FEMA Disaster Grants Won’t Affect Social Security, Other Benefits FEMA Disaster Grants Won’t Affect Social Security, Other Benefits

WAYNESVILLE, N.C. – Applying for federal disaster assistance from FEMA will not affect other federal benefits that western North Carolina disaster survivors may receive.

Residents in Buncombe, Haywood and Transylvania counties who register with FEMA may have questions about whether funds from FEMA might cause them to lose other federal payments to which they are entitled.

FEMA disaster grants are not taxable income. Accepting a FEMA grant will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and other federal welfare and entitlement programs.

Disaster grants help survivors pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property replacement and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.

You can apply for disaster assistance 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 service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

The deadline for applications is Nov. 8, 2021.

For an American Sign Language video on this topic, go online to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii7nc94B30c.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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

brianasummer.fenton Fri, 10/15/2021 - 17:43

FEMA and WBZ NewsRadio Boston to Unveil New Emergency Broadcast Studio

BOSTON — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in partnership with iHeartMedia Boston, today announced it has completed an important emergency radio broadcast facility modernization project at iHeartMedia’s WBZ NewsRadio 1030 in Boston to improve critical alert and warning capabilities when disasters threaten public safety.

The WBZ facility serves as a Primary Entry Point (PEP) station for FEMA’s National Public Warning System (NPWS), maintained under FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), and provides critical information to the public before, during and after incidents and disasters.

Under the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Modernization Act enacted in 2015, Congress required FEMA to upgrade PEP stations across the country to ensure continuity of terrestrial broadcast services under all hazards. PEP stations are specially designated NPWS broadcast stations that serve as the primary intake source of initial broadcasts for a national alert. FEMA equips these stations, which are operated by local station personnel, with backup communications equipment and power generators that enable them to continue broadcasting information to the public during and after an emergency, including conveying official alerts to communities regionally and nationwide. These free-standing emergency studios, located at the radio transmitter sites, are specially designed and hardened to withstand various natural disasters and acts of terrorism. This helps ensure that the President can alert and warn the public under all conditions. Currently, there are 77 PEP stations that ensure capable of reaching 90 percent of the U.S. population.

WBZ is the 13th PEP station to complete the all-hazards upgrade. The modernization to the emergency studio includes increased sheltering capabilities, expanded broadcast capacity, and sustainable power generation for all types of hazardous events, increasing WBZ’s resiliency to continue broadcasting during emergencies. 

WBZ is celebrating its 100th year of broadcasting, providing a trusted voice for local, regional and national news and information in Boston and throughout New England. To mark the anniversary, the station received a congratulatory letter from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

“In coordination with our partners at iHeartMedia, we’ve increased WBZ’s ability to continue operating under all conditions, be they natural disasters, acts of terrorism or other man-made events,” said Antwane Johnson, FEMA’s IPAWS Director. “Broadcast radio communicates critical safety information to the public during an emergency and serves an extremely vital role in our nation’s public safety and national security communications infrastructure.”

Said Alan Chartrand, Boston Market President for iHeartMedia: “September marked 100 years that WBZ has been on-air serving communities in and around Boston and hundreds of miles beyond. Radio is a lifeline for these communities, and there continues to be a significant investment made to ensure WBZ’s resiliency during times of crisis when communication is of vital importance. iHeart is proud to partner with FEMA on the nation’s emergency and alert system, and salutes and shares the agency’s commitment to protecting the public.”

FEMA and WBZ will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 15, 2021, (11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET) to unveil the upgraded WBZ transmitter and PEP Site (45 Newport Road, Hull, MA 02045.)   The news conference will include FEMA, federal, state and local elected officials, and a live demonstration from WBZ NewsRadio 1030 on-air hosts.

Speakers include:

• Antwane Johnson, Director, Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, FEMA
• James (Nick) Russo, Federal Coordinating Officer, FEMA
• Manny Centeno, IPAWS Program Manager, FEMA
• U.S. Senator Edward Markey
• State Senator Patrick O’Connor
• State Representative Joan Meschino
• Hull Board of Selectmen Chairwoman, Jennifer Constable
• Alan Chartrand, Boston Market President, iHeartMedia
• Jeff Littlejohn, Executive VP Engineering & Systems Integration, iHeartMedia
• Dan Rea, On-air host, WBZ NewsRadio 1030

For more information about IPAWS or the PEP modernization effort, go to FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/broadcasters-wireless. To learn more about iHeartMedia and WBZ NewsRadio 1030 Boston, visit www.wbznewsradio.iheart.com.

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For more information on attending the news conference, please RSVP and direct any questions to Dennis Pinkham at (617) 956-7547 or dennis.pinkham@fema.dhs.gov, or Jennifer Savage at (419) 351-5145 or jennifersavage@iHeartMedia.com.

About FEMA:

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. Follow FEMA online at twitter.com/fema, twitter.com/femaregion5, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

About iHeartMedia Boston:

iHeartMedia Boston owns and operates WBZ-AM, WXKS, WJMN, WZLX, WBWL, WRKO, WZRM, and WXKS-AM, and is part of iHeartMedia. iHeartMedia, Inc. [Nasdaq: IHRT] is the leading audio media company in America, reaching over 250 million people each month. It is number one in both broadcast and digital streaming radio as well as podcasting and audio ad tech and includes three business segments: The iHeartMedia Multiplatform Group; the iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group; and the Audio and Media Services Group. Visit iHeartMedia.com for more company information.

adrien.urbani Fri, 10/15/2021 - 15:06

Storm Survivors May Be Eligible for Lodging Reimbursement

Harrisburg, Pa. - Pennsylvanians who have registered with FEMA may be eligible for reimbursement if they paid out-of-pocket expenses for temporary lodging because of damage to their primary residences from recent flooding, severe storms, and tornadoes. Lodging expenses may be eligible for reimbursement if an applicant:

• Registers with FEMA  
• Passes identity verification  
• Verifies occupancy in a primary residence within a designated county  
• Verifies that the primary residence is uninhabitable or inaccessible  
• Incurs disaster-related temporary lodging expenses (room plus taxes) between August 31, 2021 and the first 30 days after receiving FEMA rental assistance  
• Does not have insurance that would cover lodging; and  
• Did not receive lodging assistance from any source during the same timeframe.

