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DHS News and Updates
Boston Reimbursed More Than $1.8 Million for Emergency Feeding Program Earlier This Year
REGION 1 – FEMA awarded a $1,876,980 grant to the City of Boston for a program that helped feed thousands who experienced food insecurity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Every week groceries were purchased, packed into boxes and distributed to approved individuals and families in underserved populations. Two boxes per household were delivered outside the doors of their homes or at nearby sites, such as in the common areas of senior housing.
The city’s Age Strong Commission staff managed the program’s enrollment of participants, maintained a detailed database of all who received deliveries as well as follow-up required to determine continuing needs. Commission staff coordinated daily with partner About Fresh (www.aboutfresh.org), a Boston-based organization.
This grant covered 100% of the program’s eligible costs submitted by the city from Jan. 4 through April 9, 2021.
This project is funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program that reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include the state, federally recognized tribal governments, local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations. Project applications are submitted from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), which coordinates the process with eligible applicants.
FEMA awarded funding for this project directly to MEMA who works directly with the applicant to ensure all terms and conditions of the award are met before funding is disbursed.
“We are pleased to provide funds to help feed many Bostonians in need during the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England.
As of June 25, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program obligated more than $741.4 million in 316 projects related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Massachusetts. Additional information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters
adrien.urbani Fri, 06/25/2021 - 18:03FEMA Participating in Free Virtual Section 3 Contractor Training Opportunity with HUD
Section 3 is a provision of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968. The purpose of Section 3 is to ensure that employment and other economic opportunities generated by certain HUD financial assistance shall, to the greatest extent feasible, and consistent with existing federal, state, and local laws and regulations, be directed to low- and very low-income persons, particularly those who are recipients of government assistance for housing, and to business concerns which provide economic opportunities to low- and very low-income persons.
The training is scheduled for June 29 from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. CT. It will provide contractors and businesses with an understanding of HUD’s new Section 3 regulations, programs and services, contracting, business management and training opportunities.
The goals of the session are focused in the following three areas:
1. To expand participants' knowledge of Section 3 and the new regulations.
2. To enhance and streamline implementation of Section 3 requirements for creating economic opportunities for low- and very low-income persons and eligible businesses.
3. To showcase examples of how Section 3 contractors and businesses can increase positive impacts by unlocking human potential and matching employment opportunities with low- and very low-income residents’ skills.
There is no cost to participate; however, space is limited and registration is required. Register by visiting https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bs6UknTuTiShKzs252EDog. You will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the training session if your registration is submitted on time.
Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.
stuart.lewis Fri, 06/25/2021 - 17:30Texas Winter Storm Survivors in Three Additional Counties Can Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance
DENTON, Texas – Texas homeowners and renters in Kerr, Lamar and Shackelford who suffered damage from the February winter storm may now apply for disaster assistance with FEMA. If you applied with FEMA prior to the counties being added, you do not need to reapply.
If you have insurance and are applying for disaster assistance, you must also file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If insurance does not cover all your damage, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.
If it is not possible to register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, 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.
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 insurance policy number, or the agent and company name
Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.
Disaster assistance may include financial assistance for temporary lodging and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to businesses, homeowners and renters. Call the SBA at 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 800-877-8339) or visit www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.
daniel.green2 Fri, 06/25/2021 - 17:08Multimillion-Dollar, Federal Grant Reimburses Vermont for Emergency Feeding
REGION 1 – FEMA awarded a $2,566,225 grant to the State of Vermont’s Agency of Commerce and Community Development for its costs in the Vermont Everyone Eats Program.
The innovative program is a vital part of the state’s emergency feeding initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nutritious meals are prepared by participating restaurants and distributed to Vermonters experiencing food insecurity.
The Vermont agency contracted with Westminster-based Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA) to operate the program, and a statewide task force with members from 16 organizations advises SEVCA. With community “hubs” and over 130 distribution sites managed by 18 regional partners, the program offers coverage in all 14 Vermont counties for individuals and families in crisis.
It leverages Vermont’s independent restaurants and robust system of farms and food producers, serving up to 30,000 meals per week. On April 29, it achieved a major milestone: 1 million meals—containing nearly $1 million of Vermont-produced ingredients—that generated $10 million for more than 200 restaurants. The program launched in August 2020 with $5 million from the state’s Coronavirus Relief Fund and has continued with additional funding through FEMA.
