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DHS News and Updates
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Colorado's Grizzly Creek Fire
DENVER – This morning, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Grizzly Creek Fire burning in Garfield and Eagle counties near Glenwood Springs, Dotsero and Gypsum.
FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request this morning and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.
At the time of the request, the Grizzly Creek Fire was threatening more than 4,258 homes, with approximately 162 homes under a mandatory evacuation order. There are 890 buildings along with the Glenwood watershed and utilities in the area also being threatened. The fire started on August 10, 2020, and has burned in excess of 29,000 acres of state and federal land.
The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
Fire Management Assistance Grants 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.
With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.
For more information on FMAGs, visit https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.
minh.phan Wed, 08/19/2020 - 14:16FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Idaho
WASHINGTON: On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the state of Idaho agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Idaho for a FEMA grant under this unprecedented program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Idaho to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. FEMA will work with Idaho Governor Little to implement a system to make this funding available to Idaho residents.
Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Utah were previously approved for assistance.
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.
To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance
zella.campbell Wed, 08/19/2020 - 14:16FEMA Announces Awards for Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program
WASHINGTON - FEMA announced today $10 million in competitive awards for its Fiscal Year 2020 Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program to 12 state and local governments to assist in developing innovative regional solutions to issues related to catastrophic incidents, including pandemic preparedness.
The grant program supports the building of core capabilities, which address the nation’s greatest risks and are essential to achieving the National Preparedness Goal of a secure and resilient nation. Delivering core capabilities requires the combined effort of the whole community, rather than the exclusive effort of any single organization or level of government.
The 2020 grants focus on planning, organization, training and exercises to build regional capabilities in FEMA’s Health and Medical and Food, Water and Sheltering Community Lifelines.
The 12 state and local governments were selected from 24 eligible applications. The projects selected are regional, replicable and sustainable after the grant period of performance ends.
FY20 RCPGP Award Recipients:
- King County, Washington $929,413
- New York, New York $929,414
- Houston, Texas $735,594
- San Francisco, California $929,414
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $929,414
- New York $929,414
- East-West Gateway Council of Governments, St. Louis, Missouri $929,414
- Oklahoma $929,414
- Baltimore, Maryland $843,988
- New Jersey $381,060
- San Antonio, Texas $697,060
- Virginia Beach, Virginia $836,403
Read more of the FY20 RCPGP program information.
For more information, please email FEMA-RCPGP@fema.dhs.gov.
luther.wills-dudich Wed, 08/19/2020 - 11:44FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Carmel Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Carmel Fire burning in Monterey County.
On Aug. 18, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Carmel Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 180 homes in Carmel Valley in Monterey County, CA, with mandatory evacuations taking place for approximately 300 people. The fire also threatened agricultural lands and high-voltage transmission lines around Big Sur.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Aug. 18, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Wed, 08/19/2020 - 10:36FEMA Obligates Funds to Rescue Iconic Landmarks in Puerto Rico
Over $360 million has been obligated to repair public buildings and parks, which include cultural and historic sites
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – In the last three years, FEMA obligated funds so that iconic structures with historic value in Puerto Rico can regain their luster. During this time, FEMA has obligated over $360 million to municipalities, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture and the Office of Historic Preservation for repairs to public buildings and parks, which include hospitals, government offices, educational centers, and sports complexes, as well as several points of interest throughout the island.
This effort includes funds for the Guajataca Tunnel in Isabela, a project with great economic impact in its area since it attracts about 7,000 visitors a year. Given the complexity of the project repairs, FEMA allocated $47,000 to perform architectural and engineering studies to repair the tunnel permanently. Built in 1904, the tunnel connects the towns of Isabela and Quebradillas, and is a remnant of Puerto Rico's sugarcane era, when a railroad system spanned the island.
