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DHS News and Updates
Three Additional Louisiana Parishes Designated For Individual Assistance
BATON ROUGE, La. – Homeowners and renters in Acadia, Ouachita and Vermilion parishes may now apply for federal disaster assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Hurricane Laura.
To be eligible for federal disaster aid, storm damage and losses from the hurricane and flooding must have occurred as a result of Hurricane Laura from Aug. 22 to Aug. 27, 2020.
Six parishes were previously included in the federal declaration to help homeowners and renters. They are Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Vernon.
If you have a homeowner’s or flood insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately before applying for disaster assistance.
If you have phone or Internet access, you may register by:
- Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- Downloading the FEMA app
- Calling 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or TTY 800-462-7585. If you use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.
Do not wait to begin your cleanup and repairs. Take photos of all damage and save all receipts.
Remember, FEMA assistance alone cannot make survivors whole. FEMA’s disaster assistance programs are designed to help with grants for basic repairs to make survivors’ homes safe, sanitary and secure and to provide a temporary place to live while survivors develop their recovery plans.
Long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.
FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, disaster survivors without insurance or who are underinsured may still receive help after insurance claims have been settled.
For more information on recovery efforts for Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.
Carmen.Castro Wed, 09/02/2020 - 16:53FEMA Documentation Drop-off Centers Closed Labor Day
MIDLAND, Mich. –– The Documentation Drop-off Centers in Midland, Gladwin and Saginaw will be closed in observance of Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7.
The locations of the three Documentation Drop-off Centers are as follows:
- Midland Documentation Drop-off Center:
825 E. Main Street
Midland, MI 48640
- Gladwin Documentation Drop-off Center:
401 S. State Street
Gladwin, MI 48624
- Saginaw Documentation Drop-off Center:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
1035 N. River Road
Saginaw, MI 48609
The Arenac Drop-off Center located at the Arenac Community Center, 583 E. Cedar St. in Standish will close permanently at 7 p.m. today, Sept. 2.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs.
If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
English: www.fema.gov/disaster/4547
troy.christensen Wed, 09/02/2020 - 16:07FEMA and Ad Council Urge Americans to “Make a Plan Today”
To kick-off National Preparedness Month, FEMA reminds Americans that the best time to plan for disasters is now
WASHINGTON – FEMA and the Ad Council have begun National Preparedness Month with new public service announcements informing Americans how they and their families can best prepare for disaster while accounting for the reality of COVID-19.
FEMA’s most recent National Household Survey finds nearly 60% of Americans perceive themselves to be prepared for a disaster emergency, and 10% still see no need to prepare. That’s why the theme of National Preparedness Month 2020 is “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.” It encourages people from all communities to prepare for the possibility of natural disasters, which could range from wildfires to hurricanes to tornadoes.
“This year, we've seen that preparedness actions save lives," said FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor. "Hurricanes and wildfires aren't waiting for COVID-19 to end, and neither should your preparedness activities. I encourage you to make the most of this time you have with your families and have those discussions about your emergency plans, specifically how they may look different this year in a COVID-19 environment.”
The 2020 campaign encourages parents and caregivers to visit Ready.gov/plan to find tools and tips for making an emergency plan with their family. Ad agency Newfangled Studios created pro bono TV, radio spots, print, digital and out-of-home ads. The TV component of the campaign will feature a family preparing for disasters, to run on broadcast TV.
"This year’s message is grounded in the fact that natural disasters won't wait for the pandemic to pass. However, people are already preoccupied with coronavirus messaging and we did not want to scare or overwhelm them," said Newfangled Studios' Founder & Executive Creative Director, Macaela VanderMost. "Building upon last year's campaign, we re-imagined an animated world that strikes the right balance of playfulness and gravity. It's our hope that this creative work will make a significant impact on the number of families who are prepared for a natural disaster."
“The pandemic has only reinforced that disasters can strike at any time, in any community, and drastically change people’s lives in an instant,” said Ad Council President & CEO Lisa Sherman. “Now more than ever, it is vital that people are prepared so that when an unexpected disaster does strike, they’re ready.”
