Disaster Survivors: Be Aware of Fraud and Identity Theft

PENSACOLA, Fla. – After a disaster, fraud can be a problem.

Sometimes, survivors who try to register with FEMA discover that someone has already registered using their name. Scammers may contact survivors who have not registered with FEMA and try to extract money or information. In these cases, it is likely the survivor’s personal data has been compromised.

FEMA reminds survivors:

• FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) never charge for registration, home inspections, grants, disaster-loan applications or anything else.
• If you have registered and want to verify any correspondence from FEMA, call at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
• If you suspect fraud, call the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, the Florida Attorney General’s Fraud Hotline at 866-966-7226 or report it your local police department.

FEMA also recommends you monitor your credit report for any accounts or changes you do not recognize. If you discover someone is using your information, you will need to take additional steps, including filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission through its website: IdentityTheft.gov.

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, 10/07/2020 - 13:59

FEMA Region 5 Joins the RISE Challenge Illinois Project to Engage Students and Educators

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 5 is teaming up with Earth Force, the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) Foundation and the Environmental Education Association of Illinois (EEAI) to create the RISE Challenge Illinois project. The project teaches children in fifth through 10th grades about how they can help their communities become more resilient to natural disasters through mitigation.

Through this project-based curriculum, students will learn how to be an active voice in their communities and implement projects that will protect their cities and towns from the impacts of natural hazards. RISE Challenge Illinois, which includes inquiry-based learning, an end-of-year competition and summit, engages students in exploring their local communities to identify real-world environmental issues and develop solutions and action plans for making their communities more resilient. Groups with the top proposals will present to a panel of expert judges at a virtual summit in Spring 2021 for the chance to win prize money.

“Building a nationwide culture of preparedness is a FEMA priority,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator for FEMA Region 5.  “The innovation young people bring to making our communities stronger will be an important part of our overall readiness for future disasters.”

FEMA Region 5 and the ASFPM Foundation will also provide implementation funds and summit prize money enabling students to see their environmental solution ideas come to fruition.

Educators and students can participate in the project. Educators received curriculum training in September, but students across Illinois can still get involved or learn more by visiting the EEAI website at https://www.eeai.net/rise-challenge-illinois.html. 

                                          ###

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.

troy.christensen Wed, 10/07/2020 - 12:11

FEMA PROVIDES $16 MILLION TO WYOMING FOR PAYMENTS FOR LOST WAGES DUE TO COVID-19

DENVER – FEMA provided more than $16 million to the state of Wyoming to supplement unemployment benefits for those who lost employment because of the coronavirus pandemic. On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

FEMA’s grant funding allowed Wyoming to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. The assistance was provided for the period from July 26 to September 6.  The grant also included funds for state management of the program.

To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.

In addition to this program, Wyoming received a major disaster declaration for the COVID-19 response.  Under that declaration, FEMA is providing funding to Wyoming jurisdictions for eligble costs related to the pandemic response.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/07/2020 - 12:00

FEMA PROVIDES $91.8 MILLION TO UTAH FOR PAYMENTS FOR LOST WAGES DUE TO COVID-19

DENVER – FEMA provided more than $91.8 million to the state of Utah to supplement unemployment benefits for those who lost employment because of the coronavirus pandemic. On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

FEMA’s grant funding allowed Utah to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. The assistance was provided for the period from July 26 to September 6.  The grant also included funds for state management of the program.

To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.

In addition to this program, Utah received a major disaster declaration for the COVID-19 response.  Under that declaration, the state was approved for a crisis counseling program to help individuals deal with the mental health impacts of the pandemic, and FEMA is providing funding to Utah jurisdictions for eligble costs related to the pandemic response.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/07/2020 - 11:55

FEMA PROVIDES $35.2 MILLION TO NORTH DAKOTA FOR PAYMENTS FOR LOST WAGES DUE TO COVID-19

DENVER – FEMA provided more than $35.2 million to the state of North Dakota to supplement unemployment benefits for those who lost employment because of the coronavirus pandemic. On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

FEMA’s grant funding allowed North Dakota to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. The assistance was provided for the period from July 26 to September 6.  The grant also included funds for state management of the program.

To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.

