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

Hurricane Survivors Should Be on Alert for Disaster Fraud, Scams

BATON ROUGE, La. — After a disaster, some people may try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster aid workers trying to help survivors complete their applications.

In these COVID pandemic times, scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person. Louisiana survivors of Hurricane Laura should be aware of fraud and scams and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud from scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.

Federal and state workers never ask for or accept money and always carry identification badges. There is no fee required to apply for or to get federal disaster assistance.

During each disaster it’s important to stay tuned to local media and trusted local and federal social media for current updates about ongoing recovery efforts.

If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, check with FEMA or local law enforcement to ensure your identity is protected.

Those who question the validity of a contract or suspect fraud are encouraged to call the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. Complaints also may be made by contacting local law enforcement.

FEMA recommends you monitor your credit report for account 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.

christopher.teed Mon, 10/05/2020 - 13:16

FEMA Mobile Registration Centers Open in Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa Counties

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA will open mobile registration centers for Hurricane Sally survivors in Escambia, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties Saturday, Oct. 3. 

 

The centers, called Mobile Registration Intake Centers (MRICs), are staffed with FEMA personnel who can assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs. Center locations:

 

ESCAMBIA COUNTY

Southwest Branch Library

12248 Gulf Beach Hwy

Pensacola, FL 32507

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

 

ESCAMBIA COUNTY

Brownsville Community Center

3200 W. DeSoto St.

Pensacola, FL 32505

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

 

ESCAMBIA COUNTY

Escambia County Extension Service

3740 Stefani Rd.

Cantonment, FL 32533

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

 

OKALOOSA COUNTY

Emerald Coast Healthcare Coalition

755 Lovejoy Rd.

Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

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. Individuals who come to the centers check in at a registration table, give their name and phone number, and then wait in their cars until they receive a text message to come to the FEMA staff at the MRIC. This process reduces the number of people standing in lines to mitigate against COVID.

 

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 Mon, 10/05/2020 - 11:04

Rebuild and Repair - Safe and Stronger

Baton Rouge, La. - Disaster survivors affected by the severe winds and floods from Hurricane Laura, can talk to a FEMA Mitigation Specialist. These specialists are available to provide rebuilding tips, questions about home repair, the importance of flood insurance, making disaster plans, and building supply.

Survivors can contact a Specialist at 866-579-0820

Monday through Saturday, 8 am through 6 pm, Central Daylight Time (CDT)

Or via email at FEMA-MitOutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov

To access the free resource guide “Repairing and Rebuilding After a Hurricane Mitigation Publications for Your Review and Use” click on this link:  https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit for helpful advice as you repair and rebuild to make your home more resilient.

Follow FEMA online at https://twitter.com/FEMARegion6,  www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.twitter.com/FEMAespanol, www.facebook.com/fema, www.facebook.com/FEMAespanol and www.youtube.com/fema

christopher.teed Sat, 10/03/2020 - 17:04

Calcasieu Parish Disaster Recovery Centers Moving in Lake Charles and Sulphur

BATON ROUGE, La. -  The Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Parish School Board in Lake Charles will close Oct. 3 at 5 p.m., but a new Drive-thru DRC will open on Oct. 4 at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

The Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Sulphur Regional Library will close Oct. 3 at 5 p.m., but a new Drive-thru DRC will open on Oct. 4 at 400 Picard Rd, the Frasch Park in Sulphur.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.

The drive-thru centers are now located at:

Calcasieu Parish

Lake Charles Civic Center

900 N. Lake Shore Dr.

Lake Charles, LA 70601

Frasch Park (near the soft ball field)

400 Picard Road

Sulphur, LA 70663

Residents in designated parishes who suffered losses from the storm can get updates about applications, learn about the appeals process, or check the status of their application by logging into their account or submitting information by:

• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585); or
• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov/.

To receive a link to download the FEMA app, text:

• Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362. 
• Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362.

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

Additional DRCs are open in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, click on egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or on a smart phone you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code), for example: DRC 01234.

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 Sat, 10/03/2020 - 16:54

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for New York

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of New York to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Isaias on Aug. 4, 2020.

