FEMA Provides Additional $4.4 Million for Denver COVID-19 Response

DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced $4.4 million in additional funding for COVID-19 response efforts undertaken by the City and County of Denver. The assistance was made available under the major disaster declaration issued March 28 by President Trump.

This expedited funding is being provided to Denver for estimated costs related to establishing and promoting COVID-19 testing sites at the Pepsi Center and other locations. The funding is for work that was completed between May 1 and August 1.  Additional assistance may be provided when all costs for the project have been reconciled.

These funds supported enhanced testing efforts in Denver, a critical component in helping to control the spread of COVID-19,” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator Lee dePalo.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding for emergency actions undertaken by communities to protect public safety, providing at least a 75 percent funding share for eligible costs. Remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and local applicants for assistance.

For the pandemic 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 can play a critical role as state, tribal and local officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $105.7 million in Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Colorado.  Additional support has come in the form of mission assignments, where FEMA directs another federal agency to perform work to address needs identified by the state.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/14/2020 - 18:51

President Donald J. Trump Amends California Major Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that additional disaster assistance is available to the state of California for the wildfire disaster declared on Aug. 22.

This assistance allows for additional funding at 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, for 30 continuous days. State officials will determine the 30 days.

This additional funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations.

Previously, federal funding was available at a 75% cost-share for debris removal and emergency protective measures.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 10/14/2020 - 18:21

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of North Carolina to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Isaias from July 31 to Aug. 4.

Federal funding is available to the state, 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 severe storms and flooding in Beaufort, Bertie, Brunswick, Carteret, Chowan, Columbus, Craven, Hertford, Hyde, Jones, New Hanover, Onslow, Pamlico, Pender and Pitt counties.

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

Myra M. Shird has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 10/14/2020 - 16:48

Castro-Mission Health Center Receives $1.6M FEMA Earthquake Protection Grant

OAKLAND, Calif. – San Francisco’s Castro-Mission Health Center (the Center) will receive a $1.6 million Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant to protect its patients, staff and facilities in the event of an earthquake.

Outdated building materials left the Center with a brittle, inflexible foundation vulnerable to seismic forces. Apart from the addition of an elevator, it has undergone no structural alterations, modifications or additions since construction in 1964. City assessments conclude that the Center is at risk of partial or total collapse during a major earthquake.

Grant money will help modernize the Center with reinforced concrete walls and new foundations, which will significantly reduce lateral sway, minimizing damage to the structure and its contents. A new fire alarm system will also be installed to prevent the common threat of gas and electrical fires after earthquakes.

The $2.1 million project includes a $1.6 million grant from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), with the remaining $538,000 from non-federal sources.

FEMA’s HMGP helps states, territories, federally recognized tribes, local communities, and certain private, non-profit organizations become more resilient to potential infrastructure damage and reduce future disaster costs. In the past 31 years, FEMA has invested nearly $1.4 billion to reduce disaster risk in California.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix

robert.barker Wed, 10/14/2020 - 15:43

Jefferson County Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance; Other Counties Eligible for More Aid

PENSACOLA, Fla. – Jefferson County is now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for recovery from Hurricane Sally.

In addition, Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, Okaloosa, Walton and Washington counties are now eligible for more categories of Public Assistance, including debris removal and permanent repairs.

On Oct. 13, 2020, an amendment to the major disaster declaration means that these counties join Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in being eligible to receive reimbursement for debris removal, emergency measures and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities such as roads and bridges, water control facilities, buildings and equipment, utilities and parks.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 10/14/2020 - 14:59

It’s Important to Submit SBA Loan Application

PENSACOLA, Fla. – After you apply for disaster assistance from FEMA, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you are referred to SBA, you should submit an SBA disaster loan application.

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA disaster loan but failure to submit the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance, such as disaster-related car repairs, essential household items and other expenses.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors.  In planning your recovery, give yourself the widest possible set of options. Submitting the application makes it possible for homeowners and renters to be considered for additional FEMA grants, and if you qualify for a loan you will have that resource available for disaster repair needs.