In addition to this program, North Dakota received a major disaster declaration for the COVID-19 response.  Under that declaration, the state was approved for a crisis counseling program to help individuals deal with the mental health impacts of the pandemic, and FEMA is providing funding to North Dakota jurisdictions for eligble costs related to the pandemic response.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/07/2020 - 11:50

FEMA PROVIDES $48.7 MILLION TO MONTANA FOR PAYMENTS FOR LOST WAGES DUE TO COVID-19

DENVER – FEMA provided more than $48.7 million to the state of Montana to supplement unemployment benefits for those who lost employment because of the coronavirus pandemic. On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

FEMA’s grant funding allowed Montana to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. The assistance was provided for the period from July 26 to September 6.  The grant also included funds for state management of the program.

To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.

In addition to this program, Montana received a major disaster declaration for the COVID-19 response.  Under that declaration, the state was approved for a crisis counseling program to help individuals deal with the mental health impacts of the pandemic, and FEMA is providing funding to Montana jurisdictions for eligble costs related to the pandemic response.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/07/2020 - 11:44

FEMA PROVIDES $554 MILLION TO COLORADO FOR PAYMENTS FOR LOST WAGES DUE TO COVID-19

DENVER – FEMA provided more than $554 million to the state of Colorado to supplement unemployment benefits for those who lost employment because of the coronavirus pandemic. On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

FEMA’s grant funding allowed Colorado to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. The assistance was provided for the period from July 26 to September 6.  The grant also included funds for state management of the program. 

To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.

In addition to this program, Colorado received a major disaster declaration for the COVID-19 response.  Under that declaration, the state was approved for a crisis counseling program to help individuals deal with the mental health impacts of the pandemic, and FEMA is providing funding to Colorado jurisdictions for eligble costs related to the pandemic response.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 10/07/2020 - 11:39

Survivors in Clinton County May Now Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

More than $21.6 million approved for derecho survivors in Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa –Homeowners and renters in Clinton County may now apply for FEMA Individual Assistance for losses resulting from the severe storms on Aug. 10, 2020.

FEMA has approved more than $8.4 million in grants through its Individual Assistance program for 2,249 households in the previous designated counties of Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama.

The Small Business Administration has approved more than $13.2 million in disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and small businesses. 

Applicants may register in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.

Assistance provided by FEMA for homeowners can include grants for repairs to make their primary home habitable. Rental assistance is available to pay for temporary housing for homeowners and renters. Lodging expense reimbursement may be available to eligible households who may have stayed in a hotel for a short period of time.

FEMA assistance can also help with other disaster-related needs like replacing essential household items, and medical and dental expenses.

First, if you haven’t already done so, contact your insurance company and file a claim for the disaster-caused damage you’ve suffered.  You don’t have to wait for FEMA to start cleaning up but be sure to take photographs or video of the damage and keep all receipts for repair work.

You can upload all required documents at DisasterAssistance.gov. Applicants will need the following to apply:

• Address of the damaged property
• Description of disaster-caused damage and losses
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Social Security number of one member of the household
• Insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Bank account routing and account number for direct deposit
• Save your FEMA registration number, also known as FEMA ID number.
• Check your DisasterAssistance.gov account for updates.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers federal low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters. Apply at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. People may also call 800-659-2955 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who use TTY may call 800-877-8339.

thomas.wise Wed, 10/07/2020 - 10:48

Renters Affected by Hurricane Sally May Apply for Disaster Assistance

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Renters in Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties whose homes and personal property were damaged by Hurricane Sally last month can apply for federal disaster assistance.

The FEMA Individual Assistance program is available to all eligible renters, including students, as

well as homeowners. Federal grants may help pay for temporary housing. The initial rental grant is for a 60-day period and may be reviewed for further assistance. 

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

Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks or school supplies; replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment; vehicle repair, and medical and dental bills.

FEMA and the state of Alabama are committed to ensuring that services and assistance are available for hurricane survivors who have access and functional needs (AFN).

 FEMA, for example, offers several accessible ways to register and apply for federal disaster assistance. Anyone can register in these ways:

• Online, by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov;
• By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet, or
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multi-lingual operators are available. The toll-free lines are open 6 a.m. to midnight (Central Time) seven days a week. Helpline operators are also available to answer questions about applications already submitted.

