FEMA Issues Direct Housing Cumulative Public Notice for Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– Public notices have been posted on the FEMA website describing available FEMA assistance and proposed FEMA-funded actions, including activities that may affect historic properties, floodplains and wetlands in Florida for Hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

FEMA may offer specific types of temporary housing at private, commercial or group locations. Before providing temporary housing, FEMA must assess whether the action impacts the 1% annual chance floodplain or wetland, following the process outlined in 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 9. 7(c), determination of proposed action's location, Floodplain determination. Housing for an individual or family in the 1% annual chance floodplain or wetland may be permitted only if the site is deemed the sole practicable alternative and complies with local ordinances and regulations.

Provided there are no feasible alternatives outside the mapped floodplains, FEMA may install Transportable Temporary Housing Units (TTHUs) in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) in Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Okeechobee, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee and Taylor counties to best assist survivors of the flooding from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities through the agency’s Public Assistance programs.

These public notices serve as a disaster wide initial notice to address FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged as a result of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

The public notice for Hurricane Milton is posted on FEMA’s disaster web page at fema.gov/disaster/4834/notices       and on the Florida Division of Emergency Management webpage at floridadisaster.org/public-notices/.

The public notice for Hurricane Helene is posted on FEMA’s disaster web page at fema.gov/disaster/4828/notices and on the Florida Division of Emergency Management webpage at floridadisaster.org/public-notices/.

Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific project by writing to FEMA Region 4, 3005 Chamblee-Tucker Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30341 or by emailing FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Comments should be sent in writing with the subject line “DR 4834-FL EHAD” at the above address within 30 days of the date of this notice. 

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

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

 

sixto.valentin… Thu, 12/12/2024 - 12:10

FEMA Designates Territories and Tribal Nations to Receive Targeted Assistance for Disaster Resilience

WASHINGTON – Today, FEMA is announcing the designation of 275 census tracts in territories and on Tribal Nation lands as Community Disaster Resilience Zones. These zones will be eligible for increased federal support to become more resilient to natural hazards and extreme weather. Congress directed FEMA to designate these zones in the Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act of 2022, a piece of bipartisan legislation to help build resilience to natural hazards in communities most at-risk due to climate change.

After initially designating 483 Community Disaster Resilience Zones on Sept. 6, 2023 for states and the District of Columbia, there are now 758 zones across the United States now eligible for increased federal support. FEMA will continue the process of designating additional zones in territories, states, the District of Columbia and on Tribal Nation lands in 2025. The Community Disaster Resilience Zones announced today reflect all designations in territories and on Tribal lands as of Nov. 20, 2024. FEMA continues to coordinate with many Tribal Nations and territories to complete the designation process.

View the full list online of state, territory, and Tribal Nation designations.

“CDRZ enables joint prioritization and action in the most disadvantaged and underserved communities, which often face the highest risks from natural hazards and disasters but lack the resources to achieve their resilience goals,” said Victoria Salinas, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator. “These communities, including Tribal Nations and territories, are among the most in need. Joint prioritization fosters the collaboration necessary to ensure they have greater access to resources that can make them more resilient to growing climate threats.”

FEMA took a collaborative approach to designating Community Disaster Resilience Zones for territories and Tribal Nations due to challenges with risk data and to allow these entities to use local knowledge and data sources to inform zone selection.

The Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act is intended to support resilience projects within or that primarily benefit a designated zone. The primary benefit of a designation is the potential for increased access to additional funding and technical assistance for resilience and mitigation projects, including an increased 90% federal cost share under the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program.

Community Disaster Resilience Zones have been incorporated into different programs and initiatives across federal agencies and numerous private sector organizations are driving targeted technical assistance to communities with designated zones.

For example, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) priority through the Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI) is to assist communities that are at the highest risk to climate impacts and have the most need for assistance, including designated zones. Five communities with designations were selected for CSCI support this year, totaling over $500,000 for targeted resilience projects in those communities. The program will work with communities to co-develop equitable climate resilience plans that can be readied for funding and implementation.

