Million-Dollar Allocation of FEMA Funds for Nursing Homes in Ponce and San Juan

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – As two disasters occurred within a two-year span - in 2017 with Hurricane María and later during the 2020 Earthquakes - the sisters and support staff at the Hermanitas de los Ancianos Desamparados nursing homes cared for their 110 residents and even provided shelter for nearby families. 

"The home is located in a fairly elevated area and entire families came to seek refuge here," said Sister Gladys Rosario, Director of Hogar Santa Marta, in Ponce. "The sisters took in these people and provided them with food and some small mattresses so they could rest, as they spent days and nights in the parking lot and surrounding areas."

In order to help this organization provide a better place for the hundreds of residents in its care, FEMA awarded nearly $6.6 million to repair damage to three of its four nursing homes: Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet in Cupey, Hogar Santa Marta in Ponce and Hogar Nuestra Señora de la Providencia in Puerta de Tierra.

Each home offers physical, emotional and spiritual care to the elderly. "Especially to those who are most helpless, due to illness, loneliness or economic situation," Sister Rosario emphasized. "Those who have some income contribute and those who do not, contribute nothing and receive the same services."

The Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero emphasized the importance of providing funds to organizations that care for vulnerable populations. “These obligations will will improve the quality of life of the residents and will provide a stronger and safer workplace for the sisters and staff members,” Baquero said.

The funds provided by the agency - about $4.8 million - helped Hogar Santa Marta make multiple infrastructure and electrical repairs. This included hazard mitigation repairs to protect the building against high winds and water infiltration damage.

"This will definitely allow us to enjoy a safe structure, without water leaks, with recreational areas, freshly painted and attractive, brand-new shutters and appliances, as well as power generators and solar panels, which will help keep medical equipment running in case of a power outage," added Sister Rosario.

On the other hand, the Hogar Nuestra Señora de la Providencia, located in Puerta de Tierra and built in 1913, was allocated over $637,200, of which almost $56,000 went to hazard mitigation works.

Hogar Santa Marta received approval for nearly $4.8 million in Public Assistance funds for infrastructure and electrical repairs. In addition, they cover hazard mitigation repairs to protect the building against high winds and water infiltration damage. Much of this work has already been completed.

"Our population will definitely enjoy the repairs that have been made and those that are in progress. This will allow them to enjoy a safe structure, without water leaks, with recreational areas, freshly painted and attractive, brand-new shutters and electric appliances, and also power generators and solar panels, which will help keep medical equipment running in case of a power outage," added Sister Rosario.

Furthermore, the Hogar Nuestra Señora de la Providencia, located in Puerta de Tierra and built in 1913, was allocated over $637,200, of which almost $56,000 went to hazard mitigation works.

Meanwhile, the agency awarded about $1.2 million for repairs and hazard mitigation to Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet, located on Las Cumbres Avenue, Cupey. Many of the proposed construction projects have been completed, including repairs to its concrete cisterns and embankment, removal and repair of asphalt roads, and exterior infrastructure work that involved excavations to ensure the integrity of the structure.

"Our activity center's rooftop, surrounding fence, doors and windows, air conditioning units and others have been upgraded, with FEMA's help, the nursing home is improving," said Mother Superior Sister Yolanda Cueto, Director of the nursing home.

Likewise, Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Eng. Manuel A. Laboy Rivera said, "At COR3, alongside FEMA, we assist the administrators of the homes for the elderly to provide the assistance they require in the reconstruction process. For this reason, we have advanced approximately $1.2 million through the Working Capital Advance pilot program to promote permanent jobs in multiple senior housing projects. In fact, in this housing concept we are also developing projects through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provide energy resiliency, and among others."

To date, FEMA has awarded over $1.2 billion for about 1,100 permanent construction projects in private, nonprofit facilities throughout Puerto Rico, including long-term care facilities and nursing homes.

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.

Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet, San Juan, PR

San Juan, Puerto Rico (October 17, 2023) – FEMA allocated nearly $6.5 million for repairs to elderly homes of the organization Hermanitas de los Ancianos Desamparados in San Juan and Ponce affected by Hurricane María. That figure includes nearly $1.2 million to Hogar Santa Teresa Jornet for repairs to its four-story building located in Cupey and nearly $500,000 for hazard mitigation measures. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez Rivera

Hogar Santa Marta, Ponce, Puerto Rico

Ponce, Puerto Rico (October 17, 2023) – FEMA approved nearly $4.8 million in Public Assistance funds for infrastructure and electrical repairs to Hogar Santa Marta. The funds include $2.5 million for work to protect the building from high winds and water infiltration damage in future events. Many of the proposed construction projects have been completed. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez Rivera. 

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 10/30/2023 - 11:22

You Can Apply for FEMA Assistance if Your Home is a Boat

HONOLULU – If a boat was your primary residence and it was damaged as a result of the Aug. 8 wildfires on Maui, FEMA may be able to help you recover some of those losses.

Living on a boat comes with a unique set of challenges. Live-aboard permits and parking fees, harbor and mooring fees are just a few of the expenses unique to primary residency aboard a boat.

To receive FEMA disaster assistance, you must be prepared to provide the physical and complete address of the dock or marina and the slip or mooring number if the boat is not located on private property. Not providing a slip or mooring number may result in your FEMA application becoming attached to another boat or boats at the same address. And that oversight could cause delays in processing your application.

Also, you cannot use a post office box as your primary address, but it can be used as a mailing address.

Maui survivors are encouraged to apply for federal disaster assistance by Thursday, Nov. 9, if a boat is your primary residence. Here are the ways to apply: 

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app
• Call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators are available from 1 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, and they speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6
• You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center for updates about your FEMA application or answers to your questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov)

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org and fema.gov/disaster/4724. 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. 

zella.campbell Sat, 10/28/2023 - 02:31

Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

HONOLULU – Two weeks are left for homeowners and renters to apply for FEMA disaster assistance if you had damage or losses to your property from the Aug. 8 wildfires on Maui. You may also apply for a disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration, a FEMA partner in Maui’s recovery.

The deadline to apply is Thursday, Nov. 9, for both federal agencies. Recovery programs require that you register for FEMA disaster assistance before you can be considered for those programs, so it’s important to sign up soon.

Disaster survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage or losses to their primary homes, personal property and vehicles before applying for FEMA assistance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid and FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits. 

The American Red Cross has played a prominent role in the response to the Maui wildfires. The Red Cross is providing financial assistance, temporary housing in hotels and other services, including assisting survivors who are not eligible for some FEMA programs. You may schedule an appointment at RedCross.org/HIhelp, speak to a Red Cross representative at a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).

FEMA’s Individual Assistance program is designed to help you with basic, critical needs such as a safe, sanitary and accessible place to live. Assistance includes rental assistance, lodging expenses reimbursement, and home repair and replacement assistance. 

To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators are available from 1 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, and they speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

American Sign Language video on how to apply. You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get answers to your questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov).

FEMA works closely with the U.S. Small Business Administration, which provides low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses. Some applicants may be referred to the SBA to apply for a disaster loan. Homeowners may borrow up to $500,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $100,000 to repair or replace personal property.

For SBA disaster assistance, you may apply online and download applications at https://www.sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. Applicants may also receive information by calling SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. 

For SBA applicants who are deaf, hard-of-hearing or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services. Completed applications may be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org and fema.gov/disaster/4724. 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. 

zella.campbell Sat, 10/28/2023 - 02:22

How to Appeal FEMA Decisions

CHICAGO – You can’t believe your eyes! FEMA sent you a determination letter that says you are not currently approved for federal disaster assistance even though your home was damaged in the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding. What do you do now? Appeal! 

