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Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Gilchrist and Madison Counties
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in Gilchrist and Madison counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene.
Center locations:
Gilchrist County
Gilchrist County Fire Station #2
460 NW County Road 138
Branford, FL 32008
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Sunday
Madison County
The Bridge Church
1135 US East 90
Madison, FL 32340
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday
Florida Division of Emergency Management and FEMA are urgently reopening centers that were in place for Debby prior to Helene and these centers can serve people affected by both storms. New locations are being assessed to meet the needs in areas heavily impacted by Helene.
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.
Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free 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), 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.
If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
kirsten.chambers Thu, 10/03/2024 - 19:15Boone County Disaster Recovery Center Hours of Operation Changing for October 7
October 3, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-013
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov
Media Advisory
Boone County Disaster Recovery Center Hours of Operation Changing for October 7
The center is located at:
Boone County Disaster Recovery CenterMadison City Hall
255 Washington Ave.
Madison, WV 25130
Hours of operation:
Monday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024
Survivors do not have to visit a disaster center to register with FEMA. They can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., 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. They can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app on their smartphone.
The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Nov. 2, 2024.
If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, contact FEMA to learn more about next steps. Staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 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).
issa.mansaray Thu, 10/03/2024 - 19:11Response Operations Remain Underway Across Southeast Following Impacts of Helene
WASHINGTON – The response across southeastern states affected by Hurricane and Tropical Storm Helene continues to address critical needs of survivors. This includes search and rescue operations, power and communications restoration and delivering food and water.
Local, state, private, faith-based and nonprofit resources complement the federal family to provide urgent care and extensive support in all six states receiving presidential disaster declarations.
President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance that is available for survivors in designated counties in Florida, Georgia North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Survivors may apply for assistance in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.
Survivors may receive upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across affected states impacted by the storm.
Asheville, N.C. - (Oct. 2, 2024) Urban Search and Rescue Team member Ellen McGarry, a canine handler from Missouri Task Force One, and her dog Tad support emergency operations in Western North Carolina on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Greenville, S.C. - (Oct. 2, 2024) - Senior FEMA Official Willie Nunn visits Greenville, South Carolina to examine the damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Augusta, Ga. - (Oct. 3, 2024) - Vice President Harris along with Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff, Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson, and FEMA Deputy Administrator Eric Hooks help distribute food and supplies to Hurricane Helene survivors in Augusta, Georgia. Suwannee, Fla. (Oct. 2, 2024) - The FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team provides disaster assistance to survivors who lost their homes in Suwannee, Florida, following the catastrophic damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Suwannee, Fla. (Oct. 2, 2024) - The FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team sets up space for a Multi-Agency Resource Center in Suwannee, Florida, following Hurricane Helene. The center will accommodate state and local agencies to provide survivors with a one-stop-shop for disaster assistance. GAFFNEY, South Carolina – U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Christopher Daniels, a power production technician with the 169th Civil Engineer Squadron, South Carolina Air National Guard, cuts downed trees to assist with debris removal in Gaffney, South Carolina. (photo credit: U.S. Air National Guard)NASHVILLE – U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Robert Nickelson, a member of the 118th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Tennessee Air National Guard, loads traffic cones onto a flatbed. (photo credit: U.S. Air National Guard) Asheville, N.C. - (Oct. 2, 2024) - Members of the New Jersey Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team conduct operations across Buncombe County in Asheville, North Carolina, on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. They are one of 28 federal teams ready to deploy at all times.
FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages: Disaster Multimedia Toolkit.
amy.ashbridge Thu, 10/03/2024 - 19:11FEMA Specialists in Georgia Communities After Hurricane Helene
ATLANTA — FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews are in Georgia neighborhoods helping people apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene.
DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. The teams go door to door in impacted neighborhoods to help people apply for federal assistance, check the status of an application, identify potential needs and make connections with organizations that can provide resources. DSA crews never ask for, or accept, money.
