FEMA Continues the Debris Removal Mission on Maui

YouTube Video Here: Lahaina Debris Removal: Clearing the Path for Recovery

LAHAINA, Maui – Following the Maui wildfires on Aug. 8, 2023, debris removal cleanup has been one of the major challenges facing residents, business owners and government agencies during the recovery process. 

The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) was mission assigned by FEMA to complete both residential and commercial debris clearing for this disaster. 

By Aug. 2024 debris and ash was cleared from all 1,390 residential properties. Then in Sept. 2024 the properties were transferred back to the County of Maui once soil sampling and erosion control measures were completed. This milestone allowed members of the community to apply for building permits and begin rebuilding. Following a six-month building process, the first family moved into their new home in Lahaina just in time for Thanksgiving.  

The focus has now shifted to commercial debris removal. Currently, all but eight commercial properties in Lahaina have been cleared and completed. All commercial properties are projected to be completed by early 2025.  

As debris clearing nears completion, Lahaina residents are seeing more of their town reopen and fewer trucks transporting debris to the Temporary Disposal Site in Olowalu, West Maui. Once a permanent debris storage site is available, FEMA will manage the transfer of debris and return the temporary site to its original condition. 

Throughout the debris clearing process special consideration was given to the unique cultural context in Hawaiʻi. 

“The culture in Hawaiʻi is so paramount that we could not ignore it when we were putting our debris plan together,” said Joseph Grunditz, FEMA Debris Task Force Lead. 

FEMA and USACE staff received cultural training and cultural monitoring is always conducted on site to protect Hawaiʻi’s cultural heritage and honor Native Hawaiian traditions. Native Hawaiian, Maui-based cultural advisors were hired to lead this effort.

Historic properties also received special care. A designated USACE team assessed each historic landmark structure. One such structure is the Hawaiian Kingdom Courthouse that has been assessed and will be repaired. USACE serving as the project manager, has subcontracted 95% of work to local construction companies, supporting local economy. 

Overall, USACE identified 29 historic and culturally significant properties that would require extra steps to save the buildings. Six of those properties were selected for a technique called shoring and bracing which will allow preservation of the remaining shells for restoration. Four of the six identified properties have been cleared of debris and completed. 

As the mission continues FEMA and USACE remain committed to the local community and look forward to the future of Maui.  

“I can't wait to see how the community rebuilds this beautiful town,” said Joseph Grunditz, FEMA Debris Task Force Lead.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. 

shannon.carley Fri, 12/13/2024 - 23:20

Disaster Recovery Center in Bluefield, W.Va. Opening Dec. 16

News Release

1. Disaster Recovery Center in Bluefield, W.Va. Opening Dec. 16 

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Mercer County at Maple View Church of Christ in Bluefield at 10 a.m., Monday, Dec. 16. 

The center is located at: 

1. Bluefield Disaster Recovery Center

Maple View Church of Christ

194 Robins Rest Rd. 

Bluefield, WV 24701

 

Hours of operation:

Monday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 17 – Friday, Dec. 20, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 21, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed on Sundays

 

Additional hours to follow.

 

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. 

 The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Feb. 7, 2025. 

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a Mercer County resident who applied previously in Virginia for damage from Hurricane Helene, please contact FEMA at 800-621-3362 or online at disasterassistance.gov to discuss your application. Please use the FEMA registration number you were assigned when you applied.

 

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

kelly.magarity Fri, 12/13/2024 - 20:35

Support for Virginians Impacted by Helene Continues

BRISTOL, Va.— Over two months have passed since Hurricane Helene first impacted southwest Virginia. In that time, the commonwealth of Virginia and FEMA have made significant strides to support individuals, families and communities on their road to recovery. 

Graphic

“A lot of progress has been achieved over the last two months to support survivors. I am grateful for our partnership with Virginia and local communities to make sure we had the right resources in place to meet the immediate needs of those impacted by Helene,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy Pheil. “Our work is far from over and we are still here in southwest Virginia, working in partnership with Virginia agencies to help communities with long-term recovery and ensure they can rebuild safer, strong and more resilient.” 