Reimbursement funds are available for eligible applicants under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Survivors who are approved for lodging reimbursement must submit zero-balance receipts to FEMA to receive payment. Reimbursement will not cover incidental costs such as phone calls, laundry, internet, food, movies, or pet care. The eight (8) counties designated for FEMA Individual Assistance are: Bedford, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, and York counties.

Pennsylvania residents affected by August 31- September 5 storms and flooding have until November 10 to register for disaster assistance. Registering is free and takes about 20 minutes. There are three ways to register:

• Online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov  
• Call the disaster assistance helpline: 800-621-FEMA (3362). Lines are open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Help is available in most languages.  
• Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. If you use 711 or VRS (Video Relay Service) or require accommodations while visiting a center, call 800-621-3362.  
• Visit a disaster recovery center. To find one, go to FEMA.gov/disaster-recovery-centers or call the helpline.

For updates on the Pennsylvania response and recovery, follow the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency on Twitter twitter.com/PEMAHQ and Facebook https://m.facebook.com/PEMAHQ/. Additional information is available at fema.gov/disaster/4618.

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

valerie.amato Fri, 10/15/2021 - 13:33

Help Remains When Disaster Recovery Centers Close

HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) at Calvary Church in Souderton, Bucks County, will close permanently Friday, Oct. 15 at 7 p.m.

In the meantime, as a survivor of the remnants of Hurricane Ida, you will still be able to get the help you need. Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center is not required.

To register with FEMA:

• Apply for disaster assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362.)
• Multilingual operators are available.
• Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. If you use 711 or VRS (Video Relay Service) or require accommodations while visiting a center, call 800-621-3362. Information on the registration process is available in ASL at fema.gov/media-library/assets/videos/111546.
• The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Survivors will still be able to access auto-status via 621-FEMA and, of course, the mobile app and web 24/7.

You can use the Helpline to:

• Register with FEMA.
• Provide a change of address, telephone and bank account numbers and insurance information to avoid disaster assistance processing delays.
• Receive information about FEMA home inspections.
• Get other questions answered about federal disaster assistance.
• Ask questions about a letter from FEMA.
• Learn how to appeal a FEMA decision.  All applicants may appeal.

If you want to discuss your application, you must have your nine-digit FEMA registration number and zip code.

You can still visit the other DRCs.  Representatives from FEMA, various state agencies and the U.S. Small Business Administration are at the Centers to answer your questions on disaster assistance or low-interest disaster loans. The remaining centers are open in:

• Montgomery County Community College, Health Sciences Gym, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell
• Ashbridge Square Shopping Center, 945 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown
• Manchester Township Municipal Building, 3200 Farmtrail Rd, York
• Former CVS store, 7219 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia

Hours of operation for these DRCs are:

• Monday – Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Sunday: Closed  
• A mobile DRC (MDRC) is open Thursday, Oct. 14, from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the Marriott Collegeville.
  • Another MDRC will be open 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15 and Monday, Oct. 18, at SpringHill Suites in Plymouth Meeting.

The registration deadline for FEMA Disaster Assistance in Pennsylvania is November 10, 2021.

For updates on the Pennsylvania response and recovery, follow the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency on Twitter twitter.com/PEMAHQ and Facebook https://m.facebook.com/PEMAHQ/. Additional information is available at fema.gov/disaster/4618.

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

 

 

valerie.amato Fri, 10/15/2021 - 12:29

FEMA Needs Your Current Contact Information FEMA Needs Your Current Contact Information

WAYNESVILLE, N.C. – After you apply for federal disaster assistance, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers. Make sure that FEMA has your up-to-date contact information.

FEMA may need to call some survivors in Buncombe, Haywood and Transylvania counties to continue processing their application for assistance after Tropical Storm Fred. FEMA also may contact some survivors to obtain more information for their application.

If there are changes in your phone number, current address, banking or insurance information, you should let FEMA know as soon as possible or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence.

You can update your contact information in several ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
• Download the FEMA app for smartphones.                                           

The deadline to apply for assistance is Nov. 8, 2021.

When calling applicants, FEMA specialists will have your FEMA identification number, telephone number and address of the damaged property. They will not ask for money; there is no charge to apply for FEMA assistance or to update your information. If you are suspicious about a caller, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify that FEMA is trying to reach you.

FEMA also has Disaster Survivor Assistance teams canvassing impacted neighborhoods. These teams carry FEMA photo identification and never ask for payment.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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

brianasummer.fenton Thu, 10/14/2021 - 18:09

Tips for Appealing a Decision from FEMA

NEW YORK -- You applied to FEMA for disaster assistance after Hurricane Ida swept across New York, and you received a letter. You’re not sure what it says, but you think it’s not good.

Often, FEMA sends these letters when your application is missing information. Maybe you didn’t show proof of who you are, or proof you own your home, or proof you lived in your home for a major part of the year before Ida. Here are tips for writing a letter to appeal a FEMA decision.

You Have 60 Days to Send FEMA Your Appeal

The most important part of the appeal process is knowing how long you have to plead your case. Count 60 days from the date FEMA has on the determination letter. That’s the date to circle on your calendar to remind you it’s the last day to send FEMA your appeal. Keep in mind that after FEMA receives your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more information.

Carefully Read FEMA’s Letter Before Writing Your Appeal

You’ll need to understand why FEMA said the application was “ineligible,” or that assistance to you is denied, or that FEMA is holding off on making a decision about your application. Often, the reason is as simple as missing documents or information. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to help you understand what the agency is asking you to do.

Include Evidence to Support Your Appeal Request

Your appeal letter is not enough to get FEMA to reconsider its decision. You need evidence to support what you are claiming in your appeal. It is important to include the documents or information FEMA requests. Here’s what to include with your letter:

• A copy of the FEMA letter saying you’re denied assistance, or that the agency didn’t reach a decision.
• Insurance letters: Your insurance company might give you just a fraction of what you need to repair your home, not enough to help you get into another place, possibly not enough to replace certain belongings. Keep in mind that FEMA cannot give you a grant for something your insurance company already paid you for.
• Proof of occupancy: A copy of a utility bill, a driver’s license, a lease or bank statement, a local school document, motor vehicle registration or an employer’s letter. All can be used to prove the damaged home or rental was your primary residence. “Primary” meaning you lived there during a major part of the year.
• Proof of ownership: Mortgage or insurance documents; tax receipts or a deed; receipts for major repairs or improvements dating as far back as 2016; or a court document. If your documents were lost or destroyed, click on www.usa.gov/replace-vital-documents for information on how to replace them.
• Receipts and estimates: Include documentation such as home repair receipts, repair estimates, contractor estimates or information from your insurance company.

