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Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Buncombe County

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 11/08/2024 - 15:39
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Buncombe County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Saturday, Nov. 9, in Asheville (Buncombe County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene. The DRC located in Cane Creek Pool will close Nov. 8 as FEMA staff will transition to the new DRC in Asheville. 

The Buncombe County DRC is located at:  

Asheville Mall (Former Gap Store)
3 S. Tunnel Road
Asheville, NC 28805 
Hours of Operation; 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily

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 additional DRC locations, 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… Fri, 11/08/2024 - 20:39
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Closed Veterans Day

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 11/08/2024 - 15:38
FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Closed Veterans Day

All FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Tennessee will be closed on Monday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day. They will reopen at 8 a.m. ET Tuesday.

Disaster Recovery Centers help Tennesseans affected by Tropical Storm Helene apply for FEMA assistance and get information and advice about community, state and federal resources. Survivors wishing to speak to FEMA specialists in person may visit any recovery center.

Disaster Recovery Centers

CountyAddressRegular Days of Operation (Eastern Time)Carter

1749 Highway 19 E.

Elizabethton, TN 37643

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Cocke

Cocke County Recreation Department

466 Learning Road/Way*

Newport, TN 37821

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday 

*Depending on your navigation service, the address may show up as 466 Learning Way.

Greene

Greene County Courthouse/Annex

204 N. Cutler St.

Greeneville, TN 37745

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Hamblen

Utility Commission Conference and Training Center

441 Main St.

Morristown, TN 37814

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Johnson

Tennessee National Guard Armory

1923 S. Shady St.

Mountain City, TN 37683

Opening day: noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8

Regular hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Unicoi

 

National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center

615 South Main Ave.

Erwin, TN 37650

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Washington

Cherry Grove Baptist Church

104 Cherry Grove Rd.

Jonesborough, TN 37659

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 11/08/2024 - 20:38
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Johnson County

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 11/08/2024 - 15:24
FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Johnson County

A Disaster Recovery Center will open at noon ET Friday, Nov. 8, in Mountain City to help Tennesseans affected by Tropical Storm Helene apply for FEMA assistance and get information and advice about community, state and federal resources.

The Johnson County center will be located at:

Tennessee National Guard Armory
1923 S. Shady St.
Mountain City, TN 37683
Opening Day Hours: noon to 7 p.m. ET 
Regular Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday; closed Sunday

Disaster Recovery Centers

CountyAddressRegular Days of Operation (Eastern Time)Carter

1749 Highway 19 E.

Elizabethton, TN 37643

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Cocke

Cocke County Recreation Department

466 Learning Road/Way*

Newport, TN 37821

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

*Depending on your navigation service, the address may show up as 466 Learning Way.

Greene

Greene County Courthouse/Annex

204 N. Cutler St.

Greeneville, TN 37745

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Hamblen

Utility Commission Conference and Training Center

441 Main St.

Morristown, TN 37814

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Johnson

Tennessee National Guard Armory

1923 S. Shady St.

Mountain City, TN 37683

Opening day: noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8

Regular hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Unicoi

 

National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center

615 South Main Ave.

Erwin, TN 37650

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Washington

Cherry Grove Baptist Church

104 Cherry Grove Rd.

Jonesborough, TN 37659

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 11/08/2024 - 20:24
Categories: DHS News

How FEMA Grant Money Should Be Spent

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 11/08/2024 - 13:19
How FEMA Grant Money Should Be Spent

RALEIGH, N.C. -- If you are a disaster survivor in North Carolina who received a federal disaster assistance grant from FEMA after Tropical Storm Helene, it is important to use the money only for disaster related expenses. 

To help you make sure you’re using the money you received appropriately, FEMA sends a letter to grant recipients explaining how you can use the funds. Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses. 

Examples of expenses this grant covers include:

  • Home repairs such as structure, water, septic and sewage systems.
  • Monthly rent and/or deposit if you are displaced from your primary home due to the disaster.
  • Repair or replacement of a flooded essential vehicle.
  • Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster.
  • Repair or replacement of occupational specialized tools and necessary educational materials damaged by the disaster.
  • Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster.
  • Increased childcare expenses.

