FEMA Encourages Communities to Purchase Flood Insurance Ahead of Peak Hurricane Season

Supports Increased Accessibility through Multilingual Campaigns

WASHINGTON -- In an effort to meet people and communities where they are, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) launched its summer-long 2023 hurricane campaign on June 19, with outreach to diverse communities in some of the nation’s hardest-hit areas that are frequently impacted by devastating floods. 

The campaign aims to encourage diverse populations to learn about the benefits of flood insurance and the importance of protecting the lives they have built. This hurricane season campaign includes advertising placements and media outreach in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas, all states with a history of hurricanes.

To maximize and diversify its community outreach, the National Flood Insurance Program identified the top three languages spoken, in addition to English, in every state within the campaign area. The languages are Chinese, French, Korean, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese. This effort aligns with FEMA’s  2022–2026 Strategic Plan of instilling equity as a foundation of emergency management because it’s focused on removing barriers and enhancing accessibility to FEMA programs.

“Floods represent the number one natural hazard threat facing our nation, destroying lives and causing billions of dollars in damage last year alone,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “These threats, exacerbated by climate change, can be particularly devastating for underserved communities. As peak hurricane season approaches, we encourage all residents to recognize their risk and understand that in addition to wind and storm surge, rainfall and flooding from these events can be just as catastrophic.” 

“Flood insurance, which is often not covered by homeowners or renters insurance, can be the difference between recovery and financial devastation, and it is the best way to protect your home, property and the life you’ve built,” said senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program David Maurstad. “In order to effectively communicate this risk, we must meet people where they are, in languages they understand, and communicate messages that resonate with them and their families, and that’s exactly what this year’s hurricane flood insurance campaign is all about.”

This year’s campaign theme—Keep Home—encourages potential policyholders to position flood insurance as a way to show love for their community by protecting their property with flood insurance. This is because flood insurance enables policyholders to protect their property and more quickly jumpstart their recovery from the nation’s most common and destructive threat.

The 2023 hurricane campaign includes strategic placement of radio, web and digital advertisements across various platforms, as well as interviews with local radio and television outlets. More than 353 counties are expected to receive coverage and the National Flood Insurance Program is also producing a video in American Sign Language to educate deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals on the importance of flood insurance. The video will also be amplified on FEMA's social media accounts. 

Disasters impact people and communities differently. Underserved communities, which often include those whose first language is not English, can experience differences in how prepared they are to respond to disasters, how well their homes may have been adapted to mitigate against local hazards and how quickly their communities might be able to resume social and economic life after a major event.

The flood insurance program recognizes it can work toward improving outcomes that benefit all communities to prepare for the nation’s most common and costliest disasters. Reaching diverse audiences will help make America more flood resilient and build a culture of preparedness by closing the nation’s insurance gap. 

Importance of Flood Insurance

The National Flood Insurance Program provides about $1.3 trillion in coverage to more than 4.7 million policyholders across the nation. 

Just one inch of water in a home can cost roughly $25,000 in damage. Most homeowners and renter's insurance does not cover damage caused by flooding. 

Flood insurance is the best defense against the nation’s most reoccurring natural disaster, enabling policyholders to recover from flooding more quickly and fully. 

Find a flood insurance provider online at floodsmart.gov. 

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 07/06/2023 - 19:00

FEMA Approves More Than $173 Million to Florida Division of Emergency Management

LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA Public Assistance has approved $173,113,639.73 to reimburse the Florida Division of Emergency Management for emergency protective measures following Hurricane Ian.

In response to Hurricane Ian, FDEM utilized contract services to purchase 8,550 non-congregate sheltering (NCS) travel trailer units which were placed on commercial or private property for individuals and families displaced by the hurricane. The contracts also included assistance for movement of the travel trailers, call center support for registration, case management, NCS transportation management, and project management.

As of July 3, 2023, Public Assistance grants for Hurricane Ian applicants in Florida total $1.2 Billion.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. These funds support the removal of debris, costs of emergency protective measures and restoration of public facilities, helping disaster survivors resume life in their communities. 

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Thu, 07/06/2023 - 15:26

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available for the state of North Dakota to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding that occurred from April 10 to May 6, 2023. 

Federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the flooding in the counties of Barnes, Burke, Dickey, Dunn, Golden Valley, Grand Forks, Hettinger, LaMoure, McHenry, Mercer, Morton, Mountrail, Nelson, Pembina, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, Steele, Towner, Walsh and Wells.  

