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DHS News and Updates
FEMA Awards $1.5 Million to Jefferson County
CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) announced today that Jefferson County, Wisc., has been awarded $1,530,596 in Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) funds for the acquisition and demolition of 12 flood prone properties in the county. Removing these homes from the Rock River and Lake Koshkonong floodplains will help reduce the community’s flood vulnerability. Upon completion of the project, the lots will be preserved as open space by the Jefferson County Parks Department.
“The Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs enable communities to implement critical mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate the risk of loss of life and property,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This project will eliminate future structural losses in Jefferson County by permanently removing these homes from the floodplain, greatly reducing the financial impact on individuals and the community.”
“Floods have the potential to cause widespread losses for communities, putting lives and property at risk every time the water rises,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator. “We are grateful to FEMA for helping to fund this important work to safeguard the residents of Jefferson County.”
PDM provides grants to state and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures. This year marks the end of the PDM program, which will be replaced by the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program (BRIC). To learn more about BRIC or FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Fri, 05/07/2021 - 16:17FEMA Awards $4.1 Million for Community Safe Rooms
CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) announced today that the cities of Owen and Abbotsford have been awarded Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) funds to develop multi-use community tornado safe rooms.
The city of Owen received $1,923,335 to build a safe room that will provide safety from severe wind and tornadic events to the entire student body and staff of Owen-Withee public schools, residents in nearby areas, and patrons of the 15 nearby businesses.
The city of Abbotsford received $2,186,557 to develop a safe room that will provide safety from severe wind and tornadic events to the entire student body at Abbotsford Public Schools and nearby residents.
“The Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs provide funding for activities that reduce disaster losses and protect life and property from future disasters,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “These safe rooms will be an important asset to help keep kids and residents protected during dangerous, severe weather events in these communities.”
“Facilities such as these are an important addition to any community and will help save lives,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator. “Wisconsin is thankful to FEMA for providing funding for these important projects in Owen and Abbotsford.”
PDM provides grants to state and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures. This year marks the end of the PDM program, which will be replaced by the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program (BRIC). To learn more about BRIC or FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Fri, 05/07/2021 - 14:59FEMA Provides an Additional $1.8 Million to Thornton for COVID-19 Response
DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided more than $1.8 million in Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Thornton, Colo. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 28, 2020. FEMA has disbursed a total of $831 million for Colorado’s COVID-19 response to date.
President Biden approved a cost share increase from 75 percent to 100 percent for projects related to the pandemic response, which includes work completed between January 20, 2020, and September 30, 2021. This approval allowed FEMA to reimburse states, tribes, cities, and other partners for 100 percent of eligible costs.
The City of Thornton received this $1.8 million for emergency protective measures. This funding covered three community-based testing site locations, and four locations for COVID-19 vaccine distribution. The funding also covered medical and testing supplies, drive-thru testing and vaccination facilities, rental trailers and buildings, personal protective supplies, generators, food, water, transportation, and processing of tests.
This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021, Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.
For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, tribal and local officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.
minh.phan Fri, 05/07/2021 - 14:26FEMA Provides Nearly $1.9 Million in Additional Funding to Montana for COVID-19 Response
DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved nearly $1.9 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Montana. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 31, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of $30.2 million for the Montana COVID-19 response to date.
The $1.9 million was provided to the Billings Clinic for COVID-19 associated costs, contracts, and facilities, which include work completed between March 17, 2020, and December 30, 2020.
This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021, Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.
For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.
minh.phan Fri, 05/07/2021 - 14:20May 11 is Final Day for First Dose of the Pfizer vaccine at the Greenbelt Community Vaccination Center in Maryland
GREENBELT, Md. – Maryland residents have until May 11 to get their first dose of the two-dose Pfizer vaccine at the Greenbelt Community Vaccination Center. Second doses are also currently offered at the center. Staff will assist individuals to register for both first and second vaccinations.
Beginning May 12, Greenbelt CVC will provide Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccinations and continue to provide Pfizer second doses for the remaining weeks the center is open.
“The Greenbelt CVC has been an extremely successful vaccination operation, and we continue to encourage the residents of Maryland to come down and get vaccinated,” said Craig Levy, Deputy Federal Coordinating Officer for FEMA.