You should keep receipts for three years to show how you spent FEMA grants and document how your disaster funds were used. 

By federal law, FEMA cannot duplicate assistance from other sources, such as insurance. FEMA may be able to help with costs that your insurance doesn’t cover. You can send FEMA a copy of the documents from your insurance company that show the damage or expenses your insurance covers. 

It is also important to make sure FEMA has your most up-to-date contact information, including addresses, phone numbers and bank accounts. If FEMA does not have your correct information, you may miss letters or phone calls about your assistance application or payment status. 

If you have any questions about your FEMA disaster assistance grant, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

barbara.murien… Fri, 11/08/2024 - 18:19
Categories: DHS News

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open in Bryan, Screven Counties

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 11/08/2024 - 13:10
Additional Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open in Bryan, Screven Counties

ATLANTA -- FEMA opened two additional Disaster Recovery Centers in Bryan and Screven counties to provide one-on-one help for Georgians affected by Hurricane Helene. The centers are open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m., including on Veteran’s Day this Monday. 

Center locations:

Bryan County
Jacob Grant Teen Center
185 Ballpark Road
Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Screven County
Screven County Library
106 S. Community Drive
Sylvania, GA 30467

Additional centers are open in the following counties: 

Appling County

Appling County Agricultural Center
2761 Blackshear Highway 

Baxley, GA 31513

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

Emanuel County

Southeastern Technical College 

Special Programs Building

346 Kite Road, Building 1

Swainsboro, GA 30401

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road, 

Dublin, GA 31021

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

Tift County

202 Baldwin Drive

Tifton, GA 31794

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

 

FEMA Mobile Disaster Recovery Center location and hours

Atkinson County 

Atkinson County Emergency Operations Center 

Parking Lot 
33 West Austin Avenue
Pearson, GA 31642 

Wednesday, Nov. 6 – Saturday, Nov. 9 

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Brantley County

Brantley Recreation Department

3540 Baker Creek Road

Nahunta, GA 31553

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Saturday, Nov. 9

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Jeff Davis

Jeff Davis County Recreation Department
83 Buford Road
Hazlehurst, GA 31539

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Saturday, Nov. 9

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

To find center locations in the state, visit FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Georgia Page, FEMA’s DRC Locator or text “DRC” and your 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 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.

Disaster Assistance Teams are also on the ground in affected counties going door-to-door to help survivors register for assistance.

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 Fri, 11/08/2024 - 18:10
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Juneau Updates Hours of Operation

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 11/08/2024 - 12:29
FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Juneau Updates Hours of Operation

ANCHORAGE, Alaska. – The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center located in Juneau, Alaska, will be adjusting its hours on November 9 and 10, and close on November 11 to observe Veterans Day. It will reopen on November 12 with a new schedule to continue providing one-on-one assistance for people affected by the August 5-6 Juneau Mendenhall Glacier flooding.

Disaster Recovery Center Updated Hours of Operation and Location: 

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

Updated Hours of Operation:

  • November 9 and 10: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
  • November 11: Closed for Veteran’s Day
  • Starting November 12: 
    • Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
    • Saturday: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
    • Sunday and Monday: Closed

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain disaster assistance programs, help people complete or check the status of applications for federal assistance, and get information on additional resources offered by the State of Alaska and other organizations.

As of November 8, 2024, 127 people have visited the recovery center. FEMA has approved nearly $1.7 million, for 100 households affected by the Mendenhall Glacier Flooding disaster. Alaska’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has already paid more than $1 million to applicants affected by the flood.

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 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.

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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 Fri, 11/08/2024 - 17:29
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Speaks Your Language

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 17:55
FEMA Speaks Your Language

Don't let language be a barrier for you to apply for FEMA assistance. Regardless of language or accessibility needs, FEMA is here in South Carolina to help all eligible survivors of Hurricane Helene. 

If you are a non-English speaker, you can receive assistance in your language when applying for FEMA disaster aid. Additionally, you can request assistive communication tools, if needed.