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

Kenneth G. Clark has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 07/06/2023 - 13:38

FEMA Funding Low-Carbon Materials in Public Assistance Projects in Guam

FEMA is starting to fund low-carbon materials in public assistance projects, thanks to the enactment of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The presidential declaration of Typhoon Mawar in Guam is the first instance that this initiative is being put into action. 

The IRA was signed into law on Aug. 16, 2022, and it provides an opportunity for FEMA to support state, tribal, territorial and local partners in their efforts to build resilient communities and reduce climate effects by encouraging investments in greenhouse-gas reduction strategies, such as the use of low-carbon materials. 

The low-carbon materials eligible for funding through Public Assistance are limited to concrete, asphalt, glass and steel. These four materials have been recognized as significantly more eco-friendly compared to conventional options, particularly in terms of their potential impact on climate change. FEMA may fund the use of certain low-carbon materials in disasters declared between May 22, 2023, and Sept. 30, 2026, even if the cost associated with low-carbon materials may be more expensive than conventional materials.

This initiative may benefit various public assistance projects in Guam, for instance, applicants for FEMA public assistance may consider replacing wooden power poles damaged by Typhoon Mawar with concrete alternatives.

It is important to note that the use of low-carbon materials in public assistance projects is optional and depends on the applicant's choice. To take advantage of this initiative, applicants for FEMA public assistance should provide comments in “My projects” section of FEMA's Grants Portal, indicating their interest or intention of using the low-carbon materials. Recipients of FEMA public assistance grants can work with the assigned program delivery manager to maximize the inclusion of low-carbon materials in their project applications. 

Governmental agencies in Guam and certain nonprofits that were affected by Typhoon Mawar will have more time to apply for FEMA public assistance to help pay for debris removal, protective measures, public buildings and equipment, public utilities, etc. The deadline to apply for FEMA public assistance has been extended to July 15. 

More Information

• Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
• IRA Implementation Memo for Section 70006
• Inflation Reduction Act IRA 70006 For SLTT - YouTube
• Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities | FEMA.gov
• Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) | FEMA.gov
• Federal Buy Clean Initiative

For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visitour website. 

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook.

felicia.jordan Thu, 07/06/2023 - 03:27

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Diamond Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) regional administrator authorized the use of federal funds on June 27 to assist the state of Arizona to combat the Diamond Fire burning in Maricopa County.

On June 27, the state of Arizona submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened 100 homes in and around Scottsdale and required the mandatory evacuation of more than 1,100 people. The fire also threatened a fire station, horse barns, golf courses and the McDowell Mountain Regional Park.

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 become a greater incident.

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, 07/05/2023 - 20:11

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight McEwan Fire in Washington

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the McEwan Fire burning in Mason County, Washington. 

The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, at 11:28 p.m. PT. He determined that the McEwan Prairie Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the second FMAG declared in 2023 to help fight wildfires in Washington. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the community of Shelton. The fire also threatened highways, local ancillary roads, Mason County PUD infrastructure, Bonneville Power Administration transmission lines, Burlington-Santa Fe rail lines, communications towers, parks and hiking trails, and numerous businesses contributing to the manufacturing, mining, and agricultural industries. 

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair, and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. 

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $1,225,032 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.  

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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, 07/05/2023 - 19:47

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Hays County, Texas

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review in Hays County, Texas. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods.

The following 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 5, 2023: 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Oct. 3, 2023, for:

• Cities of Buda, Kyle and San Marcos; Village of Bear Creek; and the unincorporated areas of Hays County

Comments only may be submitted through Oct. 3, 2023, for:

• Cities of Austin, Hays and Mountain City

The following 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around July 6, 2023:

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Oct. 4, 2023, for:

• Cities of Dripping Springs, Wimberley and Woodcreek

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect. 

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. 
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv 
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart.gov.

alexa.brown Wed, 07/05/2023 - 17:54

Stay in Touch with FEMA

LAKE MARY, Fla. – If you applied for FEMA assistance after the Broward County severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, ensure that FEMA has your current contact information. FEMA may need to contact you for additional information.

If your contact information has changed, you should update your FEMA application immediately. 

To update your information, you can create an account at DisasterAssistance.gov and click the green icon titled “Check Status,” and follow the prompts to create an account or access your account. You can also call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET, seven days a week.

Applicants should update FEMA concerning changes in insurance, current housing situation, phone number, mailing address and your payment preference. Missing or incorrect information could delay the financial assistance you may be eligible to receive. When contacting FEMA, refer to the nine-digit number assigned to you when you applied.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Broward County severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4709. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Wed, 07/05/2023 - 14:41

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Tunnel Five Fire in Washington

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Tunnel Five Fire burning in Washington. 