FEMA provides funding for the program through its Public Assistance Program grants. This grant covered 100% of the program’s eligible costs submitted from April 12 through May 16, 2021. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include states, commonwealths, local governments, Tribes, territories and certain private non-profit organizations.
“We are once again pleased to provide funds to reimburse our valued State of Vermont partner,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England. “These funds helped feed those in need across the Green Mountain State during the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year.”
This is the fifth Public Assistance Program grant announced in 2021 by FEMA reimbursing the costs of the Vermont Everyone Eats Program. They total more than $13.6 million. FEMA also provided a 100% federal cost share of the program’s eligible costs submitted for those four previous Public Assistance Program projects.
As of June 25, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program obligated more than $232 million in 115 projects related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Vermont. Additional information about the FEMA program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters
adrien.urbani Fri, 06/25/2021 - 16:50FEMA Provides More than $1.5 Million to the Rhode Island Department of Health
REGION 1 – FEMA awarded a $1,580,594 grant to the Rhode Island Department of Health. The grant provided funding for the state’s COVID-19 resource communications program which operated between Aug. 1 and Dec. 31.
FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) funds helped provide programs for the deaf community and those with limited English proficiency throughout Rhode Island. This included person-to-person, in-print and online communications with healthcare providers, schools and the media through American Sign Language interpreters and translation services, as well as English translators and English translation services. The funds are reimbursed 100% through FEMA’s PA Program.
“This grant paid for Rhode Island to communicate COVID-19 resources to its deaf and limited English proficiency communities throughout the state,” said Acting Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations in New England. “FEMA continues to support the Rhode Island Department of Health in its efforts to communicate with residents of the state during this COVID-19 pandemic.”
As of June 25, FEMA’s PA Program obligated more than $231.2 million in assistance toward pandemic aid in Rhode Island.
FEMA’s PA Program in New England includes states, localities, Tribes and certain types of private nonprofit organizations. More information about it is at Assistance for Governments and Private Non-Profits After a Disaster.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters
adrien.urbani Fri, 06/25/2021 - 16:27Connecticut’s Bridgeport Hospital Awarded More Than $3.8 Million in Third Pandemic-Related Emergency Response Reimbursement
REGION 1 – Bridgeport Hospital recently received $3,818,190 in federal funds for emergency protective measures officials implemented to safeguard the health and safety of the public from COVID-19.
FEMA provided funds through a grant from its Public Assistance Program to the hospital based in Bridgeport via the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. The grant reimbursed the non-profit hospital for eligible costs it submitted from Jan. 20 through Aug. 31, 2020. Many costs were incurred at the hospital’s Bridgeport campus; some at its Milford campus. Many were incurred by the hospital itself; some by Yale New Haven Health, which is part of the hospital system.
Reimbursement for treatment and care of COVID-19 patients included providing equipment for testing, renting stretchers and beds, developing in-hospital surge areas, adding 36 isolation rooms, buying and transporting medical equipment and supplies, disinfecting facilities and purchasing personal protective equipment for hospital workers. Other costs included setting up and staffing a command center, two temporary triage tents and two specimens-collection sites.
This is the third Public Assistance Program grant for costs of emergency work Bridgeport Hospital officials undertook during the first eight months of 2020 to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic. Each of the three grants covered 100% of eligible costs the hospital submitted. One previous grant totaled $8,440,919: another $1,293,489.
“We and our valued partners at the State of Connecticut thank Bridgeport Hospital for its tremendous effort to save many lives during the difficult times early in this pandemic,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England. “FEMA has now reimbursed the hospital more than $13.5 million for its actions.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance Program reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include certain private non-profit organizations, states, commonwealths, local governments, federally recognized Tribal governments and territories.
As of June 25, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program obligated more than $73.1 million in 222 projects related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Connecticut. Additional information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters
adrien.urbani Fri, 06/25/2021 - 16:05FEMA Teams Hit the Streets to Help West Virginia Residents Recover from February Flooding
Residents of Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo and Wayne counties are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with their costs for damage and losses caused by the February flood. Residents are urged to apply by Monday, July 19, 2021.
Here is how to register:
- Call 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone.
