Disaster Recovery Centers to Close on November 23

The Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) located at the Hinesburg Town Hall (on Route 10632) and the Lyndon Public Safety Facility (316 Main Street) are scheduled to permanently close at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23. Operating hours for the centers until then are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The centers were opened for residents affected by the storms and flooding that took place July 9-11 and July 29-31 and who wanted to speak to FEMA and other disaster recovery specialists in person. 

Residents don’t need to visit the DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. Other ways to register before the Nov. 25th deadline include:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• With the FEMA mobile app
• Calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in multiple languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or another relay service, give FEMA your number for that service when you call. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.                    

After the deadline, FEMA specialists will still be available to help applicants. Those who have already applied to FEMA, can ask questions, update contact information and applications and get advice on appealing a FEMA determination by calling the helpline.

adrien.urbani Thu, 11/21/2024 - 15:12

Farmers, Ranch Hands May Be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

Tennessee farmers and ranch hands whose tools or equipment were damaged by Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible for disaster assistance. FEMA assistance is available to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment and items required for employment or self-employment.

Coverage For Tools and Equipment

Family-owned farms typically have a variety of equipment needed to conduct business. These include, but are not limited to, tractors, plows, seeders or planters, harvesters, sprayers, hay balers and utility vehicles. These items are all potentially eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if you can show the following:

• Items were damaged by the disaster;
• You do not have another working item that can meet this need;
• The loss of the item was not covered by insurance. 

Crops and livestock are not “tools and equipment” because they are the products of a farming operation, whereas tools and equipment are the means of production.

Ranch hands may be eligible for assistance to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment not covered by insurance when you can show these items are required by your employer.

Disaster-damaged tools, supplies, equipment and items required by an employer as a condition of employment or required for education may be eligible for assistance. This includes personal property required for a specific trade or profession that is not provided or supplied by an employer.

Many of these items have substantial costs, but it is important to remember that assistance for uninsured or underinsured occupational tools is limited to the maximum amount of Other Needs Assistance you may receive. Additional assistance to help meet these needs may also be available from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Apply for FEMA Assistance

To apply for FEMA assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, you can provide FEMA your number for the service. You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

You may also qualify for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds for homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 11/20/2024 - 23:59

Work with FEMA to Help Tennessee Recover from Helene

FEMA is hiring! Join the team that helps people in need before, during and after disasters.

FEMA is seeking to fill multiple positions that help Tennessee residents recover from Tropical Storm Helene. Jobs are available in Knoxville and Nashville, and candidates with diverse experiences are encouraged to apply.

These temporary positions start as 120-day appointments, which may be extended based on the needs of the recovery mission.

To apply for a position or see a list of open positions, visit this link: USAJOBS - Search; go to USAJobs.gov, type “FEMA” and “local hire” in the keywords section and “Tennessee” for location.

All positions will close at 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date or when 100 applications are received.

For tips, including how to prepare your resume and navigate the website, visit USAJOBS Help Center - Application Process.

Hiring locally helps build FEMA’s disaster recovery workforce. Many career FEMA employees began as local hires.

All applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes fingerprinting and a credit check. Employees are also required to participate in direct deposit or electronic funds transfer for salary payment. If you are found qualified, you may be called for an interview.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 11/20/2024 - 23:56

One Month Later: Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Flooding Disaster Recovery Update

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – One month since President Joseph R. Biden declared a major disaster in the State of Alaska for flooding on August 5-6, a total of 248 people in The City and Borough of Juneau have applied with FEMA for assistance as of November 19, 2024. 

FEMA has approved $2,601,363.88 through the Individuals and Households Program (IHP), consisting of $1,330,957.10 in Housing Assistance (HA) for home repairs, and $1,270,406.78 in Other Needs Assistance (ONA) for repair or replacement of personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, moving expenses and other disaster-related needs.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is December 16, 2024.

National Flood Insurance Program

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has provided $2,425,391 on 31 flood insurance claims for the Alaska disaster as of November 18, 2024.

Public Assistance Program

FEMA and the State of Alaska are meeting with the City and Borough of Juneau to identify eligible costs related to the disaster. FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program provides assistance to governmental agencies and certain eligible private nonprofits providing critical and certain non-critical services. The program provides a reimbursement grant of at least 75% of eligible costs, with the state sharing the 25% balance.