Similarly, a grant of about $22,000 was approved for the renowned Fortín Conde Mirasol in Vieques. The funds will be used to repair and replace the contents of the structure, which includes a collection of paper artwork containing silkscreen prints, maps and posters of activities and festivals held at the Fort. Also planned is the repair of a wagon wheel from the beginning of the last century that was used to move sugar cane and a wooden sculpture, as well as the replacement of 15 exhibit cases.
“This first part of the two phases of assistance expected for Fortín Conde Mirasol paves the way for the recovery and improvements we need. We will follow-up on every step and support in this process to rescue this piece of historical and cultural heritage of Vieques and Puerto Rico,” said the Executive Director of the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, Carlos Ruiz Cortés.
On the other hand, in the municipality of Rincón, funds were awarded for the Punta Higuero Lighthouse. Approximately $20,000 is designated for architectural and engineering design costs needed to repair the site. Once the technical studies are completed, plans will include the replacement of the wood deck, lighting fixtures, ceiling tiles and other repairs. Since 1993, the Lighthouse has included a passive park with a maritime museum, cafeteria, meeting areas and a
lookout point for whale watching and a view of Desecheo Island. It is currently run by the municipal administration and is visited by thousands of tourists every year.
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 recovery efforts and play a key role in moving recovery forward. 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.
Vieques, Puerto Rico (August 18, 2020) -- A grant of about $22,000 was approved for the renowned Fortín Conde Mirasol in Vieques. The funds will be used to repair and replace the contents of the structure, which includes a collection of paper artwork containing silkscreen prints, maps and posters of activities and festivals held at the Fort. Also planned is the repair of a wagon wheel from the beginning of the last century that was used to move sugar cane and a wooden sculpture, as well as the replacement of 15 exhibit cases.
Rincón, Puerto Rico (August 17, 2020) -- Approximately $20,000 is designated for architectural and engineering design costs needed to repair the Punta Higuero Lighthouse in Rincón. Since 1993, the Lighthouse has included a passive park with a maritime museum, cafeteria, meeting areas and a lookout point for whale watching and a view of Desecheo
frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 08/19/2020 - 09:31FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant to Oklahoma
WASHINGTON -- On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the state of Oklahoma agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Oklahoma for a FEMA grant under this unprecedented program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Oklahoma to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. FEMA will work with Oklahoma Governor Stitt to implement a system to make this funding available to Oklahoma residents.
Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico and Utah were previously approved for assistance.
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.
To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.
gloria.huang Tue, 08/18/2020 - 20:30FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant to Montana
WASHINGTON -- 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, Montana agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Montana for grants under this unprecedented program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Montana to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $400 per week ($100 in state funds, $300 in federal funds) on top of their regular unemployment benefit. FEMA will work with Montana Governor Bullock to implement a system to make this funding available to Montana residents.
Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico and Utah were previously approved for assistance.
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.
To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.
zella.campbell Tue, 08/18/2020 - 17:03Ten Key Facts to Know About Federal Disaster Assistance
MIDLAND, Mich. — Federal assistance can be an important recovery resource for Michiganders with uninsured or underinsured property damage from the May storms and floods.
It’s important to know the facts about the help that may be available to you:
- You won’t be taking grant money away from someone else by applying. There are enough disaster funds to assist every eligible applicant.
- FEMA assistance is provided to eligible homeowners and renters as grant funding that does not have to be repaid. Remember: federal assistance cannot duplicate insurance or payments from other sources.
- FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal or state benefits.
- While it’s a smart practice to get multiple cost estimates before hiring a contractor to do work on your home, you only need to submit one contractor quote or estimate when appealing a FEMA decision.
- The Documentation Drop-off Centers are sites where survivors can submit documents to support their FEMA registration and get information about FEMA assistance. There are two centers currently open in Midland and Gladwin, with other centers due to open soon. The centers do not offer COVID-19 testing.
- If your insurance is delayed by 30 days or more, and you need immediate money to relocate, FEMA may be able to help. Contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to find out what you need to do to get this assistance. NOTE: any money you may get from FEMA will be an advance and must be repaid when you get your insurance.
