President Joseph R. Biden Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Carolina to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight from Sept. 16-20, 2024. 

Federal funding is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities in Brunswick, Carteret, New Hanover and Onslow counties.

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

E. Craig Levy, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

erika.suzuki Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:23

FEMA Inspecting Homes After Florida Hurricanes

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- After Floridians apply for FEMA assistance following Hurricanes Milton, Helene or Debby, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine the extent of damage and whether the home is safe, sanitary and livable.

Inspectors do not make decisions regarding eligibility for assistance. Information gathered during the inspection is part of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance. 

The inspector will consider:

• The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.
• Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.
• Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.

Applications for more than one storm may require a separate inspection.

Inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming. They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number. They carry photo identification. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed or recorded. Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money. Their service is free. 

The inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home. They will leave messages and/or texts on the phone number listed on the FEMA application. These communications may come from unfamiliar phone numbers and it is important that applicants respond so their application can be processed.

A typical home inspection may take up to 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 or lookup their application status on DisasterAssistance.gov or the FEMA mobile App.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806 . Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:17

FEMA Offers Equal Access to Assistance for All Georgia Disaster Survivors

ATLANTA – FEMA is committed to providing equal access to federal assistance for Georgians who were affected by Tropical Storm Debby, damage Aug. 4-20, and/or Hurricane Helene. Anyone with an accessibility need who is applying for FEMA assistance should let FEMA know.  

If you or anyone in your household has a disability or language need---as well as a need to interact with FEMA or have disability-related losses due to the storms, it is important to answer “yes” to the appropriate questions when completing the application for FEMA disaster assistance. You will be asked to identify what you need to help you throughout your recovery process. Questions will also help identify other services for which you may be eligible to receive reimbursement.

Examples of the type of questions you can expect include:

• Do you have a disability or language need that requires an accommodation to interact with FEMA staff and/or access FEMA programs?
• Do you or anyone in your household have a disability that affects your ability to perform activities of daily living or requires an assistive device?
• Did you have any disability-related assistive devices or medically required equipment/supplies/support services damaged, destroyed, lost, or disrupted because of the disaster?

A disaster can take away the key components that enable people with disabilities and people with other access and functional needs to live independently or to communicate with others. These may include a wheelchair, scooter, walker, CPAP machine, hearing aids, eyeglasses, or screen reader. You may be eligible to receive FEMA funds to replace these items. 

The First Step is to Apply

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to apply. 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, 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.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available: 

• Address of your disaster damaged home with zip code
• A description of your disaster caused losses, which may include the condition of your damaged home
• Insurance information, if available
• Social Security number
• Phone number where you can be contacted
• Address where you can receive mail or email address to receive electronic notifications

If you need an accommodation or assistance due to a disability or language need, ask FEMA at the time of applying or anytime throughout the assistance process.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4821 or fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

larissa.hale Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:11

Biden-Harris Administration Provides Billions in Federal Assistance for Helene Response and Recovery, Announces Initial Hiring Effort with New Community Liaison Program to Ensure Community-Driven Long-Term Recovery

FEMA to Hire Community Liaisons in North Carolina Assist with Recovery Efforts, Provide Local Jobs to Community

WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration has provided nearly $2 billion in federal assistance for individuals and communities affected by Hurricane Helene and Milton. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today announced that the agency will create a brand-new program and will hire Community Liaisons to assist impacted communities with their recovery and rebuilding efforts. These dedicated Community Liaisons will interface between the people of North Carolina and FEMA to ensure their needs are met and serve as trusted messengers for the community. Administrator Deanne Criswell joined North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper today to provide an update on recovery efforts, as the federal government continues to work alongside it state and local partners to ensure that survivors receive the resources they need to jumpstart their recovery.
    
“Hurricane Helene was an unprecedented incident that requires an unprecedented response and recovery. I have learned from past recoveries across the nation and know that they work best when the community doesn’t just have a seat at the table, but they have a leading role in the recovery process,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Today, I am announcing a new commitment – we will be hiring Community Liaisons, who will work alongside us at FEMA to make sure that local voices and local considerations are part of this recovery. They will be embedded in every impacted county, working directly with county administrators, mayors and community leaders. In the weeks and months to come, I anticipate we will hire even more people from the community and we encourage people of the community to apply.”

In response to Helene, FEMA has approved over $1.2 billion in assistance for communities. This includes $746 million in assistance for individuals and families, along with more than $524 million for debris removal and efforts to protect public health and safety. As ongoing response efforts continue in western North Carolina, FEMA has approved over $130 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 89,500 households. 