Although PA dollars are awarded to the eligible government entities and nonprofits, PA benefits the whole community. PA dollars help clean up debris and repair or rebuild disaster-damaged public streets and highways, bridges, dams, parks and recreation facilities, water-treatment plants, hospitals, fire stations, public schools and universities that have been impacted by disaster.

Disaster Recovery Center

As of November 16, 155 applicants have been assisted at the Disaster Recovery Center for a total of 263 visits. Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration have been and will continue to provide information on available services and explain disaster assistance programs. Tlingit & Haida Community Navigators are also on site at the library ready to assist tribal citizens.

Location:
Mendenhall Valley Public Library 
3025 Dimond Park Loop
Juneau, AK 99801

Hours:
10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday

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.

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 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.

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.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Applicants are encouraged to submit their SBA loan applications promptly for review. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. For more information, contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955. 

For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. TTY users may call 800-877-8339, email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov or visit SBA’s website at https://lending.sba.gov. 

amy.ashbridge Wed, 11/20/2024 - 22:35

Don’t Throw it Away: Tips to Save Family Treasures

ATLANTA – Georgians who had family treasures, heirlooms, photos and books damaged during Tropical Storm Debby (Aug. 4--20) and Hurricane Helene shouldn’t throw them away just yet. They may be salvageable and expert advice is available to help.

Here are some tips on how to save some of your family treasures:

• Flood water may be contaminated. Wear protective gloves, clothing and goggles.
• If an object is still wet, rinse it gently with clean water. If dry, remove silt and other foreign material with a soft brush or damp cloth.
• Air dry wet things indoors. Sunlight might be too intense. Keep humidity as low as possible to prevent mold accumulation.
• Don’t try to separate photos or negatives that are stuck together. Soak them in water for up to 48 hours until you can safely pull them apart. Hang them with clips or clothespins to dry.
• Put wet books in a sturdy covered plastic container, spine side down. Place the container in a freezer and keep it there for several weeks, even months. Then remove and let dry.
• With fabrics or textiles, remove mud and debris with gently flowing clean water or fine spray from a hose. Press out the excess water with your hand. Do not try to wring out the water. Allow to dry.
• Clean wooden objects (like furniture) with a damp sponge; blot and let dry slowly inside the house, not under the sun.
• Rinse metal objects with clear water and blot dry immediately with a clean, soft cloth. Fans or low-heat hairdryers will hasten drying rate.
• For broken pottery or ceramics, put all the pieces in an open container and mark what it is. Don’t try to glue the pieces back together until they are dry. And watch for mold. If mold appears, spray the pieces with Mold-Ex or a similar product.

American Institute for Conservation and the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation provides advice on the proper care and maintenance of family heirlooms as well as a search tool to find local conservation professionals that can help salvage photos, books, textiles, paintings, wooden furniture and other valuable objects.

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.

bree-constance… Wed, 11/20/2024 - 14:52

Hurricane Helene Survivors in Va. May Be Eligible for Reimbursement for Damage-Related Home Repairs

BRISTOL, Va.— If you completed home repairs due to damage from Hurricane Helene in Virginia, FEMA may be able to reimburse you. 

Submit receipts to FEMA for home repair work not covered by insurance or other sources. FEMA may be able to reimburse impacted households in Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe counties and the cities of Galax and Radford.  

FEMA may be able to pay for the following as part of the Individual Assistance program:  

• Cost of a professional, licensed technician who visited your home and prepared an estimate for repairs or replacement of disaster-damaged systems and uninsured or underinsured losses.  
• Costs to rebuild or make basic repairs so your home is safe, sanitary, and functional. This includes replacing or repairing disaster-damaged: 
  • Furnaces, hot water heaters, refrigerators, and stoves 
  • Leaks in a roof that damaged ceilings 
  • Subfloors in occupied parts of the home  
  • Broken windows 
  • Well and septic systems
  • The purchase or renting of generators or chainsaws due to damage from the storm.  

When you submit documents, make sure to include your name, disaster number (DR-4831), and your FEMA application number on all documents that you send to FEMA. Keep original documents; you only need to provide copies to FEMA, which can include photos or an insurance claim. Make sure that documents such as receipts and cost estimates contain the contact information of the service provider.