Applicants may apply online using SBA’s secure website at https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/ or they may email FOCE-Help@SBA.gov for more information on SBA’s disaster assistance program.

For businesses, SBA is operating two Business Recovery Centers at East Pensacola Heights Clubhouse, 3208 E. Gonzalez St., Pensacola, FL 32503; and Bridgeway Center, Building C, 205 Shell Ave., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548. Business owners can meet with SBA representatives and get help applying for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans. Hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily.

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

Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or working capital. Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property.

The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is Dec. 1, 2020. The deadline to return working capital applications is July 2, 2021.

For more information about Hurricane Sally recovery in Florida, visit the FEMA disaster webpage at https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4564 or the Florida Division of Emergency Management webpage at https://www.floridadisaster.org/info/.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 10/14/2020 - 14:55

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Allen Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. –A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Allen Parish Oct. 16.

The center will be staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Coushatta Casino

777 Coushatta Drive

Kinder, LA 70648

Additional centers are reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any center in the state.

To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC and your ZIP code (for example DRC 01234).

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

christopher.teed Wed, 10/14/2020 - 11:41

Earthquake Ready: Join the Annual Great ShakeOut Drill Tomorrow

CHICAGO – The annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill will take place Oct. 15 at 10:15 a.m. local time across the United States and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 5 office wants everyone to Drop, Cover and Hold On with us, while learning the important steps to stay safe during an earthquake. 

In the past 25 years, scientists have learned that strong earthquakes in the central Mississippi Valley have occurred repeatedly in the geologic past and remain a serious risk today.

“Every day is earthquake season,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. "The best time to prepare for an earthquake is before it happens. Take the time to practice now and join the Great ShakeOut drill, so everyone in your family knows what to do to stay safe when the ground shakes.”

While COVID-19 may make this year’s ShakeOut look different, we still encourage you to participate at home or socially distanced. Protect yourself during an earthquake and remember these three steps:

1. Drop (or Lock): Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
2. Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
3. Hold on: If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.

The Great ShakeOut is free and open to the public. To take part in the ShakeOut, register to participate at www.shakeout.org.  

The Great ShakeOut is nationally sponsored by the United States Geological Survey, FEMA, and the National Science Foundation and is supported by multiple partner organizations. For additional earthquake information, visit www.ready.gov/earthquakes.

                                                                                                     ###

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

troy.christensen Wed, 10/14/2020 - 09:35

September Obligations Mark Momentum for Recovery

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – September was a notable month toward recovery projects for the Territory. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), through its Public Assistance program, approved 48 obligations for $83.1 million. These obligations will help strengthen community lifelines, such as health and medical, energy, and safety and security as the Territory recovers from hurricanes Irma and Maria.

The health and medical lifeline was obligated $25 million for projects to include the completion for the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital temporary facility in Christiansted.

At least $15.5 million was awarded to fortify the energy lifeline for the Territory’s electrical grid. Projects include reimbursement for emergency electrical distribution repairs on St. Thomas and St. Croix and repairs to the Donald C. Francois and Tutu power substations on St. Thomas and St. John Substation.

“The recovery is moving.  Having access to these funds is necessary for the Territory to begin work on many of these facilities that are lying in disrepair,” said Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Director of the Office of Disaster Recovery. “Our office works closely with FEMA and local recipients to move critical projects like these forward and ultimately ensure that federal dollars are spent correctly.”

Over $10 million was obligated to reimburse the V.I. Police Department for emergency protective measures for costs such as crowd control and search and rescue after the 2017 hurricanes.

“September’s accomplishments by our Public Assistance team represents substantial progress in supporting the Territory’s plans to strengthen its community lifelines. We will continue to work tirelessly to achieve the reconstruction of a stronger Virgin Islands,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Bill Vogel.

More than $18 million was obligated for repairs to public buildings. Projects include replacement of the Alva A. Swan Correctional Annex Building on St. Thomas and repairs to the Governor’s Office in Christiansted and Arthur Abel Complex in Frederiksted.