- If your car had uninsured damage caused by the disaster, you may be eligible for money to help repair or replace it. Certain requirements apply, but you must register with FEMA first to determine eligibility.
- If you applied for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan for the COVID-19 disaster, be aware those loans are separate from loans for the May flooding disaster. You should apply if you are referred to SBA for the May floods. You may be eligible for loans for both disasters.
- Applicants may be eligible for an SBA loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their property’s physical damage to make their home safer. To learn more, visit SBA.gov/disaster or call 571-422-8013, 571-422-6016 or 571-422-0331.
- If you applied for assistance through a voluntary organization or other federal or state agency, you are not registered with FEMA. If you aren’t sure, or to apply with FEMA, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585), or download the FEMA App.
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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.
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.
English: www.fema.gov/disaster/4547
troy.christensen Tue, 08/18/2020 - 15:24FEMA authorizes federal funds to help fight Washington’s North Brownstown Fire
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the North Brownstown Fire burning in Yakima County, approximately nine miles southwest of the city of Yakima.
FEMA Region 10 Administrator Mike O’Hare 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 6:58 p.m. PDT on Monday.
The fire started on Sunday and had burned in excess of 3,000 acres of federal, state, and private land at the time of the state’s request. The fire was ten percent contained and was threatening approximately 130 homes in and around the Yakama Indian Reservation. Mandatory evacuations were issued.
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.
Savannah.Brehmer Tue, 08/18/2020 - 13:38FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Jones Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Jones Fire burning in Nevada County.
On Aug. 18, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Jones Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 350 homes to the west of Nevada City in Nevada County, CA. The fire also threatened multiple historical and cultural sites, a school, county jail, and high-voltage transmission lines serving multiple communities along U.S. Highway 49.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Aug. 18, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Tue, 08/18/2020 - 10:44FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the LNU Lightning Complex
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the LNU Lightning Complex burning in Napa County.
On Aug. 17, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the LNU Lightning Complex. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 205 homes in and around the eastern ridgeline of Napa Valley in Napa County, CA. The fire also threatened a water treatment plant and high-voltage transmission lines serving the cities of Napa and Calistoga.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Aug. 17, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Tue, 08/18/2020 - 10:29President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Iowa
WASHINGTON – FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Iowa to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms on Aug. 10, 2020.
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 the severe storm in Benton, Boone, Cedar, Clinton, Dallas, Jasper, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures throughout the state.
DuWayne Tewes has been named as 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 Mon, 08/17/2020 - 18:23FEMA Establishes Voluntary Agreement with Private Sector to Assist in Pandemic Response
WASHINGTON -- Under authority of the Defense Production Act, FEMA established a voluntary agreement for enhanced coordination and cooperation with the private sector to provide critical health and medical resources to respond to COVID-19 and future pandemics.
This agreement will be in effect for the next five years and may include manufacturers, distributors and other industry representatives.
With this voluntary agreement, federal departments and agencies can enter into plans of action to engage in information sharing and coordination within sector specific supply chain networks. It will also allow the federal government to plan for response activities with private sector partners and acquire and use real-time data to make important decisions. Participants of the agreement are granted relief from antitrust laws for specific actions taken under a plan of action.
In May, FEMA held a public meeting with private sector representatives to seek feedback on the agreement. It was reviewed and approved by the Department of Justice, in consultation with the Federal Trade Commission.
Based on stakeholder feedback, FEMA adopted a two-part structure for the voluntary agreement:
- The agreement allows FEMA to form the Committee for the Distribution of Medical Resources Necessary to Respond to a Pandemic. In addition to FEMA and other federal partners, the Committee will include representatives from stakeholders involved with the distribution or manufacturing of critical medical resources.
- Based on response needs, the Committee may then form subcommittees to execute specific plans of action targeting particular medical items or identified challenges.
As required by the DPA, FEMA sought and received determination from the Attorney General, in consultation with the Federal Trade Commission, that the agreement was necessary and appropriately limited in its anti-competitive impact.