If you lost a receipt, you can still provide that information to FEMA. You can reach out to your credit card company, the store you visited, or the contractor you worked with to ask for billing statements and receipts. You can also ask a company or contractor to write a letter stating what work was done. 

If you have already applied for FEMA assistance and want FEMA to consider new expenses, you can make changes to your application. If you already received a FEMA determination letter and you don’t agree with FEMA’s decision, you can appeal by showing why you need FEMA assistance. The decision letter you get from FEMA will have more information about the types of documents you should send. 

Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to get one-on-one help with next steps specific to your application. To find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.   

How can I send documents or receipts? 

You can send supporting documents and receipts to FEMA by:

• Bringing them to a Disaster Recovery Center where a FEMA specialist can help you upload them to your application.  
• Uploading them yourself on DisasterAssistance.gov or on the FEMA mobile app. 
• Mailing them to FEMA at P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055. 
• Faxing them to 1-800-827-8112 and mark Attn: FEMA on the fax sheet. 

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and 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.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to 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 have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

 

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of persons with disabilities. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by the federal government, federal contractors, and by recipients of federal financial assistance. Any recipient or sub-recipient of federal funds is required to make their programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. Its protections apply to all programs and businesses receiving any federal funds. This applies to all elements of physical/architectural, programmatic and communication accessibility in all services and activities conducted by or funded by FEMA. FEMA intends to comply with the Rehabilitation Act in all federally conducted and assisted programs in alignment with the principals of whole community inclusion and universal accessibility.

amanda.hancher Wed, 11/20/2024 - 14:43

Health Centers in the South Repaired with FEMA Funds

Organizations provide primary health services and home visits, among other assistance

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO — Juan Abreu is a patient of the Patillas Primary Health Services Center (CSPS, in Spanish). Abreu has a condition that prevents him from walking and the Center offers him medical services through its home visit program.

Mildred Morel Ortiz, executive director of the CSPS, said that the patient and family support the services of the institution, which includes a health education program that they broadcast on the radio.

“He is the first to call, where he communicates that he likes the program and how happy he is with the center, his doctor and nurse.” “Our wish is that God grants him years of life. He cannot move, but he can communicate his feelings and opinions,” said Morel Ortiz.

CSPS is one of several healthcare facilities serving communities in the southern region that were recently repaired with nearly $345,000 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds to address damages caused by Hurricane María.

“Health is vital to all aspects of our society and it’s part of Puerto Rico’s comprehensive recovery plan. Being able to have health centers that adequately serve the population in repaired facilities and in optimal conditions is part of our mission at FEMA,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The CSPS received nearly $103,000 to repair its centers in Patillas and Maunabo. These centers offer outpatient services and primary medicine, pediatrics, psychology, vaccinations and pharmacy, among others. They also visit communities with a mobile unit.

For Morel Ortiz, “an infrastructure in good condition guarantees patients and employees better access to treatment areas, preventive and emergency medical services, in good working order and have comfortable and clean waiting spaces. This improves the patient’s experience, reduces stress and increases patient satisfaction,” she added.

The Patillas Center also houses the administrative offices and has 260 regular employees and 25 professional service employees. FEMA funds allowed the replacement of equipment such as an X‑ray machine, acoustic ceiling panels and a security camera. Likewise, the windows shutters were removed and reinstalled and the roof was waterproofed.

On the other hand, at the Maunabo Clinic, repairs were carried out for the windows and the roof. An allocation of $15,000 were earmarked for risk mitigation measures that include waterproofing the roof, installing drains and voltage protectors for the X-ray machine.

Another entity that that received funds was the Dr. Julio Palmieri Ferri, Inc. Family Health Center. The agency allocated nearly $242,000 for work at its centers located in Guayama and Arroyo. They offer services such as emergency room seven days a week, telemedicine, teleconsultation, dental care, obstetrics and prenatal care. 

They also have a Women’s Clinic, the Ryan White Program for HIV/AIDS patients and the Healthy School program, a clinic located at the Natividad Rodríguez González de Arroyo High School that offers general medicine, health education, psychology and nutrition services.

