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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the commonwealth of Pennsylvania to supplement commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Ida from Aug. 31 to Sept. 5, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia and York counties.  Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of Hurricane Ida.

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

E. Craig Levy, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated area can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.

 

zella.campbell Sat, 09/11/2021 - 01:12

North Carolina Survivors Affected by Tropical Storm Fred Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Residents of Buncombe, Haywood, and Transylvania counties who were affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred from Aug. 16 – 18, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to apply. The toll-free telephone lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

You can also apply by smartphone or tablet using the FEMA App, or at www.disasterassistance.gov. 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.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you have homeowners, renter’s or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, along with other programs to assist those recovering from the flooding.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4617. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapman Fri, 09/10/2021 - 20:09

FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center Opens in Nevada County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC) will open in Nevada County for survivors whose uninsured and underinsured primary residence was damaged or destroyed by the River Fire. Chicago Park Elementary School will host the MRIC for three days from Friday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 12. The MRIC will be staffed by FEMA personnel to assist with registration and answer questions about disaster assistance programs.

Friday, Sept. 10, Chicago Park Elementary School, 15725 Mt. Olive Rd., Grass Valley, CA 95945 │ 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 11 – Sunday, Sept. 12, Chicago Park Elementary School, 15725 Mt. Olive Rd., Grass Valley, CA 95945 │ 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. In addition to visiting an MRIC, the easiest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors may also 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. Multi-lingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service. The registration deadline is Oct. 25, 2021.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following on-hand before contacting FEMA: their Social Security number, address of the damaged primary residence, a description of the damage, information about their insurance coverage, current contact number and address where they can receive mail, and bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds.

The MRICs will be accessible for individuals with disabilities and accommodations can be made upon arrival, with on-site communication accessibility tools including amplified listening devices and Video Remote Interpreting. ASL interpreters and multilingual services will be available upon request.

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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 Fri, 09/10/2021 - 15:56

‘Blue Roof’ Program Now Available in 25 Parishes

BATON ROUGE, La. – Survivors in all 25 Louisiana parishes eligible for Individual Assistance affected by Hurricane Ida can now sign up for temporary, fiber-reinforced sheeting to cover their damaged roofs until permanent repairs are made.

Operation Blue Roof, a free program managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in coordination with FEMA, has expanded its mission to the parishes designated for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. The Blue Roof service is available to homes that serve as a primary residence and to permanently-occupied rental properties.

The 25 parishes designated for Individual Assistance are: Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, Pointe Coupee, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana. 

To register for the Blue Roof Program, call 888-ROOF-BLU or 888-766-3258. There may be significant delays in reaching a specialist because of the large number of affected homes eligible for the Blue Roof Program. If your call goes directly to voicemail, hang up and try calling again. You may also visit BlueRoof.us

Carmen.Castro Fri, 09/10/2021 - 00:37

FEMA Defines Equity in its Mission of Making Programs More Accessible

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA announced its new equity definition to ensure alignment and coordinated progress across the agency. The definition clarifies how the agency addresses gaps, barriers and challenges experienced by vulnerable populations to ensure all survivors have access to disaster assistance.

The definition is a result of recently announced initiatives on how the agency is advancing equity. At FEMA, our definition of equity is: “The consistent and systematic fair, just and impartial treatment of all individuals.”

