Disaster Legal Services Available to Maui Survivors

HONOLULU – Unexpected legal issues may arise after a disaster that can leave individuals and families devastated. If you are facing legal issues resulting from the August wildfires on Maui, you can get legal advice.

Disaster Legal Services are now available to low-income, elderly and other vulnerable residents who were affected by the high winds and wildfires and are unable to afford their own lawyer.

You may call the Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi’s toll-free lines at 808-536-4302 or 800-499-4302. Lines are open from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. 

Hotline callers can receive help with legal issues including:

• FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration and other public assistance financial benefits including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and disaster unemployment
• insurance claims
• home repair contracts and property insurance claims
• price-gouging, scams or identity theft
• mortgage-foreclosure and home-ownership issues 
• landlord/tenant problems
• replacement of wills and other vital documents destroyed in the fires
• disability-related access to federal, state and local disaster programs.

Hotline partners cannot help in all cases, including cases where a settlement could include legal fees or an award. Free legal advice may be accessed online at https://hawaii.freelegalanswers.org/.

The Disaster Legal Services program is a service provided in partnership with FEMA, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, Hawaiʻi State Bar Association, and the Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi.

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.

scott.reuter Fri, 10/20/2023 - 02:58

FEMA is Still Hiring for the Illinois Disaster Recovery Team

CHICAGO - Are you interested in helping your neighbors and community recover from the June 29-July 2 storms and floods that devastated Cook County? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an immediate need to employ Cook County residents to work from the offices in Springfield and Morton Grove, IL as temporary local hires to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts. Local hire employees are local residents who are part of the disaster recovery team aiding in the recovery of the community and their fellow citizens. 

For its offices in Morton Grove, FEMA is looking to hire one Accountable Property specialist, two Information Technology specialists, one External Affairs Program Liaison specialist and one External Affairs Creative specialist. For its Springfield offices, FEMA needs two IT specialists and one Accountable Property specialist. Visit the links for additional information, including job responsibilities and compensation:

Information Technology Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/754587500Deadline: 10/22/2023Accountable Property Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/754741300 Deadline: 10/23/2023External Affairs Program Liaison Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/755029100Deadline: 10/24/2023External Affairs Creative Specialisthttps://www.usajobs.gov/job/755026200Deadline: 10/23/2023

The announcements will close at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the noted deadline dates OR at 11:59 pm EST on the day the application limit is received, whichever comes first. 

Most temporary local hires are employed through a streamlined hiring process. A local hire’s term of employment is up to 120 days, though it may be extended in 120-day increments.

FEMA is an equal opportunity employer. Salaries are comparable to local pay rates.

1. Conditions of Employment:

• You must be a U.S. citizen to be considered for this position.
• You must successfully pass a background investigation.
• Selective Service registration is required for males born after Dec. 31, 1959.
• Review job announcements for additional conditions of employment.

To see other FEMA career postings, visit fema.gov/careers.

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to register with FEMA for disaster assistance 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 Thu, 10/19/2023 - 23:56

FEMA Assistance Tops $304 Million for Cook County

CHICAGO – Federal assistance to Cook County residents affected by the June 29 – July 2 severe storms and flooding has topped $304 million. This amount includes FEMA grants of more than $235 million in Individual and Households grants for rental assistance, repair and replacement funding, and other needs grants that help replace personal property and provide storage and childcare payments. Complementing the FEMA grants is more than $69 million in Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans for homeowners and businesses.

Here is a snapshot of the FEMA disaster assistance as of October 19:

• More than $235.3 million was approved for financial and direct services to eligible survivors who had uninsured or under-insured necessary needs and expenses triggered by the disaster. Of that amount, $200.9 million was for housing assistance. This includes:
  • Funds for temporary housing, such as rental assistance or hotel costs for survivors who cannot live in their homes because of too much damage caused by the summer flooding; 
  • Funds for repair of an owner-occupied home that will make the home safe, secure and habitable;
  • Funds to assist with moving and storage of household goods or needed personal property;
  • Financial assistance to assist homeowners in cleaning and sanitizing minimally damaged homes;
• The remaining funds were disbursed as: 
  • Medical or dental costs attributable to the disaster.
  • Assistance for child care, limited to eight weeks. 