Some of the repairs in the Guayama center included the replacement of several light fixtures and a roof treatment to prevent leaks. Meanwhile, at the Arroyo center, several illuminated signs, security cameras, backup batteries, power distribution units, air conditioners, an X-ray film reader and an electrical transformer, among others, were replaced.

For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “each of these projects that were developed addressed the damages caused by Hurricane María and implemented risk mitigation measures to provide resilience to the infrastructure. Our COR3 team will continue to assist the municipalities, government agencies and non-profit organizations that oversee the reconstruction work associated with the health sector for the benefit of our people.”

To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $34.3 billion for over 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico following Hurricane María.

Follow us at:

www.fema.gov/hurricane-maria

www.facebook.com/femapuertorico 

www.twitter.com/femaregion2

 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 11/20/2024 - 14:17

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Callahan Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on November 11 at 2:46 p.m. PST / 5:46 p.m. EST to assist the state of Nevada in combating the Callahan Fire, burning in Washoe County.

On November 11, the state of Nevada submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 3,000 homes south of Reno, in and around the communities of Callahan Ranch, Saddle Ridge, Mountain Ridge, Montreux, Nevada, with a combined population of 3,000. All the threatened homes are primary residences.

The fire started on November 11, 2024, and had burned more than 100 acres by the time the FMAG was approved.

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… Wed, 11/20/2024 - 00:47

Use FEMA Grants for Intended Purpose

FEMA reminds Tennesseans in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties who receive federal disaster assistance for damage from Tropical Storm Helene to use the money for its intended purpose and to keep receipts for expenses.

Disaster assistance is intended to help you pay for basic expenses caused by the disaster. The grants are tax-free and do not need to be repaid.

A letter explaining what the money is to be used for will arrive within a day or two of the check or direct deposit payment.

The types of assistance you may be eligible for could include:

• Home repairs (e.g., structure, water, septic and sewage systems);
• Rental assistance for a different place to live temporarily;
• Repair or replacement of a disaster-damaged primary vehicle;
• Uninsured out-of-pocket medical expenses for an injury caused by the disaster;
• Repair or replacement of specialized occupational tools;
• Essential educational materials (e.g., computers, schoolbooks, supplies);
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster; or
• Other disaster-related expenses.

If you spend the grant on anything other than the purpose for which it is intended, you may be denied future disaster assistance. In some cases, FEMA may ask you to return the money.

You are urged to keep receipts for your disaster spending for three years to document that you used the money to meet disaster-related expenses. If you receive an insurance settlement to cover the same expenses, you must reimburse FEMA, which will conduct audits to confirm funds were spent properly.

FEMA cannot seize your property or land, even if you are unable to repay the agency for any duplicated benefits. Applying for disaster assistance does not grant FEMA or the federal government authority or ownership of your property or land.

To apply for FEMA assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, you can provide FEMA your number for the service. You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

You may also qualify for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds for homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is Tuesday, Jan. 7.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 11/19/2024 - 20:34

Resource and Preparedness Summit in Humphreys County

MADISON, Miss. — FEMA will host a free resource and preparedness summit to help community members affected by the March 2023 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes on Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Humphreys County Multipurpose Building, 417 Silver City Road, Belzoni, Mississippi. 

During the summit, survivors will get information on homeownership and housing; workforce development and job training; and adult aging services.

“We’ll also be teaching survivors how to prepare a safety plan and what to include in a kit,” said Gloria Lewis, FEMA federal disaster recovery officer. 

Other summit highlights include establishing a communications plan, documenting and insuring property; and partnering with relatives. 

All are welcome to attend the summit and anyone requiring reasonable accommodations should email gloria.lewis@fema.dhs.gov by Sept. 25. 

For the latest information on the March 2023 recovery, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4@femaregion4.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 11/19/2024 - 18:13

File for Flood Insurance Through the Claims Office

New Deadline is December 20, 2024

SANTA FE, N.M. – Congress and the President extended the deadline to file a claim for flood insurance from May 31, 2024, to December 20, 2024. Requests for flood insurance paid for by the Claims Office must be submitted to the Hermit’s Peak Calf/Canyon Claims Office by December 20, 2024. Claimants can either submit a new Notice of Loss (NOL) for flood insurance or amend an existing Notice of Loss.