An appeal is a written request to FEMA to review your file again. It is also an opportunity for you to provide new or additional information not previously submitted that may affect the decision. You have the right to 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, or requests to return money.

An appeal should be filed in the form of a signed letter within 60 days of the date on the determination letter. In the appeal, explain why you disagree with the decision. Be sure to include the following: 

• Applicant’s full name, current address and the address of the damaged dwelling.
• Applicant’s 9-digit FEMA registration number, found at the top of the determination letter (on every page).
• Any relevant documentation that supports your request, e.g., contractor estimates, rent checks, insurance correspondence, inspection reports, photographs of damage, receipts.
• FEMA disaster declaration number, DR-4728-IL (on every page). 
• Applicant’s signature and the date.

If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party. Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.

Mail your appeal letter to:

FEMA Individuals & Households Program
National Processing Service Center
P. O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

Appeal letters and supporting documentation can also be uploaded to your account on DisasterAssistance.gov, or you can fax it to 800-827-8112.

Being turned down for assistance may be disappointing but read the letter carefully and all the way through. You may find there’s an easy fix for your dilemma – a missing signature, an incomplete address or a missing document.

If you need help and want to talk with a FEMA representative, visit any Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Find a center at FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Locator. 

Remember, FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides financial assistance to eligible individuals and households affected by a disaster who have uninsured or underinsured disaster-related expenses. FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance, nor can it return the survivor to their pre-disaster condition. Federal assistance from FEMA only provides funds for temporary housing and basic repairs for a home to be safe, sanitary, and functional. 

Additional disaster assistance can be sought from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which offers eligible homeowners, renters and businesses disaster loans at low interest rates. Contact SBA through its Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955  or visit https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance/physical-damage-loans. 

The deadline to apply to FEMA for federal assistance is October 30. While the application period is closed after that date, FEMA will continue to receive and process appeals and assist applicants with questions. For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit https://fema.gov/disaster/4728.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). 

darrell.habisch Fri, 10/27/2023 - 22:38

Free Crisis Counseling Services Available to Hurricane Survivors 

ATLANTA – If you are experiencing feelings of hopelessness or stress as a result of Hurricane Idalia, you can get free crisis counseling from FEMA.  

FEMA has made the free help available to residents of Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and FEMA have activated a Disaster Distress Helpline or you can call or text 800-985-5990. This free crisis support service is available all day every day for Georgia residents experiencing emotional distress or mental health problems caused or aggravated by Hurricane Idalia or her aftermath.   

The helpline staff may provide confidential counseling and other needed support services, or, immediately connect callers to trained professionals from the nearest participating crisis counseling center.   

When calling, Spanish-speakers can press “2” for bilingual support. Callers can connect with counselors in more than 100 other languages via third-party interpretation services by indicating their preferred language to the responding counselor. A videophone option for American Sign Language users is also available by calling 800-985-5990 from a videophone-enabled device or via an “ASL Now” link at samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline.  

Survivors may also call Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225 for emergency crisis support. 

To apply for FEMA assistance, survivors who live in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn or Lowndes county can visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for other languages. Residents may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance. For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.   

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Fri, 10/27/2023 - 18:42

FEMA Awards More Than $26 Million to New Hampshire Entities for COVID Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending over $26 million to the State of New Hampshire and Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital to reimburse them for costs incurred responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

One Public Assistance grant of $24,410,106 will go to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services for the cost of staffing a network vaccination sites for the public.

The state contracted with On-Site Medical Services for personnel to run 5 fixed and 93 mobile vaccine sites state-wide, which provided distribution and administration of vaccinations to approximately 36,727 homebound individuals, school staff, and other vulnerable individuals. The cost of the vaccines was not included. 

A second Public Assistance grant will provide $1,770,931 in federal funding to Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital for the cost of setting up a testing system for the Hanover-based hospital’s staff and patients, part of the Dartmouth Health system.