FEMA has spent approximately $4.3 billion on Hurricane Helene response and recovery. This number not only includes direct assistance to survivors and communities, but also encompasses broader response and recovery efforts such as mission assignments for Urban Search and Rescue and Army Corps of Engineers for debris removal, as well as Disaster Recovery Center set up and maintenance. 

Currently, FEMA has deployed more than 4,900 personnel to the affected areas, contributing to a total of over 7,035 federal responders who are working together to support state and local governments in their recovery efforts. FEMA personnel on the ground are actively coordinating with local officials, conducting damage assessments, and helping individuals apply for disaster assistance programs. To support response and recovery efforts, FEMA delivered over 12.6 million meals, and 13.2 million liters of water to states impacted by Helene.
 
More than 8,400 families, effect by Helene, have checked into FEMA provided hotels, allowing them a safe and warm place to stay while they recover. Shelter numbers remain steady, with 11 shelters housing just over 470 occupants.  

FEMA continues to open Disaster Recovery Centers in affected communities, offering in-person assistance, information on available resources and help with FEMA assistance applications. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are also on the ground in all affected states, helping survivors apply for aid and connect with additional resources from state, local, federal, and voluntary agencies. 

In North Carolina, there are over 420 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also 14 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lenoir, Marion, Sylva and Waynesville where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.

erika.suzuki Mon, 10/21/2024 - 19:09

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available to Tennesseans

If you lost your job or had work hours reduced or interrupted as a result of Tropical Storm Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance from the State of Tennessee.

You can apply for disaster unemployment benefits if you live in, work in or travel to your job through Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi or Washington County. These benefits will cover Sept. 29 to April 5, 2025, if your unemployment continues to be a direct result of the storm. 

The deadline to apply is Monday, Dec. 2.

To apply,visit TN.gov/Jobs4TN or call 877-813-0950 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. If you file online, specify on your application that you were impacted by a disaster.

Eligibility

You may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance if:

• Your place of employment was damaged or destroyed
• You can’t get to work because the disaster left roads damaged or closed
• You cannot perform work or self-employment because of an injury caused by the disaster; or
• You became the major household support because of the death of the head of household due to the disaster.

And:

• You worked, were self-employed or were scheduled to begin work or self-employment in the disaster area;
• The work or self-employment you can no longer perform was your primary source of income; and
• You have applied for and used all regular unemployment benefits from any state, or do not qualify for unemployment benefits.
  • Regular unemployment insurance and disaster unemployment benefits cannot be paid at the same time.

The Disaster Unemployment Assistance program is funded by FEMA and operated by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 10/21/2024 - 18:12

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Mecklenburg County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Monday, Oct. 21 in Charlotte (Mecklenburg County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene. 

The Mecklenburg County DRC is located at: 

Corvian Community School
9501 David Taylor Drive
Charlotte, NC 28262
Open: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

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.

Centers are already open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lenoir, Marion, Morganton, Newland, Old Fort, Sparta, Sylva and Waynesville. To find those center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a zip code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will open soon. 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.
 

aubrey.pound Sun, 10/20/2024 - 19:20

Georgians Who Lost Income Due to Storms May Be Eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance

ATLANTA – Employees or self-employed Georgians who became unemployed as a direct consequence of Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene may be eligible to receive Federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance. Receiving this assistance does not affect your ability to apply for or receive other FEMA assistance. 

Disaster Unemployment Assistance is a FEMA-funded, state managed federal program that helps workers whose primary income is lost or interrupted as a direct result of a disaster declared by the President. Unlike regular state unemployment insurance, it provides benefits to people who are self-employed, farmers, diversified farming operators, loggers, commission-paid employees, and others who are not eligible under the state's program. 

In Georgia, the deadlines to apply depend on the disaster declaration dates.

For Tropical Storm Debby:

• Nov. 25 for residents in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long and Screven counties.

For Hurricane Helene: 

• Dec. 2 for residents in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Bulloch, Burke, Candler, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Echols, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Lowndes, McDuffie, Montgomery, Pierce, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Washington and Wheeler counties.
• Dec. 3 for residents in Effingham, Elbert, Rabun and Tift counties.
• Dec. 6 for residents in Brantley, Bryan, Butts, Camden, Charlton, Dodge, Fulton, Glynn, Hancock, Long, McIntosh, Newton, Thomas, Warren and Wayne counties.