Leaders across the agency and emergency management community have voiced their support of this urgent work. Here’s what some of them had to say:

“The role and responsibility of emergency managers requires sensitivity to the needs of all disaster survivors and equitable and fair distribution of assistance to all those affected -- especially those disproportionally impacted. NEMA shares FEMA’s renewed commitment to equity in disaster response and remains a trusted partner in their mission to help people before, during and after a disaster strikes.” – Sima Merick, President of the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA)

“Most disaster response and recovery operations are complex, but those without equity further exasperates those vulnerable populations that are traditionally marginalized. As the world’s premier leader in emergency management, FEMA is setting the bar high with the adoption of the equity definition as it seeks to ensure the removal of barriers in the delivery of programs and services we provide tribes, states, locals and territorial jurisdictions.” – Kevin Sligh, Adviser to the FEMA Administrator 

“FEMA helps people during their worst days, and that starts with recognizing the disproportionate effects disasters have on marginalized and underserved communities. Equity must be at the core of FEMA’s mission to ensure we can all be more resilient against disasters and quickly recover from them when they do happen.” – MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator

“The adoption of this definition is an explicit commitment by Administrator Criswell and the Biden Administration that FEMA works to ensure that all communities are treated in a fair, just and impartial manner. I am pleased that this commitment to equity will undergird the development of FEMA’s vision and strategy.” – Ramesh Kolluru, FEMA National Advisory Council Vision 2045 Subcommittee Chair

“FEMA is taking a much-needed step towards tackling the barriers that harm medically fragile and historically disenfranchised communities. As disasters become more extreme and more frequent, this is a step towards supporting all communities, especially those most harmed by these events.” – Nicolette Louissant, FEMA National Advisory Council Member

“Equity must be baked into the front end of the federal declaration process, not an afterthought. Critical to the process is for decision makers to be intentional in all phases of the disaster management cycle to minimize discriminatory actions to prevent undesired outcomes that plague underserved and marginalized communities.” – Warren D. Miller, FEMA National Advisory Council Equity Subcommittee Vice Chair

“Along with FEMA, the African-American FEMA Employee Resource Group remains steadfast in the implementation of accessible resources and services and will work with our colleagues to continue to advocate and move the needle forward in advancing our mission through an equity-focused approach.” – Vallee Bunting, African-American FEMA Employee Resource Group Chair

“Changes FEMA has made and will continue to make will benefit communities of color, individuals experiencing homelessness, individuals with disabilities, older adults, neighbors living in poverty -- including those who lost their livelihoods due to the pandemic -- communities that have been historically marginalized.  When systemic wrongs are addressed, everybody wins.  A rising tide raises all sails.” – Jo Linda Johnson, Director, FEMA’s Office of Equal Rights & FEMA Equity Enterprise Steering Group Co-Chair

Our equity definition comes from Executive Order 13985, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, which requires agencies [to] assess equity with respect to race, ethnicity, religion, income, geography, gender identity, sexual orientation and disability. And, integrating equity into everything we do is a key principle of FEMA’s 2021 Annual Planning Guidance.

To hear more about what partners from across the agency and the emergency management community are saying about FEMA’s initiative to advance equity, visit FEMA’s Twitter and Instagram pages. 

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 09/09/2021 - 22:00

Panama City, FL Strengthens Critical Infrastructure for Future Disasters

PENSACOLA, Fla – FEMA has approved grants of more than $4.7 million for two hazard mitigation projects for the city of Panama City to reduce its risk of critical facility failure during future disasters. Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by the city after Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Millville Wastewater Treatment Plant: $2,653,956 for the purchase and installation of twin permanent generators to support the critical operations of the plant. They will be connected to the main electrical transfer system by a switchgear and an underground duct bank, which provide a protected pathway for electrical transmission and allow the city to provide continued service to the community during future power outages.

Sanitary Sewer Lift Stations: $2,052,265 for Phase One in a proposed project to provide flood protection and improvements to 13 sanitary sewer lift stations within the city, including surveying, engineering, design, plan preparation, permitting and the bidding for Phase Two approval. If approved, the project proposes different mitigation actions depending on the needs and assessment of each of the 13 sites to include relocation, elevation or strengthening against storm surge and wave-action hazards.

The HMGP provides funding to help communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage. Following a major disaster, a percentage of a state’s total federal recovery grants is calculated to help develop more resilient communities. Florida has an Enhanced Hazard Mitigation Plan that allows more funding to be available for post-disaster resilience projects. States with the enhanced plan receive HMGP funds based on 20% of their total estimated eligible federal disaster assistance.