Can’t Write the Appeal Yourself? Get Someone to Write it for You

• If you are the applicant but you can’t write the appeal letter yourself, have someone write it for you. It could be someone in your household, a friend or a lawyer. But be sure to follow a few guidelines. Tell FEMA, in a signed statement, that the writer is authorized to submit the appeal on your behalf. Specialists at the FEMA Helpline can give you advice on what to include in your appeal letter and provide information on many other topics beyond appeals.
  • Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or VRS (Video Relay Service). Lines are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Mail, Fax or Upload Your Appeal Letter; Don’t Forget to Sign and Date It

• You have 60 days from the date on your FEMA determination letter to mail, fax or upload your appeal if you want FEMA to reconsider its first decision. Sign and date your appeal. And don’t forget to include your nine-digit FEMA application number on every page, your disaster number (FEMA-4615-DR-NY), and documents you can show as proof.
  • Mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055 
  • Fax: 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA
  • To set up a FEMA online account or to upload documents online, go to www.DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.

What You Can Expect After Submitting Your Appeal Letter

You’ve written your appeal and sent it to FEMA within 60 days after you received their determination letter. Now what? You may receive a call or letter from FEMA asking for more information. Or FEMA may schedule another inspection of your primary home. Whichever the case, once you’ve sent FEMA an appeal, you can expect a decision letter within 90 days after FEMA receives it.

Reminders:

• Low-income individuals facing legal issues as a result of Hurricane Ida may call a toll-free line for advice: 888-399-5459. If you would like to have a legal service provider contact you, complete a form at https://nysba.org/ida. Examples of legal assistance available includes:
  • assistance securing government benefits
  • assistance with life, medical and property insurance claims
  • help with home-repair contracts and contractors
  • replacement of wills and other important legal documents lost or destroyed in the disaster
  • consumer protection issues such as price-gouging and avoiding contractor scams in the rebuilding process
  • counseling on mortgage-foreclosure problems
  • counseling on landlord-tenant issues
• It is important to remember that FEMA assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster; it is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.
• Here’s how to apply for FEMA assistance: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (VRS). Lines are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week, and operators can connect you to a specialist who speaks your language.
• If you use a relay service such as VRS (video relay service), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
  • You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center and meet face-to-face with FEMA staff and representatives of other federal and state agencies who can provide information about disaster assistance. To find a recovery center near you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).
  • The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Monday, Dec. 6.
• For more online resources as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit DisasterAssistance.gov and click “Information.”
• For referrals to agencies that support community-specific needs, call 211 or visit https://www.211nys.org/contact-us. For New York City residents, call 311.
• For the latest on New York’s Hurricane Ida recovery efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/fema.

thomas.wise Thu, 10/14/2021 - 17:16

سيتم إغلاق ثلاثة مراكز للتعافي من الكوارث، وسيستمر اثنان في العمل وسيتم افتتاح مركز آخر قريبًا

ديترويت -  ستتوقف مراكز FEMA للتعافي من الكوارث التابعة لولاية ميشيغان- في ديربورن وديترويت وساوثفيلد عن العمل قريبًا، ولكن المساعدة لا تزال متاحة في اثنين من مراكز التعافي من الكوارث في مقاطعة وايني ومركز مقاطعة ماكومب الجديد الذي سيفتتح الثلاثاء المقبل، 19 أكتوبر.

 

تتيح مراكز التعافي من الكوارث للمقيمين في ميشيغان ممن تأثروا بالفيضانات والعواصف الشديدة والأعاصير التي حدثت في الفترة من 25 إلى 26 يونيو زيارات شخصية للحصول على معلومات حول طلبات FEMA التي قدموها، وطرح أسئلة حول الرسائل التي يتلقونها من FEMA، وإجراء مسح ضوئي لمستنداتهم لتكون جزءًا من طلباتهم.

• • • • • وشيكة لمراكز

المركز الواقع في الطابق الثالث في مكتبة هنري فورد سينتينيال على العنوان 16301 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, Michigan 48126، سيغلق في الساعة 7 مساءً، الخميس 14 أكتوبر. المركز مفتوح الآن من الساعة 9 صباحًا حتى الساعة 7 مساءً، يوم الخميس 14 أكتوبر.

 

المركز الموجود في سالفيشن آرمي على العنوان 3000 Conner St.,Detroit, Michigan 48215 سيغلق في الساعة 4 مساءً، يوم الجمعة 15 أكتوبر.  إنه مفتوج الآن من الساعة 9 صباحًا حتى الساعة 7 مساءً، الأربعاء 13 أكتوبر، والخميس 14 أكتوبر. في هذا الجمعة، 15 أكتوبر، سوف يعمل من الساعة 9 صباحًا حتى 4 مساءً.

 

المركز الموجود في مجمع مباني مكتب المدينة في مركز ساوثفيلد سنتر على العنوان 26000 Evergreen Rd., Southfield, Michigan 48076، سيغلق في الساعة 7 مساءً، يوم السبت 16 أكتوبر. وهو مفتوح الآن من الساعة 9 صباحًا حتى الساعة 7 مساءً، يوم السبت، 16 أكتوبر.

 

المراكز مستمرة في العمل

 

سيستمر تقديم المساعدات في مراكز FEMA للتعافي من الكوارث التابعة لولاية ميشيغان في مجلس مدينة هامترامك ومركز كيميني الترفيهي.  ساعات العمل لكلا المركزين هي من 9 صباحًا حتى 7 مساءً، من الاثنين إلى السبت.

 

تقع هذه المراكز في:

• مركز كيميني الترفيهي على العنوان 2260 S. Fort St., Detroit, Michigan 4821.
• مجلس مدينة هامترامك على العنوان 3401 Evaline St., Hamtramck, Michigan 48212.