Mary Hitchcock purchased just over 30,000 antigen test kits as well as equipment for processing the tests inhouse. The hospital also contracted Cronin and Company for the creation and dissemination of various public service announcements regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist to the State of New Hampshire and Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $286 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 10/27/2023 - 17:27

FEMA Awards Nearly $1.4 Million to New Hampshire for COVID Warehouse Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $1.4 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse it for the costs of renting and operating warehouse space during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Public Assistance grant of $1,388,922 will go to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services for the cost of renting and operating warehouse space to stockpile and distribute vaccines, testing kits and other supplies used to protect the public between April 2020 and July 2022.

The costs also included a large capacity refrigerator, one-gallon pumps, 6-yard waste management containers and removal service, inventory management software, coolers, printer toner, and work stools.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist to the State of New Hampshire with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $286 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 10/27/2023 - 17:25

FEMA Awards More Than $18 Million to Connecticut Entities for COVID Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending over $26 million to the State of Connecticut and two hospitals to reimburse them for costs incurred responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Two Public Assistance grants totaling $6,684,642 will go to the Connecticut Department of Housing for the cost of providing non-congregate sheltering to homeless populations to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. 

The department contracted with Hartford Airport Hotel LLC (Best Western - Hartford) to rent one hundred twenty hotel rooms; Milford Enterprises, LLC (Motel 6 - Milford) to make twenty-six of the units in the facility available; and the non-profits Pacific House Inc. and United Way of Connecticut Inc to provide shelter to high-risk individuals. Most hotel rates averaged between $60 and $70 a night.

A Public Assistance grant of $8,836,995 will provide federal funding to the Connecticut Department of Public Health for contracting to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to the general public.

The department contracted with SEMA4 OpCo (Mount Sinai Genonomics) to provide registration, testing and results for 93,021 tests at a cost of $95 per test.

In Danbury, a Public Assistance grant of $1,487,573 will reimburse Danbury Hospital for the additional costs of operating safely during the COVID-19 pandemic, including purchasing cleaning and disinfection supplies and medical supplies specific to providing care to COVID-19 patients.

Finally, in Torrington a $1,080,100 Public Assistance grant will go to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital for the cost of setting up temporary space adjacent to the 109-bed, general acute care community hospital to cope with the surge of COVID-19 patients.

The hospital rented equipment and contracted services to build the space, which included generators an emergency department triage site, trailers, portable toilets, signage, heaters, electrical work in the parking lot to install a temporary CAT scan, and security services.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist to the State of Connecticut and these two hospitals with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $906 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 10/27/2023 - 17:08

FEMA Awards More Than $55 Million to Massachusetts Entities for COVID Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending $55.4 million to ten Massachusetts entities to reimburse them for various costs incurred responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Boston, FEMA will award over $3 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) for testing support.

The $3,030,702 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private university with campuses in Boston, Worcester and Manchester, New Hampshire, for costs associated with setting up COVID-19 testing sites between July 2020 and July 2022. During that time, MCPHS contracted services to provide rental tents, modular trailers, and a courier service to administer, pickup and deliver COVID-19 tests, with a total of 634 contracted laborers working 54,000 hours.  

In Boston, FEMA will award more than $4.9 million the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Mass Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) for the cost of testing and disinfection during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The $4,901,695 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the MBTA for contract services to provide disinfecting materials for all MBTA facilities, contracts for interior facility disinfection of public transportation, and COVID-19 testing for employees to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19 between essential transportation workers and the public between May 2021 and June 2021. 

In Boston, Tufts Medical Center will receive over $12 million in federal funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program to reimburse the teaching hospital affiliated with Tufts University School of Medicine for the cost of contract staffing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $12,688,831 grant will reimburse Tufts Medical Center for providing temporary clinical staffing to assist COVID-19 patients with emergency and in-patient clinical care. A total of 150 registered nurses performed 69,951 hours in response to a surge in demand for emergency COVID-19 medical care services between October 2021 and June 2022.