This round of creative work for the Ready Campaign is the latest in 17 years of educating the American public about disaster and emergency preparedness
Each week of National Preparedness Month, the Ready campaign will emphasize a unique aspect of preparedness:
- September 1—5: Make a Plan
- September 6—12: Build a Kit
- September 13—19: Prepare for Disasters
- September 20—26: Teach Youth about Preparedness
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zella.campbell Wed, 09/02/2020 - 13:18Hurricane Laura Survivors: Previous FEMA Help Doesn't Affect Eligibility
BATON ROUGE, La. – Hurricane Laura survivors in Louisiana should register with FEMA even if they have registered with the agency for previous disasters.
FEMA considers each disaster to be a separate event so survivors affected by multiple storms may receive help more than once.
Survivors in Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, Ouachita, Vermilion and Vernon parishes may be eligible for FEMA grants to help with their recovery. Help may include rent, home repair, home replacement and other disaster-related needs such as childcare, medical and dental expenses.
Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it may help your recovery move forward by providing grants for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure. FEMA assistance may also provide temporary help with a place for you and your family to stay while you build your own recovery plan.
It is important to remember that grants are to be used only for certain disaster-related expenses. Survivors should keep receipts for three years to show how they spent FEMA grants.
If you have a homeowner’s or flood insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately before applying for disaster assistance. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin.
If you cannot return to your home, or you are unable to live in your home, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA helpline 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585 to determine if state, voluntary or local organizations are in your community to address your immediate needs.
Don’t be discouraged if you do not have access to telephone or Internet. If you have any questions, contact the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. If you use 711 or Video Relay Service, call 800-621-3362.
For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.
Carmen.Castro Wed, 09/02/2020 - 12:56Survivors in 10 Additional Counties May Now Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance
DES MOINES, Iowa –Homeowners and renters in Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama Counties may now apply for FEMA Individual Assistance for losses resulting from the severe storms on Aug. 10, 2020. Linn County was previously approved for Individual 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. 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.
Businesses, homeowners and renters may be eligible for disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
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.
If you have losses not covered by insurance, contact FEMA by either going online to DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the helpline at 800-621-3362.
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.
Survivors in Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama counties can apply for assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 for TTY users. Users of 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) may call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week, until further notice. Survivors may register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
thomas.wise Wed, 09/02/2020 - 09:58FEMA Obligates Over $783 Million to Repair Puerto Rico’s Roads, Bridges and Ports
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — For the past three years, FEMA has awarded funds to repair and strengthen Puerto Rico’s transportation infrastructure. Along with the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience of Puerto Rico, or COR3, the Agency has obligated over $783 million to revitalize the island’s vast network of roads, highways, bridges and piers which sustained substantial damage after Hurricane María.
These funds include $428.8 million for the Department of Transportation and Public Works for projects such as installing over 18,000 road signs in 654 state roads across nearly 1,310 miles throughout the island– a benefit to more than 1.2 million people.
“In one year we have managed to approve funding for over a thousand road and bridge projects, which represents an important step forward in the recovery of the Island. Our focus is to continue obligating funds for roads and other areas that affect the daily lives of residents,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Alex Amparo.
Also, over $11.2 million was obligated to the Puerto Rico Port Authority and the Ponce Port Authority for work that includes repairs to 12 piers, like repairing the crane system at Puerto de las Américas Rafael Cordero Santiago. This is a key port for emergency management operations and after the hurricanes managed the entry of cargo and supplies needed to re-establish the distribution chain on the Island.
Being an island, these piers serve as the main receiving point to obtain food and construction materials, among other goods. Roughly 306,211 tons of rice and flour were received by these ports last year, and a total of over $500 million in merchandise. In addition, all fuel for the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority’s power generating plants and co generating AES- Puerto Rico plants is received through our ports.
Likewise, roughly 1,249 municipal projects to address damage to roads and bridges have been obligated so far. These encompass many of the hardest hit areas such as Jayuya where over 16,600 residents were left isolated after the storm. For this municipality, over $88.6 million was awarded to undertake 71 permanent work and architectural and engineering design projects throughout various neighborhoods. Work has already been completed in many of these roads, including the Haydee Pacheco and the Manolo Morales Roads in barrio Puerto Plata which benefit 10 and 15 families respectively.
In the southern coast, the municipality of Yauco was assigned more than $4.3 million for architectural and engineering design costs and permanent repairs to several bridges that collapsed during the storm and serve as key access points for more than 376 families. On air at the Agency’s radio show, Dando Palique, the municipality’s Mayor Angel Luis “Luigi” Torres Ortiz expressed that repairing the Rho Eta Delta Bridge, Harry Cintrón Bridge, Fraticelli Bridge, as well as the Palos Blancos Bridge are a high priority as these connect several communities.