The registration process includes your providing FEMA a phone number so FEMA can contact you and set up a virtual home inspection. If you use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, you should provide FEMA your specific number assigned to that service. 

If you were affected by Hurricane Sally in Alabama and need a sign language interpreter, foreign language translator, a Braille or large-print document, or have any other accommodation request, you should let FEMA know when registering.

For AFN online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit www.disasterassistance.gov and click “Information.”

For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563

felicia.jordan Wed, 10/07/2020 - 10:36

FEMA Mobile Registration Center Open in Bay County; Okaloosa Center Changes Location

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA has opened a mobile registration center for Hurricane Sally survivors in Bay 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. Center location:

 

BAY COUNTY

Bay County Public Library

898 West 11th St.

Panama City, FL 32401

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

 

The center in Okaloosa County will change locations Wednesday, Oct. 7. The new location will be:

OKALOOSA COUNTY

Northwest Florida Fairgrounds

1958 Lewis Turner Blvd

Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547

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

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

 

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.

 

SANTA ROSA COUNTY

Pensacola State College, South Santa Rosa Center, 4075 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 Wed, 10/07/2020 - 08:24

FEMA Obligates Nearly $49 Million for the University of Puerto Rico

The sum is part of the $85 million obligated to the institution for permanent work projects

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — During September, FEMA obligated $48.7 million in additional federal grants for 12 projects to repair several campuses of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR), the island’s first and largest higher education system.

“More than a contribution to strengthen the infrastructure of the UPR, this investment will help future generations benefit from resilient facilities within the Island’s public university system. It is a great honor for the mostly local FEMA team to be part of this historic reconstruction,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

Nearly $14.2 million are destined to the Mayagüez campus, RUM by its Spanish acronym, which is regarded as an economic, social, cultural and educational engine in the western area. The funds will be used to repair several buildings of different departments on this campus that serves 12,000 students. In addition, over $580,000 will cover the costs of measures to help lessen the effects of future disasters, such as strengthening the roof and improving the asphalt covering to make it more resistant, among other measures.

For his part, the President of the UPR, Dr. Jorge Haddock, highlighted the impact that the obligation for repairs and permanent work has on the services received by students, teachers and administrative staff.

“As the main teaching and scientific center on the island, from the University of Puerto Rico we are committed to improving and transforming the infrastructure of the institution. The allocation to the University of Mayagüez campus, in particular, will allow us to improve areas for the benefit of our talented and outstanding members of the College Band, for the faculty and also for the protection of our resources in the General Library, for the benefit of present and future generations.

The recent allocation also includes $24.6 million to the Humacao campus, $4.7 million to the Utuado campus, $2.7 million to the Bayamón campus, $1.5 million to the UPR for administrative expenses and nearly $12,000 for the Arecibo campus. Throughout the past three years, the Agency has awarded nearly $85 million to the UPR for 22 permanent work projects.

“The UPR is a distinguished institution and it is essential that the reconstruction be at the highest level so that its work of excellence continues. The teams leading the reconstruction of Puerto Rico will continue to work hand in hand with the sub-recipients to deliver the projects that provide the resilience that all communities deserve,” established the executive director of the Office of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resilience (COR3), Ottmar Chavez.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $19 billion for costs related to hurricanes Irma and María, including projects to help rebuild infrastructure throughout Puerto Rico. 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.

For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on our social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and on Twitter @COR3pr.

 

 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 10/07/2020 - 07:44

FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Puerto Rico

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Puerto Rico for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Puerto Rico to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Puerto Rico Governor Wanda Vázquez Garced to implement a system to make this funding available to Puerto Rico residents.

On Aug. 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the commonwealth of Puerto Rico agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.

FEMA looks forward to working with the governors of additional states who agree to administer a lost wages program to bring financial relief to unemployed Americans.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/06/2020 - 18:31

FEMA Administrator Wraps Up Travel Out West for Wildfires, Mitigation Projects, COVID-19 Update

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor recently completed a visit with state, local and tribal officials in FEMA Regions 8, 9 and 10, where he received an up-close look at ongoing response activities for wildfires, COVID-19 and completed disaster mitigation projects in their states. The administrator made stops in Colorado and Wyoming earlier last week, before visiting Arizona and Oregon.