V.I. Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation was obligated $11.8 million for projects including repairs to Randal Doc James Racetrack and Vincent Mason Coral Resort Park & Pool on St. Croix, and repairs to the Pavilion/Town Center facility on Water Island.

More than $947,000 was obligated for housing, which includes permanent repairs to the George Simmons Terrace Community Center on St. John.

FEMA’s Public Assistance team will continue to formulate recovery projects in collaboration with the Territory to better withstand disasters and operate continuously.

 

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

Follow us on social media at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/FEMAUSVirginIslands

delia.husband Wed, 10/14/2020 - 08:51

Here’s How Survivors Can Appeal FEMA’s Determination Letter

MONTGOMERY, Ala. –  Every homeowner and renter who sustained damage from the effects of last month’s Hurricane Sally has the right to appeal FEMA’s decision on their disaster assistance application.

The first step in appealing the decision is reading your determination letter carefully. Sometimes FEMA just needs additional information. There may be issues with your application that can be resolved quickly and easily, enabling you to receive assistance.

Not everyone who applies will necessarily qualify for a FEMA grant and amounts vary based on individual and/or household needs. The amount and type of housing assistance you receive might be different from the assistance your neighbor receives, even though the damage appears to be similar.

Applicants for FEMA assistance are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Sometimes a quick fix is all that is needed.

Common reasons for ineligibility:

• You are insured. Contact FEMA if your insurance settlement is insufficient to meet your disaster-related needs or if you have exhausted the Additional Living Expenses benefit provided by your insurance company. FEMA cannot duplicate your insurance benefits.
• You did not provide insurance denial or exclusion documentation. You must provide documentation to FEMA that identifies the denial or exclusions of your insurance settlement before FEMA will consider your disaster assistance eligibility.
• You reported no home damage when you registered with FEMA. If you reported your home had no damage but later discover it’s not habitable anymore, contact FEMA to update your information.
• Your home is safe to occupy. FEMA housing assistance typically only covers costs to make your home livable.
• Lack of proof of occupancy. When FEMA is unable to verify occupancy of your primary residence, you may provide FEMA with documentation, such as utility bills, a bank or credit card statement, phone bill, pay stubs, a driver’s license, state-issued ID card or voter registration card showing the damaged dwelling’s address.
• FEMA could not verify your identity. FEMA must be able to verify the identity of the applicant/co-applicant. FEMA will ask for the last four digits of your social security number. If that information cannot be provided, FEMA will ask for your date of birth along with other verifiable information.
• Not willing to relocate or move. You indicated to the inspector that you were not willing to move while your damaged home was being repaired. This made you ineligible for FEMA temporary rental assistance. However, you may have since found further damage to your home that may require you to move. Since your housing needs have changed, contact FEMA as soon as possible to update your housing status.
• Or your application may simply be “incomplete.” It is important that you keep in touch with FEMA and update your contact information as it changes.
• Perhaps FEMA is requesting more information or clarification and we can’t contact you because you are at an alternate location or your contact info has changed.

Without accurate contact information on file with FEMA, you could miss important correspondence or telephone calls. Inaccurate banking information could lead to your direct-deposit grants being delayed. Stay in touch within your FEMA online account or by calling 800-621-3362.

Should you decide to appeal, here are some tips:

An appeal should be filed in the form of a letter on paper within 60 days of the date on the determination letter. In the appeal, explain why you disagree with the decision.

Make sure to include the following:

• Your full name, date of birth and current address;
• Your nine-digit FEMA registration number on each page;
• The FEMA declaration number for this disaster (DR-4563-AL) on each page; and
• You or your co-applicant must sign and date the letter.  
• FEMA can review its decision in some cases if you:  
  • Submit insurance documents. Provide documents from your homeowners’ insurance company showing that your coverage or settlement is insufficient to make essential home repairs, provide a place to stay, or replace certain contents. FEMA cannot duplicate  homeowner or renter insurance benefits but may approve assistance if your property is uninsured or under-insured.
  • Prove occupancy. Provide documents proving the damaged home or rental was your primary residence, such as utility bills, driver’s license or lease.
  • Prove ownership. Provide documents such as mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts or a deed. If you who do not have a deed, you may obtain a copy at the county offices in which your property is located.  
• To further support your appeal, your documentation might include:  
  • Your contractor’s estimate for hurricane-related home repairs;
  • Receipts for repairs, replacements and cleanup; and
  • Other proof of your disaster losses, such as photographs of the damage to your home and appraisals and photographs of furniture and other personal property.