The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Sunday, July 2, 2023, at 10:01 p.m. PT. He determined that the Tunnel Five Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declared in 2023 to help fight Washington wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the community of Underwood. The fire also threatened businesses, Skamania County Public Utility District infrastructure, Bonneville Power Administration transmission lines, fish hatcheries, and campgrounds and recreational facilities. Additionally, a Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuation warning was issued for the nearby city of White Salmon.

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair, and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. 

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $1,225,032 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.  

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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 Mon, 07/03/2023 - 19:11

$1 Billion in FEMA Public Assistance Supports Florida Recovery from Hurricane Ian

LAKE MARY, Fla. – In nine months since Hurricane Ian struck Florida, FEMA Public Assistance has approved $1 billion in funding for emergency response, debris removal and repair or replacement of public facilities.

The most recent obligation of $22 million reimbursed Charlotte County for debris removal.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. These funds support the removal of debris, costs of emergency protective measures and restoration of public facilities, helping disaster survivors resume life in their communities. 

Applicants submitted 6,323 projects for federal reimbursement. Some of the projects, large and small, approved to date include:

• $20 million to Lee County School District for temporary power, safety inspections, debris staging, emergency infrastructure repairs, and other emergency work
• $20 million to Charlotte County School District for temporary repairs, water extraction, climate stabilization, temporary power, removal of damaged building components and other emergency work
• $5.9 million for construction of an emergency sand berm in Fort Myers Beach
• $78,000 to Sarasota Housing Authority for structural repairs
• $160,000 for structural repairs to Lee County fire stations 
• $120 million to Lee County Electric Cooperative for emergency restoration of electric power
• $79 million to Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) for mosquito control after the storm

Of the funds obligated to date, $629 million were for emergency response, $328 million for debris removal and $45 million for repair or replacement of public facilities such as roads and bridges, water control facilities, public buildings, utilities, public parks, recreational facilities, and others. 

“While we have provided $1.1 billion in assistance to households, it is equally important that FEMA help the state and communities with the cost of responding to the storm and rebuilding afterward,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Brett Howard. “FEMA Public Assistance is a long-term operation. We are working with the state and communities on restoring city halls, libraries, fire stations, public beaches, schools – all kinds of facilities that serve the public.”

“The Division continues to work diligently with our federal partners to help impacted communities and survivors recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Ian.” said FDEM Executive Director/State Coordinating Officer Kevin Guthrie.  “I want to thank FEMA for their continued support and partnership throughout the recovery process.”

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval, at a minimum 75 percent cost share. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FDEM and FEMA continue to review proposed projects. 

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Mon, 07/03/2023 - 15:46

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Will Be Open July 4 and July 21

To better serve the survivors of Typhoon Mawar, all Disaster Recovery Centers throughout Guam will be open on Independence Day (July 4) and Liberation Day (July 21).

At any Disaster Recovery Center, survivors can learn more about FEMA and other federal disaster assistance programs, understand any letters they receive from FEMA, get answers to their questions about their application, or referred to agencies that may offer additional assistance. Center locations and hours are listed below or use the DRC Locator to find the nearest recovery center. 

• Guam Community College: Building E, 1 Sesame St. Mangilao, GU 96913. 

Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

• Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School: 520 Harmon Loop Rd. Dededo, GU 96929

Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

• CL Taitano Elementary School: 170 Bien Avenida Ave. Sinajana, GU 96910

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

• Inalåhan Mayor’s Office/Community Center: 719 San Jose Ave. Inalåhan, GU 96917

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center is not the only option to apply for FEMA assistance. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, download FEMA app to their cellphone, or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages.

For more information on Guam’s recovery from Typhoon Mawar, visit fema.gov/disaster/4715. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 9 (@femaregion9)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Mon, 07/03/2023 - 00:53

Inalåhan Disaster Recovery Center to Close July 5, Help is Still Available

Guam Homeland Security Office of Civil Defense, FEMA and the Village of Inalåhan, will close the Disaster Recovery Center in Inalåhan, but help is still available.

The following Disaster Recovery Center will cease operations at the close of business July 5, 2023.