Kimberly.Kipp Thu, 09/09/2021 - 19:32

Renters May Apply for FEMA Assistance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Renters in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties whose property was damaged by the severe storm and flooding on Aug. 21, 2021 may apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA Individual Assistance may be available to eligible renters, including students, as well as homeowners. Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to register. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. You may also register via the FEMA app by downloading it to a smartphone or tablet, or at www.disasterassistance.gov.

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

If you have renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Take photos to document losses and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Renters may also qualify for a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for essential personal property and other disaster-related expenses. These may include:

• Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks or school supplies.
• Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required by the self-employed.
• Primary vehicles.
• Medical and dental bills.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to help Tennessee businesses, homeowners and renters repair or replace disaster-damaged personal property, contents, tools of the trade, and vehicles.

For additional information about SBA disaster loans, the loan application process, or for help completing the SBA application, visit SBA’s secure website at www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance… Thu, 09/09/2021 - 16:50

FEMA Approves Additional $1.9 Million in Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved an additional $1,945,625 for the state of Florida to reimburse Bay District Schools for management costs following Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program will provide reimbursement for indirect management costs, direct administrative costs and other expenses associated with the administration of eligible projects. As a result of Hurricane Michael, Bay District Schools has identified a total of 153 eligible projects with FEMA.

This additional reimbursement brings FEMA's total grants for the school district's Hurricane Michael-related recovery to more than $106.8 million.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

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.

Kimberly.Kipp Thu, 09/09/2021 - 14:44

Baptist Health Care Corporation Approved for $1 Million for Emergency Protective Measures

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved $1,039,417 for the state of Florida to reimburse the Baptist Health Care Corporation for the emergency protective measures it utilized in response to Hurricane Sally.

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program will be used to reimburse the Corporation for its efforts to reduce the imminent threat to lives, public health and safety by providing water damage remediation and clean-up of damages at eight of its facilities from Sept. 14 through Sept. 28, 2020.  

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

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.

Kimberly.Kipp Thu, 09/09/2021 - 13:06

FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center Opens in Placer County

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC) will open in Placer County for survivors whose uninsured and underinsured primary residence was damaged or destroyed by the River Fire. Two locations will be available for three days from Thursday, Sept. 9 to Saturday, Sept. 11. The MRIC will be staffed by FEMA personnel to assist with registration and answer questions about disaster assistance programs.

Thursday, Sept. 9, OES Finance Administration Building, 2986 Richardson Dr., Auburn, CA 95603 │ 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 10, Sierra Vista Community Center, 55 School St., Colfax, CA 95713 │ 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 11, Sierra Vista Community Center, 55 School St., Colfax, CA 95713 │ 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. The easiest way to register is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors may also 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. Multi-lingual operators are available.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following on-hand before contacting FEMA: their Social Security number, address of the damaged primary residence, a description of the damage, information about their insurance coverage, current contact number and address where they can receive mail, and bank account and routing numbers for the direct deposit of funds.

The MRICs will be accessible for individuals with disabilities and access and functional needs, with on-site communication accessibility tools including amplified listening devices and Video Remote Interpreting. ASL interpreters and multilingual services will be available upon request.

###

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 Wed, 09/08/2021 - 23:53

A “no” can become a “yes” with a successful FEMA appeal

NASHVILE, Tenn.— The record-breaking rainfall came on so fast and furious Aug. 21, deadly flash flooding was unavoidable for many. People in Dickson, Hickman, Houston, and Humphreys counties are now looking for answers. FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides eligible survivors with financial assistance and direct services.  Hundreds of middle Tennessee residents have already filed an application. Some, however, may receive a letter stating their claim is ineligible for payment. If you receive that letter, you may be able to change the outcome. Many times, it’s a simple fix. An application is often denied because additional information is needed.