The vision for the Community Disaster Resilience Zones initiative is to leverage collaboration and cross-sector coordination across all levels of government, philanthropic foundations, private non-profits, universities, the insurance industry and private businesses to help make these areas more resilient to natural hazards.

FEMA Publishes Summary Report of the 2023 Request for Information Comments

In addition to announcing new designations in territories and on Tribal Nation lands, FEMA published a summary report of the comments received from the Community Disaster Resilience Zones and the National Risk Index Request for Information published in the Federal Register. The Request for Information was open for public comment for 60 days from May – July 2023.

FEMA has compiled a response to the comments received and categorized them into six themes:

• Community Engagement
• Data and National Risk Index
• Designation Methodology
• Displacement
• Equity
• Post-Designation Support

FEMA is committed to using this feedback to help improve future designations and implementation across these six categories. The summary report is available on FEMA.gov. A link to the summary report, as well as a list of Community Disaster Resilience Zones, is available in the Federal Register.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 12/11/2024 - 21:43

Disaster Recovery Centers are a Great Place for Assistance

ATLANTA – Disaster Recovery Centers are a great place to get help applying for federal assistance, receive updates on your application and learn about the appeals process. You can also learn more about addressing any needs you may have after getting FEMA assistance.

The locations listed below will be open until further notice, except for those with specific schedule changes as noted:

• The recovery center in Butts County will close permanently at 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13; the center in Tift County will close permanently at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. 
• The mobile disaster recovery center in Telfair County has been extended from Saturday, Dec. 14 to Saturday, Dec. 21.

All Georgia Disaster Recovery Centers are closed on Sundays.

Open Monday – Saturday from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. 

Appling County

Appling County Agricultural Center
2761 Blackshear Highway

Baxley, GA 31513

Butts County

Butts Park & Recreation Building (Ernest Biles Youth Center)

576 Ernest Biles Drive 

Jackson, GA 30233 (closing permanently Dec. 13)

Chatham County

Savannah Technical College

Student Enrichment Center Building

5717 White Bluff Road 

Savannah, GA 31405

Coffee County

The Atrium 
114 N. Peterson Avenue 

Douglas, GA 31533

Columbia County

Columbia County Emergency Mgt. Agency

650 Ronald Reagan Drive

Evans, GA 30809

Emanuel County

Southeastern Technical College, Special Programs Bldg.

346 Kite Road, Building 1

Swainsboro, GA 30401

Jefferson County

National Guard Bid-EOC

1841 Hwy. 24 West

Louisville, GA 30434 (Reopening at noon, Wednesday, Dec. 11)

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road 

Dublin, GA 31021

Lincoln County

Lincoln County Recreation Department

Walter T. Norman Gym

1962 Rowland-York Drive

Lincolnton, GA 30817

Lowndes County

City of Valdosta

4434 North Forrest Street Extension

Valdosta, GA 31605

McDuffie County

Thomson Depot                                                                                     

111 Railroad Street 

Thomson, GA 30824

Richmond County

Hub for Community Innovation

631 Chafee Avenue 

Augusta, GA 30904

Screven County

Screven County Library

106 Community Drive

Sylvania, GA 30467

Tift County

Tift County Swimming Pool

202 Baldwin Drive

Tifton, GA 31794 (closing permanently Dec. 14)

Toombs County

Georgia Department of Human Services 

162 Oxley Drive

Lyons, GA 30436 

Washington County

Sandersville School Building Authority

514 North Harris Street

Sandersville, GA 31082

Wilkes County

Washington Fire Department (Training Room)

212 E. Court St.

Washington, GA 30673

 

FEMA Mobile Registration Center location and hours

Candler County

Candler Recreation Center

621 W. Pine St. 

Metter, GA 30439

Monday, Dec. 9 – Saturday, Dec. 14

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Johnson County

Johnson County Annex

2484 W. Elm St.

Wrightsville, GA 31096

Wednesday, Dec. 11 – Saturday, Dec. 14 

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Telfair County

American Legion

3372 E. Golden Isles Pkwy.

Lumber City, GA 31549

Monday, Dec. 9 – Saturday, Dec. 21

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Ware County

Courthouse Annex

305 Oak St.

Waycross, GA 31501

Monday, Dec. 9 – Saturday, Dec. 14

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

FEMA provides help to all disaster survivors, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Our top priority is ensuring that disaster assistance is reaching people in need.