Eligible individuals and/or businesses with a heightened risk of flood from the fire may receive National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood insurance for a period of five years. To receive a federal NFIP policy or to be reimbursed for a private flood insurance policy, you must submit a NOL for flood insurance no later than the December 20 deadline. There is a 30-day mandatory waiting period for all new NFIP policies. Submitting a claim for flood insurance coverage by the December 20, 2024, deadline will help to ensure coverage goes into effect before spring snow melt and monsoon season begin.

There are two options for obtaining flood insurance through the Claims Office:

• The Claims Office can pay for up to five years of flood insurance coverage through the NFIP and there are no out of pocket expenses, as the Claims Office will pay for the premium directly.
• Claimants can be reimbursed for a policy purchased between April 6, 2022, and December 20, 2024, through either the NFIP or a private insurance company if they were not required to carry flood insurance before April 6, 2022, and now are required to purchase flood insurance or have a heightened risk of flood.

Eligible structures include:

• Properties that were not required to carry flood insurance prior to the start of the fire on April 6, 2022, and did not purchase flood insurance before April 6, 2022.
• Properties where there is a heightened risk of flood from the fire that were not insured prior to the fire.
• Properties owned or rented by claimants located in NFIP-participating communities in Mora and San Miguel counties.
• Properties owned or rented by claimants outside of Mora and San Miguel counties but in proximity to the burn scar may be eligible on a case- by-case basis if they can demonstrate an increased risk of flooding.
• Properties owned or rented by claimants with two or more outside rigid walls with a fully secured roof and that is affixed to a permanent foundation.

If the property was required to carry flood insurance before the fire, it is not eligible to obtain flood insurance through the Claims Office. If the individual’s community is not an NFIP participating community, they 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 Claims Office Helpline, 24/7 at (505) 995-7133. 

If an individual has already submitted a NOL and would like to discuss eligibility for this flood insurance policy, they can reach out to their Navigator to discuss their options.

If an individual has not yet submitted a NOL, the deadline for submission is Dec. 20, 2024. To discuss eligibility for a flood insurance policy through the Claims Office call the Claims Office Helpline 24/7 at 505-995-7133 or via email at fema-hermits-peak@fema.dhs.gov.

The Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of impacted people by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and cascading effects by providing compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. At the time of publication, the FEMA Claims Office has paid $1.5 billion to claimants.

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.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 11/19/2024 - 17:35

Disaster Recovery Center in Southbury to Permanently Close Nov 19

Rocky Hill, CT – The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Southbury, Connecticut, opened to help those affected by the August 18-19, 2024 Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides, will close permanently at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19. 

DRC Location: 

Southbury Town Hall
501 Main Street, South
Southbury, CT 06488 

The DRC is still open Monday, November 18 and Tuesday, November 19 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is November 19, 2024. 

After the DRC closes, survivors can still view the status of their application online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading and using FEMA’s Mobile App. Individuals may also call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to discuss their case with a FEMA representative. 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 12 a.m. (midnight) seven days a week.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 11/19/2024 - 17:00

FEMA Encourages Hurricane Helene Survivors to Check Your Furnace and Appliances as Winter Comes

BRISTOL, Va.— Winter is on its way to the Blue Ridge Mountains. As temperatures continue to drop, take this time to check your heating system, water heater, furnace, and other electrical appliances that might have been damaged by Hurricane Helene. If your appliance isn’t working and isn’t covered by your insurance, you may be eligible to receive help from FEMA to repair or even replace it. 

To apply for FEMA assistance, go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA App on your phone. If you use a video relay service or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for the service. For in-person assistance, visit your local Disaster Recovery Center. The registration deadline is Monday, December 2, 2024.

When you apply for assistance, be sure to indicate the furnace and other essential electrical appliances damaged during the disaster. FEMA disaster assistance may provide reimbursement for the cost of a professional and licensed technician’s estimate of the repair or replacement of these items. If you have already repaired or replaced these items, you can provide FEMA with valid estimates or receipts.

If you discover your heating system needs replacing after you have already received a FEMA grant, you can use the FEMA appeals process to request additional assistance. To learn more about the process, visit a Disaster Recovery Center for one-on-one assistance or call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you choose to appeal, you must do so within 60 days of the date of your determination letter. www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/after-applying/appeals.