As of Oct.18, the U.S. Small Business Administration had awarded $64.8 million in low interest disaster loans to homeowners whose homes suffered more extensive and costly damage than could be covered by a FEMA grant. SBA also awarded more than $4.2 million in disaster loans to help businesses get back on their feet.

Survivors should receive the help for which they are eligible. If you have not yet contacted FEMA, be sure to apply for assistance by Oct. 30:

1. Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
2. Use the FEMA mobile app. 
3. Call the disaster assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 
4. Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The centers serve as one-stop shops for survivors who need one-on-one help. Survivors can visit any center for assistance. To find center locations and current hours, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. 
    

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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, 10/19/2023 - 23:36

One Week Left to Request FEMA Public Assistance

HONOLULU – Nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, that had losses caused by the Maui County wildfires and high winds have one week – until Wednesday, Oct. 25 – to submit a Request for Public Assistance from FEMA. 

Not only physical damage is covered under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Nonprofit organizations in Maui and Hawaiʻi counties may also submit a Request for Public Assistance to be reimbursed for eligible costs associated with protection of infrastructure.

The Public Assistance program provides grants to government agencies as well as private nonprofits for debris removal, emergency protective services and community infrastructure damaged or destroyed by the Aug. 8 wildfires and high winds. 

For private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, the application process depends on whether a private nonprofit is classified as offering critical services or non-critical, essential social services.

Private nonprofits that provide critical services, such as health-care facilities and utilities, can apply directly to FEMA for funding. Some private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, that are classified as providing non-critical, essential social services must first apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. 

Nonprofits do not have to wait for a decision from SBA in order to apply to FEMA.

Houses of worship and other nonprofits are encouraged to submit a Request for Public Assistance under FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program. The deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 25. For more information, contact Public Assistance Lead Brian Fisher of the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency at Brian.J.Fisher@hawaii.gov. You may also call him at 808-518-7985.

If a house of worship or other nonprofit offering non-critical, essential social services is turned down for an SBA loan, or if the loan amount does not cover the cost of all repairs, FEMA may be able to help. FEMA may provide funds to pay for what SBA or insurance did not cover. 

Examples of critical services include water, sewer and electrical systems; private schools providing primary or secondary education; or institutions of higher education. Examples of non-critical essential services include educational enrichment activities, supervised care and daycare services, residential services for people with disabilities, assisted living and low-income housing, homeless shelters and rehabilitation service, and community and performing arts centers.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and https://www.sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema.

scott.reuter Thu, 10/19/2023 - 21:41

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Hilary from Aug. 19 - 21, 2023.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal government and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Hilary.

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

Andrew F. Grant has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 10/19/2023 - 15:16

Ludlow Disaster Recovery Center to Close October 21

The Ludlow Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 21.

The center will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at this location:

Ludlow Community Center
37 Main St.
Ludlow, VT 05149

Vermonters can visit a center to get in-person help applying for disaster assistance. Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to help upload documents, answer questions and guide you through the appeals process.

When the center closes, FEMA will still be here to help. Visit us at DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you call.

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 31.

One other center will remain open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (closed Sundays):

Alumni Hall Building
Third Floor
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 10/19/2023 - 14:37

Federal Disaster Assistance to Georgia Tops $10 Million

ATLANTA – Six weeks after President Joe Biden signed a major disaster declaration following the Aug. 30 landfall of Hurricane Idalia, a total of more than $10.167 million in federal assistance has been approved for supporting the recovery of Georgia survivors.  

Here are the numbers:

To date, more than $2.807 million in FEMA Housing Assistance has been approved for eligible homeowners and renters in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties. The funding will help pay for hurricane-related damage, including home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing. 

Another FEMA program called Other Needs Assistance has approved more than $471,800 to help cover the cost of storm-related personal property replacement, moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, medical and dental expenses.  

In addition, FEMA’s federal partner in disaster assistance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), has approved 152 long-term, low-interest disaster home loans, nine business disaster loans, and three economic injury loans (EIDL) for business working capital, totaling more than $6.888 million.