Additional counties may be added at a later date. Please visit the Georgia Department of Labor Federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance page to learn what you need to file an application and see a list of disaster-related benefit facts. 

To apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Georgians must first apply for regular unemployment insurance on the Georgia Department of Labor website at dol.georgia.gov or in person at any GDOL career center. Only those who are ineligible for regular unemployment insurance can be considered eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits. 

The Georgia Department of Labor will notify you if you are eligible to file for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. Income verification may be required when applying for these benefits. People should be prepared to provide proof of earnings for the most recently completed tax year. Acceptable proof of earnings includes copies of the most recently completed income tax returns, quarterly estimated income tax payment records, or similar documents.

For additional information on Disaster Unemployment Assistance, visit dol.georgia.gov or call the Georgia Department of Labor toll-free customer service line at 1-877-709-8185.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4821 and fema.gov/disaster/4830. 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.

 

 

larissa.hale Sun, 10/20/2024 - 14:54

Hillsborough and Manatee Counties Disaster Recovery Centers to Relocate

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– Disaster Recovery Centers at the David Barksdale Senior Center in Hillsborough County and GT Bray Park in Manatee County will close at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20. The centers will reopen in new locations and announcements will be made.

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. 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. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Sun, 10/20/2024 - 14:07

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Milton. Survivors of any of the storms can visit any center. 

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers. 

Center locations:

Indian River County
Intergenerational Recreation (IG) Center
1590 9th St. SW
Vero Beach, FL 32962
Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

Martin County
Martin County Fairgrounds, Buildings F&G
2616 SE Dixie Hwy.
Stuart, FL 34996
Hours: 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

St. Lucie County
Havert L. Fenn Center
2000 Virginia Ave. 
Fort Pierce, FL 34982
Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday

To find other center 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 are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. 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. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Sun, 10/20/2024 - 13:54

Martin County Disaster Recovery Center Hours Change

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– Beginning Sunday, Oct. 20, the Disaster Recovery Center in Martin County will now be open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. 

Martin County
Martin County Fairgrounds, Buildings F&G
2616 SE Dixie Hwy.
Stuart, FL 34996
Hours: 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. 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. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

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

kirsten.chambers Sun, 10/20/2024 - 13:28

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Broadview

SPRINGFIELD – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open on Sunday, October 20 to help residents kickstart their recovery after the July 13 - 16, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding.

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Illinois and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

The center will be open at the following location, days and hours:

Beverly Center
3031 South 25th Ave.
Broadview, IL 60155
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

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

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

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call 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. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is November 19.

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

kimberly.keblish Sat, 10/19/2024 - 19:11

FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Helene in South Carolina Tops $150M

As of Oct. 19, FEMA has approved more than $154 million in federal disaster assistance to help more than 211,047 South Carolina households recover from Hurricane Helene. This includes: 

• More than $11 million in housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• More than $142 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs, such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.

FEMA has completed more than 23,000 home inspections for Hurricane Helene survivors. Along with state and federal partners, nine Disaster Recovery Centers have been opened with more to come in affected areas.

In addition, the National Flood Insurance Program has received 302 claims from South Carolina policyholders and has paid out $213,000.

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 at this time. Residents can apply for FEMA assistance in several ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. (This is the fastest way to apply.)
• In person at any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 29169).
• On your phone using the FEMA mobile app.
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. The telephone line is open every day. 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 Sat, 10/19/2024 - 17:38

FEMA is Hiring in Tennessee

FEMA is hiring Tennessee residents to support the recovery from Tropical Storm Helene. Jobs are available in Knoxville and Nashville.

Qualified candidates with diverse backgrounds and a desire to serve are needed immediately. These temporary positions start as 120-day appointments and may be extended based on the needs of the recovery mission. Benefits include sick leave and up to 11 paid holidays. 

FEMA is accepting applications for the following positions:

• Apply by 11:59 p.m. ET Wednesday, Oct. 23:
  • Human Resources Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Administrative Assistant: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Emergency Management Specialist 3: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Emergency Management Specialist 2: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Apply by 11:59 p.m. ET Thursday, Oct. 24:
  • Logistics Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Situation Unit Lead: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Environmental Floodplain Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Site Inspector Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Environmental Compliance Review Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Geospatial and Data Analytics Cell Analyst: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
  • Geospatial and Data Analytics Cell Manager: USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Apply by 11:59 p.m. ET Sunday, Oct. 27:
  • Public Assistance Program Delivery Manager: USAJOBS - Job Announcement

All positions will close at 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date or when 100 applications are received. More positions may be added later. To see all open roles, visit USAJobs.gov, type “local hire” in the keywords section and “Tennessee” for location.