How to ApplyHomeowners and renters 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 can apply in several ways: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App, or call 800-621-3362 any day of the week. 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 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/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Thu, 10/03/2024 - 16:04Union County Disaster Recovery Center To Close
HARRISBURG, Pa. – The joint Disaster Recovery Center located in Union County will permanently close Saturday, October 5 at 6 p.m.
Residents who continue to need the services available at a DRC can visit one of the other centers:
- Hepburn Volunteer Fire Company, 615 East Route 973 Highway, Cogan Station, Lycoming County
- Penn-York Retreat Center, 266 Northern Potter Rd., Ulysses, Potter County,
- Knoxville Community Center, 301 Main St., Knoxville Tioga County.
These centers are open Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Individuals and households impacted by Tropical Storm Debby from August 9-10 in Lycoming, Potter, Tioga and Union counties can visit any DRC to receive help and information.
Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance can apply at a Disaster Recovery Center, apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App on your phone, or call 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 for applying to FEMA for disaster assistance is November 12.
You can visit a DRC for help with other parts of the disaster recovery process. If you received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application. At a DRC you can also meet with representatives from Commonwealth of Pennsylvania agencies and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
For more information on Pennsylvania’s disaster recovery, visit the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Facebook page, fema.gov/disaster/4815 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.
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, 10/03/2024 - 15:25Biden-Harris Administration Provides More Than $20 Million to Hurricane Helene Survivors, Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations Continue in North Carolina
Today, President Biden will travel to Georgia and Florida to survey damage, meet with local officials, community leaders and first responders
WASHINGTON -- As search and rescue, power restoration and communication capabilities remain top priorities throughout the Southeast, FEMA has already helped thousands of Hurricane Helene survivors jumpstart their recoveries with more than $20 million in flexible, upfront funding.
More than 5,000 personnel from across the federal workforce are deployed, including more than 1,500 from FEMA. To date, FEMA has shipped over 9.3 million meals, more than 11.2 million liters of water, 150 generators and more than 260,000 tarps to the region.
President Biden has approved a Major Disaster declaration for eight counties in Tennessee. This declaration comes in addition to areas in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Yesterday, the President announced an increase in federal cost share for each state to help state, tribal and local governments and non-profit organizations cover the cost of recovery.
Disaster survivors in declared areas can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated counties should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
There are three ways apply for FEMA assistance:
- Calling FEMA’s Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
- Online by visiting disasterassistance.gov.
- Downloading and applying on the FEMA App.
Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Hurricane Helene.
Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has more than 850 trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. Additionally, they are helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting the Red Cross Hurricane Helene Reunification page, where you can enter pertinent information about the person you’re looking for. If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mold mitigation with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through October 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.
Connectivity is crucial for disaster response and lifesaving operations. With areas still experiencing mass communications outages, it’s critical that local, state and federal first responders can communicate with each other to conduct lifesaving operations like search and rescue. Fortunately, FEMA has resources that can ensure communications support in even the most remote areas affected by Helene.
One of FEMA’s tools for emergency communications is Starlink, a mobile unit that allows customers high-speed internet by connecting to satellites. FEMA has successfully deployed Starlink in previous disasters including Guam, Hawaii and Alaska. Because the unit is portable and weighs less than 15 pounds, FEMA can deliver it to the areas that need it most, bringing connectivity to over 100 users.
Over 60 Starlink units have been sent to multiple states in support of Hurricane Helene response efforts, including 40 units to North Carolina with more on the way. FEMA is in the process of purchasing additional units for use in other areas affected by the storm.
North CarolinaIn North Carolina, more than 500 FEMA staff are on the ground in North Carolina, with more arriving daily. over 30 Disaster Survivor Assistance staff are on the ground in affected areas to help survivors to apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.
Over 38 state and federal Urban Search and Rescue teams are in North Carolina helping people. As of today, these have rescued or supported over 2,100 survivors. Additional federal search and rescue teams have arrived to support the mission.