In Boston, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) will receive over $5 million in FEMA federal funding for sheltering costs during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The $5,332,225 Public Assistance grant will reimburse MEMA for purchasing office supplies, hygiene supplies and medical supplies for use at non-congregate medical sites. MEMA also rented oscillating misting fans to disinfect first responders’ vehicles that transported COVID-19 positive groups. Contract services were used to provide security for shelter staff, staffing at shelters, food (three meals a day to individuals at shelters), repairs and renovations, translation services, cleaning and disinfection for non-congregate shelters, and hotels for vulnerable, unhoused populations. 

Between April 2020 and July 2021, MEMA contracted Vision RBP LLC to rent 10,605 rooms for individuals who tested positive for COVID-19. MEMA will also be reimbursed for contracting to provide 11,651 meals during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In Boston, FEMA will award over $14 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) for providing temporary clinical staff.

A $14,464,286 Public Assistance grant will reimburse EOHHS for providing temporary clinical staff as Rapid Response Teams (RRT) to long term care facilities. Between March 2020 and July 2022, RRTs were deployed to facilities in critical need of clinical support and remained for an average of 10 days until the facility achieved stability. Additionally, RRTs were deployed to 69 nursing facilities to provide additional staffing for COVID-19 patient care and to assist with transitions from acute facilities to skilled care facilities. EOHHS also contracted professional consulting to manage the RRT needs assessments and deployments. 

In Melrose, FEMA will award over $1 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Melrose Wakefield Health Care for costs associated with increased staffing. The $1,013,607 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the health care system that serves Boston’s northern communities for contracting services to provide 27 temporary nursing staff to assist with activities of daily living specifically for COVID-19 patients between February and December 2020.  

In southeastern Massachusetts, FEMA will be sending over $1.8 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Southcoast Hospitals Group for contract staffing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The nonprofit, community-based health system that operates three hospitals in southeastern Massachusetts and facilities in Rhode Island will receive a $1,834,681 Public Assistance grant to reimburse it for contracting registered nurses (RN) to provide expert direct patient care for COVID-19 patients who were experiencing advanced respiratory illness and required isolation precautions. Between July and December 2022, Southcoast Hospital Group contracted staffing firms to hire 72 RNs working a total of 14,171 hours at Charlton Memorial Hospital, Saint Luke’s Hospital, and Tobey hospital.  

In Lowell, FEMA will award almost $6.6 million to Lowell General Hospital – part of the Tufts Medicine health system – for contract labor to mitigate the surge of COVID-19 patients requiring emergency and in-patient clinical care.

A $3,222,082 Public Assistance grant will reimburse Lowell General Hospital – part of the Tufts Medicine health system – for increasing the temporary nursing staff levels by contracting 78 licensed registered nurses to provide direct patient care interventions and general care measures between July and September 2022.

A second grant totaling $3,369,401 will reimburse the hospital for contracting 82 licensed registered nurses to provide direct patient care interventions and general care measures to COVID-19 patients between September and December 2022. 

In Cambridge, FEMA will award nearly $3 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a private research university in Cambridge, for providing emergency protective materials and testing support during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

MIT will receive a total of $2,742,577 in federal funds through FEMA’s Public Assistance program to reimburse the cost of providing disinfectant supplies, personal protective equipment (such as masks, gloves, gowns, face shields and safety glasses), COVID-19 testing materials including COVID-19 tests, cold storage, transit of COVID-19 testing materials, and signage to assist with social distancing and to provide information for staff and students as part of the effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 between February 2020 and January 2022. 

In Cambridge, FEMA will award over $3.3 million to the Cambridge Public Health Commission and the Cambridge Health Alliance for hiring temporary staff for vaccine administration and emergency medical care.