Since early October, 10,520 Virginians have registered for FEMA assistance. FEMA has approved more than $12.9 million for individuals and households through the Individual Assistance Program. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams walked door to door, visiting over 35,000 homes. The Commonwealth and FEMA opened 10 Disaster Recovery Centers throughout southwest Virginia, serving over 4,000 individuals who came to apply for assistance or receive additional help.

A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Specialist speaks with a Damascus, Va., resident regarding his destroyed home on Oct. 3, 2024. A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Team arrived in Damascus to help survivors of Tropical Storm Helene apply for federal aid. (Philip Maramba/FEMA) 

FEMA’s Enhanced Applicant Services staff are continuing to follow up with applicants who may have been denied some assistance due to missing or incomplete information. They have made over 2,200 calls to applicants and have helped Virginians receive an additional $2.2 million in assistance. FEMA encourages survivors to update their contact information with any changes to phone number or address and to answer letters and calls from FEMA. 

“We are in the early stages of this long-term recovery process following the impacts of Hurricane Helene in Southwest Virginia," said VDEM State Coordinator Shawn Talmadge. "The collaboration between VDEM, FEMA, other state agencies, non-profits, businesses, and the community will continue on the ground supporting those affected by Helene."

Virginia, USDA, and FEMA also hosted Agriculture Recovery Resource Days, daylong events for agricultural producers in the hardest-hit communities. These events, the first of their kind in the Southeast, brought resources directly to impacted areas. 272 individuals attended and over 20 federal, state, and local organizations participated. 

Impacted producers visit the Agriculture Recovery Resource Day in Smyth County on Nov. 12 (Johannes Webb / FEMA) 

FEMA knows that recovering from a disaster is a community effort. Disasters have unexpected impacts on infrastructure as well as local industries and economies.

FEMA works directly with state, local, territorial and tribal communities as well as certain nonprofit organizations to rebuild infrastructure and reduce the likelihood of damage in the future. FEMA provides this help primarily through Hazard Mitigation Assistance, which funds activities and projects that reduce risk to people and property from future disasters and Public Assistance, which provide reimbursement grants to state and local governments.  FEMA has received 118 applications for Public Assistance and a total of $20.4 million of federal assistance has already been obligated across three projects.

On Sunday, Dec.8, the President increased federal support for debris removal in Virginia. The federal government will now pay for 100% of total eligible debris removal cost for 120 days of the commonwealth’s choosing, within six months of Helene’s impact. 

FEMA continues to coordinate with other federal and state agencies on debris removal in streams and creeks, notably in the Claytor Lake and South Holston Lake areas. This debris removal helps restore wildlife habitats, recreation spaces, and sites of economic growth for southwest Virginia. 

Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and FEMA staff survey cleanup progress on Claytor Lake on Nov. 19, 2024 (FEMA). 

FEMA’s Interagency Recovery Coordination staff brings federal agencies, state agencies, academia, and nonprofits together to find creative solutions for recovery needs that persist after a disaster. FEMA is working with Virginia’s Chief Transformation Officer, Robert Ward, who is leading the Office of Hurricane Helene Recovery and Rebuilding, and local communities to promote small business recovery, increase local communities’ capabilities through grant writing and training, coordinate resources and technical support for industries and localities that need additional help with recovery, and enhance the resilience of VA communities.

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

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. 

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

kelly.magarity Fri, 12/13/2024 - 20:26

Georgia Disaster Recovery Centers Update

ATLANTA – The Disaster Recovery Centers in Butts and Tift counties are set to close permanently this weekend. The recovery center in Lowndes County will close for one day while they move.

Butts County

Butts Park & Recreation Building (Ernest Biles Youth Center)

576 Ernest Biles Drive 

Jackson, GA 30233

The recovery center in Butts County will close permanently today, Dec. 13.

Tift County

Tift County Swimming Pool

202 Baldwin Drive

Tifton, GA 31794

The center in Tift County will close permanently at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14.