If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party.  Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.

Mail your appeal letter to: FEMA-Individuals & Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P. O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.

Appeal letters and supporting documentation also can be uploaded to your account on DisasterAssistance.gov, or you can fax to 800-827-8112.

For questions about eligibility letters, survivors can visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).

felicia.jordan Wed, 10/14/2020 - 08:11

FEMA Mobile Registration Center Opens in Walton County

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA has opened a mobile registration center that will rotate through three locations for Hurricane Sally survivors in Walton County.

The center, called a Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC), is staffed with FEMA personnel who can assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs. The center will be at these locations at the times designated:

 

WALTON COUNTY

Gene Hurley Park

 965 Gene Hurley Road

 DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Days of operation: Oct. 13 – Oct. 17

 

Freeport Regional Sports Complex

563 Hammock Trail East

Freeport, FL 32439

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Days of operation: Oct. 18 – Oct. 22

 

Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast

427 Greenway Trail

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Days of operation: Oct. 23 – Oct. 28

 

Other centers are operating in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties. Disaster survivors can get help registering at any of the centers. Locations:

 

BAY COUNTY

Bay County Public Library, 898 West 11th St, Panama City, FL 32401

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

 

ESCAMBIA COUNTY

Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

Brownsville Community Center, 3200 W. DeSoto St., Pensacola, FL 32505

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

Escambia County Extension Service, 3740 Stefani Rd., Cantonment, FL 32533

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

OKALOOSA COUNTY

Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

SANTA ROSA COUNTY

Pensacola State College, South Santa Rosa Center, 5075 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

Pensacola State College, 5988 U.S. 90, Milton, FL 32583

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

The centers operate under COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors and FEMA personnel are safe. Distancing and face coverings are required.

It is not necessary to visit a center to register with FEMA. Disaster survivors with uninsured losses can also apply by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Downloading the FEMA App; or by
• Calling 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.  

The following information is necessary when you register:

• Address of the damaged dwelling where the damage occurred (pre-disaster address)
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account number for checking or savings account (this allows FEMA to directly transfer disaster assistance funds into a bank account)
• A description of disaster-caused damage and losses

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 10/13/2020 - 15:46

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

PENSACOLA, Fla. — Florida residents who applied for assistance from FEMA after sustaining damage from Hurricane Sally will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email.

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.

Applicants may need to submit additional information for FEMA to continue to process an application. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster

 

If you have questions about your letter go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).

A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary and functional. Currently, such inspections are being conducted remotely, by telephone, following COVID-19 guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control.

FEMA considers the following factors when determining whether an applicant may be eligible for assistance:

• The exterior of the home is structurally sound, including the doors, roof and windows.
• The electricity, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer or septic systems function properly.
• The interior’s habitable areas are structurally sound, including the ceiling and floors.
• The home is capable of functioning for its intended purpose.
• There is safe access to and from the home.

 

FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance. FEMA assistance only provides funds for basic work to make a home habitable, including toilets, a roof, critical utilities, windows and doors.

 

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

Applicants who disagree with FEMA’s decision, or the amount of assistance, may submit an appeal letter and documents supporting their claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. However, those who are underinsured may receive further assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled by submitting insurance settlement or denial documents to FEMA. FEMA does not provide assistance for insurance deductibles.

Appeals must be in writing. In a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should also include:

• Applicant’s full name
• Disaster number (4564 in Florida)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence
• Applicant’s current phone number and address
• The FEMA registration number on all documents

 

If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, that person must sign it and provide FEMA with a signed statement authorizing the individual to act on behalf of the applicant.