Wednesday, President Biden visited the state to survey damage and meet with community leaders and state officials. Administrator Criswell remains in North Carolina and will be on the ground until the situation has stabilized.
FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance for North Carolinians displaced by Tropical Storm Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.
As of today, more than 70% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Nearly 8,000 crews continue to assist with remaining power restoration efforts.
To date, over 40,000 people have applied for disaster assistance and FEMA has paid out more than $6.2 million in Individual Assistance directly to survivors.
Cellular restoration continues to improve, with less than 38% of cellular sites down as of today. Ten counties have 50% or more cell sites down. Two Federal Communications Commission surveillance teams are conducting inspection operations on equipment in targeted counties. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing 40 Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other.
The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has full mobile cellular service.
Commodity distribution, mass feeding and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations.
Voluntary organizations are supporting mass feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft.
The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage.
Twenty-six shelters are housing over 1,000 occupants. Mobile feeding operations continue to help survivors in heavily impacted areas, including 3 mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell and Watauga counties.
The North Carolina National Guard has delivered 12 aircraft pallets, totaling more than 100,000lbs of food and over 38,000lbs of water to Asheville.
Information for Residents- Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.
- Residents should not travel to western North Carolina to keep the roadways clear for search and rescue teams and utility crews.
- Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.
Today, President Biden will visit the state to survey damage and meet with state and local leaders.
On Wednesday, five counties were added to the disaster declaration, bringing the total eligible for Individual Assistance to 22 counties. Survivors in Columbia, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Leon and Suwannee counties may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities impacted by Hurricane Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors have begun visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.
FEMA has received over 85,000 applications for assistance and has provided more than $7.5 million to survivors.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is conducting either debris assessments or water/wastewater assessments across seven counties.
The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. More than 450 volunteers continue conducting direct emergency feeding and working with feeding partners to provide distribution in support of partner production. Sixteen shelters remain open with less than 475 occupants.
The Salvation Army has active mobile feeding units serving meals and distributing supplies in 13 counties.
Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.
GeorgiaToday, President Biden will visit to survey damage in various affected areas of Georgia. On Wednesday, Vice President Harris visited Richmond County to meet with community leaders. On Wednesday, Vice President Harris was in Augusta to survey damage and meet with local officials.
FEMA has received nearly 100,000 applications for assistance. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.
The Salvation Army has 26 active mobile feeding units providing meals and support to 10 counties in the affected areas.
The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. The organization continues to conduct direct emergency feeding and working with feeding partners to provide distribution in support of partner production. Two new shelters opened yesterday, totaling 10 shelters with over 500 occupants.
Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.
South CarolinaToday, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.
Region 10 Regional Administrator Willie Nunn is on the ground to help oversee response and recovery operations in the state.
In South Carolina, FEMA has received over 88,000 applications and distributed more than $4.4 million to survivors.
The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. One shelter closed yesterday. Nine shelters remain open with less than 175 occupants.
Team Rubicon is continuing to route clearance operations in Spartanburg County and continues planning for clearing other areas.
The state has established a Mass Feeding Task Force to include multiple voluntary agencies. Three Salvation Army mobile feeding units are in hard hit areas. FEMA is supporting the state’s feeding mission with Meals Ready to Eat and drinking water.
Information for Residents- Residents with questions on Hurricane Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133.
- Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information.
Several federal agencies, including FEMA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Department of Energy and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, are already in Virginia and working hard with their counterparts with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and other state agencies. Priorities include coordinating the removal of debris and restoration of critical infrastructure.
Today, the first Disaster Survivor Assistance staff will start working on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties. These teams help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.
Residents of Giles, Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties, as well as residents of the city of Galax, are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from damage and losses due to Tropical Storm Helene.
TennesseeOn Wednesday, President Biden approved a major disaster declaration for the state. This includes individual assistance for Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties.
Individual Assistance provides money to survivors for serious needs, including food, gas and medication. It also provides money for the repair and/or replacement of personal property and repairs to a disaster-damaged home.