Reasonable accommodation for people with access and functional needs is available as well as onsite interpretation in eight spoken languages, and American Sign Language, Certified Deaf Interpretation and Sensory Interpretation.
The Community Vaccination Center opened in parking lot 1A of the Greenbelt Metro station on April 7. This facility has the capacity to administer 3,000 doses of COVID vaccine every day. In the time since the center opened medical staff have provided more than 75,000 vaccinations to residents.
Register for an appointment by visiting covidvax.maryland.gov or calling: 1-855-MD-GOVAX (1-855-634-6829). Anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive a vaccination.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
gabriel.lugo Fri, 05/07/2021 - 14:05Indian American Volunteer Groups Sewa, HSS Committed to Vaccination Efforts in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), a non-profit organization that organizes values-based education programs and community outreach projects nationwide, has deployed a volunteer response team to support the City of Philadelphia, FEMA, and other government partners at the Center City Vaccination Center (CCVC). This site is equipped to deliver up to 6,000 doses of the lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine each day. It is the second federally supported community vaccination center in the nation to benefit from HSS’s assistance. Sewa International and 25 organizations of the Indian American community in the greater Philadelphia region are working closely with HSS to offer support.
HSS has named their campaign “Sewa With FEMA.” Sewa is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning “selfless service.” HSS’s on-site coordinator, Sachin Dabade, said, “It involves acting selflessly and helping others without any reward or personal gain, based on their Hindu faith and motto, ‘The whole world is one family.’” Sewa and HSS have deployed 351 volunteers logging 2400 hours of support at the CCVC and 21 volunteers providing 98.5 hours at the Esperanza Community Vaccination Center.
Now more than ever, Sewa and HSS volunteers are impassioned to invest in U.S. vaccination efforts as India’s COVID-19 case rates rapidly increase and its supply of oxygen tanks and medical resources decrease.
“They are incredibly eager to be here, and they have the drive to volunteer for a community that some of them are not even a part of,” said Justice Colbert, emergency management specialist at FEMA Region III. “They show up ready to help Philadelphians with a positive attitude,” and learn everything they can about emergency management so they can transfer their skills to future disaster deployments, she said.
More than one dozen Indian American volunteers arrive daily to provide non-clinical support at the vaccination center, such as wheelchair escort assistance and traffic control.
“We are honored to serve in this national cause of ending the COVID-19 pandemic and sincerely thank the FEMA Region III team for giving us an opportunity to serve our brothers and sisters in Philadelphia,” said Mukund Kute, president of PA East Division of HSS. “We have distributed $55,000 worth of PPE Kits, food and masks since early April 2020. We will continue to support FEMA until we beat COVID-19.”
“Whether during response, recovery, mitigation, or preparedness, voluntary organizations bring many unique resources and assets to help communities and individuals,” said Janice Barlow, Acting Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “Our country’s volunteer organizations have provided organized services to those affected by disasters and public health emergencies, beginning with our nation’s first volunteer fire department established by Benjamin Franklin, right here in Philadelphia, in 1736. The contributions of volunteer organizations, like Sewa, are invaluable assets at the two federally supported Community Vaccination Centers in Philadelphia and across FEMA Region 3.”
Interagency cooperation which includes community-based organizations like local voluntary organizations, provides valuable insight to inform operational decisions before, during and after FEMA’s response missions. Engaging with voluntary organizations is critical to representing local perspectives and needs specific to communities that otherwise may not be obvious to external entities such as FEMA. Vaccine guests coming to the community vaccination centers appreciate seeing friendly faces with that local perspective.
To learn more about HSS/Sewa’s vaccination mission “Sewa With FEMA” visit:
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/IndoAmericans4CovidRelief
https://www.hssus.org/blog/indian-americans-serving-fema-philly
HSS and SEWA International are one of several volunteer organizations supporting the COVID-19 response in Philadelphia. They are working closely with Team Rubicon, another trusted partner organization of FEMA.
To volunteer with HSS’s FEMA Drive “Sewa With FEMA”: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C48AEA72FA4F8C07-sewa
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C48AEA72FA4F8C07-sewa
Caption: Sewa volunteers conduct community outreach by canvassing in neighborhoods across Philadelphia to spread awareness about the Esperanza Community Vaccination Center and Center City Vaccination Center in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by Heather Anderson/FEMA)
Caption: Sewa volunteers work alongside other volunteer organizations, like Team Rubicon, as well as the Pennsylvania National Guard to support the Center City Vaccination Center (Photo by Heather Anderson/FEMA).