The $1,885,250 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the community health system serving Cambridge, Somerville and Boston’s metro-north communities for contracted labor costs associated with vaccine support. Between October 2020 and March 2022, temporary staff performed COVID-19 vaccination duties, including patient check-in, monitoring and administration, with an estimated total of 6,000 vaccinations per week.

A second grant for $1,444,440 in federal funding will reimburse the entities for providing temporary additional staffing to supplement the increased demand for COVID-19 emergency medical care. Between October 2021 and December 2021, contract staff worked 19,026 hours to support emergency rooms, inpatient medical/surgical units, intensive care units, pharmacies, laboratories, and outpatient respiratory clinics.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist these Massachusetts entities with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $2.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 10/27/2023 - 17:04

FEMA Awards Nearly $15 Million to Connecticut for COVID Vaccination, Testing Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $15 million to the State of Connecticut to reimburse it for the cost of providing COVID-19 tests and vaccinations to the public during the pandemic.

Two Public Assistance grants totaling $14,860,088 will go to the Connecticut Department of Public Health for paying vendors to provide COVID-19 vaccinations and testing to the general public.

One grant of $4,351,028 will provide federal funding for contracting with an outside company to administer 56,400 COVID-19 tests to the public between July 2021 and June 2022, as well as associated costs including pop-up canopy tents, portable folding A-frame sidewalk signs, electronic equipment, portable restrooms, and cell phones.

A second grant of $10,509,060 will reimburse the Department of Public Health for contracting with a company to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to the public via a system of mobile clinics and fixed vaccination sites. A total of 92,052 vaccines were administered between November 2021 and June 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist to the State of Connecticut with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $906 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 10/27/2023 - 16:35

FEMA Awards Almost $3.2 Million to Elliot Hospital for COVID Supply Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $3.2 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Elliot Hospital for costs incurred responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3,193,858 FEMA Public Assistance grant will reimburse the acute care facility in Manchester for the costs of purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) and other medical supplies needed between March and December 2020, when the hospital set up a temporary facility to handle the increased patient load..

In addition to gloves, gowns, N95 masks, and bouffant caps the hospital purchased specimen lysis bags, thermometers, oxygen flowmeters, centrifuge tubes, and oxygen delivery system, and nasal swabs.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Elliot Hospital with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided almost $283 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Fri, 10/27/2023 - 16:29

Statement from FEMA’s Director of Public Affairs, Jaclyn Rothenberg on FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell’s Meetings with Governor Josh Green of Hawaii and a Hawaiian Delegation

WASHINGTON --Today, Hawaii Governor Josh Green met with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks, Chief Federal Response Coordinator Bob Fenton, and other FEMA Senior Staff on the long-term recovery efforts in Maui. 

Administrator Criswell expressed her deep appreciation for their time and sharing the experiences of their communities following the devastating wildfires, and reiterated President Biden’s steadfast support to ensuring that the people of Maui are able to recover, rebuild and heal. Both Administrator Criswell and Chief Federal Response Coordinator Fenton promised that FEMA would remain in Hawaii throughout the recovery process and as we transition to longer term recovery operations.  

Yesterday, as part of their visit to Washington D.C., a Hawaiian delegation, made up of local elected officials and community leaders, also met with FEMA senior leaders including Administrator Criswell to discuss the various elements of the interagency long-term recovery efforts and needs for Maui. During the meeting, the Hawaii Delegation shared their experiences, noting their appreciation for FEMA’s partnership and raising several issues for FEMA to take for action including improved communication to survivors, long-term housing needs, rental assistance payments, air quality and debris removal, and general survivor support. 

President Biden and the entire Biden-Harris Administration remain focused on ensuring that the people and the families impacted from the devastating wildfires have everything they need to recover for as long as it takes. 

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/27/2023 - 15:08

FEMA Is Hiring in Florida

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Come to work for FEMA and help your community recover from recent disasters.