Shelter and mass feeding operations have expanded with support from National Guard, delivering food to Unicoi, Washington and Carter counties via aircraft.
Ten shelters remain open with decreasing populations, as people are able to safely return home.
Power and cellular restoration continues to improve. Power has been restored to nearly all customers and less than 13% of cellular sites are down across the affected area.
Information for Residents- Residents can call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.
- Counties have started establishing donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.
FEMA Assistance Available to Renters after Hurricane Francine
BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA assistance is available to renters, including students, as well as homeowners with uninsured losses from Hurricane Francine.
FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Residents in Ascension, Assumption, Jefferson, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes may apply by:
- Going online to disasterassistance.gov/.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
- Visiting any Disaster Recovery Center. For operating hours and addresses, go online to fema.gov/drc..
U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), FEMA’s federal partner in disaster recovery, may also be able to help. FEMA has streamlined the application process so people can apply to FEMA and SBA at the same time. SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at the Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 for more information.
For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Thu, 10/03/2024 - 14:09FEMA Staff Heading to Your Neighborhood
Richmond, VA. — FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) Teams will be in Virginia beginning today, Oct. 3, to provide help to those affected by Tropical Storm Helene. They will start in Washington County, Va. FEMA staff will be answering questions about applications for Individual Assistance as well as helping those who have not yet registered.
Residents of Giles, Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties as well as residents of the city of Galax are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from damage and losses due to Hurricane Helene beginning September 25, 2024.
Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams help survivors in different ways. DSA teams conduct outreach in impacted counties and cities, 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. There are other ways to apply:
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
If you have already applied for FEMA assistance, FEMA will have inspectors on the ground to follow up on applications and review reported damages.
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 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.
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, 10/03/2024 - 13:48
How to Appeal a Decision from FEMA
HARRISBURG, Pa. – If you receive a letter from FEMA saying you are not eligible for federal assistance or that your application is incomplete, you have 60 days from the date of that letter to submit the missing documentation or to appeal FEMA’s decision.
Read the letter carefully. It will provide additional information on what your next steps will be. For example, you may need to submit insurance documents or receipts. You may need to confirm your identity or provide proof of residency. Or it may be something as simple as a missing signature.
If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, you may appeal. An appeal is a request to FEMA to review your file again. It is also an opportunity to provide new or additional information not previously submitted that may affect the decision. You may appeal any decision by FEMA regarding your application for Individual Assistance, such as your initial eligibility decision, the amount or type of assistance provided to you, late applications, requests to return money, or a denial of continued Temporary Housing Assistance.
An appeal should be an explanation of why you disagree with the decision. Be sure to include the following:
- Applicant’s full name, current address and damaged dwelling address.
- Applicant’s 9-digit FEMA registration number, found at the top of the determination letter (on every page)
- The last four digits of the applicant’s Social Security number (on every page)
- FEMA disaster declaration number, DR-4815-PA (on every page)
You can submit your appeal documents online, in person, by mail or by fax.
- Online: If you set up an online account, appeals can be managed through this account. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, log into your account and to upload all supporting documents using the Correspondence "Upload Center."
- In person: You can take your appeal documentation to a Disaster Recovery Center.
- By mail: Mail appeal documents to
FEMA - Individuals & Households Program National Processing Service Center
P.O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
- By fax: Fax appeal documents to
(800) 827-8112, Attention: FEMA - Individuals & Households Program
All appeals are reviewed. Decisions are usually made within 30 days of receiving the appeal; however, it may take up to 90 days. You will be notified of the response to your appeal either by mail or via the DisasterAssistance.gov account you created when you applied with FEMA.
There are many reasons why you may choose to appeal a FEMA decision. Here is one example:
If you have any questions about a letter from FEMA, we encourage you to visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service, or another service, give FEMA your number for that service. FEMA staff are standing by to answer your questions.