Homeowners and renters in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Fulton, Glascock, Glynn, Hancock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, McIntosh, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Stephens, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Wheeler and Wilkes counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Georgia and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

If you are in an affected county, you are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. Survivors can also contact the Georgia Call Center at 678-547-2861 for assistance with their application.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne.

larissa.hale Wed, 12/11/2024 - 19:29

FEMA is Hiring to Help with Connecticut’s Severe Storm and Flooding Recovery

Come work for FEMA and help your community recover from the Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides that took place in Connecticut on August 18-19, 2024. 

FEMA is conducting local hiring for jobs in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. The agency is seeking people with experience in customer service, logistics, engineering, emergency management and other job categories.

These positions are full-time 120-day appointments that may be extended depending on operational needs.

FEMA Local Hire employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Health insurance for individual or family coverage. Employer contribution is 75% of premium. Local Hire employees are eligible for enrollment for health insurance coverage as of the official hire/employment date with FEMA.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Ability to earn 4 hours of paid sick leave per pay period.
• Holiday pay.
• Worker’s compensation.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or GED. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes finger printing and credit check, be able to furnish their own transportation to and from work and live within 50 miles of the employing office. Lodging and meals will not be covered or reimbursed by the agency. Employees are also required to participate in mandatory direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment.

How to apply:  Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online by visiting the USAJobs.gov Rocky Hill, CT Local Hire page. As the disaster operational needs shift, new positions will be posted on USAJobs. Candidates can be notified when FEMA Local Hire positions posts. You can save a search to help you look for jobs in your area of interest through USAJobs. For instructions, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center | How to save a search. 

adrien.urbani Wed, 12/11/2024 - 19:15

Resilience Recovery Workshops Continue in the Center and South of the Island

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico ― The municipality of Aguas Buenas is located on the eastern side of the Central Mountain Range. It is composed of a mountainous topography, which makes this town prone to landslides during rainy periods. According to the municipality’s federal programs director, José Ortiz López, many communities were developed without considering issues such as runoff and water management, which has generated vulnerability for the roads that connect its residents.

To mitigate these effects, the municipality of Aguas Buenas is collaborating with the Puerto Rico Landslides Hazard Mitigation Office to implement sensors that monitor at-risk areas to forecast which zones may be vulnerable to landslides.

The implementation of these sensors is one of several tools that were discussed at the fifth workshop of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Regional Recovery Approach. 

The meeting brought together mayors and staff from the central and southern municipalities of the island to provide practical tools that address the needs and problems identified in their communities. Issues such as coastal erosion, landslides, rehabilitation of abandoned structures and relocation of communities at risk were discussed.

“These efforts aim to move toward a more resilient recovery focused on the real needs of communities. The workshops provide tools, contacts and relevant information to empower each municipality and enable them to rebuild stronger,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

During the event, the coordinator of the Landslide Hazard Mitigation Office of the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, Stephen Hughes, spoke about landslide risks on the island, a critical problem in several mountainous areas of the region. Hughes commented that “having these types of meetings is useful to share that message and then create contacts or connections with different communities on the island so that we can expand the effort,” as was the case with Aguas Buenas.

Part of the benefits of this type of workshops — coordinated by FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Division and the Community Assistance Recovery Support Function — is to strengthen collaborative ties between the agencies, communities, non-profit organizations and academia to continue the recovery efforts of each municipality using their own tools and resources, without having to hire large companies.

The director of the Planning Office of the municipality of Caguas, Zaid Isaac, said that “we are in the perfect moment to begin to mitigate and reverse this situation at an environmental level.” Isaac also mentioned that these types of workshops are important “so that each sector begins to do its part and we begin to make real changes to avoid all these types of situations.”