Federal funding is available to the state eligible and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Isaias in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

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

Seamus K. Leary 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 Fri, 10/02/2020 - 21:06

External Outreach Center to Open in Lane County to Help Wildfire Survivors

SALEM, OR – A FEMA External Outreach Center will open Oct. 3 in Eugene in Lane County to assist Oregon residents affected by recent wildfires and straight-line winds. There is also an External Outreach Center in Medford.

The center will accommodate in-person visits, where residents can get information about their application, ask questions about letters they receive from FEMA and have their documents scanned into their case file. The hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.

Representatives from FEMA’s Individual Assistance program will be available at the center.

Opening Oct. 3:

FEMA External Outreach Center #2

Lane Events Center 796 W. 13th Ave. Eugene, Oregon 97402

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily

Open now:

FEMA External Outreach Center #1

Central High School 815 South Oakdale Ave. Medford, Oregon 97501

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily

To help alleviate the risk of COVID-19 spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering will be required to gain entry and visitors will receive “no touch” temperature screenings. Hand sanitizer will be available to survivors and staff.

Federal staff will wear masks, face shields and gloves. Workstations will be spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA will ensure that common areas are cleaned regularly during the day and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Survivors can visit either the center in Eugene or Medford for in-person help, however, they do not need to visit an External Outreach Center to apply or update their application. They can apply for assistance or update an application in the following ways:

• Call FEMA toll-free at 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362) or (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT, seven days a week.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Check FEMA’s mobile app.
• If you use a Relay service, such as your videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, please provide your specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA is able to contact you. You should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.
• At any time applicants with disabilities who may require a reasonable accommodation can ask FEMA staff directly or submit their accommodation request via email to FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or by calling FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource line at (833) CVL-RGHT (833-285-7448).

###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362)  711/VRS - Video Relay Service). Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish). TTY call 800-462-7585.

Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

Savannah.Brehmer Fri, 10/02/2020 - 19:32

Dates and Locations Posted for FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Centers

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Dates and places for FEMA/state Mobile Registration Intake Centers (MRICs) have been scheduled for the next two weeks in Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties.

The centers are convenient registration options available to Hurricane Sally survivors, especially those without access to internet service or telephones.

Impacted residents of Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties can visit any of these centers on the dates shown:

Hours of operation for all centers are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day (contingent on the weather).

All MRICs are closed on Sundays.

Baldwin County

• FAIRHOPE – Will close Saturday, Oct. 3, at 6 p.m. at 1100 Fairhope Ave.

• FOLEY -- Opens thru Wednesday, Oct. 7. Closed Sunday, Oct. 4. at the Foley Satellite Courthouse, 201 E. Section Ave.
• ROBERTSDALE -- Opens thru Wednesday, Oct. 7. Closed Sunday, Oct. 4. at the Central Annex, 22251 Palmer St.
• BAY MINETTE – Opens Monday, Oct. 5 thru Wednesday, Oct. 7. at 301 D’Olive St.

Escambia County

• BREWTON – Will close Saturday, Oct. 3, at 6 p.m. at the Brewton Civic Ctr., 1010-C Douglas Ave.
• ATMORE – Opens Monday, Oct. 5 thru Wednesday, Oct 7. Closed Sunday, Oct. 4. in the parking lot in the Atmore City Hall Complex, 201 E Louisville Ave.

Mobile County

• MOBILE – Will close Saturday, Oct. 3, at 6 p.m. at the Bishop State Comm. College, 351 N. Broad St.
• BAYOU LABATRE – Opens Monday, Oct. 5 thru Wednesday, Oct. 7. at 12745 Pagett Switch Rd.
• THEODORE – Opens Thursday, Oct. 8 thru Oct. Saturday, 10 at 5808 Hwy. 90.
• PRITCHARD – Opens Monday, Oct. 12 thru Wednesday, Oct. 14. at 316 Pritchard Ave.
• GRAND BAY – Opens Thursday, Oct. 15 thru Saturday, Oct. 17. at 11610 US Hwy. 90.