The state of Georgia and FEMA operate Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) which provide one-on-one assistance to survivors. To find the closet one, visit fema.gov/drc. Homeowners and renters can visit any center for assistance. To date, DRCs have been visited by 2,057 survivors.

How to Apply to FEMA

You can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw. 

The last day to apply for FEMA assistance is Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. 

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, 10/19/2023 - 13:50

Disaster Recovery Center in Manatee County Closing

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The disaster recovery center in Manatee County at the Rubonia Community Center, 1309 72nd St. E in Palmetto will be closing permanently at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 20.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available. The deadline to apply for assistance is Nov. 29.

There are several centers still open in the area impacted by Hurricane Idalia. Residents are welcome to visit any open center, you don’t have to reside in that county. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator or floridadisaster.org, or you can text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362. 

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, 10/19/2023 - 13:16

Here’s What FEMA Can Do for Georgia Hurricane Survivors

ATLANTA — It has been nearly six weeks since President Biden authorized federal assistance for Georgia survivors of Hurricane Idalia. During that time, FEMA has approved about $3.5 million in Individual Assistance grants to help hurricane-impacted residents in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn, and Lowndes counties through their recovery.
 

These FEMA grants include Housing Assistance and Other Needs Assistance, through FEMA’s Individual and Households Program (IHP), and are helping eligible individuals and households who have uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and serious needs caused by the Aug. 30 hurricane. The assistance is meant to return your home to a safe, sanitary, and functional residence.
 

FEMA assistance cannot duplicate the benefits provided by other sources, such as insurance, and cannot pay for all hurricane-caused losses. Individuals should apply to FEMA to determine whether they are eligible for assistance.
 

Apply by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app, or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.Housing Assistance
 

FEMA’s Housing Assistance (HA) provides funds paid directly to eligible individuals and households and may include the following types of assistance:

• Rental Assistance to rent alternate housing while an applicant is displaced from a disaster-damaged primary residence. Rental Assistance may be used to rent a house, apartment, manufactured home, recreational vehicle, or other dwelling.
• Lodging Expense Reimbursement for hotels, motels, or other short-term lodging while an applicant is displaced from a disaster-damaged primary residence.
• Home Repair Assistance to help repair an owner-occupied disaster-damaged primary residence, utilities, and residential structure to a safe and sanitary living or functional condition.
• Replacement Assistance to help homeowners replace an owner-occupied primary residence when it is destroyed by the disaster.
• Hazard Mitigation Under IHP: Homeowners who are eligible for IHP assistance may receive additional funds from FEMA for specific hazard mitigation measures. Applicants will be informed if they qualify for this assistance, which is limited and will only be provided for components that were damaged by the disaster and were functional prior to the disaster. The eligible mitigation measures include:
  • Roof Repair to withstand higher winds and help prevent water leakage.
  • Elevating a water heater or furnace to avoid future flood damage.
  • Elevating or moving an electrical panel to avoid future flood damage.
     

Other Needs Assistance
 

FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (ONA) provides survivors with financial assistance for disaster-caused necessary expenses and serious needs. Some types of assistance in this category may be provided only if you are not referred to, or do not qualify for a disaster loan from, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
 

The SBA provides low-interest, long-term disaster loans to help eligible applicants with transportation losses, as well as repair/replacement funds for real and personal property damage caused by the disaster.
 

SBA Dependent Types of Other Needs Assistance
 

Only applicants who do not qualify for a loan from the SBA, or who were approved for a partial loan, but the amount of the loan was insufficient to meet the applicant’s disaster necessary expenses or serious needs, may be eligible for the following types of assistance:
 

• Personal Property Assistance to repair or replace essential household items including, but not limited to, furnishings and appliances; specialized tools and protective clothing required by an employer; and assistance for specific accessibility items defined within the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Transportation Assistance to repair or replace an eligible vehicle damaged by a disaster and other transportation-related costs.
• Group Flood Insurance Policy is issued to qualified applicants by FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Direct Program. For a modest premium, survivors receive a minimum amount of building and/or contents coverage for a 3-year policy period.
   