Other panelists at the workshop included the paralegal for the Centro para la Reconstrucción del Hábitat, Melissa Gross, who spoke about abandoned and disused structures. “It is crucial to discuss this with municipal governments, who have the delegated authority by law to handle this public nuisance issue, not only to combat property abandonment, but to use these abandoned properties as affordable housing alternatives for people who are unable to participate in the traditional real estate market,” Gross said.

Also participating in the event were the founder and executive director of Ayuda Legal Puerto Rico, Ariadna Michelle Godreau-Aubert, who offered information on the fair relocation of the most vulnerable communities; and the deputy director of the Caribbean Coastal Ocean Observing System (CARICOOS), Patricia Chardón-Maldonado, who presented information on coastal areas.

FEMA’s fifth Regional Approach to Recovery workshop included attendance from the municipalities of Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Arroyo, Barranquitas, Caguas, Cayey, Coamo, Cidra, Comerío, Guayama, Maunabo, Naranjito, Patillas, Salinas and Santa Isabel.

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.

 

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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 800-621-FEMA (3362) 711/VRS – Video Relay Service). Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish). TTY call 800-462-7585.

manuel.deleon Wed, 12/11/2024 - 14:26

Two North Carolina Disaster Recovery Centers to Close Dec. 14

In partnership with the state and local governments, FEMA will close two Helene Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) as of 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. 

The Jan. 7, 2025, deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is unaffected by the closures.

The DRCs that are permanently closing are the following locations:

• Macon County – Macon County Public Health Center, 1830 Lakeside Dr., Franklin NC, 28734
• Swain County – Swain County Technology and Training Center, 45 East Ridge Dr., Bryson City NC, 28713

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

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

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 12/10/2024 - 23:12

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens on the Crow Tribe Reservation

CROW AGENCY – FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. just west of Crow Agency to help Crow Tribe members apply for disaster assistance if they were impacted by a severe storm earlier this year. 

Members of the Crow Tribe affected by the severe storm and straight-line winds that happened on August 6, 2024 are eligible to apply for assistance. 

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to explain disaster assistance programs, help people complete the application for federal assistance, and get information on additional resources at the Disaster Recovery Center, which is just off I-90 at the Dunmore exit, #503.

Disaster Recovery Center Location:

Black Lodge Community Center 
6772 River Crow Road
Hardin, Montana 59034

Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mon.– Sat. (Closed Sundays and holidays)

On November 14, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden Jr., granted a Major Disaster Declaration for the Crow Tribe of Montana to help the Tribal Nation recover from the severe storm and straight-line winds that occurred August 6, 2024. The declaration provides help through FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program which can help with unmet needs and damages caused by the August 6th storm. The SBA provides low-interest disaster loans that can help individual households and businesses of all sizes in their recovery. 

# # #

Contacts: 

Lynn Kimbrough, FEMA External Affairs, 202-706-0833, lynn.kimbrough@fema.dhs.gov

Yvette Jeffery, U.S. Small Business Administration, 571-564-0248, yvette.jeffery@sba.gov 

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only government resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov

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

anthony.mayne Tue, 12/10/2024 - 22:07

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Closes on December 16

ANCHORAGE, Alaska. – The 60-day registration period to apply for FEMA federal assistance for this year’s Mendenhall Glacier flooding ends December 16, 2024. Late applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis up to 60-days past the deadline. 

December 16 is also the last day the Disaster Recovery Center will be open at the Mendenhall Valley Public Library. Impacted residents will continue to be able to connect with representatives through FEMA’s Alaska Call Center to answer questions about disaster assistance, and receive further guidance, even after the Juneau Disaster Recovery Center closes. 

Juneau residents affected by flooding with questions about their application or how to appeal a FEMA decision, can contact us in the following ways: 

• Visit the Juneau Disaster Recovery Center no later than December 16.
• After the recovery center and assistance application closing date, the best way to contact FEMA is by calling the Alaska Call Center at 866-342-1699 between 10 a.m.-6 p.m. AKT, Monday through Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. AKT, Saturday. 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.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.