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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, 10/03/2024 - 13:23North Carolinians May Be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels
ATLANTA – FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for North Carolinians displaced by Tropical Storm Helene in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Residents in these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.
Individuals and households may be eligible if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.
Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone, or movie rental.
Eligible survivors may stay in participating TSA hotels in Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. To locate participating hotels, visit femaemergencyhotels.com/ and enter your FEMA registration number, obtained when you applied for FEMA assistance.
An initial eligibility review will be conducted 60-days after the check-in date. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.
TSA participants may also be eligible for other federal financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.
To apply for assistance, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- 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), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information on North Carolina’s’ recovery from Hurricane Helene visit fema.gov/disaster/4827. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For North Carolinians seeking general information, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.
erika.suzuki Thu, 10/03/2024 - 12:43President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Georgia
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Georgia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene from Sept. 24, 2024 and continuing.
The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased from 75% to 100% for the first 90 days of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance in designated counties, as well as the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.
amy.ashbridge Wed, 10/02/2024 - 23:41President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Florida
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Florida to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene from Sept. 23, 2024 and continuing.
The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased from 75% to 100% for the first 90 days of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance in designated counties, as well as the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.
amy.ashbridge Wed, 10/02/2024 - 23:21President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Tennessee
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Helene from Sept. 26, 2024 and continuing.
The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties.
For a period of 45 days of the state’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period, assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program is authorized at 100% of the total eligible costs.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Darryl L. Dragoo has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made later if warranted by the results of damage assessments.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
amy.ashbridge Wed, 10/02/2024 - 23:00Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Assumption Parish
BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA and the State of Louisiana will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Napoleonville on Thursday, Oct. 3, to provide one-on-one help to Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Francine.
Center location:
Assumption Parish
Assumption High School, North Building
4880 Hwy 308
Napoleonville, LA 70390
Additional DRCs are open at the following locations:
Ascension Parish
Lemann Memorial Center
1100 Clay St.
Donaldsonville, LA 70346
Lafourche Parish
Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center
4876 Hwy. 1
Raceland, LA 70394
St. Charles Parish
Alan Arterbury Building
14564 River Road
New Sarpy, LA 70078
St. John the Baptist Parish
Reserve Library
1482 Hwy 44
Reserve, LA 70084
St. James Parish
Convent Community Center
5775 Hwy 44
Convent, LA 70723
St. Mary Parish
Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
728 Myrtle St.
Morgan City, LA 70380
Terrebonne Parish
Terrebonne Parish Library
151 Library Drive
Houma, LA 70360
The centers will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes can visit any DRC to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center.
The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
You do not have to visit a center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.
Additional options when applying include:
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Wed, 10/02/2024 - 22:00Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Pinellas and Taylor Counties
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in Pinellas and Taylor counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene.
Center locations:
Pinellas County
Largo Public Library
120 Central Park Drive
Largo, FL 33771
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday
Taylor County
Loughridge Park
1100 W. Hampton Springs Ave.
Perry, FL 32347
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday
Florida Division of Emergency Management and FEMA are urgently reopening centers that were in place for Debby prior to Helene and these centers can serve people affected by both storms. New locations are being assessed to meet the needs in areas heavily impacted by Helene.
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.
Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free 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), 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.
If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
kirsten.chambers Wed, 10/02/2024 - 20:08Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene
WASHINGTON – First responders across local and state governments, the private sector, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and the federal family continue working to address the immediate needs of survivors and their communities.
These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across affected states impacted by Hurricane Helene.
President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance that is available for survivors in designated counties in Florida, Georgia North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Survivors may apply for assistance in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.