• Inalåhan Mayor’s Office/Community Center: 719 San Jose Ave. Inalåhan, GU 96917

DRC Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Although this center is closing, that does not mean FEMA is leaving. Survivors whose homes were damaged by the Typhoon Mawar can still get updates about applications, learn about the appeals process or check the status of their claim the following ways:

• Visit any remaining DRC located at Guam Community College, Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School or C.L. Taitano Elementary School;
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362;
• Log into their account at DisasterAssistance.gov; or
• Use the FEMA Mobile App

If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet, please do so at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents). 

For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit our website.  

Follow FEMA at Twitter and Facebook. 

felicia.jordan Mon, 07/03/2023 - 00:28

Investing in America: FEMA Administrator Highlights Climate Resilient Infrastructure Investments Provided by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

WASHINGTON -- In support of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell traveled to Michigan to discuss critical infrastructure investments FEMA is making to make communities more resilient to climate-fueled disasters. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA was provided with nearly $7 billion to help communities reduce disaster loss and suffering by helping them build with resilience. 

Later in the week, the Administrator spoke with Washington Post Live about extreme weather events, disaster preparedness and what the Biden-Harris Administration is doing to help communities adapt to the “crisis of our generation.”

FEMA Administrator Criswell speaks with Washington Post Live on Disaster Preparedness | C-SPAN.org

“And with the additional funding that's coming through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, it's really giving us a lot of opportunity to go out and help these communities with these larger system-based, community-wide projects that are going to have a broader impact,” said FEMA Administrator Criswell.

In Michigan, Administrator Criswell met with tribal leaders from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, as well as the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, to discuss emergency preparedness and funding opportunities for mitigation and climate resilience grants available for tribes. 

Last month, FEMA announced $160 million in additional funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for states, local communities, tribes, territories and the District of Columbia to build climate and disaster resiliency, including the selection of more than 400 resilience projects and activities. This funding included $54 million set-aside for Tribal Nations that applied. 

FEMA Administrator Criswell, Region 5 Administrator Thomas C. Sivak and FEMA Tribal Affairs Advocate Kelbie Kennedy meet with Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in Michigan. (FEMA Photo)

FEMA Administrator Criswell and FEMA’s Tribal Affairs Advocate Kelbie Kennedy discuss disaster resilience with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians in Michigan. (FEMA Photo)

During her visit to Michigan, the Administrator further highlighted this Administration’s commitment to investing in America during a keynote speech at an event hosted by AFFEW Friends for the Environment at the West Shore Community College. During her remarks, the Administrator focused on climate change, emergency management and the critical infrastructure investments provided by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law designed to help communities build resilience. 

Specifically, the Administrator showcased several mitigation projects in the region that have benefitted from FEMA mitigation funding, protecting people and property from climate change and associated extreme weather events. 

“Through multibillion-dollar investments in our mitigation programs like Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities, President Biden and Congress have helped provide the tools and resources we need to reduce the cost and timeline of disaster recoveries,” said Administrator Criswell.

FEMA Administrator Criswell delivers keynote remarks on climate change and mitigation at West Shore Community College in Michigan. (FEMA Photo)

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 06/30/2023 - 18:33

FEMA Honors Pride Month with Series of Nationwide Events, Releases PSA Celebrating LGBTQ+ Workforce

WASHINGTON -- This month, FEMA joined the entire Biden-Harris Administration in celebrating Pride Month by hosting a series of events across the nation to reaffirm the agency’s commitment to inclusivity and strengthening the work we do to better engage the LGBTQ+ community before, during and after disasters. 

On the final day of Pride Month, FEMA Region 3, together with the nation’s Ready Campaign, released a public service announcement encouraging LGBTQ+ people to take steps to prepare themselves and their communities for disasters.

 
VIDEO: Celebrate Pride Month by Being Prepared

Over the course of the month, FEMA hosted a series of regional LGBTQ+ roundtables nationwide to further raise awareness of issues facing this community and how to make sure that they are prepared when disaster strikes.  

“It is important that resources be available to all disaster survivors to ensure equitable assistance and support,” said FEMA Region 2 Administrator David Warrington. “The LGBTQ+ roundtable discussions held in New Jersey and Puerto Rico are a true testament of our commitment to inclusion. Community events of this type allow us to learn more about the unique challenges facing the community, as well the opportunities within community. Through respect, understanding and collaboration, we can ensure equitable program delivery.”

“It is important to understand the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community during disaster to ensure we are achieving equity for all survivors,” said FEMA Region 7 Administrator Andrea Spillars. “Our entire team learned a lot, and the conversation will be a great springboard for future planning efforts. I’m thrilled by the new connections we have built with the community in St. Louis.”

