of Sheldon
Community Services Center
416 Ninth St.
Sheldon, IA 51201
Palo Alto County
Iowa Lakes
Community College
3200 College Dr.
Emmetsburg, IA 51334
Pottawattamie County
Veterans Affairs Building 623 Sixth Ave.
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Residents may visit any of the open DRCs listed below:
Clay County
Spencer City Hall –
Council Chambers
101 W 5th Street
Spencer, IA 51301
Dickinson County
Dickinson County Expo Bldg. meeting room
1602 15th St.
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Lyon County
Forster Community Center
404 First Ave.
Rock Rapids, IA 51246
Sioux County
City Park Shelter House
1013 13th Ave.
Rock Valley, IA 51247
Woodbury County
Morningside Lutheran Church
700 S. Martha Street
Sioux City, IA 51106
Stay in Touch with FEMA
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download and use the FEMA app
- Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. For Spanish, press 2. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
thomas.wise Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:42FEMA Opening Disaster Recovery Center in Lincoln County
SIOUX FALLS – FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center on Friday, August 30 at 7 a.m. in Canton, South Dakota to provide one-on-one assistance for people affected by the recent severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding.
Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain disaster assistance programs, help people complete or check the status of applications for federal assistance, and get information on additional resources offered by the State of South Dakota.
Disaster Recovery Center Location:
Canton (Lincoln County) – FEMA Disaster Recovery Center
Canton Depot (Museum)
600 W. 5th St.
Canton, SD 57013
Hours of operation: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. seven days a week
More locations in affected areas will open in the coming weeks. To search for Disaster Recovery Centers, visit www.fema.gov/drc.
As of August 28, 2024, FEMA has approved over $3.6 million in assistance to individuals for the South Dakota disaster recovery.
How to Apply for Disaster Assistance
Residents can apply for disaster assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center, or in the following ways:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
- Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
- Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362) anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.
For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as assistive listening devices, resources for low vision, and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448.
anthony.mayne Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:33Two Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Harris County August 30
AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening two Disaster Recovery Centers in Harris County Fri Aug. 30 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl.
Center locations:
George H.W. Bush Community Center
6827 Cypresswood Drive
Spring, TX 77379
Milton Lusk Activity Center
1022 Mercury Drive
Houston, TX 77029
Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday. Any DRC can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26 - June 5 storms and flooding. To find a center location near you, go to fema.gov/drc.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Residents in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
To shorten wait times at the DRC, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:01In Honor of National Preparedness Month, FEMA Partners with National Council of Asian Pacific Americans to Solidify Stronger Connection with AANHPI Communities and Help Them Prepare for Disasters
WASHINGTON -- Each September, FEMA celebrates National Preparedness Month, a time to focus on preparing the nation for emergencies and disasters. FEMA’s 2023 National Household Survey showed that 65% of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander individuals (AANHPI) in the United States do not believe that taking a step to prepare will make a difference. To encourage AANHPI communities to take preparedness actions, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced last May that this year’s campaign will focus on reducing preparedness barriers for AANHPI communities. To underscore this historic effort, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) and announced this year’s National Preparedness Month campaign theme, which is “Start a Conversation,” to close the preparedness gap and address barriers across these communities.
“Preparing for emergencies on blue sky days can make all the difference when keeping communities safe during a disaster. For the past few years, we’ve focused on reaching communities in a culturally competent way and I am excited that this year’s National Preparedness Month will focus on preparing the AANHPI community,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “In honor of this historic commitment, we are proud to join with our partners at NCAPA to solidify our commitment to building stronger connections with the AANHPI community. We look forward to helping these communities become more prepared for future disasters.”
“NCAPA applauds the work of FEMA to ensure that Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander families across the country are prepared for emergencies and disasters. Language accessibility, in particular, is critical to reaching our communities effectively,” said Gregg Orton, executive director at NCAPA. “As extreme weather and climate events intensify, AANHPIs are particularly at risk -- and we have already seen a severe impact on our communities in places like Hawai'i. We will continue our work to ensure that all AANHPI communities can stay informed, aware and safe.”