Caption: A Sewa volunteer manages traffic control at the state-run, federally-supported Center City Community Vaccination Center in the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. (Photo by Heather Anderson/FEMA
Caption: A Sewa volunteer assists a community member at the Center City Vaccination Center. (Photo by Heather Anderson/FEMA)
gabriel.lugo Fri, 05/07/2021 - 13:07FEMA, VDH Partner to allow for additional 1st doses of Pfizer through May 22, expanding vaccine options.
Norfolk, Virginia — As vaccination opportunities expand in the Commonwealth of Virginia, the FEMA-supported Military Circle Mall Community Vaccination Center, in partnership with Virginia Department of Health, will kick off an additional opportunity for residents to receive their first doses of Pfizer.
The FEMA-supported center has the capacity to expand its through-put to on or around May 22 to administer additional first doses of Pfizer. Once residents receive their first dose, VDH will schedule and administer second doses in three weeks (or 21 days) later.
The Military Circle Mall Community Vaccination Center is a walk-in clinic, no appointments are required and it is open seven days a week, 9:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m. Those interested in getting their vaccine must bring a valid ID or any document that provides proof of name.
Residents that come to Military Circle Mall will have their choice of vaccine through May 22:
Vaccines Available at Military Circle Mall (9 a.m. - 7 p.m.)
- Single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine (over the age of 18)
- 1st Doses of Pfizer (over the age of 16)
- Individuals who are 16- 17 will need to have a parent or guardian with them at the vaccination site to receive the vaccine.
- 2nd Doses of Pfizer (over the age of 16)
- Residents can receive their second dose of Pfizer regardless of where the 1st dose was administered. 2nd doses should be administered 3 weeks (21 days) after the 1st dose.
Reasonable accommodations for people with access and functional needs is available as well as information and onsite interpretation in a variety of languages, including American Sign Language.
For information on all available clinics visit https://vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 1-877-829-4682.
For more on the ongoing vaccination efforts in Virginia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4512 or vaemergency.gov.
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gabriel.lugo Fri, 05/07/2021 - 12:57
FEMA enlists Forest Service, Park Service to keep vaccine mission rolling
PHILADELPHIA - Since being tasked by President Joe Biden in the nationwide vaccine rollout in January, FEMA has taken an “all-hands on deck” approach to its mission – including the enlistment of staff outside the agency.
Members of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and National Parks Service (NPS) joined the agency’s efforts, lending their skills and talents in support of the West Virginia FEMA team’s planning efforts. Among their accomplishments were the creation of maps to help staff at West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters track community clinic volunteers and the formulation of goals for next steps in vaccination planning. They also provided support for several county mobile vaccination clinics.
In addition, the Forest Service sent public information officers to assist FEMA Region 3 in supporting Joint Information Centers at community vaccination clinics in Philadelphia, Greenbelt, Md., and Norfolk, Va. At FEMA’s Maryland center, USFS staff ran point on speakers bureau engagements on the vaccine effort, as well as serving as vaccine equity liaison to ensure underserved populations had access to doses. At the Virginia center, a USFS PIO took the lead in creating a “Reasons Why” wall, a collection of posts where vaccine recipients shared what led them to get their COVID-19 shot. The promotion spread to centers across the region to help inspire others to get vaccinated
“This cooperation among federal agencies is accomplishing exactly what our National Response Framework was designed to do,” said Janice Barlow, Acting Regional Administrator, FEMA Region 3. “One group helps the other to complete the mission, ensuring that we all succeed.”
This kind of collaboration not only between federal agencies, but with local and state governments, volunteer organizations and private sector partners, is the hallmark of the greater effort to promote vaccination and the defeat of COVID-19.
Learn more about the National Response Framework at https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness/frameworks/response. Read about the president’s efforts to combat COVID, at https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/National-Strategy-for-the-COVID-19-Response-and-Pandemic-Preparedness.pdf.