Language Is Not a Barrier to FEMA Assistance

Interpreters for many languages are available to those who call the FEMA Helpline. Multilingual phone operators are available to help non-English speaking survivors register for disaster aid and answer questions. After dialing the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362, callers should choose Option 2 for Spanish or Option 3 for other languages.

The Disaster Recovery Centers have a sign with the phrase “I Speak” in over 40 languages, which staff members can use to connect you with an interpreter that speaks your language. 

FEMA Information Is Accessible for All

Survivors can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to connect with American Sign Language interpreters by requesting one ahead of time, or in real time using Video Relay Services or Video Remote Interpreters. Assistive listening devices, amplified phones and caption phones for survivors who are deaf or hard of hearing are also available at the Disaster Recovery Centers.

Magnifying devices and printed information in Braille and large print are available for people who are blind or have low vision. 

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 can apply for federal assistance.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Jan. 7, 2025. There are several ways to apply:

  • Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362
  • Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. 
  • Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in many other languages).
  • Download the FEMA mobile app.

For accessible information about how to register for FEMA disaster assistance, select this FEMA accessible video.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 11/07/2024 - 22:55
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Washington County

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 17:37
FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Washington County

A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center opened at noon Thursday, Nov. 7, in Jonesborough to help Tennesseans affected by Tropical Storm Helene apply for federal disaster assistance and get information and advice about community, state and federal resources.

The Washington County center is located at:

Cherry Grove Baptist Church
104 Cherry Grove Rd.
Jonesborough, TN 37659 
Opening Day Hours: noon to 7 p.m. ET 
Regular Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday; closed Sunday

Open Disaster Recovery CentersCountyAddressHours/Days of Operation (Eastern Time)Carter

1749 Highway 19 E.

Elizabethton, TN 37643

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Cocke

Cocke County Recreation Department

466 Learning Road/Way*

Newport, TN 37821

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

*Depending on your navigation service, the address may show up as 466 Learning Way.

Greene

Greene County Courthouse/Annex

204 N. Cutler St.

Greeneville, TN 37745

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Hamblen

Utility Commission Conference and Training Center

441 Main St.

Morristown, TN 37814

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Unicoi

 

National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center

615 South Main Ave.

Erwin, TN 37650

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

Washington

Cherry Grove Baptist Church

104 Cherry Grove Rd.

Jonesborough, TN 37659

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sunday

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 11/07/2024 - 22:37
Categories: DHS News

FEMA’s New Mexico Joint Recovery Office is Hiring: Attend Nov. 19 and 20 Job Fairs in Santa Fe

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 17:24
FEMA’s New Mexico Joint Recovery Office is Hiring: Attend Nov. 19 and 20 Job Fairs in Santa Fe

SANTA FE, N.M. — The FEMA New Mexico Joint Recovery Office (JRO) is hosting a hiring fair on Nov. 19 and 20 for full-time positions with the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office and Claims Office. 

FEMA staff will be available at the fairs to receive resumes, answer questions and conduct on-the-spot interviews. 

Interested individuals are encouraged to attend the hiring fair to learn more about job openings and how to secure a fulfilling career while serving their community.

The positions will support the important mission of helping the state recover from disasters, processing claims, and compensating those affected by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding.

When

Nov. 19:  9 a.m. – 4 p.m. MT

Nov. 20:  9 a.m. – 4 p.m. MT

Where

Santa Fe Community College Higher Education Center, 1950 Siringo Road, Santa Fe, NM 87505

Open positions for the Santa Fe, Mora, and Las Vegas Claims Offices and Joint Recovery Office include claims navigators, data analysts, a technical writer, an advocate liaison, staff assistants, a community planner, program analysts, project and program managers, watershed analyst, contract specialists and customer service specialists. 

FEMA employee benefits include eligibility for public service; student loan forgiveness; federal retirement plans; paid annual leave; mental health resources; health, dental, and vision insurance; annual federal pay raises, and career growth opportunities.

FEMA is looking for individuals who can represent the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office with compassion, fairness, integrity, and respect. Ideal candidates will have customer service experience; strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills; and experience completing high-quality products within assigned time frames.

