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Avoid Another Disaster: Beware of Fraud
DES MOINES, Iowa – 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.
The following are some common post-disaster fraud practices to avoid.
Fake offers of state or federal aid:
- Beware of visits, calls or emails from people claiming to be from FEMA or the State of Iowa asking for your Social Security number, bank account or other sensitive information. Giving out this type of information can help an unscrupulous person make a false claim for assistance or commit identify theft.
Fraudulent building contractors.
When hiring a contractor, the Iowa Attorney General suggests:
- Check out the contractor before you sign a contract or pay any money. Ask if the contractor is registered with the Iowa Workforce Development's Division of Labor Services. You can check a contractor's registration online through the Division of Labor Services website or call 1-800-562-4692 or 515-242-5871. Check local references. Ask the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division if it has complaints (515-281-5926 or 1-888-777-4590).
- Get it in writing! Get several written estimates for the job you want done. Before any work begins, agree on a written contract detailing work to be done, responsibility for permits, costs, and any other promises. Request a copy of the contractor's liability insurance certificate. Put start and completion dates in writing and consequences if the contractor fails to follow them (example: the contract could be nullified if the contractor doesn't start on time.)
- Avoid paying large sums in advance to a contractor. If you have to make a partial advance payment for materials, make your check out to the supplier and the contractor. Insist on a "mechanic's lien waiver" in case the contractor fails to pay others for materials or labor.
- State law prohibits price gouging when a county has been declared a disaster area.
- In most cases, Iowa's Door-to-Door Sales law gives you three business days to cancel a contract signed at your home.
Don’t fall for scam artists who promise a disaster grant and ask for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.
- Federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
- FEMA inspectors never require banking or other financial information.
- The job of FEMA housing inspectors is to verify damage. Inspectors do not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs. They do not determine eligibility for assistance.
- FEMA inspectors will not condemn a property. Condemnation determinations are made by your local jurisdiction.
Recovery officials encourage Iowa residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity.
Iowans can submit an online consumer complaint, which allows you to attach and submit any supporting documents, such as contracts, advertisements, correspondence, proof of payment, etc. You can also download a printable complaint form and mail it to the Office of the Attorney General of Iowa, Consumer Protection Division, Hoover State Office Building, 1305 E. Walnut St., Des Moines, Iowa 50319-0106.
On Aug. 17, 2020, President Donald J. Trump granted a major disaster declaration for the state of Iowa, triggering the release of Federal funds to help communities recover from severe storms that occurred on August 10, 2020. Designated areas for assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities include Benton, Boone, Cedar, Clinton, Dallas, Jasper, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama counties.
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For more information on the Iowa disaster and a variety of recovery resources, log on to:
https://dhs.iowa.gov/disaster-assistance-programs
https://www.iowa.gov/disaster-recovery-resources
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. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or 711 for Video Relay Service. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish.) TTY call 800-462-7585.
HSEMD Mission: To lead, coordinate and support homeland security and emergency management functions in order to establish sustainable communities and ensure economic opportunities for Iowa and its citizens.
John.Mills Thu, 08/20/2020 - 20:14FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the CZU 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 CZU Lightning Complex burning in Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties.
On Aug. 20, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the CZU Lightning Complex. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 8,593 homes in and around the communities of San Lorenzo Valley, China Creek, Boulder Creek, Bonny Doon, Selton, Zayante, and Scotts Valley. The fire also threatened critical resources and infrastructure in the area, including communications, transportation, power and gas distribution infrastructure; public schools; juvenile and adult detention centers; and area fire stations.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Aug. 20, 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.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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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 Thu, 08/20/2020 - 13:48FEMA Opens Three More Documentation Drop-off Centers
FEMA Opens Three More Documentation Drop-off Centers
MIDLAND, Mich. – FEMA is opening three more Documentation Drop-off Centers in Iosco, Arenac and Saginaw counties for survivors of the May flooding and storms to submit supporting documents for their disaster assistance application. Documentation Drop-off Centers are already open in Midland and Gladwin.
Survivors who have been asked by FEMA to provide additional documentation should read their FEMA letter carefully and make sure they have everything they need when they arrive at the drop-off center. Applicants do not have to visit a center to submit documents to FEMA—they can mail, fax or submit them online as well. Information on these options can be found in their FEMA letter.