 

يمكن للناجين زيارة أي مركز. ومع ذلك، ليس من الضروري القيام بزيارة من أجل تقديم أو تحديث الطلبات، حيث يمكن القيام بذلك بالطرق التالية:

 

• الاتصال بخط  FEMA المجاني على الرقم 3362-621-800  (خدمة الهاتف النصي (TTY)): 7585-462-800؛
• يرجى زيارة الموقع DisasterAssistance.gov؛ أو
• جرب  تطبيق هاتفFEMA.

 

سيفتح مركز جديد للتعافي من الكوارث يوم الثلاثاء، 19 أكتوبر

 

سيفتح مركز جديد للتعافي من الكوارث يوم الثلاثاء، 19 أكتوبر، في مقاطعة ماكومب من الساعة 9 صباحًا حتى 7 مساءً.  عنوانه هو:

• مجلس مدينة إيستبوينت،23200 Gratiot Ave., Eastpointe Michigan 48021.

 

للتقليل من خطر انتشار كوفيد--19من خلال الاتصال الشخصي، يلزم ارتداء كمامة أو غطاء للوجه للدخول وسيخضع الزوار لقياس درجة الحرارة "بدون لمس". 

 

مطهر اليدين متاح للناجين والموظفين.

 

يرتدي الموظفون الفيدراليون كمامات ودروع واقية وقفازات. تقع محطات العمل على مسافة ستة أقدام عن بعضها البعض لتوفير مستوى إضافي من الحماية للناجين والموظفين. 

 

تضمن FEMA تنظيف المناطق المشتركة بانتظام خلال النهار وتعقيم محطات العمل بعد كل زائر.

  للعثور على الموقع وساعات العمل لأقرب مركز إليك، تفضل بزيارة صفحة محدد مواقع مراكز FEMA للتعافي من الكوارث على fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

للمزيد من المعلومات عن تعافي ميشيغان، يرجى زيارة fema.gov/disaster/4607. مساعدة FEMA متاحة حاليًا للمقيمين في مقاطعات أوكلاند، ماكومب، وشتيناو، وواين. الموعد النهائي للأفراد لتقديم الطلبات للحصول على المساعدة في حالات الكوارث هو 12 نوفمبر 2021. 

     

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 مساعدات التعافي من الكوارث تقدم بدون تمييز على أساس العرق أو الدين أو الأصل القومي أو الجنس أو العمر أو الإعاقة أو إتقان للغة الإنجليزية أو الوضع الاقتصادي.  ستكون التسهيلات المعقولة، بما في ذلك خدمات الترجمة ومترجمي لغة الإشارة الأمريكية عبر خدمة ترحيل الفيديو، متاحة لضمان التواصل الفعال مع المتقدمين ذوي المعرفة المحدودة باللغة الإنجليزية وأصحاب الإعاقات والوصول والاحتياجات الوظيفية. إذا تعرضت أنت أو أي شخص تعرفه للتمييز، فاتصل بـ FEMA على الرقم المجاني 3362-621-800 (بما في ذلك 711 أو ترحيل فيديو). إذا كنت أصم أو تعاني من ضعف في السمع أو لديك إعاقة في النطق وتستخدم هاتفًا نصيًا، فاتصل على 7585-462-800. 

 

تتمثل مهمة FEMA في مساعدة الناس قبل وأثناء وبعد الكوارث. 

fema.gov/disaster/4607   twitter.com/femaregion5  

 

troy.christensen Thu, 10/14/2021 - 17:11

Tres Centros de Recuperación de Desastres cerrarán, dos seguirán operando y otro abrirá próximamente

Detroit – Los Centros de Recuperación de Desastres del Estado de Michigan-FEMA en Dearborn, Detroit y Southfield dejarán de funcionar próximamente, pero sigue habiendo ayuda disponible en dos DRC del condado de Wayne y en un nuevo centro del condado de Macomb que abrirá sus puertas el próximo martes, 19 de octubre.

 

Los Centros de Recuperación de Desastres ofrecen a los residentes de Michigan afectados por las inundaciones del 25 y 26 de junio, las graves tormentas y los tornados, visitas en persona para obtener información sobre su solicitud de FEMA, hacer preguntas sobre las cartas que reciben de FEMA y solicitar el escaneado de sus documentos para que formen parte de su solicitud.

1. 1. 1. 1. 11. cierres de centros

El centro ubicado en el tercer piso de la Henry Ford Centennial Library, 16301 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, Michigan 48126, cerrará a las 7 p. m., el jueves 14 de octubre. Estará abierto de 9 a. m. a 7 p. m. hasta el jueves 14 de octubre.

 

El centro ubicado en el Salvation Army, 3000 Conner St., Detroit, Michigan 48215, cerrará a las 4 p. m. del viernes 15 de octubre. Estará abierto desde las 9 a. m. hasta las 7 p. m. el miércoles 13 y el jueves 14 de octubre. Este viernes, 15 de octubre, funcionará de 9 a. m. a 4 p. m.

 

El centro ubicado en el City Office Buildings Complex en el Southfield Center, 26000 Evergreen Rd., Southfield, Michigan 48076, cerrará a las 7 p. m. del sábado 16 de octubre. Estará abierto desde las 9 a. m. hasta las 7 p. m. hasta el sábado 16 de octubre .

 

Los centros siguen funcionando

 

La ayuda seguirá estando disponible en los Centros de Recuperación de Desastres del Estado de Michigan-FEMA en el Hamtramck City Hall y en el Kemeny Recreation Center. El horario de ambos centros es de 9 a. m. a 7 p. m., de lunes a sábado.

 

Se encuentran ubicados en:

• Kemeny Recreation Center, 2260 S. Fort St., Detroit, Michigan 48217
• Hamtramck City Hall, 3401 Evaline St., Hamtramck, Michigan 48212

 

Los sobrevivientes pueden visitar cualquier centro. Sin embargo, no es necesario visitarlo para solicitar o actualizar las solicitudes, lo cual puede hacerse de las siguientes maneras

 

• Llamando a la línea gratuita de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (TTY): 800-462-7585;
• Visitando DisasterAssistance.gov; o
• Por medio de la aplicación para móviles de FEMA.