The Disaster Recovery Center Updated Hours:

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, December 10-13
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, December 14 
The center will be open on the last day, Monday, December 16.

The address is: 

Mendenhall Valley Public Library 
3025 Dimond Park Loop
Juneau, AK 9980

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.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free 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 Tue, 12/10/2024 - 20:20

FEMA Strengthens Community-Driven Recovery through Updated National Disaster Recovery Framework

WASHINGTON – FEMA updated the National Disaster Recovery Framework (NDRF) to enhance collaboration among disaster recovery managers and help them restore, redevelop and revitalize a variety of sectors that affect communities after disasters. The revised framework includes clear roles and responsibilities during declared disasters, ways to enhance collaboration across the whole community and practical resources to assist in recovery planning efforts. 

States, Tribal Nations and territories, as well as the whole recovery community, can use this framework to more effectively lead and coordinate their disaster recovery efforts. 
 
“Disaster recovery is complicated, but doable,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Disaster recovery requires the whole community come together, in a coordinated way, to assess, manage, and execute to help communities rebuild. The updated framework will help communities understand and navigate the complexity of disaster recovery, get the right people to the decision-making table, and help communities recover stronger than ever.”

The NDRF was developed in collaboration with FEMA and the partnering Recovery Support Function National Coordinating Agencies: U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of Defense, and U.S. Department of the Interior. In addition, other federal partners such as Department of Education, Small Business Administration, and Environmental Protection Agency were involved in providing specialized expertise and input to highlight diverse recovery challenges and resources. Through this concerted effort, FEMA facilitated the integration of expertise and resources across departments and agencies, fostering a unified framework to strengthen recovery coordination.  

The revised framework includes feedback and recommendations from the public during a 30-day public comment period that ended in October 2024.

To learn more, visit fema.gov. 

amy.ashbridge Tue, 12/10/2024 - 19:59

FEMA Offers Free Rebuilding Tips to Georgians in Savannah and Valdosta

ATLANTA -- If you are making repairs to your home after Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, you can get tips from FEMA to make your home safer and stronger at Lowe’s in Savannah and Valdosta.

FEMA Mitigation Specialists are available to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips along with proven methods to prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also offer tips and techniques on rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. 

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster. The FEMA specialists will be available at these locations during the times and dates listed below:

LOCATIONS

Lowe’s Home Improvement

11114 Abercorn St.

Savannah, GA 31419

 

Lowe’s Home Improvement

1106 N. St. Augustine Road

Valdosta, GA 31602

TIMES AND DATES 

8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday, Dec. 9, through Saturday, Dec. 21, daily except Wednesdays. 

For the latest information about Georgia's recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia. Follow FEMA Region 4 @FEMARegion4 on X or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.

larissa.hale Tue, 12/10/2024 - 17:47

Apply for FEMA Assistance Even If You Are Unsure You Qualify

When your home has been damaged or destroyed in a disaster and you aren’t sure what your insurance will cover or if you qualify for federal help, you may put off applying for FEMA assistance. Don’t.

Gather your documents and take time to complete an application. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, Jan. 7.

Tennessee survivors of Tropical Storm Helene who live in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington counties may apply. FEMA may be able help with home repairs, rental assistance for your family – and for students – to stay somewhere safe while you put your house in order and grants for replacement of personal items you lost.

FEMA’s childcare assistance pays up to $200 per week for every child under age 13 for up to eight weeks and FEMA transportation assistance covers repair or replacement of the vehicle you lost in the storm.

You have several ways to apply. If you have a computer, go to DisasterAssistance.gov. If not, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service. Specialists speak many languages.

You can also update your contact information at DisasterAssistance.gov. 

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 12/10/2024 - 16:59

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Franklin Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on December 10 at 1:21 a.m. PST / 4:21 p.m. EST to assist the state of California in combating the Franklin Fire, burning in Los Angeles County.