If you don’t understand the letter you received from FEMA, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET and ask for assistance.
The Iosco Drop-off Center opens at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, for three days at:
Tawas Area High School
255 W. M-55
Tawas City, MI 48763
Hours and days for the Iosco center are:
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Saturday, Aug. 22 to Monday, Aug. 24
It will close permanently at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24.
The Arenac Drop-off Center opens at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, for eight days at:
Arenac Community Center
583 E. Cedar St.
Standish, MI 48658
Hours and days for the Arenac center are:
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Wednesday, Aug. 26 to Wednesday, Sept. 2
It will close permanently at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2.
The Saginaw Drop-off Center opens at 8 a.m. Monday, Aug. 31, for nine days at:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
1035 N. River Road
Saginaw, MI 48609
Hours and days for the Saginaw center are:
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday, Aug. 31 to Tuesday, Sept. 8
It will close permanently at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8.
Locations and hours for the Documentation Drop-off Centers can be found online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by scrolling down and searching “Michigan” under the “Find Local Resources” section on the main page.
The drop-off centers will be open for a limited time and are staffed with FEMA personnel who can scan documents and quickly answer questions about disaster assistance programs.
All applicants and FEMA personnel will follow currently effective state and local requirements for COVID-19 safety measures. 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 as well. FEMA staff will take the documents, scan them and return them to the applicants. Note: The drop-off centers do not offer COVID-19 testing.
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 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
If an individual cannot register online or by phone, registration at the Documentation Drop-off Centers 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.
The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 8, 2020.
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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.
English: www.fema.gov/disaster/4547
troy.christensen Thu, 08/20/2020 - 11:18FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Colorado's Pine Gulch Fire
DENVER – This afternoon, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Pine Gulch Fire burning in Garfield and Mesa counties near DeBeque.
FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.
At the time of the request, the Pine Gulch Fire was threatening approximately 50 homes. The fire is also threatening infrastructure, utilities and equipment in the area. The fire started on July 31, 2020, and has burned in excess of 125,000 acres of state and private 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 - 18:31FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Maryland
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 Maryland agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Maryland for a FEMA grant under this unprecedented program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Maryland to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. FEMA will work with Maryland Governor Hogan to implement a system to make this funding available to Maryland residents.
Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, 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.
luther.wills-dudich Wed, 08/19/2020 - 15:53District of Columbia to Receive $38.5M to Cover Costs Related to COVID-19
PHILADELPHIA - The District of Columbia will receive more than $38.5 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to reimburse costs related to procuring personal protective equipment and implementing safety measures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $38,559,311.26 represents a 75 percent federal cost-share. The remaining 25 percent of the cost will come from non-federal sources.
The federal funds are divided into two awards.
The first provides $36,886,317.38 in federal funding to the Office of Contracts and Procurement (OCP) for Emergency Protective Measures as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Throughout this ongoing response, COVID-19 created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the general public requiring emergency response and protective measures. In response to the event, the Office of Contract and Procurement (OCP) was the responsible agency for purchasing and distributing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to various agencies across the District of Columbia. These purchases include but are not limited to decontamination materials, N95 masks, and PPE for testing sites. Costs also include support to testing sites, medical care to those testing positive to COVID-19, and mass fatality management. All work for this project started April 1 and covers up until June 30, 2020.
The second award provides $1,672,993.88 in federal funding also to OCP for Emergency Protective Measures. In response to the event, the District was responsible for providing transportation, security and medical support to COVID-19 patients and potentially infected individuals. To eliminate the spread of COVID-19, the District used decontamination systems to ensure emergency medical services could safely carryout lifesaving activities for the community. The District also implemented Community-Based Testing to Centers for Disease Control’s specified vulnerable population, individuals in low income neighborhoods, and the homeless. The purchased supplies and commodities were procured through various contracts.
These grants are funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant program which reimburses communities for actions taken in the immediate response and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments and certain private non-profit organizations.
“These grants enable our partners to provide life-saving resources. This funding tangibly demonstrates the support the federal government is providing to communities in their fight against COVID-19”, said MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator.
FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the District of Columbia in coordination with DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (DC HSEMA). It is the District of Columbia’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipient receives this award.
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov
Follow UsFEMA’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 Wed, 08/19/2020 - 14:33FEMA 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