Here are some tips to consider when appealing a FEMA ineligible determination.

Tip 1: Know your deadline.

You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation.

Tip 2: Understand why FEMA deemed your claim ineligible before writing the appeal.

You may not agree with it but analyze why FEMA determined your application was ineligible. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you.

Tip 3: Include evidence to support your appeal.

It’s important to write a letter explaining why you disagree with FEMA’s decision, but you should also include documentation that supports what’s outlined in your appeal letter. This will help FEMA fight fraud and it can also strengthen your response.

Examples of documents to include with an appeal letter:

• Copy of flood insurance declaration page, if applicable.
• For proof of occupancy, FEMA accepts an employer statement, lease, utility bill (electric, water/sewer, etc.), bank or credit card statement, phone bill, cable/satellite bill, driver’s license, state-issued identification card, motor vehicle registrations, letters from local schools (public or private), documents from federal or state benefit providers, social service organizations (such as community assistance programs and non-profits), or court documents. All bills and/or statements must be dated within 3 months of the disaster.
• To prove ownership, include your mortgage or insurance documents, mortgage payment booklet, tax receipts or a deed. If your documents were lost or destroyed, contact financial, insurance and/or government agencies in your area to see if you can get a replacement. The following website also offers guidance on replacing lost documents: http://www.usa.gov/replace-vital-documents. FEMA will also accept a written document in which you declare yourself the owner of property. The letter does not need to be notarized, but it must match the information on your FEMA application.
• Survivors living in mobile homes or travel trailers can also include a signed statement from a commercial or mobile home park owner or a self-declaration as a last resort to prove the damaged home or rental was their primary residence.
• For homes that have been passed down over the generations without any traditional ownership verification, you may include a public official’s letter or receipts for major repairs or improvements to verify ownership.

Tip 4: Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit.

Tip 5: Can’t write the appeal yourself? Authorize someone to write it for you.

• • If you are the applicant and are unable to write an appeal letter yourself, ask someone to write it for you. Consider asking a family member, friend or a lawyer. Just be sure to provide FEMA with a signed statement saying the writer is authorized to act on your behalf.
• You can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to find out more about this. Multilingual operators are available, and lines are open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.

Tip 6: Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter. And when you’re ready, there are three ways to submit your appeal:

• • Fax it to 800-827-8112
  • Send it by mail to FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
  • Upload documents to your disasterassistance.gov account.

Tip 7: Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance… Wed, 09/08/2021 - 21:40

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of North Carolina to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred, from Aug. 16-18, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Buncombe, Haywood and Transylvania counties.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY for the hearing and speech impaired. 

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis under FEMA’s Public Assistance program for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged in areas affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred in Avery, Buncombe, Haywood, Madison, Transylvania, Watauga and Yancey counties.

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

John F. Boyle has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/08/2021 - 21:09

FEMA Launches 20th Anniversary 9/11 Multi-Media Webpage

WASHINGTON -- To honor the commitment and service of staff who responded to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, FEMA launched a multi-media webpage to highlight the roles they played in the nation’s response and recovery.

The page contains videos, blogs and quotes from both former and current staff as they tell their story of how they responded to those events

 

Graphic

 

“The impacts from that event reached far beyond a single day,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “As we reflect on this event 20 years later, I hope that you will take the time to hear the personal stories from members of our FEMA community. I am proud to present their stories for everyone to see.”

The page is in both English and Spanish, and videos feature Spanish closed captioning. The page contains 28 stories ranging from those who worked search and rescue operations to people who helped call family members immediately after the attacks. A historical timeline of FEMA’s response to the events of that day and how it changed the agency is also included.

zella.campbell Wed, 09/08/2021 - 19:22

FEMA Awards Miami-Dade County $8.34 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $8,346,330 for the State of Florida to help Miami-Dade County defray the cost of repairs after Hurricane Irma in 2017.

FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the county for the repair and replacement of more than 16,000 streetlights, traffic signs and signals throughout the county.

The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.

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

Nadine.Jones Wed, 09/08/2021 - 19:16

FEMA Recognizes 2021 National Preparedness Month Congressional Co-Chairs

WASHINGTON -- September is National Preparedness Month, a yearly observance to remind everyone how important it is for individuals, families and communities to be prepared for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time.

FEMA is honored to announce this year’s Congressional co-chairs. We welcome their collaboration on this mission and appreciate their commitment to promoting preparedness across the nation and in their districts. With their support, we can build a nation more resilient to future disasters. 

The following co-chairs have embodied the spirit of this year’s National Preparedness Month theme, “Prepare to Protect” and will highlight within their districts how preparing for a disaster is protecting everyone you love:

U.S. Senate

• Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan, Chair, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
• Sen. Rob Portman of Ohio, Ranking Member, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

U.S. House of Representatives

• Rep. Peter DeFazio of Oregon, Chair, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
• Rep. Sam Graves of Missouri, Ranking Member, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
• Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada, Chair, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management.
• Rep. Daniel Webster of Florida, Ranking Member, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management.
• Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, Chair, House Committee on Homeland Security.
• Rep. John Katko of New York, Ranking Member, House Committee on Homeland Security.
• Rep. Val Demings of Florida, Chairwoman, Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery of the House Committee on Homeland Security.
• Rep. Kat Cammack of Florida, Ranking Member, House Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery.
• Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard of California, Chair, House Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on Homeland Security.
• Rep. Carolyn Maloney of New York, Chairwoman, House Committee on Oversight and Reform.
• Rep. Salud Carbajal of California, Chair, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, and member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
• Rep. Jenniffer González-Colón of Puerto Rico, Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management and member of the Congressional Hispanic Conference.

For a quote from each co-chair, visit: 2021 National Preparedness Month Congressional Co-Chairs | Ready.gov.

Ready.gov/September has information and resources online, including social media content in multiple languages, for public use. Help spread the word of how to be prepared for disasters and emergencies before they happen. For more information, visit Ready.gov and Listo.gov.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/08/2021 - 18:24

Partnerships Pave Path to Strengthen Recovery from Irma and Maria

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands -- The U.S. Virgin Islands is charting a course to strengthen its infrastructure four years after Irma and Maria tore through the territory. Hurricane recovery projects are taking shape to make facilities used every day by Virgin Islanders more resilient through support of $3.27 billion from FEMA.

FEMA’s partnerships with the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA), U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery and the Office of the Governor will ensure recovery projects support the whole community with an emphasis on hardening the infrastructure to decrease damage from future storms.

The $3.27 billion obligated for 1,417 projects through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program includes $1.7 billion for emergency protective measures, $1.25 billion for permanent work and $309 million for state management costs. Emergency work includes debris removal and emergency power restoration, permanent work comprises repairs and replacements to damaged facilities, and state management costs help Public Assistance applicants manage projects.

“We will continue to leverage our resources to support the U.S. Virgin Islands with its vision of strengthening the infrastructure across the territory for a recovery from the 2017 hurricanes that benefits all Virgin Islanders. Our partnerships with the Office of Disaster Recovery, VITEMA, and the Office of the Governor will pave a path toward making critical facilities and housing communities fit to withstand the rigors of future storms,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Recovery Director Kristen Hodge.

Public Assistance funding obligated toward key areas includes:

• $1.35 billion for energy, $836 million for housing and $119 million for transportation.

Projects to repair facilities damaged in the 2017 hurricanes include hazard mitigation measures for a focus on breaking the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction. Projects developed through collaboration between FEMA and the territory include $424 million obligated for 159 Hazard Mitigation Proposals funded under Public Assistance.