Letters must be postmarked within 60 days of the date of the determination letter. Appeal letters and supporting documents may be submitted to FEMA by fax or mail or via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions.

 

By mail:

FEMA

National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

 

By fax:

800-827-8112

Attention: FEMA

 

Hyattsville MD 20782-7055

 

Understanding Your Letter video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1a6lYO5hgY&feature=youtu.beNR

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 10/13/2020 - 15:42

FEMA Provides $12.8 Million to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that $12,864,480 in federal funding has been made available to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) for support of the McCormick Place Convention Center alternate care site in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This grant funding is part of the recovery efforts for the federal disaster declaration of March 26, 2020. This funding will reimburse IEMA for costs incurred in conjunction with Illinois Dept. of Public Health for the alternate care site in Chicago, including setup, staffing, equipment and supplies for the facility.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding helped ensure adequate hospital capacity in the Chicagoland area to provide critical medical care during this pandemic.”

“In Illinois, every decision during the response to the COVID-19 global pandemic has been made based on science, data and guidance from our trusted public health experts.  It was with that guidance that the State of Illinois constructed the McCormick Place Alternate Care Facility,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “The McCormick Place ACF will serve as a national model and blueprint moving forward as states and large cities throughout the nation examine the lessons learned from this historic health crisis.”

The Public Assistance Program funding will be administered by IEMA. FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. The total project cost is $17,152,640, with the remainder provided by IEMA.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

###

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

troy.christensen Tue, 10/13/2020 - 14:54

FEMA Provides $12.8 Million to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that $12,864,480 in federal funding has been made available to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) for support of the McCormick Place Convention Center alternate care site in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This grant funding is part of the recovery efforts for the federal disaster declaration of March 26, 2020. This funding will reimburse IEMA for costs incurred in conjunction with Illinois Dept. of Public Health for the alternate care site in Chicago, including setup, staffing, equipment and supplies for the facility.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding helped ensure adequate hospital capacity in the Chicagoland area to provide critical medical care during this pandemic.”

“In Illinois, every decision during the response to the COVID-19 global pandemic has been made based on science, data and guidance from our trusted public health experts.  It was with that guidance that the State of Illinois constructed the McCormick Place Alternate Care Facility,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “The McCormick Place ACF will serve as a national model and blueprint moving forward as states and large cities throughout the nation examine the lessons learned from this historic health crisis.”

The Public Assistance Program funding will be administered by IEMA.  FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.   The total project cost is $ 17,152,640, with the remainder provided by IEMA.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

                                                                                                            ###

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

Follow FEMA online at twitter.com/fema, twitter.com/femaregion5, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema.  The social media links provided are for reference only.  FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications

cassie.ringsdor Tue, 10/13/2020 - 14:50

Photos of Whole-of-Government Hurricane Delta Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA continues leaning forward with our federal, state, local and tribal partners to support a state managed, locally executed response to impacts from Hurricane Delta and is supporting Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and affected community leaders on necessary damage assessments and remains ready to support any additional requests for federal assistance.

FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor visited Louisiana over the weekend to meet with Gov. Edwards, state and local leaders to review the latest Hurricane Delta recovery updates and discuss FEMA’s continued support for Louisiana.

Three Urban Search and Rescue Teams and an Incident Support Team are conducting operations in Louisiana, and more than 1,500 responders are deployed in support of Hurricanes Laura and Delta. 

Additional personnel from the federal government, including the Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Health and Human Services, Department of Energy, DHS Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, have been mission assigned to provide support to impacted states and tribes, as needed.

FEMA Administrator Meets with Louisiana Leadership

BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 12, 2020) -- FEMA senior officials meet with Louisiana Governor's Office to review the latest updates and discuss how FEMA can support Louisiana. From left: FEMA Recovery Director Keith Turi, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer John Long, State Coordinating Officer Jim Waskom, Gov. John Bel Edwards, FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor, FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Major General Diana Holland.