Non-SBA Dependent Types of Other Needs Assistance
 

FEMA assistance available regardless of the applicant’s SBA disaster loan status may include:
 

• Funeral Assistance is available for expenses related to a death or disinterment attributed directly or indirectly to a declared disaster.
• Medical and Dental Assistance to assist with medical or dental expenses caused by a disaster, which may include injury, illness, loss of prescribed medication and equipment, insurance co-payments, or loss/injury to a service animal.
• Childcare Assistance in the form of a one-time payment, covering up to eight cumulative weeks of childcare expenses, for a household’s increased financial burden to care for children aged 13 and under, and/or children up to age 21 with a disability, who need assistance with activities with daily living as defined by federal law.
• Moving and Storage Assistance to relocate and store personal essential household goods from the damaged primary residence to prevent further disaster damage, such as ongoing repairs, and returning the property to the applicant’s primary residence.
• Miscellaneous or Other Items Assistance to reimburse for eligible items purchased or rented after a disaster to assist with an applicant’s disaster recovery, such as gaining access to the property or a chainsaw or dehumidifier for cleaning a home.
• Note: FEMA cannot reimburse you for food lost due to a power failure. However, voluntary organizations in your community may be able to help.
   

For more information about the program, visit www.fema.gov/assistance/individual.
 

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, 10/19/2023 - 12:33

Berwyn and Riverdale Disaster Recovery Centers Closing Permanently

CHICAGO - Saturday, October 21, 2023 will be the last day of operation for the Disaster Recovery Centers in Berwyn and Riverdale. The centers were opened to assist Cook County residents who suffered losses during the June 29 – July 2 storms and flooding. 

The center located at the Berwyn Grove Avenue Parking Garage, 3310 Grove Ave. is open 8 a.m. -5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closing permanently Saturday at 5 p.m. The second one in the Riverdale Park District, 14401 S. Stewart Ave., is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 am to 12 noon Saturday, closing permanently at 12 noon Saturday.  

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 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. 

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 Home | disasterassistance.gov or the FEMA App on their phones.

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation 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, 10/18/2023 - 23:21

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Suwannee County

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA are operating a Disaster Recovery Center in Suwannee County to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia.

Suwannee County: Memorial Field, 617 Ontario Ave SW in Live Oak. 

The hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mon-Sat, closed Sundays.

Currently open sites:

• Citrus County:  Crystal River Library, 8619 W Crystal St., Crystal River. 9am-7pm Mon-Wed, 9am-5pm Thurs-Fri, Closed Sat-Sun (closes permanently 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27.)
• Columbia County: 180 E Duval St. Lake City, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Gilchrist County: Gilchrist County Fire Station #4, 6980 SW 70th Ave in Trenton. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17 through Saturday, Oct. 21.
• Hamilton County: 1153 NW US Hwy 41, Jasper, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Hernando County: Hernando Public Library Branch, 9220 Spring Hill Dr. Spring Hill, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday. 
• Jefferson County: Jefferson County Library, 375 S Water St., Monticello, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St., Madison, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily
• Manatee County: Rubonia Community Center, 1309 72nd St. E, Palmetto, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday (closes permanently 6 p.m. Oct. 20)
• Pasco County: Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter, 11611 Denton Ave., Hudson, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, (closes permanently 7 p.m. Oct. 28)
• Taylor County: Steinhatchee Community Center, 1013 S. Riverside Dr., Steinhatchee, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC, you don’t have to reside in that county.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET every day. 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. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Nov. 29, 2023.

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.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to 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… Wed, 10/18/2023 - 20:36

Temporary Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Gilchrist County

The State of Florida and FEMA are operating a Disaster Recovery Center in County to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia.

Another temporary recovery center is open in Gilchrist County.

Gilchrist County: Gilchrist County Fire Station #4, 6980 SW 70th Ave in Trenton. 

The hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17 through Saturday, Oct. 21.