Hazard Mitigation Proposals applied to Public Assistance projects include making damaged roofs, doors, and windows of housing communities more resistant against wind-driven rains and applying repairs to roads near waterways to make them less susceptible to flooding and erosion. These measures will directly reduce the potential of future, similar disaster damages to the eligible facility.

The 2017 storms have provided the U.S. Virgin Islands an opportunity to prioritize projects to reduce the loss of life and property from future disasters and focus on development of a territorial hazard mitigation plan. FEMA continues to collaborate with VITEMA on these endeavors, which have led to $99.1 million obligated through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The $99.1 million includes $84.5 million obligated for 80 projects and $14.6 million obligated for state management costs.

Territory-wide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program projects include:

• The U.S. Virgin Islands Slope Stabilization Analysis Project will identify locations across the territory that need slope stabilization systems. The advance assistance obligated for $2.5 million will allow the Virgin Islands Department of Public Works to stabilize slopes along the territory’s roads, which is in line with the Territorial Hazard Mitigation Plan’s goals.
• The Territory-wide Culvert Analysis Advance Assistance Project will identify culverts across the territory that need to be upsized to handle heavy rains. FEMA has provided $2.3 million for the culvert analysis, which has a total proposed cost of $3.5 million. The balance of $1.1 million is scheduled for obligation later this month.

The Territorial Hazard Mitigation & Resilience Plan is being developed by the University of the Virgin Islands and VITEMA through support of $4.9 million from FEMA. Incorporating resilience into the plan will enable the territory to better think about how critical infrastructure and essential services are operated to ensure communities have access to the services they need.

UVI and VITEMA are integrating the core principles of resilience, reliance on the territory’s economic and natural resources, adaptation to the impacts of climate change and economic/technical capacity building with the plan. The plan will be accessible online and allow the territory to meet FEMA’s requirement for disaster relief funding.

A host of federal partners are collaborating with FEMA and the U.S. Virgin Islands to advance recovery from the 2017 storms. FEMA’s Interagency Recovery Coordination (IRC) team supports these efforts though the coordination of approximately $8 billion in federal investments, with a focus on multiagency funded projects to repair and rebuild airports, seaports, roads, power grids, hospitals, public housing, agriculture, historic buildings, and other key infrastructure in the territory.  Coordination workgroups include health, housing, economic recovery, natural and cultural resources, transportation, utilities, and philanthropy coordination.

IRC supports territorial partners with resources for recovery projects through funding requests, federal partner technical assistance, capacity building, and subject matter expert technical assistance. Through coordinated efforts between federal and territorial partners, the IRC enables outcome driven recovery by preventing duplication, leveraging funding and project scoping, sequencing recovery projects, and streamlining permits.

Destruction from Irma and Maria occurred within a matter of hours after both hurricanes made landfall in September 2017. The path to recovery demands diligence and FEMA will continue to deliver its recovery programs with an equitable approach to support capacity building toward completion of projects.

Workers from Custom Builders perform roof repairs in July at Paul M. Pearson Gardens Housing Community on St. Thomas. Numerous roofs at the Virgin Islands Housing Authority community were damaged from the winds and rains of hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. FEMA's Public Assistance Program is supporting hurricane repairs at Pearson Gardens. FEMA/Eric Adams

zella.campbell Wed, 09/08/2021 - 16:01

Registration Deadline for FEMA Assistance Extended to Oct. 13

CHICAGO – The deadline for survivors of the June 25 –26 severe storms and flooding to register with FEMA for individual disaster assistance has been extended to Wednesday, October 13, 2021.

The extension applies to survivors living in Wayne and Washtenaw counties.

FEMA assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property losses and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

Individuals can register with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the mobile app. By phone, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET seven days a week.

In-person assistance remains available at FEMA centers in southeast Michigan. Individuals can visit any open center to get the help they need with the federal assistance process. To find the location closest to you, visit FEMA’s DRC locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. 