Sgt. Nicholas Rhodes, with the West Virginia Army National Guard, left, and Shawn Nagle, from the National Parks Service Interior Region 2 office in Atlanta, seen on March 23, 2021, helped support the West Virginia Division of Emergency Management at the state Joint Interagency Task Force for vaccinations at the National Guard base in Charleston, W.Va. Nagle was part of the federal response effort assisting with the West Virginia FEMA team’s planning function. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)
Eric Schmeckpeper, a retired U.S. Forest Service officer from Atlanta, helped register participants at a mobile vaccination clinic sponsored by the West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster in Belle, W.Va., on March 25, 2021. Schmeckpeper was part of the federal response effort assisting with the West Virginia FEMA team’s planning function. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)
A FEMA staffer at the Norfolk, Va., Community Vaccination Clinic straightens out the “Reasons Why” wall papered with thoughts shared by participants on what led them to get their COVID-19 shot. U.S. Forest Service Public Information Officer Cindy Frenzel started this effort in early April; now the walls are covered with hundreds of “Reasons Why.” Frenzel was part of the federal response effort assisting with the Norfolk FEMA team’s external affairs function. (Patsy Lynch/FEMA)
gabriel.lugo Fri, 05/07/2021 - 12:35President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Oregon
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Oregon to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms from Feb. 11-15, 2021.
Federal funding also is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storms in Benton, Clackamas, Linn, Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Toney Raines has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Raines said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
mayshaunt.gary Thu, 05/06/2021 - 21:17FEMA Provides $1.6 Million to Stutsman County for Flood Recovery
DENVER – FEMA has provided more than $1.6 million in Public Assistance funding to Stutsman County for costs related to the October 2019 flooding. Under this declaration, FEMA has paid a total of $10.9 million for the state of North Dakota to date. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued January 21, 2020. This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.
The $1.6 million was approved for Stutsman County to utilize force account labor, equipment, and material for a permanent grade raise of County Road 39, which had been inundated by floodwaters.
During the incident period, historically high groundwater saturation, and subsequent rapid snowmelt created an unprecedented October flood in central and eastern North Dakota. Powerful floodwaters washed surface gravel and culverts from Stutsman County and township roads and disrupted lifeline infrastructure. This prevented access to multiple residences within the St. Paul Township, creating significant delays for first responders struggling to reach citizens in need.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.
minh.phan Thu, 05/06/2021 - 21:03FEMA Awards Miami-Dade County $1.46 Million for Hurricane Irma Repairs
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,461,450 for the State of Florida to help Miami-Dade County defray the cost of repairs to the Venetian Causeway after Hurricane Irma in 2017.
FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the county for repairs to the east and west bridge houses of the Venetian Causeway. Repairs include roof, equipment and navigation light systems.
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… Thu, 05/06/2021 - 19:37Mitigation for Homeowners May Reduce Potential Damage in Future Storms
CLANTON, Ala. – Rebuilding after a disaster can present opportunities as well as challenges for homeowners. This is certainly true for those impacted by the March 25-26 severe storms and tornadoes.
The challenges include getting the job done quickly and efficiently. The opportunities involve rebuilding stronger, smarter, safer and better, with more resilience. The process is called mitigation.
Mitigation reduces the risk to property from future events. While it may involve a larger initial investment, mitigation pays off in the long run. In fact, FEMA estimates that on average, for every $1 spent on mitigation, $6 are saved from future losses.
FEMA has several guides to assist you in deciding what repairs you can incorporate. These guides contain information and tips about wind retrofits, flood insurance, clean up, flood & wind resistant materials, elevation of your home or appliances, mold & debris removal. (click on the title to download the guide)
Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings: The purpose of this Guide is to provide guidance on how to improve the wind resistance of existing residential buildings across the Gulf Coast. Although this Guide was developed to support initiatives in the Gulf Coast region, the content of this document should serve as guidance on retrofitting existing buildings for improved performance during high-wind events in all coastal regions; it is applicable to one- and two-family dwellings, but not to manufactured housing.
Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction: This guide contains a series of 37 fact sheets that provide technical guidance and recommendations concerning the construction of coastal residential buildings. The fact sheets present information aimed at improving the performance of buildings subject to flood and wind forces in coastal environments.
Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting: This guide is specifically for homeowners who want to know how to help protect their homes from flooding. As a homeowner, you need clear information about the options available to you and straightforward guidance that will help you make decisions. This guide gives you both, in a form designed for readers who have little or no experience with flood protection methods or building construction techniques.