 

Nuevo DRC abrirá sus puertas el 19 de octubre

 

Un nuevo RDC abrirá sus puertas el martes 19 de octubre en el condado de Macomb de 9 a. m. a 7 p. m. Estará ubicado en:

• Eastpointe City Hall, 23200 Gratiot Ave., Eastpointe, Michigan 48021

 

Para reducir el riesgo de propagación del COVID-19 a través del contacto de persona a persona, se requiere el uso de una mascarilla o una cubierta facial para ingresar y los visitantes se someterán a controles de temperatura "sin contacto".

 

Hay disponible desinfectante para las manos para los sobrevivientes y el personal.

 

El personal federal lleva puestas mascarillas, protectores faciales y guantes. Las estaciones de trabajo están separadas seis pies para proporcionar un nivel extra de protección para los sobrevivientes y el personal.

 

FEMA se asegura de que las zonas comunes se limpien regularmente durante el día y las estaciones de trabajo se desinfecten después de cada visita.

      Para encontrar la ubicación y el horario de funcionamiento del centro más cercano a usted, visite la página del localizador del RDC de FEMA en fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

Para obtener más información sobre la recuperación de Michigan, visite fema.gov/disaster/4607 . La asistencia de FEMA está actualmente disponible para los residentes de los condados de Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw y Wayne. El plazo para que las personas soliciten la ayuda por desastre finaliza el 12 de noviembre de 2021. 

     

          ### 

 

La asistencia en caso de desastre está disponible sin importar la raza, color, religión, origen nacional, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio limitado del inglés o situación económica. Se ofrecerán adaptaciones razonables, incluida la traducción y los intérpretes de lenguaje de señas americano a través del servicio de retransmisión por video, para garantizar una comunicación eficaz con los solicitantes que tengan un dominio limitado del inglés, discapacidades y necesidades de acceso y funcionales. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sido discriminado, llame a la línea gratuita de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (incluidos los usuarios del 711 o servicio de retransmisión por video). Si es una persona sorda, con problemas auditivos o tiene una discapacidad del habla y utiliza un TTY, llame al 800-462-7585. 

 

La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.  

fema.gov/disaster/4607   twitter.com/femaregion5  

troy.christensen Thu, 10/14/2021 - 17:08

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Passaic County

TRENTON, N.J. – A Disaster Recovery Center opened today in Passaic County to help residents in New Jersey affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  

Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the center to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

The DRC is located in Passaic County:  

Senior Center and City Hall Building, 330 Passaic St., Passaic, N.J. 07055.

Hours: Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

To help alleviate the risk of COVID-19 being spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering is required to gain entry. Hand sanitizer is available to survivors and staff.

Workstations are spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA ensures that common areas are cleaned regularly, and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Individuals in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union, and Warren counties are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

Survivors can ask questions or seek further information in person at the DRC, in addition to online or by phone. Survivors can visit any of the DRC locations and can also find their closest location through the FEMA App.  To download the FEMA App please visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

• 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, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

Disaster assistance may include financial help for home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

amir.nijem Thu, 10/14/2021 - 16:56

FEMA Provides $5M to OhioHealth Corporation for COVID-19 Response Expenses

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) announced today that $5,166,613 in federal funding has been made available to OhioHealth Corporation–Greater Columbus Area Hospitals for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the March 31, 2020, federal disaster declaration.

This funding will reimburse OhioHealth Corporation–Greater Columbus Area Hospitals for costs to provide COVID-19 screening, testing and patient care. Grant funding also includes costs for equipment, medical supplies and security related to OhioHealth Corporation’s pandemic response.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits to cover eligible COVID-19 expenses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Since the start of the pandemic, FEMA has been committed to ensuring community partners have the resources they need. Supporting our states and communities will continue to be the highest priority for our agency as the response to COVID-19 continues.”

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, OhioHealth has been an essential partner in Ohio’s fight against COVID-19,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “This federal grant funding helps to provide the necessary tools and equipment that assist in preventing illnesses and saving lives.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.

“I would like to thank FEMA, Region 5 for its continued funding support to Ohio’s cities, counties and the entire state,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “With the federal Public Assistance program, OhioHealth can continue to provide public information on COVID-19, and to provide screenings and critical care, as we remain vigilant in the battle against coronavirus.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

 

# # #

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

troy.christensen Thu, 10/14/2021 - 14:04

FEMA Approves $26.2 Million for Félix Millán Stadium in Yabucoa

The sports facility will be demolished by the end of this year   

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $26.2 million to the municipality of Yabucoa to rebuild the Félix "Nacho" Millán baseball stadium. This obligation is an addition to the more than $41 million that has been obligated for the municipality to date for 61 other permanent work projects.

“This obligation marks a vital moment for the recovery of the municipality. This, not only at the sports and culture level, but as it relates to the social fiber of the residents of Yabucoa and its integral recovery, which is part of our commitment to the municipalities,” said FEMA's Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero.

Located in the Aguacate neighborhood and built in 1995, this stadium is part of the Double-A Superior Baseball League and home of the municipality's Double-A baseball team, the Yabucoa Azucareros. The facility, which has concrete bleachers with 4,000 seats and includes a two-story structure with 40 rooms/offices, is also used for activities and large events.

Due to the severity of the damage to the structure, the federal funds are earmarked for the demolition and replacement of the stadium. According to the municipality, a pre-auction has already taken place for the demolition of the facility, and the demolition is expected to be completed by mid-December of this year.

According to the mayor of Yabucoa, Rafael Surillo Ruíz, the municipality is grateful and enthusiastic about this award. “I want to thank first of all God and all the people who made this obligation possible, such as FEMA personnel, COR3, the FEMA Branch Office in Caguas, our engineers and municipal personnel, among others. We are very happy in Yabucoa with the reconstruction of the Félix Millán Park because this represents overcoming Hurricane María,” the mayor said.

Some of the work to be performed includes replacing all exterior components, ceilings, columns, benches and electrical, air conditioning and lighting systems. The same will be done with the contents of the structure, including computers, chairs, the box office and sound equipment, among others.