Another $1.4 million are earmarked for permanent repairs to the severely damaged PR-105 and Camino Noriega roads in Maricao. The latter is a municipal road in barrio Montoso used by 16 families. Moreover, this is the main route to transport goods out of a local farm that has three employees and produces star fruit, sapote fruit, lychee, rambutan and other fruits.
“This path affects this community as they are practically unreachable. Once the road is repaired, these families will have a direct access to basic services, since it has an exit on Highway 105 and 120. [Also], farmers will have better access to transport their agricultural products,” added Maricao’s mayor, Gilberto Pérez.
For his part, COR3's Executive Director, Ottmar J. Chávez, indicated that "during the past few months, a large number of recovery projects were obligated through uninterrupted work, in spite of the other emergencies that have arisen. These obligations promote the attention to essential and important structures for all the sectors that receive these federal contributions. We remain committed to continuing to work on the projects that remain to be served”.
To date, FEMA has obligated over $7.2 billion for costs related to hurricanes Irma and Maria, including projects to help rebuild infrastructure throughout Puerto Rico. Roughly 1,200 local staff are leading the efforts and play a key role in moving recovery forward. Despite unprecedented challenges, our resolve remains undeterred as we continue this banner year of recovery. The Agency is part of the transformation and the revival of the island, a process that is becoming more evident every day and that will benefit the island's residents and its future generations.
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, 09/02/2020 - 07:25FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Illinois
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Illinois for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Illinois to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to implement a system to make this funding available to Illinois 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 state of Illinois 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.
zella.campbell Tue, 09/01/2020 - 21:07FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Wisconsin
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Wisconsin for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Wisconsin to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers to implement a system to make this funding available to Wisconsin 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 state of Wisconsin 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.
zella.campbell Tue, 09/01/2020 - 21:00FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for South Carolina
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved South Carolina for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow South Carolina to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to implement a system to make this funding available to South Carolina 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 state of South Carolina 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.
zella.campbell Tue, 09/01/2020 - 20:50FEMA Authorizes Federal Funds to Help Fight Washington’s Evans Canyon Fire
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Evans Canyon Fire burning in Yakima County, Washington, approximately eight miles north of the community of Naches.
FEMA Region 10 Deputy Administrator Vincent Maykovich determined that the fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. He approved the state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) at 12:55 p.m. PDT on Tuesday.
The fire started on Monday, and at the time of the state’s request, an estimated 5,000-10,000 acres had been burned, and two homes had been damaged. Evacuation orders were in place for approximately 430 homes in the area. Additional active fires in the region have constrained fire resources, with nine uncontrolled and three controlled fires in Washington state.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies.
In addition to reimbursement funding for fighting the fire, $629,681 in mitigation assistance will be available to Washington. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
FEMA encourages HMGP Post-Fire funds be used for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood or erosion. However, HMGP is available for risk reduction of any hazard.
hannah.weinstein Tue, 09/01/2020 - 19:58FEMA Releases New Policy for COVID-19 Declarations
WASHINGTON --
Today, FEMA released an interim policy to clarify eligible work under the Public Assistance program as part of the response to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The interim policy “COVID-19 Pandemic: Work Eligible for Public Assistance” is applicable to eligible applicants only and is exclusive to emergency and major disaster declarations for the COVID-19 pandemic. This policy applies to work performed on or after September 15, 2020.
FEMA releases this interim policy as part of the President’s March 13 nationwide emergency declaration and subsequent major disaster declarations for COVID-19. Because of these declarations, state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) government entities and certain private non-profit (PNP) organizations are eligible to apply for assistance under the FEMA Public Assistance program.
The interim policy defines the framework, details and requirements for eligibility of work and costs under the Public Assistance Program to ensure consistent and appropriate implementation across all COVID-19 emergency and major disaster declarations. Only work associated with the performance of emergency protective measures specifically listed in this policy is eligible for Public Assistance in COVID-19-declared events.
Under the new policy, FEMA provides assistance for emergency protective measures in response to COVID-19 declared events, to include the following:
- Purchase and distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that is directly related to the performance of otherwise eligible emergency work, or is provided to healthcare workers, patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection, and first responders.