Lowndes County

The center in Lowndes County will close at its current location at 7 p.m. today, Dec. 13; it will reopen at 8 a.m., Monday, Dec. 16, at this new location:

Valdosta State University Foundation Inc.

901 North Patterson St.

Valdosta, GA 31601

 

Residents can find the center closest to them by going to fema.gov/drc. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

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

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

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

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

larissa.hale Fri, 12/13/2024 - 18:54

FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Pasco County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster through construction and remodeling best practices. 

Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will be on hand to help survivors apply for assistance. An insurance specialist will also be present to answer National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) questions.

FEMA specialists will be available at the following location from Dec. 16 through Jan. 4: 

The Home Depot
8445 Little Rd
New Port Richey, FL 34654

• 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday – Friday
• 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET, Saturday 

Homeowners and renters impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance before the Jan. 7 deadline.

The quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center to register for assistance. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 32344”).

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, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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

sixto.valentin… Fri, 12/13/2024 - 18:18

Tomorrow is the Final Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance

SPRINGFIELD – Homeowners and renters with damage or loss caused by the July 13 – 16 flooding, tornadoes and severe storms in Illinois have until 11:59 p.m., December 13 to apply for FEMA assistance. Illinoisans in the seven designated counties including Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will and Winnebago are urged to apply as soon as possible.

After December 13, 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 to be considered.

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

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

To apply with FEMA, you must have a Social Security number and be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen. At least one member in the impacted residence must meet this eligibility criteria to apply for assistance for the household. A parent or guardian, who doesn’t meet citizenship criteria, can apply on behalf of a minor child under age 18 who has a Social Security number and lives in the same household with them.

SBA Physical Disaster Loans

After you apply for FEMA assistance, don’t wait to apply for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) too. The deadline to apply for an SBA Physical Disaster Loan is tomorrow, December 13. You aren’t required to apply for an SBA loan to be considered for FEMA grants, but you could miss out on SBA’s help with disaster-related expenses that FEMA assistance doesn’t cover. There is no cost to apply, and you are under no obligation to accept a loan if approved.

Homeowners, renters, businesses and certain private non-profit organizations can learn more about SBA long-term, low-interest Physical Disaster Loans that can go towards repairing and replacing disaster-damaged property, by going online to sba.gov/disaster.

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

kimberly.keblish Thu, 12/12/2024 - 21:48

FEMA Staff Heading to Neighborhoods in Mercer County, W.Va.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) Teams will be in Mercer County, W.Va., beginning tomorrow, Dec. 13, to provide help to people affected by Tropical Storm Helene. FEMA staff can answer questions about applications for Individual Assistance as well as help people who have not yet registered. 

Residents of Mercer County are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from the Sept. 25-28, 2024, flooding due to the storm. 

DSA teams help conduct outreach in the county, help survivors register for FEMA assistance, check the status of applications and can make minor corrections to applications. 

You do not need to wait for DSA teams to apply for FEMA assistance. You can also:  

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. 
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Download the FEMA App. 

If you have already applied for FEMA assistance, FEMA inspectors will follow up on applications and review reported damages. 

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a Mercer County resident who applied previously in Virginia for damage from Hurricane Helene, please tell the visiting Disaster Survivor Assistance specialist, call FEMA at 800-621-3362 or go online at disasterassistance.gov to discuss your application. Please use the FEMA registration number you were assigned when you applied. 

 While FEMA staff will be making neighborhood visits, residents of the affected communities should also be aware of potential fraud and scams by people claiming to represent FEMA: 

• FEMA representatives never charge a fee or ask for payment. 
• FEMA representatives will always have a laminated identification badge.  
• Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number. Legitimate FEMA representatives will only ask for the last four digits as part of the verification process.   

If you have any concerns, you can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.   

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

kelly.magarity Thu, 12/12/2024 - 20:15

FEMA Staff Heading to Neighborhoods in Mercer County, W.Va.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) Teams will be in Mercer County, W.Va., beginning tomorrow, Dec. 13, to provide help to people affected by Tropical Storm Helene. FEMA staff can answer questions about applications for Individual Assistance as well as help people who have not yet registered. 