President Trump first invoked the DPA in response to COVID-19 in Executive Order 13909 on March 18 and delegated additional authority to the Department of Homeland Security in Executive Order 13911.
Title I of the DPA Act allows the government to priority-rate contracts and orders where needed for the national defense, and to allocate scarce resources in the market. DPA Title I rating authority allows government-rated orders to receive priority in fulfillment. Title I has been implemented in the last few months by FEMA to secure N95 respirators from 3M and by HHS with several contracts to provide personal protective equipment and ventilators.
Title III of the DPA allows the federal government to make loans, loan guarantees, and to take other actions to increase or protect materials and services essential to the national defense. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $1 billion for Title III projects related to COVID-19. Title III funds are managed by the Department of Defense.
The authority for the voluntary agreement is found in Title VII of the DPA. For more information on these authorities, visit our webpage on Defense Production Act Authorities.
For more information on the agreement, visit the Federal Register where the agreement was published on August 17, 2020, the Fact Sheet or the Q&A webpage.
Companies and organizations who wish to participate in this agreement may contact FEMA-DPA@fema.dhs.gov.
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zella.campbell Mon, 08/17/2020 - 16:47New Hampshire on Track to Recovery with the Help of Federal Partners
REGION 1 – While the nation continues to mitigate against and confront the effects of COVID-19, New Hampshire and other New England states—along with numerous federal partners coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency—are taking steps to help communities recover from this unprecedented health & economic crisis.
For months, The Granite State and FEMA have led a joint effort to support the state through the coordination of additional federal agencies, the private sector, voluntary organizations, U.S. military medical personnel and critical resource needs.
To date more than $18 million in federal funding has been granted to the state of New Hampshire; the federal government has also provided significant amounts of PPE including: 1 million gloves, 203,849 surgical masks and 481,933 N95 respirators. Federal partners like the U.S. Small Business Administration have approved more than $629 million in Economic Injury Disaster Loans to keep businesses across the state afloat, and the United States Department of Agriculture approved more than $5.3 million in assistance through The Emergency Food Assistance and Coronavirus Assistance Programs.
“FEMA continues to support New Hampshire with an eye toward recovery.” said Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Captain Russ Webster, who oversees federal operations support of New Hampshire.
Crisis CounselingIn close coordination with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, FEMA Region 1 has also provided $120,924 through the Crisis Counseling Immediate Services Program (ISP) to provide counseling to survivors of COVID-19.
New Hampshire received an extension to its ISP grant to continue developing a crisis counseling program during the Regular Services Program application review process.
Public AssistanceFEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) grant program provides essential funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The New Hampshire Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.
To date, more than $179,959 in PA funding has been approved to reimburse the state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations, for costs associated with emergency protective measures enacted to quickly respond to COVID-19.
The federal share for PA projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) will be met.
Long Term RecoveryFEMA’s role in Long-Term Recovery is to increase communication and collaboration among stakeholders and support disaster recovery planning. This process opens access to funding from federal agencies other than FEMA.
The first step of the LTR process is to conduct a Rapid Needs Assessment. In New Hampshire the assessment is underway, with representative communities (Keene, Portsmouth and Littleton) chosen and stakeholders identified to provide insights and locate gaps in the state’s recovery needs.
The completed assessment is expected soon, and the findings will ultimately allow New Hampshire to make informed decisions about which economic solutions to pursue.
While COVID-19 recovery efforts are ongoing, FEMA continues to prepare for the pending hurricane season. “FEMA is building redundancy in our response capabilities and leveraging technology where possible to reduce person to person contact. Examples include damage inspections done virtually through facetime, hotels for sheltering and Civil Air Patrol flyovers for property damage assessments. Such information can be critical to hurricane response, as well as responding to COVID,” said Webster, who also noted Region 1 is training and cross-training staff members to build bench strength for a more robust response and management of multiple incidents.
zella.campbell Mon, 08/17/2020 - 14:00
Maine Communities Begin to Recover from Pandemic
REGION 1 – While the nation continues to confront the health & economic effects of COVID-19, Maine and other New England states—along with numerous federal partners coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency—are taking steps to help communities recover from this unprecedented crisis.