Currently open sites:

• Citrus County:  Crystal River Library, 8619 W Crystal St., Crystal River. 9am-7pm Mon-Wed, 9am-5pm Thurs-Fri, Closed Sat-Sun (closes permanently 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27.)
• Columbia County: 180 E Duval St. Lake City, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Hamilton County: 1153 NW US Hwy 41, Jasper, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Hernando County: Hernando Public Library Branch, 9220 Spring Hill Dr. Spring Hill, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday. 
• Jefferson County: Jefferson County Library, 375 S Water St., Monticello, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St., Madison, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily
• Manatee County: Rubonia Community Center, 1309 72nd St. E, Palmetto, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday (closes permanently 6 p.m. Oct. 20)
• Pasco County: Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter, 11611 Denton Ave., Hudson, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, (closes permanently 7 p.m. Oct. 28)
• Taylor County: Steinhatchee Community Center, 1013 S. Riverside Dr., Steinhatchee, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC, you don’t have to reside in that county.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET every day. 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. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Nov. 29, 2023.

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.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to 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… Tue, 10/17/2023 - 15:47

FEMA Approves More Than $1.37 Million for Clay County Roadway Repairs from Flood Damage

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $1.37 million in federal funding to reimburse Clay County for roadway repairs to Crane Branch Road, damaged in the July 26, 2022, Eastern Kentucky floods.

FEMA approved $1,378,587 for contract services to repair the 10 sites on Crane Branch Road to restore this facility back to its pre-disaster design, capacity and function within the existing footprint.

Ditches, embankments, shoulders, culverts and asphalt surface on this roadway were damaged by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides in July 2022. The damage limited access on Crane Branch Road to emergency vehicles and county residents.

“We are working diligently on every road in the area affected by the devastation from the floods,” said Rodney Wagers, Director of Clay County Emergency Management.

“Unfortunately, the road, which is two miles long, has been hit repeatedly during past Kentucky disasters,” he added.

Total project costs are for $1,838,117 funded at a 75% Federal cost share of $1,378,587.

FEMA obligates funding for this project directly to the Commonwealth. It is the Commonwealth’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive this award. Following the Commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, it will reimburse the sub-recipients.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including eligible houses of worship. 

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4(@femaregion4)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema. 

candace.herring Tue, 10/17/2023 - 13:59

Ninety Days After the Disaster Declaration, Recovery Continues in Vermont

Ninety days after the federal disaster declaration for the state of Vermont following July’s severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides, more than $78.3 million in federal assistance has been provided by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) directly to Vermonters to aid in their recovery.

The funds include grants from FEMA, payouts from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and long-term, low-interest disaster loans from SBA.

Individual Assistance

Residents of nine Vermont counties are eligible to apply for Individual Assistance: Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor. Homeowners and renters whose homes and property were damaged by the storms now have until October 31, 2023, to apply. 

As of October 13, Vermont’s recovery assistance includes:

• More than $21.7 million in FEMA’s Individual and Households Program grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in the nine designated Vermont counties. These grants help residents pay for uninsured and underinsured storm-related losses, including:
  • More than $20 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
  • More than $1.6 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property, replacement and other serious storm-related needs such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
• FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid $33.1 million in claims for policyholders.
• SBA has approved more than $23.6 million in 495 long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and cover economic injury. The deadline to apply for an SBA loan for physical damage has also been extended to October 31, 2023. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 15, 2024.
• Of the 14 Disaster Recovery Centers operated by the state and FEMA to provide one-on-one assistance to survivors, two currently remain open in Washington and Windsor counties. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday. Locations are:
  • Alumni Hall Building, Third Floor, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
  • Ludlow Community Center, 37 Main St., Ludlow, VT 05149
    • This center is scheduled to close at 2 p.m., Saturday, October 21``
• To date, there have been 3,714 survivor visits to Disaster Recovery Centers. 

Recovery specialists from the state, FEMA, and SBA provide information on available services, explain assistance programs, and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance. No appointment is necessary to visit – walk-ins are welcome. 

FEMA sent Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams to storm-affected neighborhoods in every designated county. These teams traveled door-to-door, visiting homes, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to help residents apply, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state and voluntary agencies for additional support. DSA personnel interacted with more than 12,500 residents and visited more than 19,400 households and 1,070 businesses to help survivors apply for assistance. The teams have also assisted survivors at county fairs, farmers markets and other events.