Residents of Mercer County are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from the Sept. 25-28, 2024, flooding due to the storm. 

DSA teams help conduct outreach in the county, help survivors register for FEMA assistance, check the status of applications and can make minor corrections to applications. 

You do not need to wait for DSA teams to apply for FEMA assistance. You can also:  

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. 
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Download the FEMA App. 

If you have already applied for FEMA assistance, FEMA inspectors will follow up on applications and review reported damages. 

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a Mercer County resident who applied previously in Virginia for damage from Hurricane Helene, please tell the visiting Disaster Survivor Assistance specialist, call FEMA at 800-621-3362 or go online at disasterassistance.gov to discuss your application. Please use the FEMA registration number you were assigned when you applied. 

 While FEMA staff will be making neighborhood visits, residents of the affected communities should also be aware of potential fraud and scams by people claiming to represent FEMA: 

• FEMA representatives never charge a fee or ask for payment. 
• FEMA representatives will always have a laminated identification badge.  
• Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number. Legitimate FEMA representatives will only ask for the last four digits as part of the verification process.   

If you have any concerns, you can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.   

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

erika.osullivan Thu, 12/12/2024 - 19:58

Disaster Recovery Center in Greene County Closing Permanently Dec. 14

FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Center in Greene County will end operations at 5 p.m. ET Saturday, Dec. 14. For those who were affected by Tropical Storm Helene, help is still available by phone, online or in-person at any other Disaster Recovery Center.

The Greene County center that will close is located at:

Greene County Courthouse/Annex
204 N. Cutler St.
Greeneville, TN 37745
Regular hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Dec. 12-13; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 14

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers remain open in Eastern Tennessee from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday; closed Sunday, except where noted. 

• Carter County: Carter County Public Library, 201 North Sycamore St., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Hours are: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday to Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Saturday; closed Sunday.
• Cocke County: Old Walmart Building, 593 B West Broadway, Newport, TN 37821
• Johnson County: Tennessee National Guard Armory, 1923 South Shady St., Mountain City, TN 37683
• Unicoi County: National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center, 615 South Main Ave., Erwin, TN 37650
• Washington County: Cherry Grove Baptist Church, 104 Cherry Grove Rd., Jonesborough, TN  37659

Even after a recovery center closes, help from FEMA is just a phone call away. Survivors can get answers from trained specialists at the FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362. Lines are open 7 a.m. to midnight ET and specialists speak many languages.

Those who need continuing rental assistance can reach out to FEMA Helpline specialists. It is also important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily. Missing or wrong information could delay your assistance.

You may update FEMA about changes to your personal information by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov. Click on the green ‘Check Status’ button to create an online account. Use the same email you provided when you applied for assistance. If you applied online or used the FEMA app, you already have a disaster assistance account.

If you haven’t yet applied for FEMA disaster assistance, you have until Tuesday, Jan. 7, to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline. You may also apply at any Disaster Recovery Center. 

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

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 12/12/2024 - 19:52

Farmers, Ranch Hands May Be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

North Carolina farmers and ranch hands whose tools or equipment were damaged by Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible for disaster assistance. FEMA aid is available to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment and items required for your job or self-employment. The deadline to apply is Jan. 7.

Coverage For Tools and Equipment

Family-owned farms typically have a variety of equipment needed to conduct business. These include tractors, plows, seeders or planters, harvesters, sprayers, hay balers and utility vehicles. These items are all potentially eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if you can show the following:

• Items were damaged by the disaster.
• You do not have another working item that can meet this need.
• The loss of the item was not covered by insurance.
• Crops and livestock are not “tools and equipment” because they are the products of a farming operation, whereas tools and equipment are the means of production.

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

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

Additional assistance to help meet these needs may also be available from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The application deadline is Jan. 7. There are several ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, or use the FEMA App for mobile devices. You can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or click on this link to locate a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) close to you DRC Locator. You can visit any DRC. They are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. 