Two of FEMA’s hazard mitigation grant application periods opened Sept. 30. The two grant programs total $660 million.  The Flood Mitigation Assistance grant and the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities, or BRIC, will provide funds to states, local communities, tribes and territories for eligible mitigation activities to strengthen our nation’s ability to build a culture of preparedness. These programs allow funding to be used on projects that will reduce future disaster losses.

“As emergency managers, we have experienced firsthand the dramatic increase in the number of disasters and the devastating impact across our nation. Investing in mitigation – through BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance, along with emphasizing opportunities in the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and the Public Assistance 406 Mitigation program – is critical to achieving FEMA’s mission,” said FEMA Assistant Administrator for Mitigation Katherine Fox.  

Eligible applicants must apply for funding using the new FEMA Grants Outcome (FEMA GO) website. All applications must be submitted on FEMA GO no later than 3 p.m. Eastern Time, Jan. 29, 2021.

Discussing the Oregon Wildfires

SALEM, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (right) speaks with U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio following a meeting with Oregon Gov. Kate Brown about the wildfires in Oregon.      FEMA photo by Jeff Markham

 

Meeting with Oregon Governor, State Leaders

SALEM, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor discusses the ongoing response and support from FEMA, as Oregon battles wildfires throughout the state.      FEMA photo by Jeff Markham

 

Speaking with Oregon Gov. Kate Brown

SALEM, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor speaks with Oregon Gov. Kate Brown about the wildfires in Oregon.      FEMA photo by Jeff Markham

 

Assessing Wildfire Damage with Local Leaders in Oregon

TALENT, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2020) – FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (center) and Jackson County Emergency Operations Director John Vial study fire-damaged areas in the Jackson County area during the administrator's visit to Oregon. U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio, U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden and U.S. Rep. Greg Walden also look on. FEMA photo by Jeff Markham   

 

FEMA Administrator Views Fire Damage in Oregon

TALENT, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2020) – FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor surveys a fire-damaged area in Oregon. The administrator met with community, local and state leaders to discuss the ongoing response to wildfires in the state. FEMA photo by Jeff Markham   

 

FEMA Administrator Meets with Community, Local and State Leaders in Oregon

MILL CITY, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor meets with community members, local and state officials to discuss the ongoing response to wildfires in Oregon.  FEMA photo by Jeff Markham

 

FEMA Administrator Meets with FEMA Employees

SALEM, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor meets with FEMA employees on the ground supporting the state's response to the Oregon wildfires.      FEMA photo by Jeff Markham

 

FEMA Administrator Meets Navajo Nation Tribal Leaders

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (Oct. 1, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (both photos, 2nd from left) meets with Navajo Tribal leaders to discuss the Navajo Nation’s needs for the COVID-19 response and other emergency management priorities. Navajo Nation President Nez and Vice President Lizer are pictured at the table, along with FEMA Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton.   U.S. Army photo by Spc. Thurman Snyder

FEMA Administrator Meets Navajo Nation Tribal Leaders

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (Oct. 1, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (both photos, 2nd from left) meets with Navajo Tribal leaders to discuss the Navajo Nation’s needs for the COVID-19 response and other emergency management priorities. Navajo Nation President Nez and Vice President Lizer are pictured at the table, along with FEMA Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton.   U.S. Army photo by Spc. Thurman Snyder

FEMA Administrator Presents Check to Arizona Emergency Managers

MESA, Ariz. (Oct. 2, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (2nd from right) presents the Mesa Fire and Medical Department with a check representing the awarding of an Assistance to Firefighter Grant that will help provide critical resources and training for the department.      FEMA photo by Myung Kim

 

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/06/2020 - 16:52

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Extended to Oct. 30

BATON ROUGE, La. – The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA), which is available to certain workers who lost income as a direct result of Hurricane Laura, has been extended to Oct. 30.

The purpose of DUA is to help workers whose primary incomes are lost or interrupted by a federally declared disaster. It differs from regular state unemployment insurance because it also provides benefits to people who are self-employed, farmers, loggers and employees who work on commission.