For Enrique Díaz Lozada, the Yabucoa Azucareros team owner, this obligation is of great relevance. “We are passionate about baseball in our town and it will be an important asset in the future commitments of our organizations. Sports are the soul of the people and a town without sports is a town without a soul,” said the team owner, who reiterated his gratitude to FEMA for this allocation of funds.

The obligation includes a nearly $2 million for hazard mitigation measures to prevent similar damage to the structure in the event of another disaster. Some of this work includes improving the fastening of metal panels, adding steel reinforcing fibers to the concrete to improve load-bearing capacity, and installing a surge protector for the generator, among others.

On the other hand, the Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, acknowledged that this is one of the most awaited projects by the Yabucoa Azucareros fans. “This will allow the development of a modern, resilient and safe infrastructure, in accordance with current construction codes, for the enjoyment of Yabucoa residents. For the past months, the COR3 team has worked together with the municipality and FEMA to move the process forward and obligate the project,” said Laboy Rivera, who stressed that COR3's commitment is to continue supporting the development of the project until it comes to fruition.

To access more information on the recovery of Puerto Rico from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 YABUCOA, Puerto Rico – FEMA awarded nearly $26.2 million to the municipality of Yabucoa to rebuild the Félix "Nacho" Millán baseball stadium. Located in the Aguacate neighborhood and built in 1995, this stadium is part of the Double-A Superior Baseball League and home of the municipality's Double-A baseball team, the Yabucoa Azucareros. Photo / Courtesy of the Municipality of Yabucoa

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 10/14/2021 - 11:55

Three Disaster Recovery Centers to Close, Two Continue to Operate and Another will Open Soon

Detroit – State of Michigan-FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Dearborn, Detroit and Southfield will cease operations soon, but help is still available at two DRCs in Wayne County and a new Macomb County center opening next Tuesday, Oct. 19.

 

Disaster Recovery Centers offer Michigan residents affected by the June 25-26 flooding, severe storms and tornadoes in-person visits to get information about their FEMA application, ask questions about letters they receive from FEMA, and have their documents scanned to be part of their application.

Upcoming Center Closures

The center located on the third floor at Henry Ford Centennial Library, 16301 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, Michigan 48126, will close at 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 14. It is open from 9 a.m. through 7 p.m. through Thursday, Oct. 14.

 

The center located at the Salvation Army, 3000 Conner St., Detroit, Michigan 48215, will close at 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15. It is open from 9 a.m. through 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13 and Thursday, Oct. 14. This Friday, Oct. 15, it will operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

The center located in the City Office Buildings Complex at the Southfield Center, 26000 Evergreen Rd., Southfield, Michigan 48076, will close at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16. It is open from 9 a.m. through 7 p.m. through Saturday, Oct. 16.

 

Centers Continuing to Operate

 

Help will continue to be available at the State of Michigan-FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Hamtramck City Hall and Kemeny Recreation Center. Hours for both centers are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday-Saturday.

 

They are located at:

• Kemeny Recreation Center, 2260 S. Fort St., Detroit, Michigan 48217
• Hamtramck City Hall, 3401 Evaline St., Hamtramck, Michigan 48212

 

Survivors can visit any center. However, it is not necessary to visit to apply or update applications, which can be done in the following ways:

 

• Call FEMA toll -free at 800-621-3362 (TTY): 800-462-7585;
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov; or
• Check FEMA's mobile app.

 

New DRC Opening Tuesday, Oct. 19

 

A new DRC will open Tuesday, Oct. 19 in Macomb County from 9 am-7 pm. It will be located at:

• Eastpointe City Hall, 23200 Gratiot Ave., Eastpointe, Michigan 48021

 

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering is required to gain entry and visitors will receive “no touch” temperature screenings.

 

Hand sanitizer is available to survivors and staff.

 

Federal staff wear masks, face shields and gloves. Workstations are spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

 

FEMA ensures that common areas are cleaned regularly during the day and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

      To find the location and operational hours of the nearest center to you, visit FEMA’s DRC locator page at fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4607 . FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Nov. 12, 2021. 

     

          ### 

 

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). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585. 

 

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

fema.gov/disaster/4607   twitter.com/femaregion5  

troy.christensen Wed, 10/13/2021 - 21:59

ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Addresses 2021 NEMA Annual Forum and Highlights the Evolving Role of Emergency Mangers, Expanding Risks

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell addressed the nation’s emergency managers today at the 2021 National Emergency Management Association’s Annual Forum in Cleveland. This was her first appearance as the FEMA Administrator at the event since she joined the agency in April of this year.

Administrator Criswell’s speech focused on two themes -- the way our role as emergency managers is evolving and how the risks we face, in large part due to climate change, are increasing. 

“After every major disaster, the field of emergency management changes. The ‘big ones’ are more than just historic events – they also represent the markers of fundamental changes in our field,” said Administrator Criswell. “Major disasters and incidents in our field have always been a catalyst for change. After every incident, we reflect and learn and remake our profession to be stronger, more dynamic, more mature and more capable,” Criswell said. “We’re seeing change – tremendous change – in both the landscape of risk and in our professional roles.”

Graphic

The Administrator discussed how emergency managers continue to face increasing expectations to coordinate emergency responses that have been traditionally outside of the industry’s scope. From a public health crisis like COVID-19 to sheltering operations for migrant children crossing the southern border, and cyber security attacks affecting the nation’s critical infrastructure, emergency managers throughout the country are dealing with issues that impact all of our communities on a daily basis.

Click here for a full transcript of the Administrator’s speech.

Later this week, the Administrator will travel to Grand Rapids, Mich., to address the 2021 International Association of Emergency Managers conference. She plans to focus her speech on the effects of climate change and the risks that will accompany future events. 

amy.ashbridge Wed, 10/13/2021 - 20:36

King County Library System and FEMA Partnership Makes Registering for Funeral Assistance Easier

BOTHELL, Wash. – A partnership between the King County Library System (KCLS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) improves community access to the technology and resources needed to register for FEMA Funeral Assistance. This collaboration between KCLS and FEMA connects people with free community resources and expertise at libraries throughout King County (outside the city of Seattle).