FEMA is helping West Virginia disaster survivors navigate the disaster assistance process in a number of ways, including outreach in Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo and Wayne counties; assisting survivors in registering for FEMA assistance in their communities; and checking the status of applications and making minor corrections to applications. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams serve West Virginia residents in several ways:
- Through callouts to faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, private sector (businesses) and public libraries that may have the capability to distribute disaster-related information to survivors in the impacted counties.
- Identifying organizations providing disaster-related services and/or resources to survivors for immediate and long-term recovery.
- Providing flyers explaining how to apply for disaster assistance.
- Providing civil rights and disability integration assistance information to ensure equal access.
While DSA teams will be making neighborhood visits, residents of the affected counties should also be aware of potential fraud and scams by people claiming to represent FEMA:
- FEMA representatives never charge a fee or ask for payment.
- You may receive phone calls or unexpected visits to your home from people claiming they work for FEMA. The person might ask for your Social Security number and income or banking information. FEMA representatives will have a laminated identification badge and, if you have already applied, your FEMA registration number.
- Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number. Legitimate FEMA representatives will only ask for the last four digits as part of the verification process; the inspector will complete the process by providing the applicant with the first four digits of the registration ID.
FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams have been working to help residents of Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo and Wayne counties affected by the Feb. 27-March 4, 2021, flooding. The DSA teams are helping residents with the registration process for FEMA disaster assistance. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)
FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams have been working to help residents of Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo and Wayne counties affected by the Feb. 27-March 4, 2021, flooding. The DSA teams are conducting neighborhood visits as well as providing help at selected registration points. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)
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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
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4605.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or video relay service). TTY users can call 800-462-7585.
amanda.hancher Fri, 06/25/2021 - 13:39President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Florida
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Florida to supplement state and local recovery efforts to the emergency conditions resulting from the Surfside Building Collapse beginning on June 24, 2021 and continuing.
The president’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts, which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Miami-Dade County.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize, and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. The Individuals and Households Program under the Stafford Act and assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, will be provided.
Thomas J. McCool has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations for the affected area. Additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
zella.campbell Fri, 06/25/2021 - 12:09FAQ FOR ALABAMA TORNADO SURVIVORS
Clanton, Ala – For Alabamians hit hard by the March 25-26 Severe Storms and Tornadoes, the deadline for applying for federal assistance is June 25, 2021. Don’t let common misunderstandings cause you to miss out for disaster assistance.
Check the following Q & As to learn why you should register now!
I have insurance. Should I wait for my insurance settlement before requesting additional assistance from FEMA?
No. Insurance is your main funding source to put your life back in order after a disaster, but FEMA may be able to help with items insurance does not cover. If you have insurance, find out what is covered, take pictures if you can, and begin clean-up and repairs, keeping estimates and receipts. You may not be eligible for assistance until you can provide additional insurance settlement information to FEMA (a necessary step to avoid duplication of benefits), but register now, before the deadline. If you have no insurance, register immediately with FEMA online or by phone.
I already repaired my home. Can I still apply?
Yes. By registering, you may qualify for reimbursement of eligible repairs or to help with needs not covered by insurance.
I got help from the American Red Cross. Can I still register with FEMA if I need assistance?
Yes. Registration with the Red Cross or other voluntary agencies is not the same as registering with FEMA. FEMA coordinates various federal programs to help disaster victims, which are different from the emergency food, clothing and shelter initially provided by the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and other voluntary agencies.
Do I have to meet a minimum amount of damage before I can register with FEMA?
No. There is no minimum requirement for registering for federal and state disaster assistance. FEMA, by law, cannot duplicate other benefits, but you may have losses, for example, not covered by insurance, that could be reimbursed by FEMA.
Do I have to be turned down by my bank before I can apply for a disaster loan?
No. The SBA, which handles low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations, has its own criteria for determining each loan applicant’s eligibility. SBA will decide whether you are able to repay a loan. If you are not qualified for a home loan, you may be eligible for other assistance, such as the Other Needs Assistance (ONA) grant program that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.
I don’t really want a loan. Do I still need to fill out the SBA application if asked to?
Yes. If the loan application is not returned, you may not be considered for other forms of disaster assistance,
If I qualify for an SBA loan, do I have to accept it if I change my mind?