“Bringing on local New Mexicans to join our recovery efforts is crucial to ensuring that our communities and businesses impacted by the fire receive swift, fair, and effective support,” said Jay Mitchell, Director of Operations at the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “We need people who understand the unique needs of our state, and with 45 days remaining before the Dec. 20, 2024, deadline, it’s essential that we build a strong, dedicated team to help expedite the recovery process.” 

For additional information about the hiring fairs, including candidate qualifications, position descriptions, and FEMA benefits, please visit fema.gov/fact-sheet/claims-office-and-jro-open-positions.

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to start a claim with the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office if they haven’t already. The deadline to start t a Notice of Loss is Dec. 20, 2024, per the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act.

The Claims Office continues to observe an increase in claim submissions, temporarily leading to longer wait times and longer processing times in issuing Letters of Determination (LODs) for claims. We are actively working to reduce wait times and shorten processing times of claims. 

Claims Office compensation is not taxable. Receiving payment from the Claims Office will not impact eligibility for government assistance programs. Contact a tax professional for specific tax-related questions. Questions and concerns can also be addressed by calling your claim Navigator or the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. As of this week, the FEMA Claims Office has paid about $1.5 billion to claimants. 

For information and updates please visit the 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 Thu, 11/07/2024 - 22:24
Categories: DHS News

Still Time To Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance After Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 16:44
Still Time To Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance After Hurricane Helene in South Carolina

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 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 and dental needs, child care and other miscellaneous items.

After the deadline, 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. 

You can apply in several ways:

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 Thu, 11/07/2024 - 21:44
Categories: DHS News

Berrien County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 16:43
Berrien County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House

CHICAGO — FEMA, the state of Michigan and Berrien County community officials invite residents to join the Open House in Benton Harbor on Thursday, November 14. At this event, FEMA will answer questions from residents about flood risk and flood insurance after the release of preliminary flood maps.

Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Berrien County are encouraged to attend and meet with experts one-on-one to view their own addresses on the new maps. They’ll learn about the mapping process, their specific flood risk and ways to help prevent flood loss. Residents can view preliminary versions of the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report and the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) here.

WHAT:           Berrien County—Flood Map Open House

WHEN:          Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 4-6 PM ET

WHERE:        Benton Harbor Public Library, 213 E. Wall St. Benton Harbor, MI 49022

The updated maps for Berrien County will highlight several streams and flooding sources, including McCoy Creek, Paw Paw River, St. Joseph River, Hickory Creek, Granger Drain, Goodrow Drain, both branches of Glenlord Road Drain, Parker/Richardson Drain, West Tributary St. Joseph River, and Yellow Creek. These updates span 34 Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) panels and cover 29 communities, including 7 charter townships, 11 townships, 6 cities, and 5 villages.

Once in effect, the maps will inform flood insurance rates and local floodplain management rules adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA urges public officials to use the maps to help plan and prepare communities to quickly respond to and recover from future extreme weather events.

For Open House questions, reach out to fema-r5-map@fema.dhs.gov. For media questions, reach out to the FEMA Region 5 News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

kimberly.keblish Thu, 11/07/2024 - 21:43
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center in Giles County Will Be Temporarily Closed Nov. 9

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 16:31
Disaster Recovery Center in Giles County Will Be Temporarily Closed Nov. 9

BRISTOL, Va.– The Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Giles County will be temporarily closed on Saturday, November 9, 2024, for a pre-scheduled event. The center will reopen at 8 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024.

Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. To find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.  

The Giles County DRC is located at:

Giles County

120 Pembroke Park Lane

Pembroke, VA 24136
 

Temporarily Closed: November 9, 2024

Reopening: November 11, 2024, at 8 a.m.

Normal Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register with FEMA. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

Graphic

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Dec. 2, 2024.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

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

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.

kelly.magarity Thu, 11/07/2024 - 21:31
Categories: DHS News

Free Disaster Legal Assistance Available for North Carolinians

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 15:45
Free Disaster Legal Assistance Available for North Carolinians

RALEIGH, N.C. – Free disaster-related legal counseling, assistance and referrals are available for eligible North Carolina homeowners and renters in disaster-designated counties as they recover from Tropical Storm Helene. People do not need to apply for FEMA assistance to receive Disaster Legal Services. 