Before you dive in on those repairs, develop a plan. Here are a few things to consider:
Finalize your plan. There are a wide range of options for protecting your home from flood and wind events through mitigation. Be sure to consult with a licensed contractor and the local building department before making any structural changes to understand requirements and obtain any necessary permits.
- Contact your local building official before rebuilding/renovating/retrofitting. Make sure your plans meet local and state government requirements. Get proper permits.
- Be smart when you start. Use reliable, licensed contractors. Get a written estimate. Check references. Pay by check.
- Get insurance. Anywhere it rains, it can flood. Protect your investment in your home by purchasing flood insurance, even if you do not live in a high-risk flood zone. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) helps cover costly losses associated with flooding. For more information, Visit https://www.floodsmart.gov.
FEMA provides grant funding for certain kinds of mitigation projects under the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program. For more information, and how to apply for the program, visit https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/hazard-mitigation/individuals.
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.
ron.roth Thu, 05/06/2021 - 19:35Grand County Joins National Flood Insurance Program
DENVER – Grand County has been approved to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. Approval was granted by FEMA on April 29 following the county’s adoption of floodplain management ordinances and formal request to join the program.
By joining the program, residents and businesses in unincorporated areas of Grand County are now eligible to purchase federally-backed flood insurance. As part of the requirements for joining the program, the county has adopted floodplain management regulations for new development in identified floodplains. These actions promote public safety and help to limit the financial impacts of future flooding events.
”We’d like to welcome Grand County into the National Flood Insurance Program,” said FEMA Region 8 Mitigation Division Director Jeanine Petterson. “This demonstrates a commitment to managed floodplain development and will result in many benefits, including increased resiliency for the county and its residents.”
There are now 255 participating communities in Colorado. The term participating communities refers to any governmental jurisdiction that has oversite for building and development, and can include counties, cities, towns, and tribal nations.
While flood insurance policies can now be purchased, there is typically a 30-day waiting period before they go into effect. Contact your local insurance agent to purchase a policy or visit www.floodsmart.gov for more information.
Brian.Hvinden Thu, 05/06/2021 - 18:42President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Georgia
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Georgia to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes from March 25-26, 2021.
Federal funding also is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and tornadoes in Coweta, Fannin, Gilmer, Heard, Lumpkin, Pickens, Rabun and White counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Leda M. Khoury has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Khoury said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
mayshaunt.gary Thu, 05/06/2021 - 18:08FEMA Supporting and Expanding Equitable Access to Home-based Persons in Pueblo
DENVER – In keeping with the foundation of FEMA’s mission to help people, the federal vaccination site in Pueblo is continuing to expand vaccine availability to socially vulnerable population in the Pueblo area. In a collaborative effort between FEMA and the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE), vaccination teams will now be reaching those who are home-based and unable to access vaccination locations. This effort is in addition to the main vaccination site at the Colorado State Fairgrounds, and temporary pop-up locations that have been conducted throughout the area. Home-based vaccinations, which began on May 5, are intended to increase vaccination opportunities and help ensure equitable vaccine access to residents of Pueblo and surrounding communities.
This collaboration is expanding a program that began with PDPHE. The program is now supporting three medical teams, with each team able to vaccinate eight to 10 home-based persons each day. Members of the teams are volunteers with the American Pharmacists Association and Sewa International. This collaborative effort is expected to last for six weeks.
"This pilot site is all about equitable access,” said Nancy Dragani, acting Regional Administrator. “Individuals should still be able to access the vaccine, despite being unable to leave their residence to get to a vaccination site. It is our privilege to partner with the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment to make the vaccine available to all who want it, even if it means taking it to individuals in their homes.”
Teams are currently working with a known list of home-based individuals. Those needing similar access should call 2-1-1 or 719-583-4444. For those able to leave their homes, the site at the Colorado State Fairgrounds is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. Appointments are available for the main site at www.centura.org/vaccine. Additionally, popup clinics are available throughout the area and appointments can be scheduled at www.primarybio.com/r/centurapopup. Walkups without a scheduled appointment are accepted at these sites.
The main site at the Colorado State Fairgrounds is the only federal pilot site in the State of Colorado and FEMA Region 8. The partnership with the State of Colorado and Centura Health includes an Army medical team and other support units from the Department of Defense.
minh.phan Thu, 05/06/2021 - 15:35President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Mississippi to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms from Feb. 11-19, 2021.