If you incurred COVID-19-related funeral, burial, or cremation expenses on or after January 20, 2020, FEMA may be able to help you with some of those costs. Applying for FEMA Funeral Assistance begins with a phone call to (844) 684-6333. Applicants must provide documentation before FEMA can fully process their application. Individuals who need help submitting their paperwork can use KCLS library scanners, computers, fax machines, and internet access to upload files; Library staff are available to assist with the process. Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities are available by request.

“While nothing can replace those we’ve lost to COVID-19, FEMA Funeral Assistance can help ease the financial burden of placing our loved ones to rest. It is vital that we remove digital barriers that might prevent someone from applying for this assistance,” says Acting Regional Administrator Vince Maykovich. “Just as library resources and staff deliver essential community services during periods of extreme heat or cold, they can provide access to information and resources to help anyone transmitting their FEMA application.”

“As trusted sources of information and assistance, public libraries are well-versed in connecting community members to important resources,” stated KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum. “KCLS extends our services and support to King County residents, and we hope this partnership helps our communities in their times of need.”

To apply for FEMA Funeral Assistance, call (844) 684-6333. The helpline is open Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. P.T.. Multilingual services are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. You must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien to apply. However, there is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified alien. A funeral assistance video describing eligibility is available in English and Spanish; view and share today.

To make an appointment with a King County Library, call (800) 462-9600 or schedule an appointment with a KCLS Digital Navigator, visit the Computer and Internet Help page at KCLS.org/Computer-Help.

For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program, visit: COVID-19 Funeral Assistance | FEMA.gov.

About the King County Library System Founded in 1942, the King County Library System (KCLS) is one of the busiest public library systems in the country. Serving the communities of King County (outside the city of Seattle), KCLS has 50 libraries and over 1.1 million cardholders. In 2020, residents checked out more than 7.4 million digital eBooks and audiobooks through Rakuten OverDrive, making KCLS the No. 3 digital circulating library system in the world and the highest per capita in the U.S. In 2011, KCLS was named Library of the Year by Gale/Library Journal. Follow KCLS on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube for the latest updates, and visit kcls.org for more information.

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

 

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

mary.j.edmon Wed, 10/13/2021 - 19:32

Application Period Open for FEMA Mitigation Grant Programs

PHILADELPHIA– FEMA recently announced the opening of its FY21 pre-disaster hazard mitigation grant programs, Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) and Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) on September 30, 2021. These grants help fund mitigation actions in states, local communities, tribes and territories to combat climate change and protect underserved communities against disaster hazards. 

FEMA’s BRIC program has $1 billion allocated, double last year’s funding, while FMA has $160 million available for communities across the country this year.

In addition to BRIC and FMA, the White House outlined a historic commitment to climate resiliency by making unprecedented levels of assistance available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program based on the funding spent during the COVID response. In FEMA Region 3, this means $209 million is available through HMGP. In addition, there is another $65 million of funding yet to be awarded from other disasters. Together, this more than doubles the total amount of funding available to Region 3 communities through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

“The challenges posed by climate change, such as more intense storms, frequent heavy precipitation, heat waves, drought, extreme flooding and higher sea levels could significantly alter the types and magnitudes of hazards faced by communities and the emergency management agencies serving them,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “This is a historic amount of funding available through FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs and we encourage communities to work together with their state partners to apply for funding to reduce risk.”

Tierney added, “We know that disasters disproportionately impact already vulnerable communities. These grants can help to advance environmental justice, reduce community vulnerability to disasters and promote resilience to climate change.”

FEMA changed the scoring criteria for the BRIC grant program this year to expand access to disadvantaged communities. Scoring criteria for the competitive grant program has been adjusted to incentivize mitigation actions that consider climate change and future conditions, populations impacted and economically disadvantaged rural communities. Additionally, FEMA doubled to 20 the number of communities that can receive help with project development through non-financial Direct Technical Assistance.

The FEMA Mitigation Action Portfolio includes examples of innovative mitigation projects that address many types of natural hazards and emphasize the importance of collaboration between governments, private sector entities, and non-governmental organizations in order to achieve effective hazard mitigation and disaster resilience. 

 

FEMA released the BRIC and FMA Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) on Aug. 9, 2021. The NOFOs are posted on grants.gov and provides detailed program information and other grant application and administration requirements. The application period to apply for fiscal year 2021 (FY 2021) will open on Sept. 30, 2021, and close at 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Jan. 28, 2022.

The timeline for HMGP COVID is separate from BRIC and FMA and is dependent on the date of a disaster declaration. Details on HMPG can be found at Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) | FEMA.gov.

Local communities should be mindful of state application deadlines which will be in advance of FEMA’s. Communities apply for these grant programs through their states.

The key differences between FEMA’s mitigation grant programs:

• Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA)
  • FMA is a pre-disaster, competitive grant program that provides funding to states, local communities, federally recognized tribes and territories.
  • Funds can be used for projects that reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured by the National Flood Insurance Program.
  • FEMA chooses recipients based on the applicant’s ranking of the project and the eligibility and cost-effectiveness of the project.
  • FEMA requires state, local, tribal and territorial governments to develop and adopt hazard mitigation plans as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance, including funding for hazard mitigation assistance projects.
  • Cost share: 75% federal; 25% local. If a project mitigates a repetitive loss property insured by the NFIP, the cost share is 90% federal; 10% local. For severe repetitive loss properties, FEMA will provide up to 100% of the project costs.
• Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC)
  • BRIC is a pre-disaster grant program that provides funding to states, local communities, federally recognized tribes, and territories. There are three funding options within BRIC:
    • State/Territory Allocation: provides $1million to each state or territority for capability & capacity builiding projects.
    • Tribal Set-Aside: A $25 million pool for projects undertaken by tribal governments across the country.
    • National Competition

• • The BRIC program’s guiding principles are: supporting communities through capability- and capacity-building; encouraging and enabling innovation; promoting partnerships; enabling large projects; maintaining flexibility; and providing consistency.
  • Funds diverse mitigation projects with a focus on holistic infrastructure solutions.
  • Cost share: 75% federal; 25% local. If an applicant is an economically disadvantaged rural community, then there is a 90% federal cost share, 10% local.
• Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)
  • HMPG is a post-disaster, non-competitive grant program that provides funding to states, local communities, federally recognized tribes, and territories. 
  • This grant funding is only available after a presidentially declared disaster.
  • Funding is allocated to the state with the disaster declaration. There is not a national competition for the funding, though not all state projects are selected for funding.
  • Cost share: 75% federal; 25% local. If an applicant is an economically disadvantaged rural community, then there is a 90% federal cost share, 10% local.