No. You can either accept, refuse, or even delay a loan offer.
If I accept an SBA loan, will I still be considered for Other Needs Assistance (ONA)?
Yes. You may be eligible for ONA programs designed to help with unmet needs not covered by your SBA loan and other assistance,
I rent an apartment. Can I get help to replace my damaged personal property?
Yes. A renter may also qualify for an SBA low-interest disaster loan or grants from other sources to replace personal property. One type of grant may cover temporary housing if a renter must move to another dwelling. Other grants may cover eligible individuals or families with serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other programs.
Register today!
- Online at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
- Download the FEMA app
- By phone: 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. central time. Operators are multilingual and those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. If you need accommodations for language or a disability, let the operator know.
To apply for a low-interest, SBA disaster loan, call 800-659-2955 (TTY: 800-877-8339) or complete an online application at https://disasterloan.sba.gov
The deadline to apply for an SBA physical damage disaster loan is June 25, 2021.
For additional online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit www.disasterassistance.gov and click “information.”
For referrals to Alabama’s health and human service agencies as well as community organizations, dial 211, text 888-421-1266, or chat with referral specialists via www.211connectsalabama.org.
For more information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit ema.alabama.gov, AlabamaEMA Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4596 and www.facebook.com/fema.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
brianasummer.fenton Thu, 06/24/2021 - 20:08FEMA Provides $10 Million to Minnesota for COVID-19 Response
CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division (DPS-HSEM) announced today that $10 million in federal funding has been made available to the Minnesota Department of Health for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of April 7, 2020.
This funding will reimburse the Minnesota Department of Health for costs associated with the rapid distribution and administration of COVID-19 vaccines at six vaccination centers throughout the state. Covered costs include facility support, vaccinators, public outreach efforts, a call center, immunization community coordinators and supplies for staff.
“FEMA remains committed to helping ensure anyone who wants a vaccine can get one,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “We’re proud to support Minnesota’s efforts to make the vaccine as accessible as possible to all residents and help the country end this pandemic together.”
“Vaccinations are critical in the fight against COVID-19,” said DPS-HSEM Director Joe Kelly. “We are grateful for the ongoing federal support to the Minnesota Department of Health as they lead the way to provide the immunizations needed to protect us all from the virus. We are thankful for their hard work and dedication to keeping Minnesotans safe.”
FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
cassie.ringsdor Thu, 06/24/2021 - 14:46
Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in LaSalle Parish, Louisiana
DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in LaSalle Parish, Louisiana. Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.
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 submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around June 23, 2021. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
Appeals/comments may be submitted through 9/21/2021 for:
- The towns of Jena, Olla, Tullos, Urania; and the unincorporated areas of LaSalle Parish.
- 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 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
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 http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. 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 https://www.floodsmart.gov.
Carmen.Castro Wed, 06/23/2021 - 18:53Milestones Mark West Virginia’s Road to Recovery Five Years After 2016 Disaster
CHARLESTON - Five years after severe storms, floods, mudslides and landslides devastated large swaths of central and southern West Virginia on June 22-29, 2016, the state continues on its road to recovery and is working to develop resilience against future disasters.
Twenty-three lives were lost in an event that affected 18 counties. Hundreds of miles of state roads washed away, and thousands of households were left in need of assistance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and its local, state and federal partners have been working to bring communities back to normal again.
“To be clear, no amount of work or money will erase the heartache and suffering that the 2016 flood brought to the people of West Virginia,” said Janice Barlow, Acting Regional Administrator, FEMA Region 3. “Our best hope is that by putting our efforts not only into long-term recovery but toward building resilience, we will honor their memories and the fighting spirit of the Mountain State. I’m humbled that FEMA is a part of that healing process.”
To date, the FEMA Individuals and Households program has approved more than $42.3 million in helping nearly 5,000 residents and households in the 12 counties where Individual Assistance was designated.
In addition, FEMA’s Volunteer Agency Liaisons (VALs) have worked closely with West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (WV VOAD) to coordinate more than 40 member organizations to help survivors with unmet needs, including home repairs, clearing out flood debris and, through its Bridges to Home program, the construction of more robust water crossings over creeks and streams to private residences.
FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) helps communities reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from future disasters. Since 2016, 83 HMGP projects have been approved with more than $31.6 million in federal dollars. One such project in Brooke County is increasing the capacity of one town’s storm/sewer water system to redirect storm runoff more efficiently and reduce the risk of flooding. In Raleigh County, an Acquisition/Demolition project allowed six families to relocate from their flood-prone properties to safer areas.
Other federal agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), through its Community Development Block Grants, have approved more than $106.4 million for its Mitigation program and more than $149.8 million for Disaster Recovery projects, such as WV VOAD’s Bridges to Home program. Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration approved more than 800 low-interest loans worth more than $53 million to assist homeowners and businesses affected by the flood.
But the bulk of federal funding to the Mountain State has come in the form of Public Assistance (PA), with programs for state roads, the reconstruction of five schools and the demolition of structures irreparably damaged by flooding. As of June 11, FEMA’s PA program has approved 989 projects and more than $415.2 million in federal funds.
Given the number of projects and dollars involved in the recovery from the 2016 disaster, combined with the frequency of the state’s disaster declarations, FEMA Region 3 and the state’s emergency management division entered into an agreement in 2019 that established a West Virginia FEMA Integration Team (WV FIT) in Charleston. Under the agreement, the WV FIT increases FEMA’s ability to provide on-site technical assistance and rapid delivery of FEMA’s programs within the State of West Virginia and enhances FEMA’s direct coordination with state partners.
The urgency to recover from 2016 galvanized the state as well. A year after the flood, the state established a Joint Legislative Committee on Flooding and, through it, a State Resiliency Office (SRO) to provide coordination among government agencies for emergency and disaster planning, response, and recovery. Then, in 2020, the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner appointed a new director of West Virginia National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to promote enrollment in the program and ensure proper land use and development to prevent flooding.
With leadership in place to directly address both resiliency and the chronic occurrence of floods, the state is positioning itself to be better prepared for what happens before and after disaster hits.
“Those lost or injured in this event hold a special place in our hearts and prayers,” said G.E. McCabe, director of the West Virginia Emergency Management Division. “We continue to work with our local, state and federal partners to offer as much recovery as possible to the survivors. Valuable relationships have been developed on behalf of the citizens of West Virginia. We will strive for continuous improvement as we move forward.”
While the 2016 flooding left much suffering and damage in its wake, the move to come back stronger is leading to a recovery effort that is truly locally led, state-managed and federally supported.
Additional information on West Virginia’s recovery from the 2016 flood can be found at www.fema.gov/disaster/4273. Learn more about the West Virginia Emergency Management Division at emd.wv.gov and West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster at www.wvvoad.org. For more information on the National Flood Insurance Program go to https://www.floodsmart.gov.
Then-Rainelle Mayor Andrea Pendleton, left, congratulates Juanita Ruzek upon the 2017 dedication of her home, which had been flooded in 2016. Thanks to the efforts of charitable group Samaritan’s Purse, West Virginia Voluntary Agencies Active in Disaster, and FEMA’s Voluntary Agency Liaison, Ruzek was able to move back to a fully restored home, including HVAC, carpentry work and appliances, at no cost. (Dave Melancon/FEMA)
West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, members of the Kanawha County Board of Education, county officials and students of Herbert Hoover High School participated in a January 2020 groundbreaking ceremony for a new Hoover High near Elkview. The school will replace the facility that was destroyed in the 2016 flood. (Dave Melancon/FEMA)
amanda.hancher Wed, 06/23/2021 - 17:45FEMA Provides $4.7 Million to Premier Health
CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) announced today that $4,798,142 in federal funding has been made available to Premier Health for costs related to the state’s response to COVID-19 under the federal disaster declaration of March 31, 2020.
This funding will reimburse Premier Health for costs to disinfect and expand medical care facilities, purchase protective equipment, provide security, disseminate safety information and provide contracted medical care to potential and positive COVID-19 patients.
“FEMA is committed to supporting Ohio’s COVID-19 response and recovery efforts,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Premier Health’s actions protected the health and safety of Ohio residents and helped reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.”
“Premier Health is a great example of a healthcare system that not only provides medical care for those sickened by the coronavirus, but also serves as a key resource for guidance and information on COVID-19,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “With FEMA’s grant assistance, Premier Health will continue its work to ensure residents in southwest Ohio have the proper information and resources needed to stay safe and to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus.”