Repair and prepare your home before temperatures plummet. Here are some easy, low-cost tips to keep you safe, more secure, and more prepared in the face of the cold months ahead:

• Inspect the exterior of your home to check for cracks or gaps in your weatherstripping and caulking. Seal any air leaks you detect.
• Replace furnace and heat pump filters once a month or as needed. Ensure interior and exterior vents are clean and not obstructed.
• Clean your gutters of fallen leaves and twigs to allow for proper drainage for rain and melting snow. Ensure downspouts are draining away from the foundation of your home.
• Drain the water from outdoor garden hoses. Disconnect hoses from faucets and cover the faucets.
• Clear debris from your roof. Cut back overhanging branches to prevent damage to shingles and gutters.
• Check your attic and ceilings for staining from water leakage. While you’re up there, make sure the attic is properly ventilated to prevent mold and mildew.

 

For additional guidance on becoming #WinterReady, please visit https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.

 

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and 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.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to 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 have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

 

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of persons with disabilities. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by the federal government, federal contractors, and by recipients of federal financial assistance. Any recipient or sub-recipient of federal funds is required to make their programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. Its protections apply to all programs and businesses receiving any federal funds. This applies to all elements of physical/architectural, programmatic and communication accessibility in all services and activities conducted by or funded by FEMA. FEMA intends to comply with the Rehabilitation Act in all federally conducted and assisted programs in alignment with the principals of whole community inclusion and universal accessibility.

amanda.hancher Tue, 11/19/2024 - 15:42

Verifying Your Identity for FEMA Assistance in South Carolina After Hurricane Helene

You do not need identification to start the application process for FEMA assistance if you were affected by Hurricane Helene. However, FEMA may need proof of identity, residence and other documentation before assistance can be paid. 

If FEMA is unable to verify your identity during the application process, you will be required to submit one of the following supporting documents:

• Documentation from the Social Security Administration, or other federal entity, containing full or last four digits of your Social Security Number.
• Social Security card if sent with federal or state-issued identification.
• Employer’s payroll document containing full or last four digits of your SSN.
• Military identification.
• Marriage license to confirm proof of maiden name.
• U.S. passport.

On a case-by-case basis, FEMA may allow applicants residing in U.S. territories to submit specific identity verification documents, such as voter registration cards, etc.

Additionally, if you applied for assistance on behalf of a U.S. minor (child) citizen for your household, you must send FEMA any of the documents listed above, if in the child’s name, or the child’s birth certificate. You must also submit a copy of the child’s Social Security card or documentation from the Social Security Administration, or other federal entity, containing the full or last four digits of the child's SSN.

How To Apply

If you have not applied for FEMA assistance yet, there is still time to submit your application. 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. 

You can apply in several ways: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, in person at any Disaster Recovery Center, on your phone using the FEMA mobile app or by calling the FEMA Helpline. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

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

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 11/19/2024 - 12:41

FEMA Extends Application Deadline for Mid-July Severe Storms; Disaster Recovery Centers to Close This Week

SPRINGFIELD – Homeowners and renters who suffered damage or loss from the July 13 – 16 severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding have additional time to apply for federal disaster assistance. 

FEMA has extended the application deadline to December 13, 2024, for residents in Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago counties.

FEMA assistance may include grants for temporary housing, basic home repair or replacement and other disaster-related expenses, such as moving and storage costs, primary vehicle repair or replacement, essential furniture and appliances, medical and dental costs, and childcare costs.

The fastest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. 

Residents can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for assistance in-person. The remaining centers in Illinois will close this week.

The Chicago Lawn Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently on Wednesday, November 20, at 6 p.m.:

Chicago Lawn Branch Library
6120 S. Kedzie Ave.
Chicago, IL 60629
Hours: Mon. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Tues. 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The following centers will close permanently on Friday, November 22, at 6 p.m.:

Burnham Community Center
14020 Torrence Ave.
Burnham, IL 60633
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Clyde C. Jordan Senior Citizen Center
6755 State St.
East Saint Louis, IL 62203
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Cahokia Heights Fitness and Community Center
509 Camp Jackson Rd.
Cahokia Heights, IL 62207
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.

kimberly.keblish Mon, 11/18/2024 - 21:57

FEMA Approves $5.9 Million for North Dakota Department of Emergency Services

DENVER – FEMA approved $5.9 million in Public Assistance funding to North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (NDDES). The aid comes as part of President Biden’s major disaster declaration issued in response to the severe winter storms, high winds, and flooding in 2022. 