Federal funding also is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storms in Adams, Attala, Choctaw, Claiborne, Copiah, Covington, Franklin, Grenada, Hinds, Jasper, Jefferson, Jefferson Davis, Kemper, Lafayette, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Leake, Lincoln, Neshoba, Newton, Noxubee, Pike, Rankin, Scott, Simpson, Smith, Tallahatchie, Walthall, Warren, Winston and Yazoo counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Brett H. Howard has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Howard said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
mayshaunt.gary Thu, 05/06/2021 - 13:20FEMA, VDH Partner with Norfolk Public Schools to expand access to vaccines for 16+
Norfolk, Virginia — FEMA, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the Virginia Department of Health, the City of Norfolk, and Norfolk Public Schools (NPS) are partnering to provide opportunities for young adults 16-18 to receive their Pfizer vaccine onsite at six Norfolk High Schools.
On May 10-11 and May 13-14, vaccine events will be held to allow students to receive their First dose of the Pfizer vaccine. Students will be required to fill out a consent form that must be completed, signed, and returned to participate in the event. NPS has made the form available at the respective high schools and online. The deadline for students to return the completed and signed consent form is Friday, May 7, 2021.
FEMA’s goal is to expand the rate of vaccinations in an efficient, effective, and equitable manner, and bring vaccines to young adults which allows for increased access. The six schools participating in the event are Booker T. Washington, Granby, Lake Taylor, Maury, and Norview High Schools, as well as Norfolk Technical Center.
In addition to the vaccine event next week, vaccines are still availability at the FEMA-supported Military Circle Mall through May 22:
Vaccines Available at Military Circle Mall (9 a.m. - 7 p.m.) through May 22:
- Single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine (over the age of 18)
- 1st Doses of Pfizer (16-17 year olds only)
- Individuals who are 16-17 will need to have a parent or guardian with them at the vaccination site to receive the vaccine.
- 2nd Doses of Pfizer
The vaccination center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome and those interested in getting their vaccine must bring a valid ID or any document that provides proof of name.
Reasonable accommodation for people with access and functional needs is available as well as information and onsite interpretation in a variety of languages, including American Sign Language.
For information on all available clinics visit https://vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 1-877-829-4682.
For more on the ongoing vaccination efforts in Virginia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4512 or vaemergency.gov.
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gabriel.lugo Thu, 05/06/2021 - 12:52FEMA Corps Team Wave 6 Supports DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Day of Action
Washington, DC - FEMA Corps team Wave 6 officially kicked off their volunteer efforts on Saturday, May 1, 2021, supporting DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Office of Volunteerism and Partnerships Day of Action COVID-19 door knocking campaign. Aimed at mitigating the effects of COVID-19, over 1,000 community volunteers activated around the city in support of residents making a plan to get a COVID-19 vaccine.
Deployed to support the DC Senior Vaccine Buddies community outreach initiative, this is the first mission for Wave 6.
Charged with canvasing Wards Seven and Eight, the eight-member team walked door-to-door, passing out flyers during the Day of Action, which included information about how the COVID-19 vaccine works, along with material detailing site locations across DC where individuals who need to be vaccinated can “Take The Shot”.
“It’s an honor to be partnered with Serve DC and the Senior Vaccine Buddies program, says Whitney Kubal, Wave 6, Team Leader. “We’re learning so much from this community, while helping to make an impact with the COVID-19 vaccination efforts.”
FEMA Corps, a partnership between FEMA and the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), allows young adults between the ages of 18-24 seeking professional skills in emergency management, to gain valuable experience while supporting disaster survivors and communities.
“We are grateful for the FEMA Corps Team Wave 6’s rapid response to take action and help Washingtonians make a plan to get their free COVID-19 vaccine across all 8 Wards,” said Mayor Bowser. “ServeDC continues to leverage partnerships in response to building a safer and more resilient city.”
“We know when you engage committed partners in addressing social challenges, solutions happen. Thus, we are thrilled to welcome the Wave 6 FEMA Corps team in support of this critical mission.” said Alexis Squire, Interim Chief Service Officer. “I am hopeful that this partnership will inspire other multi-sector leaders to respond through service and activation.”