Low-income survivors can use this service to receive confidential, free legal assistance due to the disasters, but do not have the means to secure adequate legal services. 

Typical services include assistance with:

  • Insurance policies and claims. 
  • Foreclosure and mortgage issues.
  • Home repair contracts and contractors. 
  • Landlord-tenant disputes.
  • Document replacement.
  • Government benefits information. 
  • FEMA appeals.
  • Fraud.

For legal assistance, call 1-866-219-5262 and dial 2657. The toll-free hotline is available 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. If contacted outside of operational hours, survivors can leave a voicemail. 

Disaster Legal Services attorneys are not FEMA employees. They are volunteers who provide survivors with legal counseling, advice, and, when appropriate, legal representation in non-fee-generating cases that are not against the Federal Government. The service is a partnership between the North Carolina Bar Association, North Carolina Bar Foundation, Legal Aid of North Carolina, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and FEMA. 

More information about legal assistance for North Carolina residents is available online at: legalaidnc.org/disaster.

barbara.murien… Thu, 11/07/2024 - 20:45
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Veterans Day

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 12:13
Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Veterans Day

Disaster Recovery Centers for the storms and flooding that took place July 11-13 and July 29 - 31 will be closed for Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11. 

These centers are located at the Hinesburg Town Hall (10632 Route 116) and the Lyndon Public Safety Facility at 366 Main Street. They will be opening back up on Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 9 a.m. Normal operating hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday. Closed Sundays.

Residents affected by the flooding don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to register for FEMA assistance. Three ways to apply before the Nov. 25 deadline include:

  • Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
  • The FEMA mobile app 
  • Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in your time zone), seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.
adrien.urbani Thu, 11/07/2024 - 17:13
Categories: DHS News

Agriculture Recovery Resource Days Scheduled in Additional Southwest Virginia Counties

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 12:07
Agriculture Recovery Resource Days Scheduled in Additional Southwest Virginia Counties

BRISTOL, Va.— Commonwealth, federal, local, and nonprofit agencies are coming together to hold Agricultural Recovery Resource Days, where staff from over 15 participating organizations share resources with farmers and agribusinesses impacted by Hurricane Helene in southwest Virginia. 

Farmers, private forest owners, and agribusiness owners can attend whichever event best fits their schedule and can drop in any time during the hours listed. For latest information, please visit: www.fema.gov/event/hurricane-helene-virginia-agriculture-recovery-resource-day.

The next Agriculture Recovery Resource Days will be held on:

Thursday, Nov. 7

Open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Highlands Fellowship Church

22417 Watauga Road, Abingdon VA 24211

Saturday, Nov. 9

Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Wytheville Meeting Center 

333 Community Boulevard, Wytheville VA 24382

Tuesday, Nov. 12

Open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Chilhowie Christian Church

172 Apple Valley Road 

Chilhowie, VA 24319

Thursday Nov. 14 

Open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Glamorgan Chapel

183 Southmark Road SW

Wise, VA 24293

The following agencies will be present at the Agriculture Recovery Resource Days to answer questions about grants, loans, and other resources available for the agricultural community: 

Federal agencies: 

  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 
  • U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 
  • USDA Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA) 
  • USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA NRCS) 
  • USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) 

State agencies:

  • Virginia Department of Emergency Management
  • Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
  • Virginia Department of Forestry
  • Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
  • Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
  • Virginia Department of Health
  • Virginia Cooperative Extension
  • Virginia State University Small Farm Resource Center
  • Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission
  • Virginia Small Business Financing Authority

Local agencies and organizations:

  • Virginia Farm Bureau 
  • Virginia Cattlemen’s Association 
  • Farm Credit of the Virginias 
  • First Bank & Trust
  • Agrisafe Network
  • Local Soil & Water Conservation Districts

For information about commonwealth and federal resources for agribusinesses, see Help for Virginia Agribusinesses and Farmers Fact Sheet

For additional disaster recovery resources, 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.

kelly.magarity Thu, 11/07/2024 - 17:07
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Calls May Come from Unfamiliar Phone Numbers

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 11:34
FEMA Calls May Come from Unfamiliar Phone Numbers

BATON ROUGE, La. – After Louisiana residents apply for disaster assistance, FEMA may call to schedule an inspection of the damaged home or to obtain more information to process the application. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers.