“I would like to thank FEMA Region 5 for its continued funding support to Ohio’s healthcare systems like Premier Health,” said Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick. “This federal funding allows Premier Health to continue to provide the communities it serves with reliable guidance and resources on COVID-19 testing availability, healthcare services, and other pertinent information.”
FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Wed, 06/23/2021 - 16:04Deadline Approaches for FEMA Aid Applications
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Homeowners and renters in Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties with damage or other losses caused by the storms that struck from March 25 through April 2 have only a short time left to apply for FEMA assistance. The deadline for applications is July 7. However, those who have already received determination letters from FEMA and don’t agree with the decision, can appeal within 60 days of the date on the letter.
Those who have questions about making an appeal can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who wish to apply by the July 7 deadline can also call the Helpline. Multilingual operators are available, and lines are open daily 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.
Two other ways to apply are to download FEMA’s mobile app for smart phone or tablet (for information, go to: fema.gov/mobile-app) or to visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
FEMA disaster assistance grants can help survivors with costs for temporary rentals, home repairs and rebuilding and other serious disaster-related needs such as replacement of essential personal property. FEMA awards are not loans and do not have to repaid.
Survivors with insurance should also apply to FEMA promptly, as they may be eligible for grants to help with disaster-related expenses their insurance doesn’t cover. To be considered for aid, they must have their FEMA applications in by the July 7 deadline. Should they discover later on that their insurance hasn’t covered certain expenses, they can then update their FEMA applications. If they haven’t applied to FEMA by the deadline, it will be too late to access potential FEMA aid to supplement their insurance.
The deadline for survivors to apply for low interest disaster recovery loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration is also July 7. Following a federal disaster declaration, SBA makes loans to eligible homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes to help them restore their property to its pre-disaster or better condition. Loans from SBA are the primary form of federal disaster assistance to individuals, households and businesses.
For more information on an SBA loan, go to Disasterloan.sba.gov, call the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or send an e-mail to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.
For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.
felicia.jordan Wed, 06/23/2021 - 15:37FEMA Awards Monroe County $1.44 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,444,269 for the State of Florida to help Monroe County defray the costs of emergency response to Hurricane Irma in 2017.
FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the county for donated resources provided by nonprofit and charitable organizations, including equipment, meals, water, clothing, hygiene kits and other supplies. The county also utilized more than 23,000 hours of donated labor to assist with the disaster response. Under the Public Assistance program, eligible donated resources may be credited toward the nonfederal share of FEMA grant costs.
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.
barbara.murien… Wed, 06/23/2021 - 15:01FEMA Awards Florida Division of Emergency Management $4 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $4,060,072 for the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) to defray its administrative costs associated with Hurricane Irma.
Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by FDEM after the storm in 2017. The grant covers the administrative costs of tracking and accounting for eligible salaries, benefits, contractual support and other expenses.
The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.
Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.
Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Irma disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
barbara.murien… Wed, 06/23/2021 - 14:13FEMA Awards Florida Keys Electric Cooperative $4.7 Million to Protect Transmission Line
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $4,711,161 for the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative (FKEC) to mitigate erosion and substantially reduce the vulnerability of its transmission line to future storms.
Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by FKEC after Hurricane Irma in 2017. The grant covers the relocation and replacement of 37 transmission poles and three distribution pole structures over a two-mile area in the Sea Oats area, on Lower Matecumbe Key in the Village of Islamorada.
The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.
Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.
Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Irma disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
barbara.murien… Wed, 06/23/2021 - 13:32FEMA approves $4.69 million for Florida Division of Emergency Management Hurricane Michael recovery
PENSACOLA, Fla – FEMA has approved a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) grant of $4,695,468 to the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) for costs associated with implementing the State Administrative Plan for Hurricane Michael. The State Administrative Plan is a procedural guide that details how FDEM will administer the HMGP, such as activities and costs for eligible salaries, benefits, and contractual support.
The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of helping communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage and by improving resilience. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.
Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.
Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money awarded by FEMA for Hurricane Michael recovery expenses. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.
neily.chapman Tue, 06/22/2021 - 19:47Survivors Can Get Help Appealing FEMA Decision at Recovery Service Center in Lake Charles
Anyone who disagrees with FEMA’s decision on whether they are eligible for assistance, or questioning the amount of assistance, may submit an appeal letter with documents supporting their claim.