Survivors may receive upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
Asheville, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) - Volunteers distribute supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene.Valdosta, Ga. (Sept. 30, 2024) - FEMA helps survivors of Hurricane Helene by distributing water, MREs, and tarps in Lowndes County, Georgia. Steinhatchee, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) - FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene. Fletcher, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) - FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help Hurricane Helene survivors, including registering them for aid. SWANNANOA, North Carolina – Volunteers serve hot food to survivors in downtown Swannanoa. (Photo Credit: FEMA) Swannanoa, N.C. - (October 1, 2024) - The town of Swannanoa in Western North Carolina reels in the wake of devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. GREENVILLE, South Carolina – Members of the South Carolina Army National Guard distribute meals and water to disaster survivors in Greenville. (Photo Credit: FEMA) ASHEVILE, North Carolina – Members of the North Carolina Army National Guard work alongside volunteers at William W. Estes Elementary School to load meals and water for disaster survivors. (Photo Credit: FEMA) STEINHATCHEE, Florida. - FEMA speaks with a Hurricane Helene survivor. Agency personnel are on the ground helping survivors register for disaster assistance. (Photo Credit: FEMA) ASHEVILLE, North Carolina: The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response deployed a National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) team to provide 24-hour emergency department surge support at Mission Hospital in Asheville. This is one of four sites in western North Carolina receiving NDMS medical support. (Source: HHS)
FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages: Disaster Multimedia Toolkit.
amy.ashbridge Wed, 10/02/2024 - 20:04Alachua County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Center in Alachua County has reopened to help people affected by Hurricane Debby.
Center location:
Alachua County
Millhopper Branch Library
3145 NW 43rd St.
Gainesville, FL 32606
Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday
For other Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
kirsten.chambers Wed, 10/02/2024 - 19:50FEMA Assistance Now Available in Virginia
Philadelphia, Pa. — Residents of Giles, Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties as well as residents of the city of Galax are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from damage and losses due to Hurricane Helene beginning September 25, 2024.
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:
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App.
- 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.
- 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 Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) and officials in impacted counties and cities, FEMA will be opening Disaster Recovery Centers 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.
To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance - YouTube.
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.
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 Wed, 10/02/2024 - 18:14
As State, Federal Response Efforts Continue, Biden-Harris Administration Provides Over $10 Million to Hurricane Helene Survivors
WASHINGTON -- As search and rescue, power restoration and communications capability remain top priorities throughout the Southeast, FEMA has already helped thousands of Hurricane Helene survivors jumpstart their recoveries with more than $10 million in flexible, upfront funding.
More than 4,800 personnel from across the federal workforce are deployed and more than 1,000 are from FEMA. To date, FEMA has shipped over 8.8 million meals, more than 7.4 million liters of water, 150 generators and more than 225,000 tarps to the region.
Today, President Biden will be in North Carolina and Vice President Harris will be in Georgia meeting with community leaders and first responders. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will remain in North Carolina to oversee response efforts and ensure the federal government provides urgent and extensive support to Asheville and surrounding areas.
President Biden has approved a Major Disaster declaration for 24 counties and cities in Virginia. This declaration comes in addition to areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina. Disaster survivors in these areas can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA.
People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated counties should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
There are three ways apply for FEMA assistance:
- Online by visiting disasterassistance.gov.
- Calling 1-800-621-3362.
- Downloading and applying on the FEMA App.
Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Hurricane Helene.
Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has more than 850 trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. They are also helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting the Red Cross Hurricane Helene Reunification page, where you can enter pertinent information about the person you’re looking for. If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mold mitigation with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through October 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.
North CarolinaPresident Biden will visit today to survey damage and meet with community leaders and first responders. So far, FEMA has received over 30,000 applications and provided more than $2.6 million to survivors.
As of today, more than 62% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Nearly 8,000 crews continue to assist with remaining power restoration efforts.
Cellular restoration continues to improve, with less than 50% of cellular sites down as of today. Ten counties, down from 17, have 50% or more cell sites down. Two Federal Communications Commission surveillance teams are conducting inspection operations on equipment in targeted counties.
To date, FEMA has helped provide 67 total Starlink to the state, including 3 Starlinks for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Nation and 4 Starlinks for critical lifeline locations as determined by the state.