- Funding for stockpiling a supply of eligible PPE is limited to a 60-day supply from date of purchase.
- Funding for storing eligible PPE is limited to what is necessary to store 60-day PPE supply.
- Medical care, in accordance with COVID-19 specific policy – “COVID-19 Pandemic: Medical Care Costs Eligible for Public Assistance, Version 2 (Interim)” policy – being concurrently released or subsequent updates.
- Purchase and distribution of food, in accordance with COVID-19 specific policy or subsequent updates.
- Non-congregate medical sheltering, in accordance with COVID-19 specific policy or subsequent updates.
- Operation of Emergency Operations Centers to direct and coordinate resources and response activities for COVID-19 declarations.
- Communications to disseminate public information regarding health and safety measures and provide warnings about risks and hazards.
- Mass casualty management, including the storage of human remains and mass mortuary services needed to manage mass fatalities caused by COVID-19.
- Assistance for other activities may be eligible when necessary to perform otherwise eligible emergency work listed in the policy; for example, the purchase and distribution of face masks, temperature screening, disinfecting in accordance with CDC guidance, and temporary physical barriers.
FEMA may provide Public Assistance funding to applicants for eligible work under the COVID-19 declarations that may also be eligible for funding under another federal agency’s authorities. Potential Public Assistance applicants may have the flexibility to determine which source of funding to use for their costs, subject to the purpose and eligibility requirements of each of the federal programs and funding sources.
The “COVID-19 Resource Summary Report” is a list of resources provided by the federal government since the start of the response to COVID and is designed to assist with recovery efforts. Partners should directly consult each agency’s program information to verify the applicability of a resource.
zella.campbell Tue, 09/01/2020 - 17:32FEMA Opens a Disaster Recovery Center
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Linn County on Wednesday, September 2, to give survivors from the August 10 severe storm options to submit documents for their disaster assistance application. FEMA has adapted to the realities of responding during the COVID-19 pandemic to serve Iowans while protecting their safety and that of FEMA employees.
The DRC will not operate in a traditional fashion. The center will offer drive-through service. Survivors are asked to stay in their vehicles when visiting.
Applicants do not have to visit a center to submit documents to FEMA—they can mail, fax or submit them online at DisasterAssistance.gov as well. Information on these options can be found in their FEMA letter.
Survivors who have already registered with FEMA and have been asked to provide additional documentation should read their FEMA letter carefully and make sure they have everything they need when they arrive at the DRC.
If you do not understand the letter you received from FEMA, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, and ask for assistance.
The FEMA DRC is located at:
The parking lot between Cedar Rapids Kernels Stadium and Kingston Stadium
950 Rockford Rd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
(Enter the parking lot from the corner of Veterans Memorial Drive and Kurt Warner Way.)
DRC hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time
Closed Sundays
The DRC will be closed Monday, September 7, 2020 in observance of Labor Day
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.
All applicants and FEMA personnel will follow current state and local COVID-19 safety requirements. Applicants must wear face masks and will remain in their cars as they hand their documents to FEMA personnel, who will be wearing face masks (or other appropriate face covering) and protective equipment. FEMA staff will take the documents, scan them and return them to the applicants.
Applicants may register in the following ways:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.
- Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. CT, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
If an individual cannot register online or by phone, registration at the DRC will be available.
Documents also may be submitted in any of the following ways:
- Mail to: FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055.
- Or fax to 800-827-8112.
- Or submit them via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.
Beware of Fraud and Scams
SACRAMENTO, Calif.– When natural disasters occur, it is common to find people who want to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster aid workers or as relatives trying to help survivors complete their applications.
FEMA encourages survivors to be aware of fraud and scams. FEMA also encourages survivors to report any suspicious activity or potential fraud from scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.
Survivors should also be aware that this kind of situation doesn’t happen only at the beginning of the response to the disaster when people might be more vulnerable. It can happen anytime. It is important to know that FEMA does not endorse any commercial businesses, products or services.
Residents in Lake, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo counties need to identify the common tactics used by these criminals, such as phone calls from people claiming to work for FEMA.
The caller might ask for the survivor’s Social Security number and income or banking information. Giving out this type of information can help an unscrupulous person make a false claim for assistance or commit identity theft.
FEMA encourages survivors and business owners to be vigilant for these common post-disaster fraud practices:
Housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA.