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

troy.christensen Wed, 09/08/2021 - 12:40

FEMA Offers More Flexibility and Assistance to Ensure Equity Across all Communities

NASHVILE, Tenn.— FEMA recently made changes to its policies to ensure disaster assistance is equitably provided to all eligible survivors, including those in historically underserved communities. These changes became effective Aug. 23, the same date a federal declaration was made for Middle Tennessee for the severe storms and flooding that occurred on Aug. 21 in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties.

FEMA will now accept a broader range of ownership and occupancy documentation to assist those typically in low-income populations. This change should reduce the administrative burden to those whose homes have been passed down over the generations without any traditional ownership verification, known as the legal term “heirship properties.” For these homeowners, FEMA will now accept a public official’s letter or receipts for major repairs or improvements to verify ownership. Survivors with heirship properties or who are living in mobile homes or travel trailers may self-declare ownership as a last resort.

To confirm occupancy, FEMA will now accept motor vehicle registrations, or letters from local schools (public or private), documents from federal or state benefit providers, social service organizations (such as community assistance programs and non-profits), or court documents. Survivors living in mobile homes or travel trailers can also use a signed statement from a commercial or mobile home park owner or self-declaration as a last resort.

Also, to encourage real-time feedback to applicants, FEMA has trained staff to verify documentation on site while conducting home inspections. This decreases the burden on survivors to appeal a FEMA decision in writing by verifying documents at the time of inspection.

FEMA is also amending its policy to provide assistance to those who suffered a disaster-related disability and now require special components, such as ramps or grab bars, to make their damaged home safe and functional for them, regardless of whether those components were in the survivor’s home before the disaster.

Financial assistance is also available to repair homes impacted by disaster-caused mold growth.

FEMA also provides interpreters, real-time captioning, and information in alternate formats such as Braille, large-print, audio, and electronic versions. The agency also provides free services to help survivors communicate with its staff and understand FEMA programs.  Among the aids: Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website and social media; Qualified American Sign Language interpreters; Qualified multilingual interpreters; and information written in multiple languages.

The fastest and easiest way to apply for assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Tennesseans in the designated counties can also ask questions or apply for FEMA assistance at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Lines are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

Because of the recent hurricanes and other severe storms, flooding and fires across the country, wait times may be long. Please be patient. Those who would like to speak to someone face-to-face may apply for assistance or get answers to their questions by visiting one of the Multi-Agency Resource Centers in your county. Other ways to apply include:  online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance… Wed, 09/08/2021 - 12:37

Gulf County Approved for Additional $1.2 Million in Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved an additional $1,253,002 for the state of Florida to reimburse Gulf County for management costs following Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program will provide reimbursement for indirect management costs, direct administrative costs and other expenses associated with the administration of eligible projects. As a result of Hurricane Michael, Gulf County officials and FEMA have identified a total of 37 projects and are continuing to manage specific ongoing projects.

This additional reimbursement brings FEMA's total grants for the county's Hurricane Michael-related recovery expenses to more than $25.4 million.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

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.

Kimberly.Kipp Tue, 09/07/2021 - 20:30

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the State of Maryland

PHILADELPHIA – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise at the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. The exercise will occur during the week of September 13, 2021 to assess the ability of the State of Maryland to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

 

“These drills are held every other year to evaluate a government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the State of Maryland.”

Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions.  The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise.

 

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 10:00 a.m. on September 17, 2021.  The meeting will be conducted in person and in a virtual format via Zoom.   Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC. 

 

The meeting will be held in person at:

Doubletree by Hilton Annapolis

210 Holiday Court

Annapolis, Maryland 21401

 

The meeting may also be accessed via Zoom with the following link:

Join ZoomGov Meeting

https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1619249772

Meeting ID: 161 924 9772

Passcode: 912779

 

At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:

 

MaryAnn Tierney

Regional Administrator

FEMA Region III

615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106

 

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

 

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

 

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program.

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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 Tue, 09/07/2021 - 20:08