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 12/12/2024 - 19:49

FEMA Assistance Now Available in West Virginia

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — If you live in Mercer County, W.Va., you can now apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from the Sept. 25-28, 2024, flooding due to Tropical Storm Helene. 

FEMA may be able to help you pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other needs due to the disaster, including: 

• Essential items such as water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, medical supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation 
• Rental assistance if you are displaced because of the disaster including financial assistance for the following: hotel stays, stays with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unit 
• Repair or replacement of a vehicle, appliances, room furnishings, personal or family computer 
• Books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment 
• Moving and storage fees, medical expenses, childcare and funeral expenses 

There are four ways to apply: 

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. 
  • Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service. 
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Download the FEMA App. 
• In-person assistance will also be available soon.  
  • Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will be on the ground in impacted communities, walking door to door to share information and help residents apply for FEMA assistance.  
  • In coordination with the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) and Mercer County officials, FEMA will be opening a Disaster Recovery Center soon. At a Disaster Recovery Center, you can get help applying for federal assistance, update your application and learn about other resources available. 

If you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA can’t pay for losses your insurance will cover. 

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a Mercer County resident who applied previously in Virginia for damage from Hurricane Helene, please contact FEMA at 800-621-3362 or online at disasterassistance.gov to discuss your application. Please use the FEMA registration number you were assigned when you applied.

To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance - YouTube. 

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

 

erika.osullivan Thu, 12/12/2024 - 19:45

Tornado Survivors Will Get Donated Homes Before Holidays

MADISON, Miss. — Seven families affected by the March 2023 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes will receive donated mobile home units, making them homeowners, at a ceremony on Dec. 20 at 11 a.m. The ceremony will be held at Dukes Mobile Home Park, 25726 U.S. Highway 61 in Anguilla. Retired Brig. Gen. Samuel Nichols, Jr. and his wife, Linda, donated more than $28,000 that will be used towards purchasing the homes for the families. 

General Nichols is an alumnus of Mississippi State University where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees, was a football standout and member of the ROTC. A Biloxi native, he served the United States through his distinguished, 36-year military career before retiring. 

“Like many survivors of severe weather events, these families have had tremendous losses,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Craig Levy. “This includes housing and financial losses and the stress that type of hardship causes. General and Mrs. Nichols’ generosity will give these families the stability of permanent housing and help relieve that stress. This is an indescribable gift during the holiday season.” 

During the ceremony, Dr. Pam Chatman, executive director of Boss Lady Economic Planning and Development, and her partners, Keith Fulcher, president of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, and NFL legend Archie Manning and his wife Olivia will be recognized for their support. The group has worked tirelessly to help disaster survivors become homeowners — many for the first time.     

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

erika.suzuki Thu, 12/12/2024 - 18:35

FEMA and the Ad Council Encourage AANHPI Communities to Enhance Disaster Preparedness in New PSAs

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA’s “Ready” campaign launched new public service advertisements (PSAs) with the Ad Council, encouraging Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities to prepare for future risks and disasters. Recognizing the unique barriers faced by AANHPI communities, the campaign urges everyone to start a conversation with their family and plan together for emergencies. 

According to FEMA’s 2023 National Household Survey, nearly two-thirds of Asian Americans (65%) and over a half of Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islanders (58%) do not believe taking a step to prepare will make a difference in a disaster, compared to 50% of the American public. The new “Inner Circles” PSAs deepen FEMA’s focus on encouraging all audiences, especially AANHPI communities, to prioritize disaster preparedness with culturally competent resources and messaging.

“Ensuring all communities have the knowledge and resources to prepare for disasters is at the heart of FEMA’s mission,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "This partnership with the Ad Council is a reflection of our continued commitment to address the unique challenges and barriers facing different communities by providing the accessible, culturally informed resources that everyone deserves. We understand that preparedness is not one-size-fits-all, and we’re proud of this new work tailored to meet the unique needs and values of AANHPI communities.”