For months, The Pine Tree State and FEMA have led a joint effort to support the state through the coordination of additional federal agencies, the private sector, voluntary organizations, U.S. military medical personnel and critical resource needs.
To date more than $12 million in federal funding has been granted to the state of Maine; the federal government has also provided significant amounts of PPE including: 1.3 million gloves, 204,393 surgical masks and 541,800 N95 respirators. Federal partners like the U.S. Small Business Administration have approved $559 million in Economic Injury Disaster Loans to keep businesses across the state afloat, and the United States Department of Agriculture approved more than $17 million in assistance through The Emergency Food Assistance and Coronavirus Assistance Programs.
“FEMA continues to support Maine with an eye toward recovery.” said Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Captain Russ Webster, who oversees federal operations support of Maine.
Crisis CounselingIn close coordination with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, FEMA Region 1 has also provided $989,045 through the Crisis Counseling Immediate Services Program (ISP) to provide counseling to victims of COVID-19. This program helps people recover and rebuild their lives after a disaster and provides survivors with the tools needed to understand their current situation and reactions. Counseling services can be provided via phone, internet, or social media and can help survivors reduce stress and find emotional support; develop coping strategies and connect with other people and agencies who can help them in their recovery process.
Maine received an extension to its ISP grant to continue developing a crisis counseling program during the Regular Services Program application review process.
Public AssistanceFEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) grant program provides essential funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Maine Emergency Management Agency works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.
According to Captain Webster, “Public Assistance grants will help communities meet the costs of responding to the pandemic, and FEMA’s partnerships and expertise will help the state meet its long-term recovery goals and recover stronger, safer and smarter,”
To date, more than $468,354 in PA funding has been approved to reimburse the state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations, for costs associated with emergency protective measures enacted to quickly respond to COVID-19.
The federal share for PA projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) will be met.
Long Term RecoveryFEMA’s role in Long-Term Recovery is to increase communication and collaboration among stakeholders and support disaster recovery planning. This process opens access to funding from federal agencies other than FEMA.
The first step of the LTR process is to conduct a Rapid Needs Assessment. In Maine the assessment has been completed, with representative communities (Portland, Belfast and Millinocket) chosen and stakeholders identified to provide insights and locate gaps in the state’s recovery needs. Findings are being reviewed by the State of Maine and MEMA, allowing them to make informed decisions about which economic solutions to pursue.
While COVID-19 recovery efforts are ongoing, FEMA continues to prepare for the pending hurricane season. “FEMA is building redundancy in our response capabilities and leveraging technology where possible to reduce person to person contact. Examples include damage inspections done virtually through facetime, hotels for sheltering and Civil Air Patrol flyovers for property damage assessments. Such information can be critical to hurricane response, as well as responding to COVID.” said Webster, who also noted Region 1 is training and cross-training staff members to build bench strength for a more robust response and management of multiple incidents.
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zella.campbell Mon, 08/17/2020 - 13:22Strengthen Your Property’s Mitigation Plan with Flood Insurance
ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Most homeowners are familiar with standard insurance policies that cover damage to their home and property, but most of those policies do not typically cover flood damage. Just one inch of water in a home could cost more than $25,000 in damage. Homeowners, renters and businesses can purchase the protection they need to recover more quickly by having flood insurance.
After hurricanes Irma and Maria, 221 flood insurance claims resulted in payouts of more than $20 million in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Flood insurance will pay claims regardless of whether, or not there is a Presidential Disaster Declaration. Federal disaster assistance comes in two forms: a loan, which must be paid back with interest, or a FEMA disaster grant, which is about $5,000 on average per household. By comparison, the average flood insurance claim in 2018 was more than $40,000.