FEMA photo by Jocelyn Augustino

FEMA Administrator Meets with Louisiana Leadership

CAMERON, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (standing, 2nd from left) and FEMA’s Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson (standing, 3rd from left) visits Cameron Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to discuss the impact of Hurricane Delta and FEMA's continued effort to support the area.

FEMA photo by Jocelyn Augustino

Florida Search and Rescue Team Operates in Louisiana

LAKE CHARLES, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) – Florida Task Force 2 members from Miami, conduct urban search and rescue operations.

Nevada Task Force 1 photo by Karl Lee

Florida Search and Rescue Team Operates in Louisiana

LAKE CHARLES, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) – Florida Task Force 2 search and rescue member surveys damage from Hurricane Delta.

Nevada Task Force 1 photo by Karl Lee

Civil Air Patrol Supports Louisiana

BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 12, 2020) -- Members of the Baton Rouge Civil Air Patrol prepare to fly a sortie over hurricane-impacted areas to capture images of the damage for state and federal partners.

FEMA photos by Rudolph Marshall

Civil Air Patrol Supports Louisiana

BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 12, 2020) -- Members of the Baton Rouge Civil Air Patrol prepare to fly a sortie over hurricane-impacted areas to capture images of the damage for state and federal partners.

FEMA photos by Rudolph Marshall

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/13/2020 - 12:13

FEMA Obligates Over $238 Million to PREPA for Earthquake Damage

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – FEMA recently obligated over $238 million to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, or PREPA, for costs related to 28 peaking generator units that provide power to critical facilities until the Costa Sur units are back in service.

The units, which typically only run when there is high demand for electricity, were used after the earthquakes in order to save lives and prevent further damage to properties. These generation systems are being used to supply power to critical facilities like hospitals, police departments, fire departments, emergency centers and water facilities.

“This obligation addresses the need to maintain power generation capacity for the benefit of thousands of residents who rely on these critical services in their towns. We will continue to work closely with the Government of Puerto Rico to ensure a successful recovery from the earthquakes,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

Emergency protective measures like these are actions taken to eliminate or lessen immediate threats either to lives, public health or safety, or of significant additional damage to public or private property in a cost-effective manner.

“We appreciate FEMA’s continued support in providing the necessary resources to mitigate damage and support critical facilities. We continue working together in the rebuilding of PREPA’s infrastructure not only to provide essential power, but also to save lives, strengthen public health and provide quality of life,” said the Executive Director of the Office of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resilience (COR3), Ottmar Chavez.

Costa Sur is the largest of four power plants on the Island and provides about a quarter of the electric power throughout Puerto Rico. The facility suffered extensive structural damage from the earthquakes in January, which resulted in compromised foundations, walls and support structures. The damage caused island wide power outages, leaving over 327,000 residents without power.

The 28 peaking units currently in use are located in Aguirre, Cambalache, Daguao, Jabos, Mayagüez, Palo Seco, Vega Baja and Yabucoa.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $240 million for costs related to the earthquakes. FEMA works with COR3 through the agency’s Public Assistance program to obligate recovery funds to private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and agencies of the Government of Puerto Rico. FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to eligible government organizations and certain private non-profit organizations for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures and the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged facilities.

For more on Puerto Rico’s recovery from the earthquakes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4473.

frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 10/13/2020 - 11:16

Annual “Great ShakeOut” Earthquake Drill Set for October 15

PHILADELPHIA – The annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill will take place Oct. 15 across the United States and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 3 office wants to encourage the Whole Community to participate and learn the simple but critical safety steps to preparing for and staying safe during an earthquake. The Great ShakeOut is the largest earthquake drill worldwide and over 11 million people are already registered to practice their earthquake safety plans.

We encourage everyone to Drop, Cover, and Hold On with us at 10:15 AM Eastern on Oct. 15.

Earthquakes are normally thought of as a west coast hazard, but they can happen anywhere, such as the 2011 earthquake in Virginia. Worldwide there is an average of one damaging earthquake almost every third day.