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 Sat, 10/19/2024 - 16:45

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Union County

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

Union County
Union County Library
300 E. South St.
Union, SC 29379
Open Oct. 20-22, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. 

This location joins the centers previously opened in Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville and Pickens counties. 

Anderson County 
Anderson County Library
300 N. McDuffie St.
Anderson, SC 29621 
Open Oct. 20, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Oct. 21-24, 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 25-26, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Oct. 27, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Cherokee County
East Gaffney Baptist Church
2308 Cherokee Ave.
Gaffney, SC 29340
Open Oct. 17-20, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.  

Greenville County 
Freetown Community Center 
200 Alice Ave.  
Greenville, SC 29611 
Open daily, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.  

Pickens County
Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library
304 Biltmore Road
Easley, SC 29640
Open through Oct. 21, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.   

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. 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 other center locations, 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 Sat, 10/19/2024 - 16:27

Georgia Residents Reminded to Spend FEMA Grant Money Wisely

ATLANTA -- If you are a disaster survivor in Georgia who received a federal disaster assistance grant from FEMA after Tropical Storm Debby, Aug. 4 - 20, 2024 or Hurricane Helene, it’s important to use the money only for disaster related expenses. 

To help you make sure you’re using the money you received, FEMA sends a letter explaining what you can use the funds for, and listing the ways the money can be used. Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses. You should keep receipts for all expense for at least three years because FEMA can require you to repay the grant If you spend it on anything other than the purpose for which it is intended.

Examples of expenses this grant covers include:

• Home repairs such as structure, water, septic and sewage systems.
• Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit.
• Repair or replacement of a flooded essential vehicle.
• Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster.
• Repair of occupational specialized tools.
• Necessary educational materials such as computers, schoolbooks, supplies.
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster.
• Increased childcare expenses.

Please read your FEMA determination letter carefully to make sure you include all required documents and information.

It’s 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, 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit FEMA’s Hurricane Debby Georgia page or FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Georgia page. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

minh.phan Sat, 10/19/2024 - 13:59

FEMA is Still Here for New Mexicans even as Ruidoso DRC Permanently Closes Today

The State of New Mexico and FEMA will permanently cease operation of the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Horton Complex in Ruidoso today. But FEMA is not leaving New Mexico, as the agency continues working with the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) to help residents and communities in their recovery from the South Fork and Salt Fires and/or flooding. 

The Horton Complex DRC at 237 Service Road in Ruidoso will close at 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 19.

Today is also the last day for homeowners and renters impacted by the fires or flooding (from June 17 to Aug. 20, 2024) to apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance.

The deadline to apply for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is also today.

After the DRC is closed, you can still contact FEMA by: 

1. Go online to disasterassistance.gov/ 
2. Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
3. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., MT. Help is available in most languages.

For an American Sign Language video on how to apply for assistance visit, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw. 

FEMA encourages you to keep in touch with the agency: 

• It is important to provide FEMA with your final insurance settlement information as assistance may be available for some expenses not covered by insurance.  
• If you are receiving temporary rental assistance from FEMA, you will need to update your permanent housing plan and may need to document your need for continued rental assistance. FEMA expects all families who receive temporary rental assistance to return to their damaged home when it is repaired or to locate and occupy affordable housing without FEMA rental assistance when you can do so.    

In addition, you can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to: 

• Check on the status of your application and ask questions about the process. 
• Appeal a decision or determination by FEMA.  
• Update your contact information. 
• Provide updated documentation. 
• Report additional damage discovered since your home inspection.  

For information about FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, visit  www.fema.gov/assistance/individual.  

angela.ambroise Sat, 10/19/2024 - 12:33

FEMA Personal Property Assistance for South Carolinians Affected by Hurricane Helene

South Carolinians who suffered property losses due to Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA Personal Property Assistance. Insurance coverage is the best way to recover after a disaster, but FEMA assistance may be available if you are uninsured or underinsured. Survivors should be aware that FEMA cannot restore all property lost due to the disaster.

FEMA Personal Property Assistance may help support eligible applicants with items that were damaged due to the disaster, such as:

• Appliances: Include standard household appliances, such as a refrigerator, washing machine, etc.
• Clothing: Essential clothing needed due to loss, damage or contamination.
• Home Furnishings: Basic furnishings found in a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and living room.
• Tools Required for Work and School: Tools and equipment required for your job and items required for education purposes. This assistance also applies to self-employed individuals.
• Computing Devices: This includes one personal or family computer. You may be eligible for funds for additional computers required for work or school that were damaged by the disaster.
• Accessible Items: FEMA provides assistance for damaged personal property required for eligible applicants with disabilities.