Contact your insurance company to learn what your policy covers. Inquire about flood insurance. If your insurance agency does not provide flood insurance, call the National Flood Insurance Program at 1-877-336-2627 to explore coverage options. The time to insure your property is now. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect so the time to buy is well before a disaster.
If you have flood insurance, make sure it is up to date and covers any new purchases and improvements you have made since acquiring coverage. You do not want to find that you are under-insured after a disaster.
Take pictures of your home, other buildings on the property and the contents of your home including not only furniture and appliances, but all items. Store this photo inventory along with serial numbers, manufacturer and model details, etc., in a location you can easily access after the flooding. It’s a good idea to save this information, as well as your insurance agent’s contact information on a thumb drive kept in a watertight container with other important documents.
Learn more about protecting what you’ve worked for by visiting www.floodsmart.gov.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after a disaster.
Follow us on social media at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/FEMAUSVirginIslands
gina.callaghan Mon, 08/17/2020 - 13:20FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the River Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the River Fire burning in Monterey County.
On Aug. 16, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the River Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 1,800 homes in and around Pine Canyon, Indian Springs, and Los Palmas, CA. The fire also threatened a school, community center, zoo, country club, Highway 68 and multiple agricultural facilities. Mandatory evacuations were taking place for approximately 800 people, with voluntary evacuations for approximately 2,500 people.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Aug. 16, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Mon, 08/17/2020 - 12:27FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Loyalton Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of Nevada in combating the Loyalton Fire burning in Washoe County.
On Aug. 15, 2020, the state of Nevada submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Loyalton Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 200 homes in and around Red Rock, Rancho Haven and Columbia Hills, NV. The fire also threatened ten businesses, a wildlife sanctuary, the Rancho Haven Watershed, high-voltage transmission lines and a power transmission substation. Mandatory evacuations were in place for approximately 1,000 people, with voluntary evacuations for approximately 2,000 people.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Aug. 15, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Mon, 08/17/2020 - 12:07Michiganders: Check Your Home’s Heating Systems Now
MIDLAND, Mich. –– As temperatures drop in the coming months, your furnace will become the most important appliance in your home. FEMA suggests Michiganders who suffered damage from the May severe storms and flooding make sure their heating systems and water heaters are in good working condition now before the cold weather arrives.
Michigan homeowners and their families may be at risk for flood-damaged furnaces and other electrical appliances. If the floodwaters reached your home heating systems, you should have them checked for operating safety by experienced repair personnel.
Waddy Gonzalez, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer for the Michigan disaster recovery operation, reminded Michigan homeowners that FEMA grants may be available to help repair damaged furnaces or water heaters and replace those destroyed by floodwaters.
“Turn on your heat now to check that there isn’t a leak, or the blower isn’t working,” said Gonzalez. “If there is a problem, call a licensed professional to have it inspected. If you need to repair or replace the appliance, FEMA may be able to help.”
Homeowners who receive a FEMA grant for repairs and later discover their furnace or water heater needs replacing must use the FEMA appeal process for additional grant funds. The homeowner has 60 days to appeal and must submit a letter with a verified contractor’s estimate for replacement of the furnace or water heater.
Disaster survivors may call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET seven days a week. Register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App. During the registration process, make sure to report any impacts to your furnace, water heater or other electrical appliances as a result of the disaster.
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 Mon, 08/17/2020 - 10:15FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grants for Colorado, Missouri and Utah
On August 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Colorado, Missouri and Utah all recently agreed to administer lost wages programs for their citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved the states of Colorado, Missouri and Utah for grants under this unprecedented program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Colorado, Missouri and Utah to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. FEMA will work with Colorado Governor Polis, Missouri Governor Parson and Utah Governor Herbert as they implement state systems to make this funding available to the residents of their states.
Arizona, Iowa, Louisiana and New Mexico were previously approved for assistance.
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.
To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lost-wages-supplemental-payment-assistance.
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zella.campbell Sun, 08/16/2020 - 11:43