The State of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) on December 10, 2024. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 2,000 homes in and around Malibu, California, of which 10% are primary residences and 90% are secondary residences. Additionally, the fire posed a direct threat to Pepperdine University and approximately 50 businesses in the area.

The Franklin fire started on December 9, 2024, and has burned over 100 acres of state and private land. The FMAG approval provides critical federal funding to assist state and local firefighting efforts aimed at containing the fire and protecting lives and property.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that may escalate into major incidents.

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities related to fighting the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.

brandi.richard… Tue, 12/10/2024 - 16:47

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Greenwood County

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center will open in Greenwood County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Greenwood County

United Way of the Lakelands
929 Phoenix St.
Greenwood, SC 29646

Open Dec. 10-14, Dec. 16-20, 8 a.m.- 7 p.m.

Closed Dec. 15.

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

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

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

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

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

martyce.allenjr Tue, 12/10/2024 - 13:25

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of West Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Post-Tropical Storm Helene from Sept. 25-28, 2024.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Mercer County. 

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Georgeta Dragoiu has been named the 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 damage assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

amy.ashbridge Mon, 12/09/2024 - 23:05

FEMA Issues $292 Million in N.C. Public Assistance Grants

FEMA has obligated more than $292 million for 47 grants to support the Tropical Storm Helene recovery in North Carolina. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local, tribal and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster-damaged public facilities and infrastructure. The program also can reimburse certain private non-profits or houses of worship for response and recovery items. 

Funding for roads and bridges is distributed to the state, which reimburses the county or local government as projects are completed. The following projects were approved for emergency protective measures to eliminate or lessen immediate threats to loss of life, public health or safety:

• $146.3 million to North Carolina Emergency Management for emergency protective measures.
• $20.49 million to North Carolina Emergency Management for disaster management costs.      

More than $78 million in debris removal funding has been obligated. This includes:

• $7.5 million to Avery County.
• $48.3 million to Buncombe County.
• $2.6 million to Burke County.
• $3.7 million to McDowell County.
• $9.9 million to Mitchell County.
• $1.1 million to Rutherford County.
• $4.9 million to Watauga County.

More than $47.3 million in federal funds have been obligated to North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) for repairs to roads and bridges in the following counties:  

• $3.64 million to Ashe County.
• $1.63 million to Avery County.
• $4.07 million to Buncombe County.
• $1.25 to Cleveland County.
• $2.08 million to Haywood County. 
• $2.23 million to Henderson County.
• $3.17 million to Madison County.
• $3.3 million to McDowell County.
• $4 million to Mitchell County.
• $1.71 million to Polk County.
• $1.2 million to Rutherford County.
• $4.8 million to Watauga County.
• $14.3 million to Yancey County.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 12/09/2024 - 22:44

New Interagency Resources Highlight Federal Support of Community-Driven Relocation

WASHINGTON -- The Department of the Interior and FEMA, in partnership with the White House Council on Environmental Quality, Office of Science and Technology Policy, are pleased to announce the release of Opportunities for Federal Support of Community-Driven Relocation and Community-Driven Relocation: Guide for Communities to Federal Programs and Resources. These two resources were produced by the federal interagency Community-Driven Relocation Subcommittee, co-led by the Interior Department and FEMA with representation from 14 federal agencies and seven Executive Offices of the President. 

The Opportunities for Federal Support of Community-Driven Relocation report provides an overview of the current landscape of community-driven relocation in the United States. The phrase “community-driven relocation” is deliberate—the intent is to collectively reinforce that it is essential for the consideration or implementation of planned relocation projects be grounded in a community’s ability to define and determine their future. The report identifies next steps for federal agencies in developing an all-of-government strategy for holistically supporting communities that are relocating or considering relocating. The report also seeks to highlight that the federal government must consider challenges that may exist in the areas that individuals are relocating to (i.e., receiving communities) in order to establish holistic support of community-driven relocation.