“Honest feedback is critical. Hearing from LGBTQ+ partners during our Pride in Emergency Management Roundtable helps us assess and plan for improvement in our readiness and disaster work,” said FEMA Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton. “We will continue to engage communities in Oakland and across the state as we work to help people before, during and after disasters.”  

Region 9 Administrator Fenton and Dr. Demetre Daskalakis also gave a joint presentation during the Region 9 roundtable on how they engaged LGBTQ+ advocates during their time on the White House National Mpox Response Taskforce. These engagements were critical in reducing barriers for vaccine access and developing culturally competent messaging to effectively engage communities that needed this vaccine the most. 

FEMA’s Pride Month events further support the Biden-Harris Administration’s overall efforts to champion the rights of LGBTQ+ people across the country. To learn more about the actions this administration has taken to advance LGBTQ+ equality, please visit here.

 
Ocean, N.J. -- FEMA Region 2 hosts LGBTQ+ town hall to learn from LGTBQ+ community members. (FEMA Photo)

 
San Juan, P.R. -- FEMA Region 2 staff and LGBTQ+ leaders meet to discuss disaster preparedness. (FEMA photo)

 
St. Louis -- FEMA Region 7 hosts LGBTQ+ roundtable in Missouri. (FEMA Photo)

 
Oakland, Calif. -- FEMA leadership meet in Region 9 to discuss disaster preparedness and the LGBTQ+ community. (FEMA photo)

 
Oakland, Calif. -- Dr. Daskalakis and Region 9 Administrator Fenton discuss the importance of using culturally competent messaging during the Mpox outbreak. (FEMA photo)

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 06/30/2023 - 15:47

FEMA Provides $1.6 Million to Colorado for COVID-19 Response

DENVER – FEMA has approved $1,609,660 in Public Assistance funding for COVID-19 in Colorado. This FEMA funding is pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. 

Pitkin County, Colorado received the funding for labor, material, rented equipment, and contract services to conduct emergency protective measures by providing staff to assist with COVID-19 vaccination clinic operations. Funding covered personal protective equipment such as face masks, face shields, medical gloves, and N95 respirators. Funding also covered COVID-19 supplies for vaccination administration, computers and software, and disinfecting products as well as generators, office trailers, portable utilities, COVID-19 educational campaign services, website developing and maintaining services, COVID-19 communication support, digital/print campaign services, and county medical officer services.

FEMA has provided more than $1.87 billion in Public Assistance funding for the Colorado COVID-19 response to date. This assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 28, 2020 and represents 100 percent of the total cost of the project.  

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides funding to governmental agencies and certain private non-profits for eligible disaster response costs and to repair or replace damaged public infrastructure. For more information about the Public Assistance program, visit: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.

jamie.casterton Thu, 06/29/2023 - 17:26

FEMA Provides $8.1 Million to South Dakota for COVID-19 Response

DENVER – FEMA has approved $8,108,662 in Public Assistance funding for COVID-19 in South Dakota. This FEMA funding is pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. 

Avera McKennan received the funding for personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of COVID-19 ensuring the safety of both staff and patients who entered Avera McKennan healthcare facilities. Providers, patients, staff and families were provided PPE at registration desks and other administrative or public areas. Additionally, lab personnel required PPE to perform COVID-19 testing. PPE purchased included goggles, gloves, gowns, face masks, and face shields. Hand sanitizer and disinfection materials for protection and mitigation of COVID-19 were also purchased.

FEMA has provided more than $17 million in Public Assistance funding for the South Dakota COVID-19 response to date. This assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 5, 2020 and represents 100 percent of the total cost of the project.  

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides funding to governmental agencies and certain private non-profits for eligible disaster response costs and to repair or replace damaged public infrastructure. For more information about the Public Assistance program, visit: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.

jamie.casterton Thu, 06/29/2023 - 17:11

FEMA Provides $16.7 Million to North Dakota

DENVER – FEMA has approved $16.7 million in Public Assistance funding for COVID-19 in North Dakota. This FEMA funding is pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. 

The North Dakota Department of Health received $9,404,884 for COVID-19 labor costs, materials, and contract services. This included laboratory testing supplies and equipment, more than 20,000 PCR test kits and the laborers to administer the tests. The contracts covered the transportation and storage of COVID-19 supplies and testing samples, janitorial services and bio-waste removal and disposal.

The department received $5,099,289 for COVID-19 diagnostic testing, and vaccine administration at 69 pop-up vaccination clinics statewide. The costs include lodging and travel expenses for 120 full time workers transporting supplies between sites and workers participating in medically related activities. 