Appealing assistance decisions can be challenging. Survivors may visit the RSC in Lake Charles to get one-on-one, in-person help with the appeals process. Specialists will be on hand to assist in appeal letters and to upload required or missing documentation.
The center is located at the Washington-Marion Magnet High School, 2802 Pineview St. in Lake Charles. Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Thursday, July 15.
For the latest information on the May 17-21 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4606. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.
stuart.lewis Tue, 06/22/2021 - 16:08FEMA COVID-19 funeral assistance nears $364 million
WASHINGTON – FEMA has provided nearly $364 million to 54,000 people for COVID-19 related funeral costs.
The national average for an award is $6,756, as nearly 2,500 FEMA employees continue working with applicants to manually review every application, determining eligibility each week. Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.
"Applications" in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the process for assistance. Once an individual applies, FEMA sends a letter outlining the required documentation needed to process their application. The process to determine eligibility starts after an applicant submits all required documentation. FEMA developed a process to ensure applicants have ample time to collect and submit required documents for assistance. While some jurisdictions provide or amend death certificates in four to six weeks, others may take longer. FEMA will make calls and send additional letters reminding applicants of the required documents.
Please find below state-specific information:
Applications
Amount Approved
Number of Awards
ALABAMA
5,080
$8,517,563
1,203
ALASKA
106
$83,416
14
AMERICAN SAMOA
5
$0
0
ARIZONA
3,745
$3,728,630
682
ARKANSAS
2,136
$3,227,550
492
CALIFORNIA
24,139
$ 32,113,216
4,822
COLORADO
1,645
$1,663,141
288
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS
4
$4,344
1
CONNECTICUT
2,784
$5,983,318
841
DELAWARE
679
$975,302
150
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
447
$783,775
111
FLORIDA
12,646
$18,271,829
3,165
GEORGIA
8,378
$13,527,512
1,938
GUAM
10
$20,436
3
HAWAII
214
$183,471
30
IDAHO
448
$584,527
101
ILLINOIS
9,379
$17,877,215
2,581
INDIANA
3,861
$5,701,344
791
IOWA
2,028
$4,402,880
596
KANSAS
1,855
$3,577,671
523
KENTUCKY
2,972
$4,521,202
621
LOUISIANA
4,152
$6,414,714
918
MAINE
275
$294,742
61
MARYLAND
4,457
$7,075,240
1,031
MASSACHUSETTS
4,611
$7,714,294
1,085
MICHIGAN
7,575
$11,514,049
1,871
MINNESOTA
2,126
$4,003,097
571
MISSISSIPPI
3,647
$4,465,357
638
MISSOURI
3,824
$5,621,381
835
MONTANA
382
$299,542
62
NEBRASKA
952
$2,068,622
282
NEVADA
1,898
$2,096,039
377
NEW HAMPSHIRE
535
$738,784
122
NEW JERSEY
9,673
$15,434,766
2,179
NEW MEXICO
1,233
$1,096,672
203
NEW YORK
20,956
$35,428,393
4,979
NORTH CAROLINA
6,569
$12,278,931
1,842
NORTH DAKOTA
554
$832,293
108
OHIO
7,668
$16,334,400
2,507
OKLAHOMA
3,134
$5,665,062
836
OREGON
645
$870,538
170
PENNSYLVANIA
10,320
$19,968,529
3,025
PUERTO RICO
942
$155,126
39
RHODE ISLAND
973
$2,098,631
298
SOUTH CAROLINA
4,622
$7,679,375
1,073
SOUTH DAKOTA
587
$1,149,332
146
TENNESSEE
5,518
$8,656,867
1,220
TEXAS
20,188
$39,979,868
5,993
UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS
20
$29,885
4
UTAH
834
$1,481,838
212
VERMONT
112
$172,290
29
VIRGINIA
4,891
$8,164,762
1,188
WASHINGTON
1,427
$1,686,491
295
WEST VIRGINIA
1,149
$1,619,371
226
WISCONSIN
3,663
$4,517,008
640
WYOMING
197
$399,988
68
Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.
mashana.davis Mon, 06/21/2021 - 22:06