This partnership formalizes the collaborative, strategic approach FEMA and NCAPA will take to engage trusted leaders and institutions in the AANHPI communities to build prepared communities and a resilient nation. To help AANHPI communities across the nation to take action to keep themselves, their families and neighbors safe, FEMA’s Ready Campaign’s will take the following steps to reach these communities where they are and create culturally competent and in-language messaging to help get them prepared.
Reaching Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Communities Where They Are- Hosting Roundtables and Webinars: FEMA is coordinating and working to engage with AANHPI communities through roundtables across the country. These events will enhance FEMA’s understanding of how preparedness materials are used, identify appropriate channels to share materials and gain necessary insights to better support the needs of the AANHPI communities through culturally appropriate preparedness initiatives and messaging. To ensure that we are reaching AANHPI communities where they are and seeking their input, FEMA hosted a roundtable in Massachusetts and will host additional roundtables in Mississippi, Michigan and Colorado.
Later in September, FEMA will host the following webinars:
- Engaging Communities and Communicating Preparedness Webinar -- September 23 -- 2:30 PM EDT: FEMA and partners will discuss messaging strategies for communicators to prepare their communities for existing and emerging hazards. Presenters will share takeaways from the Risk Communications, Crisis Communications & Community Engagement Summit report and set the stage for continued convenings. Summit learnings will be applied to examples of successful community engagement and risk communications for disaster preparedness. Speakers from multiple sectors will present on a project or initiative that highlights these concepts and participate in a facilitated panel discussion. Click on the link to register for the webinar.
- Research Findings Webinar -- September 16 -- 1:30 PM EDT: The Ad Council and creative partners will present on their research and findings on the AANHPI communities. During the webinar, they will highlight how they have used data to create impactful and relevant preparedness campaigns, share lessons learned from this year’s focus groups, as well as helpful tips for communicators. This webinar is for state, local, tribal and territorial communicators. Registration link to follow.
- Providing Engaging Content: To help communities share information and start the conversation with neighbors and partners, the Ready Campaign has developed a toolkit with messaging and graphics in Chinese (simplified and traditional), Arabic, Korean, 'Ōlelo Hawai’i, Vietnamese, Tagalog and additional languages to help our partners uplift and amplify this year’s National Preparedness Month focus in a culturally competent way. Additionally, the agency is producing public service announcements featuring FEMA employees urging people in these diverse communities to take simple steps to prepare.
- Creating New Advertisements: Since 2021, FEMA and the Ad Council have created public service announcements (PSAs) designed to resonate with other communities who may also be disproportionately affected by disasters including Latino communities, Black and African American communities and older adults. Later this year, FEMA’s Ready Campaign will launch new PSAs highlighting the AANHPI communities and showcasing how the community can prepare for future disasters.
For preparedness messaging, graphics and resources for National Preparedness Month, visit: Ready.gov/September.
amy.ashbridge Thu, 08/29/2024 - 17:35Understanding Your FEMA Determination Letter and How to Appeal
SIOUX FALLS – If you applied for assistance from FEMA, you will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email. The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.
Next Steps
You may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:
- Proof of insurance coverage
- Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
- Proof of identity
- Proof of occupancy
- Proof of ownership
- Proof that the damaged property was your primary residence at the time of the disaster
If you have questions about your letter, or disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.
How to Appeal
The letter from FEMA will provide information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs. It will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. If you disagree with the determination, you have the right to appeal. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.
You can submit your appeal and supporting documentation in the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, where you can create an account and upload documents.
- In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
- By mail
- FEMA Individuals & Households Program
- National Processing Service Center
- P. O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
- By fax
- (800) 827-8112
- Attention: FEMA - Individuals & Households Program
Holiday Schedule for Disaster Recovery Centers in Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– All Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of Labor Day.
All centers except the one at Sarasota Christian Church will operate 9 a.m.- noon on Sunday, Sept. 1. The center at Sarasota Christian Church will be closed Sept. 1.
Centers will resume their normal schedules Sept. 3.
For Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 08/29/2024 - 13:35
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