FEMA is working to remove barriers to assistance, ensuring all survivors have equal access to disaster aid and resources. FEMA offers help in many languages through our Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Public Assistance

FEMA’s Public Assistance program reimburses counties, the state and certain nonprofits for eligible costs of disaster-related debris removal, emergency protective measures and repair and replacement of disaster-damaged facilities such as roads, bridges, public utilities, including water treatment and electrical plants, government buildings and parks. 

All Vermont counties have been designated for some form of Public Assistance:

• All counties have been designated for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.
• Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor counties have been approved for debris removal, emergency protective measures – including direct federal assistance – and restoration of disaster-damaged facilities.
• The deadline to submit a Request for Public Assistance was October 12. A total of 210 applicants submitted requests for 685 projects. Public Assistance staff is working with the applicants to identify their damage and gather required documents in the coming days. The obligated funding will soon far exceed the current $83,929.75 awarded.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

FEMA often refers disaster survivors to SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan. 

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster-recovery funds for survivors. SBA offers long-term, low-interest disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters to help them build back better, stronger and more resilient.

Disaster loans can be used to make building upgrades or property improvements that eliminate future damage and can save lives.

To apply, visit the SBA’s website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov or call 800-659-2955.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 10/17/2023 - 11:23

Confidential Crisis Counseling Available to Maui Survivors

HONOLULU – Few things are as unsettling as having a disaster turn your world upside-down. It creates a wide range of emotions that may last for many months. If you are overcome by feelings of hopelessness and stress, you are not alone. Help is available.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and FEMA have approved crisis counseling services for wildfire survivors who are experiencing emotional distress or mental health problems. 

You may call Hawaiʻi Cares at 800-753-6879 or 808-832-3100. You may also call or text Hawaiʻi Cares at 988. This free and confidential crisis support service is available all day, every day.

Some common reactions to stress and loss include:

• Feeling tense or nervous, angry or irritable
• Crying often, feelings of persistent hopelessness
• Feeling numb
• Difficulty sleeping and/or being constantly tired
• Not feeling hungry or having stomach problems (such as nausea or cramps)
• Difficulty concentrating and/or making decisions.

Everyone has these feelings once in a while. However, when these types of feelings and experiences disrupt daily living activities, you are encouraged to seek help.

Helpline staff provides confidential counseling and other needed support services. They can also immediately connect callers to trained professionals from the nearest participating crisis-counseling center. The goal is to help people and communities to recover from the effects and trauma of disasters and the loss you may have suffered as a result.

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.

zella.campbell Tue, 10/17/2023 - 02:39

The Importance of Checking Your Furnace, Winter is Coming!

CHICAGO --- The weather might be crisp and lovely right now, but Chicago’s fierce winter winds and snow are on their way. Before it gets colder, take this time to check your furnace and any other appliances that may have been damaged in the June 29 – July 2 flooding disaster. If your furnace isn’t working and it isn’t covered by your insurance, you may be eligible to receive help from FEMA to repair or even replace it. 

Assistance from FEMA is limited to only owner-occupied primary homes, not vacation homes or second homes. In addition, home repair assistance is available to homeowners only for uninsured or underinsured disaster-damaged items that make your home safe, secure, and habitable. Households with damage to living spaces in a basement – including owner-occupied garden units - may also be eligible for FEMA assistance to help cover those losses. 

When you apply for assistance, be sure to indicate the furnace and other essential electrical appliances damaged during the summertime flooding. If you have already repaired or replaced the furnace, be prepared to provide FEMA with receipts. Otherwise, provide FEMA with valid estimates from certified contractors or suppliers.

If you discover your heating systems need replacing after you have already received a FEMA grant, you can use the FEMA appeals process to request additional assistance. To learn more about the process, visit www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/after-applying/appeals.

If you have yet to apply for FEMA assistance, go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA App on your phone. If you use a video relay service or captioned telephone service. give FEMA your number for the service. For in-person assistance, visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The registration deadline is October 30, 2023.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728.  

karixia.ortizserrano Mon, 10/16/2023 - 20:34

Waterbury Disaster Recovery Center to Close October 14

The Waterbury Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 14. 