Eligibility Conditions:

• Items must have been owned prior to the hurricane and been damaged by it.
• Items were owned and being used by occupants of the household.
• FEMA may not repair or replace a storm-damaged item if you own a similar item that works.
• FEMA does not provide assistance for furnishings and/or appliances provided by a landlord.
• Items used by guests and relatives who were not members of the pre-disaster household are not eligible for 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 at this time. Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance in several ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• In person at any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 29169).
• On your phone using the FEMA mobile app.
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 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 Fri, 10/18/2024 - 22:46

Understanding Your FEMA Eligibility Letter

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricanes Milton, Helene or Debby you will receive a determination letter from FEMA in the mail or by email. These letters can also be found in a survivor’s online FEMA account by logging into DisasterAssistance.gov and selecting the Check Status tab.

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.

You may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Insurance settlement, denial letter or declaration page.
• Proof of identity (i.e. passport, military ID, Social Security card with federal/state ID)
• Proof of occupancy (i.e. lease, rent receipts, utility bills)
• Proof of ownership (i.e. Mortgage documentation, Property Tax, Title, Insurance) 

If you have questions about your letter, or disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.

How to Appeal

The letter from FEMA will provide information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs. It will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.

You can submit your appeal and supporting documentation:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, where you can create an account and upload documents
• In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center
• By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055
• By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA 

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806 . Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Fri, 10/18/2024 - 22:09

Disaster Assistance for Virginia Survivors Tops $5 Million

BRISTOL, Va.— More than $5 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for homeowners and renters in Virginia following the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene. 

This milestone is accompanied by other important moments in disaster assistance and recovery in the commonwealth. Over 1,200 people have visited one of the six DRCs located throughout southwest Virginia. And more than 6,200 Virginians have now registered with FEMA for assistance. 

“As we pass another milestone in assistance to survivors, we are reminded that Tropical Storm Helene left behind significant devastation.” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy Pheil. “We are here to help and are grateful to work alongside our federal, commonwealth and local partners to continue assisting survivors.” 

In addition to support for survivors including assistance towards disaster-related essential needs, home repairs and personal property losses, Disaster Unemployment Assistance is now available for Virginians whose work, including self-employment, was directly impacted by Tropical Storm Helene. This program provides unemployment assistance to those who do not otherwise qualify for Virginia’s unemployment insurance. More information on this program can be found on the Virginia Employment Commission website here: Disaster Unemployment Assistance | Virginia Employment Commission

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is also standing by to assist producers as they work to recover their operations in the wake of Hurricane Helene through a suite of programs. For more information, visit the USDA Disaster Resource Center website here: Hurricane Helene | USDA

FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy Pheil speaks with Ralph Wilson, a restaurant owner, in Damascus, Va. on Oct. 8. Virginia Senator Mark Warner toured areas of the state affected by Hurricane Helene with FEMA and VDEM officials. (FEMA photo by Nicholas Monteleone). 

Impacted individuals in Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Giles, Grayson, Pittsylvania, Russell, Montgomery, Pulaski, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe counties and cities of Galax and Radford can apply today by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app, calling 1-800-621-3362, or visiting a DRC.

If you have already applied for FEMA assistance and have questions about the status of your application or any FEMA letters you have received, call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 or visit a DRC. FEMA staff are ready to help answer your questions.

SBA Business Recovery Centers (BRCs) are now up and running to help businesses get back on their feet from damage they sustained during the storms. More information about BRCs can be found here: Recovery Center locations | U.S. Small Business Administration (sba.gov).

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.

 

erika.osullivan Fri, 10/18/2024 - 21:48

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Avery and McDowell Counties

RALEIGH, N.C. -  Two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) will open Saturday, Oct. 19 in Newland (Avery County) and Old Fort (McDowell County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene. This is the second DRC to open in McDowell County; the first McDowell County DRC is located in Sylva. 

The Avery County DRC is located at:  

Mayland Community College-Avery Campus
785 Cranberry St.
Newland, NC 28657
Open: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

The second McDowell County DRC is located at:  

A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center
909 East Main St. 
Old Fort, NC 28762
Open: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

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. 

Centers are already open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lenoir, Marion, Sylva and Waynesville. To find those center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a zip code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will open soon. 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, 10/18/2024 - 21:36