FEMA is conducting local hiring for 29 positions in Gainesville and Lake Mary. The agency is seeking people with experience in logistics, accountable property, ordering and data integration, among other job categories. Employees will serve in disaster recovery operations for Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Nicole, Hurricane Idalia and Broward County flooding. Many FEMA employees began their careers in emergency management, by helping their own communities recover from a disaster.

These positions are full-time, up to 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 date/employment date with FEMA.
• Flexible spending accounts
• Federal long term care insurance
• 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. 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 through USAJobs.gov. 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. 

barbara.murien… Fri, 10/27/2023 - 12:47

Austin South Disaster Recovery Center Closing Soon

CHICAGO - The Disaster Recovery Center located at the Columbus Park Field House, 500 S. Central Ave., Chicago, IL 60644, will continue operating Monday to Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., until it closes Monday, Oct. 30 at 5 p.m.  

There are other recovery centers open across the greater Cook County area ready to help disaster survivors. Go to the FEMA Disaster Recovery Locator to find the one closest to you. Recovery Centers aren’t the only way to get help from FEMA. The FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362, is staffed by multilingual operators ready to assist survivors with registrations and any other questions they have. Survivors can also use Disasterassistance.gov or the FEMA App on their phones.

The deadline to apply to FEMA for federal assistance is also October 30. After that date, FEMA will continue to process appeals and assist applicants with questions.

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit https://fema.gov/disaster/4728. 

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). 

alexander.alba Thu, 10/26/2023 - 23:15

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kansas

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Kansas to supplement state, local and tribal recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from July 14-21, 2023.

The President’s action makes public assistance available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by flooding in the counties of Allen, Barton, Clark, Comanche, Edwards, Finney, Ford, Greeley, Johnson, Kearny, Pawnee, Rawlins, Rice, Russell, Stafford, Thomas, Wallace, Wichita, Woodson and Wyandotte.

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

Andrew P. Meyer has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 10/26/2023 - 21:53

Prime Minister of Australia Visits FEMA Headquarters

WASHINGTON -- Today, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia visited the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Headquarters on the final day of his first official visit to the United States. Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell welcomed Prime Minister Albanese and Ambassador Kevin Rudd of Australia to FEMA.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell gave virtual opening remarks expressing appreciation for the strong, mutually beneficial partnership with Australia’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), referencing the Memorandum of Understanding signed between our agencies in May 2023. Prime Minister Albanese echoed the importance of our ongoing collaboration, especially as Australia heads into its high-risk disaster season, with a specific focus on the above-average bushfire season forecast. Both partners agreed to prioritize working together in 2024 to share strategies for preparing for and addressing climate-driven disasters. Prime Minister Albanese and Deputy Administrator Hooks underscored the importance of the FEMA-NEMA partnership in building crisis management capacity in the Indo-Pacific region. Following the meeting, Prime Minister Albanese received a briefing on how FEMA coordinates the U.S. federal response to all-hazard incidents in the United States during a walking tour of the National Response Coordination Center (NRCC).
 

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View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="49443" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/dca13c809ffa419a2117c7d70bfc1592.jpg?itok=-CnFDzGW" alt="undefined" class="image-style-large" />WASHINGTON, DC -- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia visited the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Headquarters. He toured the building with Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks and Operations Division Director Jeremy Greenberg.

 

View Original" data-align="center" data-entity-type="emerald" data-image-style="large" data-asset-type="ImageAsset" data-asset-link="undefined" data-asset-id="49444" src="https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/052d3302d16110df9af2388e3c9ff1f2.jpg?itok=km--SCxB" alt="undefined" class="image-style-large" />WASHINGTON, DC -- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia visited the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Headquarters. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell gave virtual opening remarks expressing appreciation for the strong, mutually beneficial partnership. luther.wills-dudich Thu, 10/26/2023 - 20:12

Disaster Recovery Centers

LAKE MARY, Fla – Disaster Recovery Centers are locations, either inside fixed locations or in tents outside, set up in areas affected by disasters. FEMA works with the county to select locations convenient for the survivors.