The center is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. October 13, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 14 at this location:

Waterbury Armory
294 Armory Drive
Waterbury, VT 05676

Vermonters can visit a center to get in-person help applying for disaster assistance. Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to help upload documents, answer questions and guide you through the appeals process.

The deadline to apply for assistance has been extended to October 31, 2023.

Two other centers remain open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and closed Sunday:

Alumni Hall Building
Third Floor
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641

Ludlow Community Center
37 Main St.
Ludlow, VT 05149

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 10/16/2023 - 18:42

Barre Disaster Recovery Center Remains Open, Relocates to Third Floor of Same Building kwei.nwaogu Mon, 10/16/2023 - 18:37

Join FEMA in the Annual “Great ShakeOut” Earthquake Drill this Thursday, October 19

PHILADELPHIA – Do you know what to do in an earthquake? The annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill is taking place this week on Thursday, October 19th across the United States. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 3 office is encouraging everyone to participate and learn the simple but critical safety steps to preparing for and staying safe during an earthquake. The Great ShakeOut is the largest earthquake drill worldwide and more than 49 million people are already registered to practice their earthquake safety plans.

Earthquakes are normally thought of as a west coast hazard, but they can happen anywhere, anytime – as evidenced by the 2011 earthquake in Virginia that caused significant damage and was felt across multiple states. 

“Earthquakes can occur with little notice, and it is important to know what actions we can take if one happens while we’re at home, at work, or traveling,” stated FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “Great ShakeOut is a great opportunity for us to take a few moments to practice those actions.”

For most people, in most situations, the recommended earthquake safety actions are to:

• DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees;
• COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand, as you crawl for shelter under a nearby table or desk;
• HOLD ON to your shelter with one hand until shaking stops (remain on your knees and covering your head and neck with your other arm and hand).

The Great ShakeOut is free and open to the public. Participants include individuals, schools, businesses, local and state government agencies, and many other groups. To take part in the ShakeOut, register to participate at www.shakeout.org. Once registered, you’ll receive regular information on how to plan your drill and become better prepared for earthquakes and other disasters. You can also sign up for text message tips and reminders for Great ShakeOut by texting ShakeOut to 43362.

For more information, please visit www.shakeout.org. For information and guidance for what you can do before, during, and after an earthquake, please visit https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes.

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

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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 twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

erika.osullivan Mon, 10/16/2023 - 18:29

Three Weeks Left to Apply for Disaster Assistance from FEMA

ATLANTA – Georgia homeowners and renters who suffered uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from Hurricane Idalia in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn and Lowndes counties, have three weeks left to apply for federal disaster assistance.

The deadline to apply for assistance from FEMA is Monday, Nov. 6, 2023.

Survivors may apply at a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) which are dedicated, accessible and established locations where specialists from FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program help applicants face to face. Highly trained specialists assist survivors through the recovery process, explaining the types of assistance available from FEMA, such as housing and other needs assistance.

The DRC locations are:

Brooks County Agriculture Building
400 E. Courtland Ave.
Quitman, GA 31643

Cook County Extension Services  
206 E. Ninth St. 
Adel, GA 31620 

Lowndes County Civic Center 
2108 E. Hill Ave. 
Valdosta, GA 31601 

All DRCs are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Closed Sunday.

This is what you will need when you apply:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number. 
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit. 
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you are unable to locate important documentation, FEMA will help you identify other ways to verify this information.

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

FEMA’s IA program is designed to help disaster survivors with basic, critical needs such as a safe, sanitary, and functional place to live while survivors look for a long-term or permanent housing solution. It is not designed to make survivors whole and is not a substitute for insurance coverage. FEMA IA cannot duplicate other sources of assistance. 

FEMA provides funds paid directly to eligible individuals and households. Financial Housing Assistance may include rental assistance, lodging expenses reimbursement, home repair assistance, and replacement assistance. 

Applying for help is free. 

If you are unable to apply in person, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile 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.

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… Mon, 10/16/2023 - 16:45