The “Inner Circles” video PSAs were developed pro bono for FEMA’s “Ready” campaign by TDW+Co in collaboration with the Ad Council. Informed by extensive research and insights, the new PSAs build on the campaign’s National Preparedness Month efforts this past September, highlighting how individuals and families can prepare for disasters by taking simple steps to start a conversation and ensure their readiness. As part of the initiative, FEMA Administrator Criswell signed a Memorandum of Agreement formalizing the partnership with the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) to underscore the historic effort. FEMA also conducted roundtables with AANHPI communities nationwide to gain insights on how to best support the communities’ preparedness needs.

In addition to the new PSAs, FEMA has developed new resources, including a conversation guide, tailored for the AANHPI communities on Ready.gov/Start. These resources help reduce barriers to preparedness and are available in several languages, including Arabic, Hawaiian, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Tagalog, Traditional Chinese and Vietnamese.

This year’s AANHPI-focused PSAs continue the “Ready” campaign’s community-centric efforts of the past three years, which previously engaged Black and African American, Latino and older adult communities, as well as the nation at-large in individual preparedness. Since its launch in 2003, the “Ready” campaign has generated over 128 million visitors to Ready.gov, providing disaster preparation information for individuals, families and communities.

“Cultural relevance goes beyond the representation of the actors on screen.  It requires a deep understanding of what is important to communities, in their values, actions and daily lives,” said Julie Lee, CEO of TDW+Co. “This includes nuances such as décor, food, and even items like the green medicated oil that lives in many Asian households. This can only be communicated through creative teams, crews, and casts that are representative of the communities we are portraying.” 

“Together with FEMA, our goal is to ensure every individual feels empowered to prepare themselves for disaster,” said Michelle Hillman, Chief Campaign Development Officer at the Ad Council. “We hope that by providing accessible and culturally relevant resources, we can help instill a sense of confidence and readiness, ensuring that all communities have the tools they need to face emergencies.” 

This round of creative work is the latest in FEMA and the Ad Council’s 21-year partnership to educate communities about disasters and emergency preparedness. For more information and to get started on your emergency plan, visit Ready.gov/Start.  

ABOUT THE AD COUNCIL
The Ad Council convenes creative storytellers to educate, unite and uplift audiences by opening hearts, inspiring action and accelerating change. For more than 80 years, the nonprofit organization and its partners in advertising, media, marketing and tech have been behind some of the country's most iconic social impact campaigns – Smokey Bear, A Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Waste, Love Has No Labels, Tear the Paper Ceiling and many more. With a current focus on mental health, gun violence prevention, combating hate and bias, the overdose crisis and other critical issues, the Ad Council's national campaigns encompass advertising and media content, ground game and community efforts, trusted messenger and influencer engagement, employer programs and other innovative strategies.
 
To learn more or get involved, visit AdCouncil.org, join the Ad Council's communities on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X, and view campaign creative on YouTube.

ABOUT TDW+Co
TDW+Co is a community-based, purpose-driven agency enabling brands to connect with communities authentically.  A certified minority-owned company, TDW+Co is female-led with over 90% of employees from diverse backgrounds. TDW+Co believes that brands can achieve and exceed business objectives while positively impacting communities.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

mashana.davis Thu, 12/12/2024 - 15:03

TSA Participants Should Talk to Hotels About Holiday Availability

As the holidays approach, local hotels currently sheltering Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) participants may not have availability to continue to accommodate some TSA families due to existing Christmas and New Year’s reservations. As such, some TSA families might need to find alternative accommodation in other area with participating hotels and motels.

FEMA and the state of North Carolina urges checked in TSA families to talk to the hotel front desk staff now regarding extending their reservation during peak holiday season. If unable to extend, FEMA may assist in finding new room in other participating TSA lodging facilities. You may also use the hotel locator Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA).

A request to check out of your current hotel due to availability does not impact eligibility for TSA. TSA is intended to provide shelter while households identify other housing solutions or make repairs to their home.  