DUA is available from weeks of unemployment beginning Aug. 23, 2020 and up to Feb. 27, 2021, as long as the individual’s unemployment continues to be a direct result of the disaster.

Affected workers in 21 parishes designated for FEMA Individual Assistance in Louisiana must first apply for regular unemployment insurance. To see if you lived in a designated parish, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4559/designated-areas.

The Louisiana Workforce Commission notifies claimants if they are eligible to file for disaster unemployment assistance.

Applicants can apply by visiting www.laworks.net, the Helping Individuals Reach Employment portal.

Claimants may also file by telephone by calling the Benefits Analysis Team at 866-783-5567 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

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 Tue, 10/06/2020 - 16:31

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in LaSalle Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. –A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will be open in LaSalle parish from Thursday Oct.8 to Tuesday Oct.13 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 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

The drive-thru center is located at:

LaSalle Parish

Jena Town Park

Parking lot near the Girls Soft Ball Field

1326 Terral St.

Jena, LA 71342

 

Additional centers are already open 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/.

scott.reuter Tue, 10/06/2020 - 13:42

MRICs to Close as a Safety Precaution as Tropical Storm Delta Nears Shore

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – With Tropical Storm Delta looming off-shore, FEMA and the Alabama Emergency Management Agency are taking the precautionary safety measure of ceasing operations at all their Mobile Registration Intake Centers.

Most centers will close at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 7, and remain closed until 8 a.m. Monday, Oct. 12, provided the storms impacts permit.

The following MRICs are affected:

Baldwin County

• FAIRHOPE -- Operated by the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA). 1100 Fairhope Ave. Closes at 6 p.m. MONDAY, OCT. 5. Re-opening to be determined.
• FOLEY -- Foley Satellite Courthouse, 201 E. Section Ave., closes at 6 p.m. Oct. 7. Operations resume 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12.
• ROBERTSDALE -- Central Annex, 22251 Palmer St., closes at 6 p.m. Oct. 7. Operations resume 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12.

Escambia County

• ATMORE – Atmore City Hall Complex, 201 E. Louisville Ave., closes at 6 p.m. Oct. 7. Operations resume 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12.

Mobile County

• BAYOU LA BATRE –12745 Pagett Switch Rd. is closed. Operations resume 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12.

Survivors can still register with FEMA and apply for federal assistance:

• Online at www.disasterassistance.gov;
• By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet, or
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Helpline operators are also available to answer questions about applications already submitted.

For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563

felicia.jordan Mon, 10/05/2020 - 18:35

Recovery Update: More than $21.6 million approved for derecho survivors in Iowa

FEMA registration deadline two weeks away

 

FEMA has approved more than $8.4 million in grants through its Individual Assistance program for 2,236 households. Updates and information are posted on the DR-4557-IA disaster webpage: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4557.

The Small Business Administration has approved more than $13.2 million in disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and small businesses. 

To be eligible, survivors must have damage that occurred on August 10, 2020. That is the date of the Iowa derecho and the only day in the incident period.

Survivors in Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama counties have two weeks until the October 19 deadline to register for disaster assistance.

Applicants may register in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.

If you haven’t already done so, contact your insurance company and file a claim for the disaster-caused damage you’ve suffered.  You don’t have to wait for FEMA to start cleaning up but be sure to take photographs or video of the damage and keep all receipts for repair work.

Applicants will need the following to apply.

You can upload all required documents at DisasterAssistance.gov.

• Address of the damaged property
• Description of disaster-caused damage and losses
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Social Security number of one member of the household
• Insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Bank account routing and account number for direct deposit
• Save your FEMA registration number, also known as FEMA ID number.
• Check your DisasterAssistance.gov account for updates.

 

Iowa Disaster Recovery Resources

The State of Iowa has established a recovery website to help survivors from the August severe storms. Go to disasterrecovery.iowa.gov/ for a list of available resources and helpful information.  

 

FEMA Opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Tama County   

A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) opened at 9 a.m. at the Meskwaki Casino RV Park today, Monday, October 5, to give survivors from the August 10 severe storm options to submit documents for their disaster assistance application.

The DRC will be open for a limited time and is staffed with FEMA personnel who can scan documents and quickly answer questions about disaster assistance programs. It will close permanently on Saturday, October 10 at 6 p.m.