- Be cautious if somebody asks for your nine-digit registration number. A FEMA inspector will never ask for this information. They already have it in their records.
- Don’t give anyone your banking information. FEMA inspectors never require banking or other personal information such as a Social Security number.
Fake offers of local or federal aid.
- Don’t trust someone who asks for money. Federal and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
- Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant and asks for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.
Fraudulent building contractors.
- Use licensed or verified local contractors backed by reliable references.
- To find licensed certified contractors check the Department of Consumer Affairs of California.
- Don’t pay more than half the costs of repairs in advance.
- Demand that contractors detail the job to be done with guarantees in writing.
If you suspect fraud, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721.
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bree-constance… Tue, 09/01/2020 - 14:26National Preparedness Month Encourages Preparedness for All Types of Emergencies
PHILADELPHIA – This week marks the beginning of National Preparedness Month (NPM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency is encouraging communities across the nation to prepare for all types of emergencies and disasters which can occur, often with little notice.
As we continue to respond to COVID-19 and hurricanes in the mid-Atlantic, disasters don’t wait and being prepared makes the difference in how we respond. This year’s theme is "Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today." During NPM 2020, take time to prepare for the emergencies you may experience, from the unexpected to the unavoidable.
In addition to the "Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today” theme, four weekly themes can help individuals, businesses, communities, and others to prepare for emergencies:
- Week 1: Sept. 1-5 - Make A Plan: Know how to prepare for disasters that include how you will communicate with family and friends during disasters, reviewing insurance papers, and much more.
- Week 2: Sept. 6-12 - Build A Kit: You’ll need items to survive during a disaster that includes supplies you may need at home as well as a go kit of items you may need if you must evacuate quickly to a safer location.
- Week 3: Sept. 13-19 - Prepare for Disasters: Find out the best way to limit the impacts a disaster may have, like having the right insurance coverage or what can you do to your home to make it stronger and more resilient.
- Week 4: Sept. 20-26 - Teach Youth About Preparedness: Take the time now and talk with your children to reassure them. Teach them lessons on preparedness. Make family preparedness a fun annual event.
NPM provides a great opportunity to talk with your family, co-workers and employees, and community at large about preparing for emergencies.
“Preparedness starts with everyone, and National Preparedness Month is a great opportunity to talk about the risks your community faces and how you can prepare for them before a disaster occurs,” said MaryAnn Tierney, regional administrator, FEMA Region 3. “Save early, make a plan, involve youth, and get involved to help make your communities more resilient. This month, take these steps to help make your family and community stronger before the next disaster strikes.”
Learn more at www.ready.gov/september
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov
amanda.hancher Tue, 09/01/2020 - 11:44FEMA Program Aids Disaster Survivors with Critical Needs
Sacramento, Ca.--Individuals and households who have immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling by the wildfires may be eligible for a special FEMA financial assistance program. Covered by the Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) program are life-saving and life-sustaining items. This includes, but is not limited to, water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items, and fuel for transportation.
CNA is a one-time $500 payment per household. The State of California requested that FEMA authorize CNA for specific geographic areas that are expected to be inaccessible for seven days or longer. To be eligible for CNA Applicants must request it before September 5.
Individuals and households may be eligible for CNA if the following criteria have been met:
- The applicant registers with FEMA;
- The applicant passes identity verification;
- At registration, the applicant states that they have critical needs and requests financial assistance for those needs and expenses;
- Their pre-disaster primary residence is located in Lake, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, or Yolo County.
- The applicant is displaced from their pre-disaster primary residence as a result of the disaster for at least seven days.
FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for North Dakota
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved North Dakota for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow North Dakota to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum to implement a system to make this funding available to North Dakota 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 state of North Dakota 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.
gloria.huang Mon, 08/31/2020 - 21:05Be Safe During a Power Outage
ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – When the power goes out, there can be serious impacts on daily activities. While a generator can ease these challenges, it can pose a danger if not used properly. Here are some safety tips:
- Have your generator inspected yearly and replace any worn parts.
- Use a qualified electrician to install the appropriate equipment in accordance with local electrical codes, or ask your utility company to install an appropriate power transfer switch.
- Generators, camp stoves, or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows so you and your family stay safe from carbon monoxide.
- Do not use a generator indoors or in partially enclosed spaces- including homes, garages, and crawl spaces - even those areas with partial ventilation.
- Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool down. Gasoline or other flammable liquids spilled on hot engine parts could ignite, and invisible vapors from the fuel can travel along the ground and be ignited by the generator's pilot light or by arcs from electric switches in the appliance.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
Not everyone has a generator. Keeping the doors of your refrigerator and freezer closed will help the refrigerator remain at an acceptable temperature for approximately four hours. A full freezer’s contents should be fine for up to 48 hours. When in doubt, throw it out! Consult your physician regarding medications that require refrigeration.
Elderly people and infants and toddlers are more susceptible to the effects of extreme heat. Check on your neighbors and relocate to a cooler area, if possible.
Keep all electronics fully charged. Have extra batteries ready for flashlights and radios. Avoid using candles which can cause house fires.
Some businesses may continue operations but be unable to process credit cards. For this reason, try to keep enough cash in your emergency kit to get you through an extended lapse of power.
For more information on staying safe during a power outage, visit ready.gov/power-outages .
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after a disaster.
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gina.callaghan Mon, 08/31/2020 - 13:47FEMA Announces Permanent Federal Coordinator for Recovery Operations in Puerto Rico
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – Today, FEMA announced that Mr. José G. Baquero Tirado, Esq. will serve as Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, or FDRC, for disaster recovery operations in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Mr. Baquero will permanently lead disaster recovery coordination and collaboration between the federal interagency and the Government of Puerto Rico, the private sector and voluntary, faith-based and community organizations.
“Our partnership over the last year with mayors, COR3 and the Government of Puerto Rico has paved the way for the island’s long-term recovery. Mr. Baquero’s permanent appointment is another indicator that our mission on the island is on track and that the operation is ready for the road ahead,” said the current Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Alex Amparo.
For the past 15 years, Mr. Baquero led the Transportation Security Administration office for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Throughout his career he has also worked as a private attorney, and at the local and federal government level. Mr. Baquero is born and raised in Puerto Rico and is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico School of Law.
For his part, Mr. Baquero added that “it is a privilege to serve my Island in this capacity. I look forward to being part of this historic recovery mission and to carry on with the outstanding work done by Mr. Amparo and the team as our efforts to help rebuild for the benefit of the people of Puerto Rico continue.”
Both Mr. Amparo and Mr. Baquero will work together in the coming weeks to ensure an effective transition of duties.
Mr. Amparo returns to support FEMA’s mission in Washington, D.C. His role on the island was pivotal in leading the disaster recovery efforts for Hurricane María as well as the response missions for the earthquakes, COVID-19 pandemic and Tropical Storms Isaías and Laura.
To date, over $7.2 billion has been obligated under FEMA’s Public Assistance program for costs related to hurricanes Irma and María, including projects to help rebuild infrastructure throughout 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 Mon, 08/31/2020 - 13:19
LOUISIANA SURVIVORS AFFECTED BY HURRICANE LAURA CAN APPLY FOR FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE
BATON ROUGE, La. – State and federal officials are encouraging Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Laura to register for disaster assistance with FEMA as soon as possible.
Disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Louisiana to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Vernon parishes affected by the hurricane from Aug. 22 to Aug. 27.
In order to your process application for disaster assistance and avoid denial notifications, survivors can apply by following these steps:
The first step is to contact your insurance company to file your storm-damage insurance claims.
The second step is to register. To do so:
- Call 1-800-621-3362 (FEMA) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- and hearing-impaired. If you use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week.
- Go to www.disasterassistance.gov or via web-enabled phone or tablet at m.fema.gov.
If you have already applied for FEMA assistance and been denied, additional information might have been needed to fully process your application. You will need to have the following readily available:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted;
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying;
- Your Social Security number, if available;
- A general list of damages and losses; and
- If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name.
Disaster assistance may 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.
Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to homeowners, renters and businesses. Call the SBA at 1-800-659-2955 or visit www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.
Federal funding is also available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal in those same parishes. Funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct federal assistance for Public Assistance, and for hazard mitigation measures in all parishes of the state.
Carmen.Castro Mon, 08/31/2020 - 11:17FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Hawaii
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Hawaii for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Hawaii to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Hawaii Governor David Ige to implement a system to make this funding available to Hawaii 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 state of Hawaii 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.
gloria.huang Sat, 08/29/2020 - 20:54