As of today, search and rescue teams have conducted nearly 1,500 structural evaluations and over 1,660 human and animal interactions including rescues, evacuations and other assistance. Additional federal search and rescue teams are enroute to support the mission.
Voluntary organizations are supporting mass feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft delivery.
Four additional shelters opened yesterday, totaling 29 shelters with over 1,000 occupants.
The Salvation Army has provided over 1,000 meals, 1,900 snacks and 1,900 beverages to survivors. Mobile feeding operations continue to help survivors in heavily impacted areas.
The North Carolina National Guard has delivered 12 aircraft pallets, totaling more than 100,000lbs of food and over 38,000lbs of water to Asheville.
Information for Residents:
- Residents should not travel to western North Carolina to keep the roadways clear for search and rescue teams and utility crews.
- Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.
Today, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.
In Florida, FEMA has received over 85,000 applications for assistance and has provided more than $4.8 million to survivors.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is conducting either debris assessments or water/wastewater assessments across seven counties.
The American Red Cross is conducting direct emergency feeding and working with feeding partners to provide distribution in support of partner production. Sixteen shelters remain open with over 500 occupants.
The Salvation Army has 29 active mobile feeding units serving meals and distributing supplies in nine counties.
Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.
GeorgiaVice President Harris will visit Richmond County today to survey damage and meet with the community. As of today, more than 60% of originally reported power outages have been restored.
In Georgia, FEMA has received over 60,000 applications for assistance. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.
The Salvation Army has 26 active mobile feeding units providing meals and support to 10 counties in the affected areas.
The American Red Cross is conducting direct emergency feeding and working with feeding partners to provide distribution in support of partner production. One new shelter opened yesterday, totaling 8 shelters with over 500 occupants.
Team Rubicon continues route clearance operations in Ray City.
Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.
South CarolinaToday, Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will begin canvassing impacted communities across the state, meeting survivors where they are, to register for FEMA assistance.
As of today, more than half of originally reported power outages have been restored, including all Trauma 1-level hospitals.
In South Carolina, FEMA has received over 70,000 applications and distributed more than $4.4 million to survivors.
The state has established a Mass Feeding Task Force to include multiple voluntary agencies. FEMA is supporting the state’s feeding mission with Meals Ready to Eat and drinking water.
Information for Residents:
- Residents with questions on Hurricane Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133.
- Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information.
Last night, President Biden approved a major disaster declaration for the commonwealth.
Residents in Giles, Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties and the independent city of Galax can begin applying for assistance today. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Damage assessments are continuing in other areas and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed.
TennesseeIn Tennessee, shelter and mass feeding operations are ongoing. The Salvation Army has provided over 250 meals, 60 snacks and more than 180 beverages to survivors.
Eight shelters remain open with decreasing populations, as people are able to safely return home.
Power and cellular restoration continues to improve. Now less than 0.2% of customers are without power and less than 15% of cellular sites are down. As of today, there are no counties with 50% or more cell sites out.
Information for Residents
- Residents can call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to relay as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.
- Counties have started establishing donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.
Get Repair, Rebuilding, Flood Insurance Advice Next Week at Village of Ruidoso Community Center
As New Mexicans repair and rebuild in the wake of the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding, a team of FEMA’s recovery experts is coming to the Village of Ruidoso Community Center to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by natural disasters stronger and safer.
The FEMA specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work.
Residents with fire- or flood-impacted homes will pick up tips on re-building smart, strong and safe to prevent future damage. Smart building includes mitigating damage against floods, strong winds and even tornadoes. Attendees will learn how such simple mitigation measures as elevating electrical and heating systems and anchoring fuel storage tanks can provide a windfall of protection against severe conditions, and much more. Bring your questions.
In addition, FEMA Hazard Mitigation insurance specialists from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will be on hand to answer questions about flood insurance.
These experts will be available Monday, Oct. 7 through Saturday, Oct. 12, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at:
Village of Ruidoso Community Center
501 Sudderth Dr.
Ruidoso, NM 86345
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