TSA is a temporary program intended to provide short-term lodging for eligible disaster survivors whose residence is uninhabitable or inaccessible because of the disaster. At the request of the state, FEMA provides TSA to eligible disaster survivors who register for assistance and have a continuing need for shelter. Through TSA, FEMA pays directly to participating hotels and motels to cover the cost of room, taxes, and non-refundable pet fees to provide short-term accommodations for eligible disaster survivors. 

To date, approximately 10,000 households have used TSA at participating hotels, with more than 4,950 households transitioning to suitable longer-term housing.  As of Dec. 10, 4,990 households remained in hotels.

Disaster survivors seeking information regarding participating TSA hotels can visit DisasterAssistance.gov.

You must have a FEMA application number and approval from FEMA to participate in the TSA program. You may also call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center for additional TSA information.

Applicants are encouraged to maintain contact with the state, voluntary agencies, local organizations, long-term recovery groups and other partners to find suitable housing. 

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 12/12/2024 - 14:30

FEMA Issues Direct Housing Cumulative Public Notice for Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEMA Publishes Summary Report of the 2023 Request for Information Comments

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

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

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

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

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

Disaster Recovery Centers are a Great Place for Assistance

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

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

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

All Georgia Disaster Recovery Centers are closed on Sundays.

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

Appling County

Appling County Agricultural Center
2761 Blackshear Highway

Baxley, GA 31513

Butts County

Butts Park & Recreation Building (Ernest Biles Youth Center)

576 Ernest Biles Drive 

Jackson, GA 30233 (closing permanently Dec. 13)

Chatham County

Savannah Technical College

Student Enrichment Center Building

5717 White Bluff Road 

Savannah, GA 31405

Coffee County

The Atrium 
114 N. Peterson Avenue 

Douglas, GA 31533

Columbia County

Columbia County Emergency Mgt. Agency

650 Ronald Reagan Drive

Evans, GA 30809

Emanuel County

Southeastern Technical College, Special Programs Bldg.

346 Kite Road, Building 1

Swainsboro, GA 30401

Jefferson County

National Guard Bid-EOC

1841 Hwy. 24 West

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

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road 

Dublin, GA 31021

Lincoln County

Lincoln County Recreation Department

Walter T. Norman Gym

1962 Rowland-York Drive

Lincolnton, GA 30817

Lowndes County

City of Valdosta

4434 North Forrest Street Extension

Valdosta, GA 31605

McDuffie County

Thomson Depot                                                                                     

111 Railroad Street 

Thomson, GA 30824

Richmond County

Hub for Community Innovation

631 Chafee Avenue 

Augusta, GA 30904

Screven County

Screven County Library

106 Community Drive

Sylvania, GA 30467

Tift County

Tift County Swimming Pool

202 Baldwin Drive

Tifton, GA 31794 (closing permanently Dec. 14)

Toombs County

Georgia Department of Human Services 

162 Oxley Drive

Lyons, GA 30436 

Washington County

Sandersville School Building Authority

514 North Harris Street

Sandersville, GA 31082

Wilkes County

Washington Fire Department (Training Room)

212 E. Court St.

Washington, GA 30673

 

FEMA Mobile Registration Center location and hours

Candler County

Candler Recreation Center

621 W. Pine St. 

Metter, GA 30439

Monday, Dec. 9 – Saturday, Dec. 14

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Johnson County

Johnson County Annex

2484 W. Elm St.

Wrightsville, GA 31096

Wednesday, Dec. 11 – Saturday, Dec. 14 

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Telfair County

American Legion

3372 E. Golden Isles Pkwy.

Lumber City, GA 31549

Monday, Dec. 9 – Saturday, Dec. 21

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Ware County

Courthouse Annex

305 Oak St.

Waycross, GA 31501

Monday, Dec. 9 – Saturday, Dec. 14

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEMA Local Hire employees are eligible for the following benefits:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery,  visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362) 711/VRS – Video Relay Service). Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish). TTY call 800-462-7585.

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

Two North Carolina Disaster Recovery Centers to Close Dec. 14

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

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

The DRCs that are permanently closing are the following locations:

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

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

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

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