This is the first federal report that begins to lay out an approach for building an all-of-government strategy for considering all the needs of a community when choosing community-driven relocation – and it is the first time that climate and legacy pollution-based relocation have been considered together. This report represents the next step to advance collaborative interagency support of communities seeking to relocate out of harm’s way. 

Report Highlights

• Establishes a whole-of-government approach to community-driven relocation, outlining a unified vision, goals, and guiding principles for the federal government to follow.
• Details what community-driven relocation is, describing the challenges and the importance of the adaptation strategy. 
• Examines how the federal government can support communities through existing federal authorities and programs. 
• Presents actions for the federal government to improve support for community-driven relocation through a series of near-term, intermediate-term, and long-term actions. 

An additional resource, the Community-Driven Relocation: Guide for Communities to Federal Programs and Resources, was created as a tool for communities considering relocation to explore available federal resources. The guide includes details on programs, activities, and eligibility to help communities understand the range of opportunities that may be available to them. 

To learn more visit FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Announces New Actions and Historic Progress Supporting Tribal Nations and Native Communities Ahead of Fourth Annual White House Tribal Nations Summit.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 12/09/2024 - 22:21

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Florida

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Florida to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Milton from Oct. 5 to Nov. 2, 2024.

The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased to 100% for debris removal and emergency measures, including direct federal assistance for a period of 120 days of the state’s choosing within the first 180 days from the start of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for public assistance, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and other needs assistance for total eligible costs.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 12/09/2024 - 22:10

FEMA Specialists Offer In-Person Advice on Rebuilding

In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, North Carolinians can benefit from free advice from FEMA experts on how to rebuild stronger and safer. FEMA mitigation specialists will be present in stores in Buncombe and Henderson counties to offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters.

FEMA specialists will be at the following locations on the following dates and times:

Home Depot (Store #3645)
127 Acton Circle
Asheville NC 28806
8 a.m-6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9-Saturday, Dec. 14

Home Depot (Store #3625)
795 Fairview Road 
Asheville NC 28803
8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16-Saturday, Dec. 21

Home Depot (Store #3637)
401 Linda Vista Drive
Hendersonville NC 28792
8 a.m.-6 pm. Monday, Dec. 23; Tuesday, Dec. 24; and Thursday, Dec. 26-Saturday, Dec. 28

Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance in addition to attending these events. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Jan. 7, 2025.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.

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

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for federal assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and more.  

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

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 12/09/2024 - 20:48

Affordable Housing Listening Session for Developers, Nonprofits

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and FEMA will conduct a listening session to engage with local non-profit and for-profit housing developers in Western North Carolina.

The purpose of the session is to gain input from public and private entities about, obstacles and best practices that may allow for the restoration of Helene-damaged housing and the development of new, disaster-resistant housing to improve community housing stock.

Recovering communities should have a range of affordable housing options. Local developers have important experience that will help ensure that North Carolina communities are resilient and meet the housing needs of all populations. Local perspectives allow the federal government to develop meaningful action plans for recovery. 

This session will take place 10-11:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 9. Interested developers can attend this session in person, online or by phone.

Affordable Housing Listening Session
The Western Piedmont Council of Governments
1880 2nd Ave. NW
Hickory NC 28601

Online via Microsoft Teams at Affordable Housing Listening Session – Passcode ZC9AN2tR or by calling 202-510-9533, Conference ID 867728588#.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 12/09/2024 - 20:41

There is Still Time to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance After Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Homeowners and renters affected by Hurricane Helene in South Carolina have until 11:59 p.m., Jan. 7, 2025, to apply for federal disaster assistance. FEMA urges survivors in designated areas to apply as soon as possible.  

FEMA assistance may include funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of your primary home, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items.

Also, farmers, farm employees, self-employed individuals and foresters may be eligible for assistance to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment not covered by insurance when they can show these items are required by their employer.

After the deadline of Jan. 7, you may still submit documents, update your contact information and stay in contact with FEMA regarding your application, but you must apply before the deadline.

How To Apply for FEMA Assistance

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation who were affected by Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance. 

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

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

martyce.allenjr Mon, 12/09/2024 - 20:33