At a Disaster Recovery Center survivors can:

• Learn about disaster assistance programs.
• Apply for disaster assistance.
• Check the status of your FEMA application.
• Get help understanding FEMA notices or letters.
• Get referrals to agencies that offer other assistance.
• Submit an appeal of FEMA’s decision.
• Meet with an SBA representative for information about disaster loans.
• Meet with state agency representatives.
• Meet with hazard mitigation specialists to learn how to build back stronger, to prevent or reduce damage from future disasters.

To find a center, visit fema.gov/drc

To view a video describing what services are available at a Disaster Recovery Center, visit Disaster Recovery Center (DRC): Your Resource After a Hurricane

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

It is not necessary to visit a center. Survivors can apply or get other assistance by calling 800-621-3362, going online at disasterassistance.gov, or using the FEMA mobile app. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. 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 on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Thu, 10/26/2023 - 15:27

FEMA Continues to Provide Repair, Rebuilding Advice at Local Hardware Stores

ATLANTA – As Georgia residents repair and rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia, FEMA continues to team up with local hardware stores to provide free information and tips on how to make hurricane-damaged homes stronger and safer. 

FEMA specialists will be available in Valdosta, Quitman and Adel 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. 

The specialists will be available on these dates and locations: 

Monday through Saturday, Oct. 23–28 

True Value Hardware 
204 East Central Ave. 
Valdosta, GA 31601 

Monday through Saturday, Oct. 30–Nov. 4 

Stone's Home Centers 
1106 W. Screven St. 
Quitman, GA 31643 

Monday through Saturday, Nov. 6–11 

Adel Trading Co. Home Center
313 West 5th Street 
Adel, GA 31620

Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays. There is no charge. Reservations are not required.

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Thu, 10/26/2023 - 13:08

FEMA Support Will Still Be Available After Georgia Disaster Recovery Centers Close

ATLANTA -- The State of Georgia and FEMA will begin a phased approach to closing Hurricane Idalia’s three Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) over the next two weeks. But FEMA is not leaving Georgia, as the agency continues working with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) to help survivors and communities in their recovery from Hurricane Idalia. DRCs will follow this closing schedule:

• The DRC at the Lowndes County Civic Center in Valdosta will close at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 31. 
• The DRC at the Brooks County Agricultural Building in Quitman will close at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 2.
• The DRC at the Cook County Extension Services in Adel will close at 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 6. 

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Nov. 6. After DRCs close, you can still contact FEMA by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) or by using the FEMA mobile app. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw. FEMA encourages you to keep in touch with the agency.

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

In addition, you can call the Helpline to:

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

The FEMA Helpline is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. 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 questions about U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans, contact the SBA at 800-659-2955 (TTY 800-877-8339), or send an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.  

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Thu, 10/26/2023 - 12:58

Maywood and Harvey Disaster Recovery Centers Closing Permanently

CHICAGO - The Disaster Recovery Centers in Maywood and Harvey will close their doors permanently at the end of this week. Cook County residents who suffered losses during the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding and still need in-person assistance can find other centers at FEMA Disaster Recovery Locator.  

The Maywood center, located at in the Lightford Recreation Center, 809 Madison St. Maywood, will be open 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday until it closes this Friday, Oct. 27 at 5 p.m. 

The Harvey center, located at the Thornton Township High School, Building T107, 249 East 151st Street, in Harvey, will be open 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday until it permanently closes this Saturday, Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. 

Recovery Centers are not the only way to get help from FEMA. The FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362, is staffed by multilingual operators ready to assist survivors with registrations and any other questions they have. Survivors can also use Disasterassistance.gov or the FEMA App on their phones. 

For additional information about the disaster recovery efforts in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to register with FEMA is October 30, 2023.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). 

alexander.alba Wed, 10/25/2023 - 22:17