The MRICs are part of FEMA’s and the State of Alabama’s ongoing response and recovery mission supporting hurricane survivors. MRICs are operated by FEMA and AEMA personnel and serve as a point of registration and information for eligible individuals and families. The centers are just one of a number of ways survivors can apply for federal disaster assistance. MRICs operate under protocols to protect the health and safety of registrants. Individuals are highly encouraged to wear masks or face coverings when visiting a center.

Survivors may also register for federal disaster 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.

Information that may be useful to have when you register includes:

• Address of the damaged primary dwelling where the damage occurred
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Insurance information and description of disaster-caused damage and loss
• Total household annual income
• Names and birth dates of family members who live in the household
• Name and Social Security number of co-applicant (if applicable)
• Routing and account number for checking or savings account so FEMA may directly transfer disaster assistance funds   For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563

felicia.jordan Fri, 10/02/2020 - 18:52

Flood insurance reminder for recipients of 2017 federal disaster assistance

DENTON, Texas – Late spring 2017 brought severe storms, winds and flooding for many northern and central Arkansas counties. Part of the eligibility of receiving federal financial assistance after a flood is that a homeowner or renter who lives in a high-risk flood area must obtain and maintain flood insurance, or not receive federal disaster assistance for home repairs and personal property replacement during another flood event. Call an insurance agent today to make sure you are covered by a flood insurance policy.

If a property affected by a flood event that has the obtain and maintain requirement is sold, the new owners are required to have flood insurance for the property as well. To learn more about the obtain and maintain flood insurance requirement, click here.  

The 2017 event resulted in a major disaster declaration with FEMA Individual Assistance in the following counties: Benton, Boone, Carroll, Clay, Faulkner, Fulton, Jackson, Lawrence, Prairie, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Washington, White, Woodruff and Yell. The average FEMA disaster assistance was $4,339. For those who had flood insurance, the average claim payment was $49,398. For these same counties, there are currently just under 6,000 National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies. This is down almost six percent over the last year and nearly 22 percent over the past five years. Only one inch of water can cause $25,000 in damage to a home.

Additionally, FEMA purchased three-year flood insurance policies for 20 disaster survivors who met eligibility criteria. These policies expired on Aug. 14, 2020, and households were notified that they also have the obtain and maintain flood insurance requirement to be eligible for future disaster assistance in a flood event.

It is important to remember that anyone who has the obtain and maintain flood insurance requirement, including those who had a Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP), the homeowner or renter must purchase a standard flood insurance policy. After purchasing a standard flood insurance policy, a 30-day waiting period starts before coverage becomes effective.

Flood Insurance Can Be Key to Recovery Flood insurance policies are crucial to recovering quickly following a flood event as homeowners, and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage.

Additionally, flood insurance will pay claims regardless of whether there is a major disaster declaration. Flood insurance claims can be paid for such events as flash flooding, storm sewer backup, river overflow, storm surge, mudslides or tropical systems.

Since its inception in 1968, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has paid more than $69 billion in flood claims to help survivors rebuild their lives following flood events.

• To find an insurance carrier or agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call FEMA NFIP Direct toll-free, (800) 638-6620, option 2.
• For more information about NFIP and or insurance, call the National Flood Insurance General Call Center at 800-427-4661.
• If you have questions about your Group Flood Insurance Policy, call the National Flood Insurance Direct Call Center at 800-638-6620.

To find out if you have a flood insurance requirement, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (voice, 711/VRS - Video Relay Service) (TTY: 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

 

Carmen.Castro Fri, 10/02/2020 - 16:20

FEMA Awards Nearly $20.3 million in COVID-19 funding for Missouri

KANSAS CITY, MO – Two Missouri entities have been awarded nearly $20.3 million in grant funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help reimburse eligible expenses associated with their respective COVID-19 response efforts.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is receiving more than $19.1 million and Washington University in St. Louis is receiving more than $1.1 million to help pay for eligible emergency protective measures taken over the last several months because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The grants are from FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program (PA) and are available because of a major disaster declaration approved for the state of Missouri by President Trump on March 26, 2020.

The Public Assistance Program provides grants at a 75/25-percent cost share to eligible state and local governments, tribal nations and certain non-profit entities to assist with approved costs associated with responding to and recovering from disasters. The federal government pays 75 percent of the approved costs; the remaining 25 percent is paid by the grant recipient.