The FEMA DRC is located:

Meskwaki Casino RV Park

1504 305th St

Tama, IA 52339

(The RV park is located behind the Casino and Casino parking deck)

DRC hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time and closed Sunday

 

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Davenport and Story

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are open in Story and Davenport to give survivors from the August 10 severe storm options to submit documents for their disaster assistance application.

The DRCs will close permanently on Saturday, October 10 at 6 p.m.

The DRCs are located at:

2828 Eastern Ave.

Davenport, IA 52803

(At the corner of East 29th St. and Eastern Ave.)

~

North River Valley Park

725 E 13th Street

Ames, IA 50010

 

How to Appeal a FEMA Decision                                               

Iowa residents who sustained damage from the August 10 derecho may receive a letter from FEMA saying they are ineligible for disaster assistance and can appeal the decision if they disagree.

Common reasons for ineligibility:

• You are insured.
• Your insurance company denies your claim.
• You reported no home damage when you registered with FEMA.
• Home is safe to occupy.
• Proof of occupancy.
• FEMA could not verify your identity.
• No initial rental assistance. Keep in mind

Send a letter with any additional documentation to FEMA asking for reconsideration. This must be done within 60 days of the date of your ineligibility letter.

You can send the letter in one of the following ways:

• By mail: FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055.
• By fax: 1-800-827-8112.
• Online via a FEMA online account: to set up an online account, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.

For more information on the appeal process click here.

 

Disaster Legal Services

FEMA, in cooperation with the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, establishes a toll-free number for disaster survivors to request legal assistance. The American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division collaborates with state bar associations and other legal organizations to recruit volunteers in affected areas to handle survivors’ cases.

The Disaster Legal Services Helpline number is 877-469-2259 and the hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

 

Simple Tips for Getting Help at DisasterAssistance.gov

FEMA’s DiasterAssistance.gov website is more than a site for registering with FEMA for federal assistance after a disaster. Besides registration, the website provides survivors with information, support, and ways to access services virtually to help with recovery. The site provides data from federal, tribal, state, local, and private sector partners. For more information go to: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/simple-tips-getting-help-disasterassistancegov

 

Basic FEMA Information for Iowa Homeowners and Renters

General Information for Everyone

• Please continue removing debris, making repairs, and doing needed work.
• Document your damage with photos and video.
• Save all receipts and contractor estimates.
• Insurance is your first line of defense. Be sure to file your insurance claims. Stay in touch with your insurance company. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments.

Assistance for Homeowners

• For losses not covered by insurance, FEMA can provide grants to homeowners for:
  • Basic home repairs to help make a primary residence habitable
  • Temporary rental assistance for people who need to relocate
  • Other needs, such as replacing essential personal property that was damaged
  • Lodging expense reimbursement for eligible households who may have stayed in a hotel for a short period of time

Assistance for Renters

• For losses not covered by insurance, FEMA can provide grants to renters for:
  • Temporary rental assistance for people who need to relocate
  • Other needs, such as replacing essential personal property that was damaged
  • Lodging expense reimbursement for eligible households who may have stayed in a hotel for a short period of time
• The deadline for individuals to register with FEMA is October 19, 2020.

 

What to Expect After You Register with FEMA

Some Survivors May Be Contacted for Remote Home Inspections

If you were affected by the August 10 severe storms and live in Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama Counties, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance. 

Assistance provided by FEMA for homeowners can include grants for repairs to make their primary home habitable. Rental assistance is available to pay for temporary housing for homeowners and renters.

FEMA assistance can also help with other disaster-related needs like replacing essential household items, medical and dental expenses. For more information go to: https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20200901/what-expect-after-you-register

 

Storm Survivors May Be Eligible for Lodging Reimbursement

Iowans who have registered with FEMA may be eligible for reimbursement if they paid out-of-pocket expenses for temporary lodging because their primary residences had sustained damage from the August 10 storm.

Temporary lodging includes hotels, motels, or other short-term lodging while an applicant is displaced from his or her primary residence.

Lodging expenses may be eligible for reimbursement if an applicant:

• Registers with FEMA.
• Passes identity verification.
• Verifies occupancy in a primary residence within a designated county.
• Verifies that the primary residence is uninhabitable or inaccessible.
• Incurs disaster-related temporary lodging expenses.
• Does not have insurance that would cover lodging.
• Did not receive lodging assistance during the same timeframe.