The department received $1,060,119 for community-based testing labor, materials purchases of diagnostic tests, sample collection, analysis, and reporting of COVID-19, and $1,167,510 for testing materials and warehouse rental. 

FEMA has provided more than $184 million in Public Assistance funding for the North Dakota COVID-19 response to date. This assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 1, 2020 and represents 100 percent of the total cost of the project.  

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides funding to governmental agencies and certain private non-profits for eligible disaster response costs and to repair or replace damaged public infrastructure. For more information about the Public Assistance program, visit: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.

jamie.casterton Thu, 06/29/2023 - 16:37

Disaster Recovery Center Has Opened in Templeton in San Luis Obispo County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in the community of Templeton in San Luis Obispo County for residents affected by the severe storms and flooding that began Feb. 21. 

The center is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. until close of business Saturday, July 1.

At the center, you can meet with recovery specialists to get help with a variety of disaster-related questions, including assistance with a FEMA application or information about the U.S. Small Business Administration’s low-interest disaster loan program. No appointment is needed.

The address of the Disaster Recovery Center in San Luis Obispo County is:

Templeton Community Services District Community Center 
601 S. Main St. 
Templeton, CA 93465

Residents don’t have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. They can apply to FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. (Helpline operators are available from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT daily.)  If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks other languages. 

For the latest information on California’s recovery from the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, visit FEMA.gov/disaster/4699. You may also follow twitter.com/Cal_OES,  facebook.com/CaliforniaOES, @FEMARegion9/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

 

 

jasmine.fields Wed, 06/28/2023 - 22:27

FEMA Awards $9.9M to Greater Chicago for Flood Reduction Project in Addison Creek Watershed

CHICAGO – FEMA and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency announced today that $9.9M in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding was provided to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) of Greater Chicago to reduce flooding in the Addison Creek watershed. The grant will help fund a project to lower, widen and stabilize the existing Addison Creek channel to allow for a higher flow of water to pass through during a flooding event. This enlarged water conveyance will decrease overbank flooding and lower the risk of residential and industrial property damage adjacent to the channel in six Cook County communities: Bellwood, Westchester, Broadview, Melrose Park, Stone Park and Northlake. Additionally, several bridges throughout the channel will be either removed or improved to reduce debris -caused restrictions on floodwater flow.

“FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program enables communities to implement critical mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate the risk of future disaster losses,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “The improvements to the Addison Creek channel will be an important step toward reducing damage and lessening the impact on individuals and the community when future flooding occurs in this area.”

“The outstanding partnerships with FEMA through HMGP funding will help reduce the flood hazards in the Addison Creek Watershed and keep everyone safe,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “This program will strengthen Addison Creek and greatly reduce the flood dangers and hazards in the six communities in Cook County Illinois.“

HMGP provides funding to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures following a presidentially declared disaster. For this project, FEMA will contribute $9,983,116 of the eligible $60,139,256 project cost. To learn more about HMGP or FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation

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

nicole.wilson Wed, 06/28/2023 - 21:00

FEMA Launches First Virtual Internship Program

CHICAGO – The application period is now open for the FEMA Region 5 Virtual Internship Program, an opportunity for students living in or attending colleges or universities in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin to get hands-on training in the growing field of emergency management. These unpaid positions will offer students the chance to learn about FEMA programs and services and gain real-world experience with the potential for future full-time employment at FEMA or another federal agency.

“FEMA is best positioned to help people before, during and after disasters when our workforce reflects the communities we serve,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “We’re looking for energized young people who can offer diverse ideas and backgrounds, while building critical emergency management skills to address the increasing disaster risks that threaten our nation now and in the future.”

Applications for the Fall cohort will be accepted until July 10, 2023, or when 100 applications are received. In general, interns should plan to work 5-15 hours per week or as directed by their college/university. Positions will be available in the following areas:

• Disaster response and recovery
• Flood risk reduction
• Grants
• Human resources
• Media relations
• Individual and community preparedness

Eligibility requirements and conditions of employment apply. For more information and how to submit an application, visit USAJOBS - Job Announcement. Details for the spring cohort will also be announced soon. You can also learn even more about the program by following our social channels: https://twitter.com/femaregion5 and www.linkedin.com/showcase/fema-region-5. Individuals with questions should contact fema-r5-info@fema.dhs.gov.

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nicole.wilson Wed, 06/28/2023 - 20:54