It is important to answer the call. A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, functional and accessible. If an inspection cannot be scheduled, that may cause a delay in FEMA’s review of the application.

FEMA specialists may call to obtain more information to process an application, or they may contact applicants who started an application and did not complete it. The specialists will already have the applicant’s nine-digit FEMA registration number and will not ask you for it.

Here are quick ways to apply for FEMA assistance: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices. You may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m., seven days a week, and specialists speak many languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

alexa.brown Thu, 11/07/2024 - 16:34
Categories: DHS News

Georgians Have More Time to Apply for Assistance after Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 10:08
Georgians Have More Time to Apply for Assistance after Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene

ATLANTA – At the request of the state of Georgia, homeowners and renters in counties approved for individual assistance due to Hurricane Helene or Tropical Storm Debby now have until Jan. 7, 2025, to apply for FEMA assistance. 

Homeowners and renters with damage and losses related to Tropical Storm Debby whose primary home is in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long and Screven counties may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for serious needs, displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses. 

Likewise, homeowners and renters with damage and losses related to Hurricane Helene whose primary home is 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 may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for serious needs, displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses.  

People with damage related to Hurricane Helene and/or Tropical Storm Debby, damage Aug. 4-22, must apply separately for assistance for each disaster, but only once for each disaster. People with homeowners, renters or flood insurance should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If an insurance policy does not cover all disaster expenses, people may be eligible for federal assistance.

The quickest way to apply is online on DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center in person, by using the FEMA App, or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most 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. 

To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster 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 Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.

minh.phan Thu, 11/07/2024 - 15:08
Categories: DHS News

Help Remains After Disaster Recovery Center Closes in St. Mary Parish

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 08:49
Help Remains After Disaster Recovery Center Closes in St. Mary Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. –– The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Morgan City will close at 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 8. However, help is just a mouse click, phone call or a tap on the FEMA app away.

The Morgan City DRC that will close is located at:

St. Mary Parish

Morgan City Municipal Auditorium

728 Myrtle St.

Morgan City, LA 70380

Hours:  Thursday, Nov. 7, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 8, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Individuals affected by Hurricane Francine in the nine designated parishes can still get help by:

  • Logging into their account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
  • Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
  • Visiting the Terrebonne DRC located at 

Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Dr.

Houma, LA 70360

Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday.

Residents in all nine parishes can visit the DRCs to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center. 

The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

  • The centers have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff.
  • Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request.
  • Real-time captioning as well as information in Braille, large-print, audio and electronic versions are available.
  • The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.
    • Specialists at the centers can also direct you to operators who can communicate in languages other than English and printed material in multiple languages.
    • Specialists can help you update your FEMA applications and learn about state and community programs and other available assistance. They can clarify information you have received from FEMA or other agencies; they can explain the rental assistance available to homeowners and renters; and they can fax your requested documents to a FEMA processing center and scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

alexa.brown Thu, 11/07/2024 - 13:49
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Saluda County

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 11/07/2024 - 06:53
Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Saluda County

A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Saluda County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

Saluda County

County Administration Building 
407 W. Butler Ave.
Saluda, SC 29138

Open Nov. 7-10 and Nov. 12-13, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Nov. 11, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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 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. 

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 11/07/2024 - 11:53
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Mountain Fire

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 11/06/2024 - 17:57
FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Mountain Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on November 6 at 2:36 p.m. PST / 5:36 p.m. EST to assist the state of California in combating the Mountain Fire, currently burning in Ventura County.

On November 6, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 3,500 homes in and around the communities of Somis, Camarillo, and Saticoy, California with a combined population 30,000. One hundred percent of the threatened homes are primary residences.

The fire started on November 6, 2024, and had burned more than 9,000 acres of state and private land.

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 threaten to become major incidents.

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed 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, 11/06/2024 - 22:57
Categories: DHS News

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