For more information on lodging reimbursement please click here.

 

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

SBA provides low-interest, long-term disaster loans to uninsured or underinsured businesses, homeowners and renters. SBA has also established a virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each business owner complete an electronic loan application. Applications may be downloaded or completed at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

The Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center is open Mondays – Sundays, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. For more information visit FOCWAssistance@sba.gov, or call (800) 659-2955.

These services are only available for the Iowa disaster declaration as a result of the severe storms that occurred Aug. 10, 2020, and not for COVID-19 related assistance.

 

USDA Designates 18 Iowa Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue designated 18 Iowa counties as primary natural disaster areas, enabling producers who suffered losses because of the recent Derecho, that occurred on August 10, 2020, to be eligible for emergency loans.

The deadline to apply for these emergency loans is May 3, 2021. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability. Click here for more information.

 

USDA Approves D-SNAP for Iowa Disaster Areas

The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing low-income Iowa residents recovering from the effects of the derecho storm that hit the Midwest a helping hand from the USDA’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP).

Iowans seeking more information about this and other available aid in the aftermath of the derecho should dial 2-1-1 or text their zip code to 899211. For more information about Iowa SNAP, visit the Iowa Department of Human Services website.

 

USDA Assistance for Landowners, Farmers, Ranchers and Producers

USDA Service Centers in impacted counties are in the preliminary stages of assessing crop, livestock and physical damage and loss. Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers a full suite of disaster assistance recovery programs that are not dependent on a disaster designation but do require producers to timely report losses to our offices.

FSA disaster assistance programs available to help offset eligible losses include:

• Livestock Indemnity Program
• Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program
• Emergency Conservation Program
• Emergency Forest Restoration Program
• Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)
• Tree Assistance Program

For a quick reference guide to available disaster assistance programs, visit farmers.gov/recover and download the recently posted Disaster-At-A-Glance brochure.

 

Avoid Another Disaster: Beware of Fraud

Scams seem to follow disasters. Don’t let your guard down and suffer another disaster such as identity theft or paying fees for services that are never provided. Remember, FEMA never charges for services nor does it endorse any commercial business, product or service. All federal employees have an official badge/ID. Ask to see it. For more information go to: https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20200901/avoid-another-disaster-beware-fraud 

 

External Civil Rights and the CVR Resource Line

FEMA External Civil Rights Advisors deploy to disasters to ensure nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, and economic status, in the delivery of FEMA programs and activities and those conducted by recipients of FEMA financial assistance. The Civil Rights Resource Line number is (833) 285-7448.

For more information please visit https://www.fema.gov/about/offices/equal-rights/civil-rights.

 

FEMA Public Assistance Program

FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program provides federal assistance to state and local governments and certain types of private nonprofit organizations following a presidential disaster declaration. Public Assistance (PA) can help communities quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Through the program, FEMA can reimburse eligible costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures and the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged publicly owned facilities and the facilities of certain private nonprofit organizations.

The following counties are eligible for Categories A-G at a federal cost share of not less than 75 percent: Benton, Boone, Cedar, Clinton, Dallas, Jasper, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama counties.

The RPA deadline for the add-on counties of Greene, Grundy, Guthrie, Hardin, Iowa, Jackson and Washington is October 10, 2020.

 

FEMA Hazard Mitigation Program

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

 

Information Links:

• Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management: www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov
• Iowa Department of Human Services: https://dhs.iowa.gov/disaster-assistance-programs
• Iowa Disaster Recovery Resources: https://disasterrecovery.iowa.gov/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/IowaHSEMD
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IowaHSEMD
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/iowahomelandsecurity
• FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4557
• Twitter: twitter.com/femaregion7
• National Flood Insurance Program: Floodsmart.gov
• SBA Office of Disaster Assistance: sba.gov/disaster

thomas.wise Mon, 10/05/2020 - 16:45

Media Advisory: Announcement of Initial Public Notice for DR-4557-IA

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice to the public of its intent to reimburse state and local Iowa governments and agencies, and eligible private non-profit organizations for eligible costs incurred to repair and/or replace facilities damaged by severe storms on Aug. 10, 2020.