“Damaging earthquakes can occur at any time – where we work, live or travel,” stated FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “To be best prepared to respond quickly, we must practice earthquake safety on a regular basis. The Great ShakeOut provides an excellent opportunity to practice our earthquake preparedness skills together.”

While COVID-19 will make this year’s ShakeOut look different, we still encourage you to participate at home or socially distanced.

To help people to prepare and participate, FEMA Region 3 produced a white board video highlighting the steps to practice for the Great ShakeOut. The Great ShakeOut also produces additional videos that address how to protect yourself from earthquakes in a number of scenarios – whether an earthquake strikes while you are in your home, car, bed or elsewhere.

The Great ShakeOut is set for Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020 at 10:15 AM Eastern. During the self-led drill, participants practice how to “Drop, Cover and Hold On.” For most

people, in most situations, the recommended earthquake safety action is to:

• DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees;
• COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand, as you crawl for shelter under a nearby table or desk;
• HOLD ON to your shelter with one hand until shaking stops (remain on your knees and covering your head and neck with your other arm and hand).

The Great ShakeOut is free and open to the public. Participants include individuals, schools, businesses, local and state government agencies, and many other groups. To take part in the ShakeOut, register to participate at www.shakeout.org. Once registered, you’ll receive regular information on how to plan your drill and become better prepared for earthquakes and other disasters.

Hundreds of thousands of people will participate in this event in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia, joining Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills occurring throughout the nation and in several countries. More than 11 million people around the globe are expected to participate. In addition to safety drills, many participants take extra steps to become more prepared for earthquakes or other disasters.

The Great ShakeOut is nationally sponsored by the United States Geological Survey, FEMA, and the National Science Foundation and is supported by dozens of other partners. The Great ShakeOut is coordinated globally by the Southern California Earthquake Center.

For more information, please visit www.shakeout.org. For additional earthquake information, please visit https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes.

amanda.hancher Tue, 10/13/2020 - 10:08

FEMA Mobile Registration Center Opens in Milton

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA has opened a mobile registration center for Hurricane Sally survivors in Milton.  

The center, called a Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC), is staffed with FEMA personnel who can assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs. Center location:

 

SANTA ROSA COUNTY

Pensacola State College

5988 U.S. 90

Milton, FL 32583

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Other centers are operating in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties. Disaster survivors can get help registering at any of the centers. Other locations:

BAY COUNTY

Bay County Public Library, 898 West 11th St, Panama City, FL 32401

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.  

ESCAMBIA COUNTY

Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Brownsville Community Center, 3200 W. DeSoto St., Pensacola, FL 32505

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Escambia County Extension Service, 3740 Stefani Rd., Cantonment, FL 32533

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

OKALOOSA COUNTY

Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

SANTA ROSA COUNTY

Pensacola State College, South Santa Rosa Center, 5075 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

The centers operate under COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors and FEMA personnel are safe. Distancing and face coverings are required.

It is not necessary to visit a center to register with FEMA. Disaster survivors with uninsured losses can also apply by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Downloading the FEMA App; or by
• Calling 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.  

The following information is necessary when you register:

• Address of the damaged dwelling where the damage occurred (pre-disaster address)
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account number for checking or savings account (this allows FEMA to directly transfer disaster assistance funds into a bank account)
• A description of disaster-caused damage and losses

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 10/13/2020 - 08:58

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Lincoln Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. - A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Ruston, Lincoln parish Oct. 14 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.

The drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, closed on Sundays.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Lincoln Parish

Lincoln Parish Library

910 N Trenton St.

Ruston, LA 71270

Additional centers are  reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code) for example DRC 01234.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home-repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

christopher.teed Mon, 10/12/2020 - 18:44

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Lincoln Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. - A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Ruston, Lincoln parish Oct. 14 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.

The drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, closed on Sundays.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Lincoln Parish

Lincoln Parish Library

910 N Trenton St.

Ruston, LA 71270

Additional centers are  reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code) for example DRC 01234.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home-repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

 

christopher.teed Mon, 10/12/2020 - 18:41