FEMA hosts a series of webinars and information sessions to aid community applicants on hazard mitigation grants: FEMA.gov/blog/hazard-mitigation-funding-now-available

State, local, tribal or territorial officials, as well as community leaders, interested in making the connection between equity and hazard mitigation are encouraged to contact us at FEMA-ExpandingMitigation@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 Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

 

amanda.hancher Wed, 10/13/2021 - 17:09

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Alisal Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Alisal Fire burning in Santa Barbara County.

On Oct. 12, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Alisal Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 200 residential structures in and around Goleta. The fire also threatened commercial properties, state beaches, a landfill, Highway 101, Union Pacific and Amtrak railways, an oil and gas plant, power transmission lines and an interagency repeater tower system.

The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Oct. 12, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Wed, 10/13/2021 - 14:24

FEMA Seeking Applicants to Join Hurricane Ida Recovery Team

BATON ROUGE, La. – Louisiana residents with experience in customer service, data entry, external affairs, logistics and more have several opportunities to join the Hurricane Ida response and recovery effort as temporary employees. Hiring local, temporary staff is one way FEMA diversifies its workforce and broadens its expertise.

The following jobs are available, mostly in Baton Rouge, to aid with community recovery needs:

Hazard Mitigation Training and Administrative Specialist (posting closes Tuesday, Oct. 12)

Data Integration Specialist (posting closes Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 100 applications have been received)

External Affairs Private Sector Specialist (posting closes Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 200 applications have been received)

Geospatial Information Specialist (posting closes Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 100 applications have been received)

Manufactured Housing Specialist (posting closes Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 300 applications have been received)

Digital Communications Specialist (posting closes Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 100 applications have been received)

Voluntary Agency Liaison Specialist (posting closes Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 300 applications have been received)

Community Education and Outreach Specialist (posting closes Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 100 applications have been received)

Applicant Services Program Specialists will be hired in Baton Rouge, Houma and New Orleans (postings close Sunday, Oct. 17, or when 400 applications have been received, which may be sooner than the closing date)

Administrative Assistant (posting closes Monday, Oct. 18, or when 100 applications have been received)

 

Most temporary local hires are employed through a streamlined hiring process. A local hire’s term of employment is 120 days, though it may be extended in 120-day increments. Visit the links above for additional information, including job responsibilities and compensation.

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

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.

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

 

 

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 10/12/2021 - 21:07

FEMA Seeks Public Comments on Proposed Changes to the National Flood Insurance Program Minimum Floodplain Management Standards

WASHINGTON -- FEMA published a notice today in the Federal Register seeking public comment on the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) minimum floodplain management standards.

This notice is to gather comments on opportunities to update the program’s minimum floodplain management standards to help communities become safer, stronger and more resilient. It also seeks input on NFIP minimum floodplain management standards that will promote conservation of threatened and endangered species and their habitats consistent with the Endangered Species Act, Section 7(a)(1).

The type of feedback that is most useful to the agency includes feedback that:

• Identifies opportunities for the agency to improve the NFIP’s minimum floodplain management standards for land management and use
• Identifies specific program components that promote conservation of threatened and endangered species and their habitats
• Refers to specific barriers to community participation
• Aligns the program with the improved understanding of flood risk and flood risk reduction approaches
• Identifies better incentives for communities and policyholders, particularly for Endangered Species Act-listed species and critical habitats
• Offers actionable data
• Specifies viable alternatives to existing approaches that meet statutory obligations

Written comments can be submitted from Oct. 12 – Dec. 13, 2021 on the Federal eRulemaking Portal, Docket ID: FEMA-2021-2024. Please follow the instructions on the webpage for submitting comments and contact the Regulations Help Desk if you have technical issues.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 10/12/2021 - 21:01

Two Weeks Left to Apply for Federal Assistance

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Homeowners, renters and business owners who sustained uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from the wildfires in Lassen, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Tehama and Trinity counties have two weeks left to apply for disaster assistance.

The deadline to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is Oct. 25, 2021.

Assistance from FEMA may include funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of owner-occupied homes that serve as the household’s primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. The easiest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors who may need to request an accommodation or have additional questions can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following information prior to registration: Social Security number; address of the damaged primary residence; insurance coverage information; current telephone number and mailing address; and bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds.

For disaster damage to private property that is not fully covered by insurance, SBA may be the best option. SBA is the primary source of federal money for long-term disaster recovery. Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster. Businesses and nonprofit organizations may be eligible to borrow up to $2 million for repair costs and disaster related working capital needs.

For information on the SBA process, visit DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov, call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing can call 800-877-8339.

Survivors should update contact information as soon as possible because FEMA may need to reach them to perform virtual home inspections or get additional information. FEMA encourages survivors to request direct deposits of disaster assistance to their financial institution. Survivors should let FEMA know as soon as possible of any changes to their mailing or banking information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

For more information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4610 and Cal OES’ wildfirerecovery.caloes.ca.gov.

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All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD).

FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during and after disasters.

robert.barker Tue, 10/12/2021 - 18:47

FEMA Provides $30M to Minnesota Department of Health for COVID-19 Response Expenses

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division (DPS-HSEM) announced today that $30 million in federal funding has been made available to the Minnesota Department of Health for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of April 7, 2020.

This funding will be used to reimburse the Minnesota Department of Health for contracted costs to provide testing kits, lab processing, training on proper testing supervision practices and technology for test tracking across the state from September 2021 through December 2021.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits to cover eligible COVID-19 expenses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding helps ensure the availability of critical resources to keep people safe while effectively combatting the spread of COVID-19.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has presented an historic set of challenges for our state and our people,” Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm said. “For more than a year and  a half, our public health system and our partners in other sectors have done amazing work on this emergency response effort to limit the impacts and give Minnesotans the tools they need to protect themselves. Federal funding support is instrumental in carrying out this response work. We are grateful for that support and for the willingness of so many Minnesotans to step up and help.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.  

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to state and local governments, jurisdictions, and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

 

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

troy.christensen Tue, 10/12/2021 - 18:43