This $5.9 million in FEMA funding reimburses NDDES for administrative and other response and recovery costs during the 2022 severe winter storm and flooding disaster. This funding covers 100 percent of the eligible costs.

FEMA has now approved more than $72.1 million in Public Assistance funds to North Dakota for the 2022 severe winter storms, high winds, and flooding.

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides funding to governmental agencies and certain private non-profits for eligible disaster response costs. For more information about the Public Assistance program, visit: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.

anthony.mayne Mon, 11/18/2024 - 21:33

FEMA Announces Changes to Disaster Recovery Center Hours

RALEIGH, N.C. -  As North Carolinians continue to recover from Helene, FEMA is announcing changes to the hours of operation for Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) across North Carolina. These decisions were made in partnership with the state and local governments.

• Effective Monday, Nov. 25, DRCs will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
• All DRCs are now closed Sundays.
• DRCs will be closed Nov. 28–Dec. 1 for Thanksgiving weekend. All DRCs will reopen 8 a.m. Monday, Dec. 2.
  A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.  

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. 

To find a DRC location near you, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a ZIP code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.   

Homeowners and renters 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.  

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. 

barbara.murien… Mon, 11/18/2024 - 21:29

FEMA Approves $2.1 Million to Billings for Water Treatment Plant Flood Repairs

DENVER – FEMA has approved $2.1 million to help the city of Billings, Montana repair the flood damage to its water treatment plant. The aid comes as part of President Biden’s major disaster declaration issued in response to the Yellowstone River flooding and severe storms in June 2022. 

The prolonged rainfall and resulting flooding caused damage to the water treatment facility, including multiple intakes that draw the river water into the treatment plant. The $2.1 million in FEMA funding will bring the facility to its pre-disaster function and capacity and includes hazard mitigation modifications that will make the plant more resilient to future flooding. This project is 75% funded by FEMA.

FEMA has now approved more than $40.1 million in Public Assistance funds to help Montana communities recover from the 2022 storms and flooding.

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides funding to governmental agencies and certain private non-profits for eligible disaster response costs. For more information about the Public Assistance program, visit: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.
 

anthony.mayne Mon, 11/18/2024 - 21:25

Florida Hurricane Survivors Should Stay in Touch with FEMA

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– After you apply for federal disaster assistance, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from unidentified or out of area numbers. 

If there are changes in your phone number, current address, banking or insurance information, please let FEMA know as soon as possible or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence.

FEMA may need to call some survivors to continue processing their application for assistance after Hurricanes Milton and Helene. FEMA also may contact some survivors to obtain more information for their application.

You can update your contact information in several ways: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free. Don't believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, 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. FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights can be contacted at FEMA-OCR@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

 

sixto.valentin… Mon, 11/18/2024 - 19:11

Two Weeks Left for Virginians to Apply for FEMA Assistance

BRISTOL, Va.— Individuals and households in Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe counties and the cities of Galax and Radford who were affected by Hurricane Helene have two weeks left to apply for assistance. 

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance in the following ways:

• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download the FEMA mobile app  
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in most languages. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is December 2, 2024.

FEMA assistance may cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs. 

FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is non-taxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, or other benefits. 

Have Questions About a FEMA Determination Letter? Visit Us for Help. 

If you have already applied for FEMA assistance and have questions about the status of your application or about appealing a FEMA determination letter you have received, visit a DRC near you for one-on-one assistance or call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362. FEMA staff are ready to answer your questions. If you choose to appeal, you must do so within 60 days of the date of your determination letter. 

 

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and 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.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to 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 have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. 

 

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of persons with disabilities. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by the federal government, federal contractors, and by recipients of federal financial assistance. Any recipient or sub-recipient of federal funds is required to make their programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. Its protections apply to all programs and businesses receiving any federal funds. This applies to all elements of physical/architectural, programmatic and communication accessibility in all services and activities conducted by or funded by FEMA. FEMA intends to comply with the Rehabilitation Act in all federally conducted and assisted programs in alignment with the principals of whole community inclusion and universal accessibility.

 

amanda.hancher Mon, 11/18/2024 - 18:17