DHSS’ federal grant provides $19,136,982 to help reimburse the costs of providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, goggles and gowns for essential workers statewide, and ventilators for patients statewide. The eligible expenses for this project were incurred from January 20 through August 12 and total $25,515,975, of which FEMA is paying 75 percent.

Washington University’s grant provides $1,142,425 in federal funding to help reimburse the costs of providing PPE such as gloves, masks, gowns, and hand sanitizer for front-line staff; purchasing medical supplies such as thermometers, cannulas, tape and test kits; paying for disinfection services and supplies, and buying components and supplies to manufacture ventilators and face shields. The eligible expenses for this project were incurred from January 20 through June 6 and total $1,523,234, of which FEMA is paying 75 percent.

Both entities may receive additional FEMA funding under the COVID-19 disaster declaration as more eligible expenses are submitted for review and reimbursement.

In total, more than $471.4 million in FEMA funding has been awarded to the state of Missouri from March 1 through September 30 to help support response efforts associated with COVID-19. This funding includes reimbursement of certain emergency protective measures such as PPE, supplies and testing; money for crisis counseling programs; lost wages payments that extend unemployment benefits for eligible individuals, and costs for the deployment of National Guard members who have been supporting the state’s COVID-19 efforts in a variety of ways since April.

Throughout FEMA Region VII, which encompasses the states of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska, more than $1.2 billion in FEMA funding has been obligated since mid-March for the pandemic response.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/02/2020 - 16:13

FEMA Awards Nearly $7.9 million to the University of Iowa for COVID-19 Response

KANSAS CITY, MO – The University of Iowa has been awarded two grants totaling nearly $7.9 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help reimburse some of the University’s expenses associated with its COVID-19 response efforts.  

The grants, awarded on behalf of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, are from FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program (PA) and help pay for eligible emergency protective measures undertaken in March and April 2020.  The funding is authorized under a major disaster declaration approved March 24 for the state of Iowa by President Trump.  

The Public Assistance Program provides grants at a 75/25-percent cost share to eligible state and local governments, tribal nations and certain non-profit entities to assist with approved costs associated with responding to and recovering from disasters. The federal government pays 75 percent of the approved costs; the remaining 25 percent is paid by the grant recipient.

The first grant provides $6,429,132 in federal funding to help pay for purchases of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), medical materials and supplies, and cleaning materials to help prevent COVID-19 spread and treat the disease. The purchases include such items as isolation gowns, masks, face shields, goggles, hand sanitizer, disinfection equipment, COVID-19 testing materials, ventilators, thermometers, and respirators. The eligible expenses for this project total $8,572,176 of which FEMA is paying 75 percent.

The second grant provides $1,463,983 in federal funding, also to help pay for purchases of PPE, medical materials and supplies. Total eligible funding for this grant is $1,951,978, of which FEMA is paying 75 percent.

These grants, paid on behalf of two different departments within the UI Hospitals and Clinics system, mark the first awards of more than $1 million each for the University of Iowa that are associated with the coronavirus pandemic.  The University may receive additional FEMA funding under the COVID-19 disaster declaration as more eligible expenses are submitted for review and reimbursement.

In total, more than $393.8 million in FEMA funding has been awarded to the state of Iowa from March 1 through September 30 to help support response efforts associated with COVID-19. This funding includes reimbursement of certain emergency protective measures such as PPE, supplies and testing; money for crisis counseling programs; lost wages payments that extend unemployment benefits for eligible individuals, and costs for the deployment of National Guard members who have been supporting the state’s COVID-19 efforts in a variety of ways since April.

Throughout FEMA Region VII, which encompasses the states of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska, more than $1.2 billion in FEMA funding has been obligated since mid-March for the pandemic response.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/02/2020 - 15:46

President Donald J. Trump Amends Florida Major Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced that additional federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Florida as a result of Hurricane Sally on Sept. 14, and continuing.

The additional assistance authorizes federal funding to affected individuals in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties.

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

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY). 

On Sept. 23, the President authorized Public Assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities such as roads and bridges, water control facilities, buildings and equipment, utilities and parks in Escambia County.

Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton and Washington counties were authorized for Public Assistance Category B, emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance. On Sept. 30, Santa Rosa County was authorized for all categories of Public Assistance.

 

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/02/2020 - 15:38

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Delaware

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Delaware to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Isaias from Aug. 4-7.

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 Tropical Storm Isaias in Kent County.

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

Timothy S. Pheil 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 Fri, 10/02/2020 - 14:45

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of North Dakota to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from June 29 to July 1.

Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local and tribal 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 Benson, Grand Forks, McKenzie, Mountrail, Nelson and Wells counties.

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

James R. Stephenson has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/02/2020 - 13:37

FEMA Urges You to Spend Disaster Funds Wisely

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – More than $17 million in federal assistance has been approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help Alabama residents recover from the effects of Hurricane Sally. Assistance is tax-free and grants do not have to be repaid. However, FEMA urges you to use the funds quickly, wisely and only for disaster-related expenses.

FEMA will send you a letter listing approved uses if you were awarded a grant, including:

• home repairs (e.g., structure, water, septic and sewage systems)
• rental assistance for a different place to live temporarily
• repair or replacement of a damaged primary vehicle
• uninsured out-of-pocket medical expenses for an injury caused by the disaster
• repair or replacement of occupational specialized tools
• necessary educational materials (e.g., computers, schoolbooks, supplies)
• moving and storage expenses related to the disaster
• other disaster-related expenses 

You may spend your FEMA grant in any way that helps you achieve the goal of permanent, safe, sanitary and functional housing. Remember to keep your receipts for verification of how you spent the disaster funds.

• Rental assistance grants provide for temporary housing when a disaster leaves your home uninhabitable or inaccessible.                                                                                    
• As a homeowner or renter, you can choose to rent an apartment, house, mobile home or some other temporary rental unit.
• If you intend to seek continued rental assistance, you will need receipts to show you used the grant for rent.

Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses, such as utilities, food, medical or dental bills not related to the disaster, travel, entertainment or any discretionary expense not related to the disaster.

It is important to remember that federal law prohibits duplicating federal grants from other sources. FEMA also encourages you to keep your receipts for three years to show how you spent funds.

When you get a letter from FEMA, read it carefully. If you have any questions, call the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362. TTY users can call 800-462-7585 6 a.m. to midnight central time, seven days a week.

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

felicia.jordan Fri, 10/02/2020 - 12:52

Santa Rosa County Eligible for Additional FEMA Public Assistance

PENSACOLA – Santa Rosa County is now eligible for additional FEMA Public Assistance grants for recovery from Hurricane Sally.

On Sept. 30, 2020, the major disaster declaration was amended to include reimbursement for all categories of Public Assistance, including debris removal and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities such as roads and bridges, water control facilities, buildings and equipment, utilities and parks. Previously, the county had been approved for emergency protective measures.

Escambia County previously was approved for all categories of Public Assistance. Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, Okaloosa, Walton and Washington counties were approved for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 10/02/2020 - 11:13

Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center Publishes Hurricane María Recovery Report

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – The Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center, or HSOAC, published more than 20 reports on Hurricane María recovery topics. This analysis was coordinated with FEMA and contains an assessment of all Puerto Rico sectors, including how physical infrastructure, natural infrastructure and human systems were affected by the storm.

A federally funded research and development center operated by the RAND Corporation on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, HSOAC gathered teams of experts who engaged with other partners to assess hurricane damage and pre-existing needs, develop and cost potential recovery actions and identify alternative recovery strategies. These recovery goals were aligned with those of the Government of Puerto Rico and its disaster recovery plan.

HSOAC’s findings include reviews and inputs from over 150 commentators from the Government of Puerto Rico and over 100 federal offices and agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of the Interior and others.

In February 2018, Congress passed legislation requiring the Government of Puerto Rico to deliver an economic and disaster recovery plan. HSOAC supported the development of this plan and its supplementary reports cover additional analyses that were conducted after the plan was delivered to Congress in August of 2018.

The HSOAC report may serve as a resource for Puerto Rico’s recovery and that of other regions which may be affected by disasters in the future. To see the reports, click here:

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 Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Fri, 10/02/2020 - 07:14