This notice applies to the Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP) programs implemented under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended.

The public notice for the Iowa recovery mission is posted on the following websites:

https://www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/derecho.html

https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20200923/public-notice-iowa-dr-4557

This public notice concerns public assistance activities that may affect historic properties, activities that are located in, or affect, wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain (areas determined to have a one-percent probability of flooding in any given year) and critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. Such activities may adversely affect the historic property, floodplain or wetland, or may result in continuing vulnerability to flood damage.

Information about assistance projects may be obtained by submitting a written request to the Regional Environmental Officer, Kate Stojsavljevic.  Requests can be sent via email to kate.stojsavljevic@fema.dhs.gov or mailed to DHS-FEMA Region VII; 11224 Holmes Road; Kansas City, MO 64131. Comments should be sent in writing to the Regional Environmental Officer, at the above addresses, within 15 days of the date of publication of this Notice.

thomas.wise Mon, 10/05/2020 - 16:35

Community Rating System (CRS) Update

Voluntary incentive program recognizes and encourages community floodplain management

PHILADELPHIA- Flooding is the most common and costly disaster in the United States. Anywhere it can rain, it can flood. With 98 percent of counties in the entire United States having experienced a flood and just a single inch of water causing up to $25,000 in damage, communities across the country must make tough decisions about protecting lives and property from flooding. The Federal Emergency Management Agency created the voluntary Community Rating System (CRS) program to recognize local efforts to reduce flood risk, and to reward communities, their residents and businesses by saving them money on flood insurance premiums.

As of Oct. 1, 2020, the following communities in Region 3 have all advanced in their CRS class rating by taking actions to reduce their flood risk and protect their communities:

• The City of Franklin, Va., will enter CRS as a Class 9 (5 percent NFIP premium reduction)
• James City County, Va., will advance from Class 7 to Class 5 (25 percent NFIP premium reduction)
• Talbot County, Md., will advance from Class 8 to Class 7 (15 percent NFIP premium reduction)

The greater the investment in reducing flood risk, the greater the insurance savings through the CRS program. As communities move between classes, they implement flood reduction measures and save more on insurance. Residents living in the Special Flood Hazard area in these communities will receive a discount on their NFIP premiums.

FEMA Region 3, which includes Delaware, Washington D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia, has over 90 communities currently participating in CRS. This October, James City County, Va., joins Baltimore City and Prince Georges County, Md., in becoming a Class 5 community – the highest class of any Region 3 community. “The CRS program is a great opportunity to recognize the steps communities across the region are taking to reduce their flood risk,” stated MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region 3 regional administrator. “The real reward is then passed on to the policy holders in measurably lower premiums.”

In addition to the benefit of lower cost flood insurance, CRS floodplain management activities enhance public safety, reduce damages to property and public infrastructure, avoid economic disruption and losses, reduce human suffering and protect the environment. Technical assistance on designing and implementing activities that could help a community are available at no charge from either your local floodplain manager or the state NFIP coordinating office.

Read this FEMA CRS fact sheet for more information about the program.

If you have any questions, please contact the FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov

Follow Us

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.  Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts are available at fema.gov/medialibrary and youtube.com/fema. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3.

amanda.hancher Mon, 10/05/2020 - 15:51

Renters Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

PENSACOLA, Fla. – Renters in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties whose homes and property were damaged by Hurricane Sally can apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA Individual Assistance is available to renters, including students, as well as homeowners. Federal grants can help pay for temporary housing. The initial rental grant is for a 60-day period and can be reviewed for further assistance. The registration deadline is Dec. 1, 2020.

 

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

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

 

Survivors in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties can register with FEMA in the following ways:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download the FEMA App 
• Call 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.
• Visit a Mobile Registration Intake Center

 

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to help Florida renters repair or replace disaster-damaged personal property, including automobiles. Renters may be eligible for up to $40,000, depending on their losses. The application deadline is Dec. 1, 2020.

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 disaster assistance. 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.

For more information about Hurricane Sally recovery in Florida, visit the FEMA disaster webpage at https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4564.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 10/05/2020 - 14:21