“Our seniors play a critical role in keeping the District strong and vibrant and are at most risk during the pandemic," said Dr. Christopher Rodriguez, Director, DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency. "We look forward to introducing the District's seniors to the FEMA Corps team and believe this partnership will save lives.”
In response to President Biden’s called to action for mayors across the nation to ensure their communities are vaccinated, Mayor Bowser was the first mayor in the US to host a Day of Action event, focused on making certain that DC residents are vaccinated.
“We are grateful to assist the District in meeting the needs of seniors who want a COVID-19 vaccination,” says Janice Barlow, Acting Regional Administrator, FEMA Region 3. “Having a FEMA Corps team embedded with Serve DC, working alongside DC Senior Vaccine Buddies volunteers, helps to safeguard our nation’s most vulnerable population,” Barlow said.
Originating with AmeriCorps NCCC Southern Region, Vicksburg, Mississippi, FEMA Corps team Wave 6 brings to the table, skillsets that include expertise in anthropology, public administration, political science, meteorology, and interdisciplinary mathematical sciences.
The team will continue to support the DC Senior Vaccine Buddies mission through mid-June.
The following is a link to the video associated with the FEMA Corps outreach: https://youtu.be/7FfNhJr79mk
About Serve DC
Serve DC is the Government agency dedicated to promoting service as an innovative, sustainable solution to challenges we face as a community and a nation. Serve DC engages District communities by building partnerships and organizational capacity, serving as the local lead for national volunteer and service initiatives, and providing and promoting meaningful service opportunities throughout the year. Serve DC supports communities across the District through federal grant funds from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), the US Department of Homeland Security, and The DC Department of Health. Serve DC promotes the District's spirit of service by engaging residents in meaningful volunteer opportunities and facilitating public, private, and government partnerships.
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For questions about FEMA, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
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
gabriel.lugo Wed, 05/05/2021 - 21:08FEMA COVID-19 Update
WASHINGTON -- FEMA is working toward the goal President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. set yesterday of wanting 70% of American adults to have at least one shot by July 4 and administering an additional 100 million vaccines in the next 60 days.
A new website is making it easier to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals can now visit vaccines.gov to find a location close to them and make an appointment. Individuals can also text their zip code to 438829 and get a text with the closest COVID-19 vaccine location.
FEMA continues working with state governments to provide federal support to community vaccination centers, including supplemental vaccine allocation to pilot sites.
Currently, there are 22 active or temporarily closed federal community vaccination center pilot sites and 55 mobile pop-up sites. Additionally, 13 mobile vaccination units are operating across the country, supporting states and the Indian Health Service. Federal pilot community vaccination centers have administered more than 4.6 million vaccinations, and mobile units have delivered more than 28,000 vaccinations.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Health Resources and Services Administration, announced the Coverage Assistance Fund reimbursement program that covers healthcare provider costs of administering COVID-19 vaccinations to underinsured or uninsured individuals. The program will compensate providers for eligible claims at national Medicare rates and builds on the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program.
FEMA has received more than 164,900 funeral assistance applications and has awarded more than $7.8 million since the agency began processing applications on April 12. Through this program, FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after Jan. 20, 2020.
Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 9a.m. to 9p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday.
Multilingual services are available. The assistance line has helped applicants in nearly 40 languages.
mayshaunt.gary Wed, 05/05/2021 - 20:57FEMA approves $11.4 million in Hurricane Michael Public Assistance grants
PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved grants totaling $11,476,932 to reimburse recovery expenses in Florida for Hurricane Michael in 2018.
Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program will provide the following reimbursements:
- Bay County: $1,499,024 for repairs to culverts, stormwater inlets leading to drainage systems, roadside guardrails, sidewalks and sidewalk handrails throughout the county.
- Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services: $4,432,729 for response and recovery efforts such as assisting with search and rescue, providing supplies and commodities for the emergency operations center and supporting veterinary services during and after the October 2018 storm. This is the completion of an expedited project, initially awarded in November 2019 at 50 percent of eligible costs incurred. The total project cost is approximately $8.9 million.
- Gulf County: $3,223,254 for repairs to hurricane-damaged roads countywide, including replacing asphalt and guardrails, and repairing roadside shoulders.
- Lynn Haven: $2,321,925 for repairs to roadways, sidewalks and ditches throughout the city.
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.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
barbara.murien… Wed, 05/05/2021 - 20:44