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FEMA Awards $10 Million to Rebuild Lahaina’s Public Library

6 days 19 hours ago
FEMA Awards $10 Million to Rebuild Lahaina’s Public Library FEMA Awards $10 Million to Rebuild Lahaina’s Public Library

More than $332 million approved for infrastructure, emergency response projects.

HONOLULU – For 67 years, the Lahaina Public Library stood on the site of a former royal taro patch belonging to King Kamehameha III. The wildfires on Maui destroyed the 4,540-square-foot building on Wharf Street. 

Today, a new library -- part of the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System -- is on the horizon. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program has awarded $9.9 million toward the estimated $12.6 million cost of the library project. The remaining costs will be covered by insurance proceeds and contributions from the state.

This funding from Public Assistance, FEMA’s largest grant program, makes the library reconstruction possible – along with 131 other projects totaling more than $332 million as of March 19.

The FEMA program provides assistance to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidential disasters or emergencies. Public Assistance funding is available to help pay for emergency services to save lives and protect property, for debris removal and for projects to permanently restore community infrastructure damaged or destroyed in a presidentially declared disaster.  

Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses Hawaiʻi applicants 90% of the eligible costs. The remaining 10% represents nonfederal funds. 

In Hawaiʻi, the federal share is awarded to the state to disburse to eligible applicants, which are state and local agencies and certain private nonprofit organizations that requested funding to help recover expenses inflicted by the disaster.

The president approved the major disaster declaration two days after the Aug. 8 wildfires swept across Maui.

Altogether, the Public Assistance program has received proposals for 132 large and small projects from state and local officials and nonprofit organizations. The total cost of these recovery projects is expected to exceed $600 million

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.govmauirecovers.orgfema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires

nicole.timonshipman Thu, 03/21/2024 - 18:30
nicole.timonshipman

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Maine

6 days 22 hours ago
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Maine

WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Maine to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding on Jan. 9-13, 2024. 

The president’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties. 

Federal funding also is available to state, tribal and 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 storms and flooding in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties.

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

Robert V. Fogel has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 03/21/2024 - 15:32
amy.ashbridge

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Rhode Island

6 days 23 hours ago
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Rhode Island

WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Rhode Island to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding on Jan. 9-13, 2024. 

The president’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Kent, Providence and Washington counties. 

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

Robert V. Fogel has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 03/21/2024 - 14:57
amy.ashbridge

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Rhode Island

6 days 23 hours ago
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Rhode Island

WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Rhode Island to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding on Dec. 17-19, 2023. 

The president’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Kent, Providence and Washington counties. 

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

Robert V. Fogel has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 03/21/2024 - 14:51
amy.ashbridge

WV Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Be Closed Wednesday, March 20, 2024, and Reopen Thursday, March 21

1 week ago
WV Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Be Closed Wednesday, March 20, 2024, and Reopen Thursday, March 21

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– The state-federal Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Clay County will close early on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, and open two hours late on Thursday, March 21, due to forecast inclement weather. 

The Mobile Disaster Recovery Center closed at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday. It will reopen at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 21, 2024.

The center is located at:

  1. Clay County Disaster Recovery Center

223 Main Street Clay, WV 25043

Hours of operation:

Closed Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Reopening 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 21, 2024

Centers in Harrison and Kanawha counties will remain open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to assist survivors.

If it is not possible to visit the Disaster Recovery Center or to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

  1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
tiana.suber Wed, 03/20/2024 - 19:11
tiana.suber

FEMA Awards $6.7 Million for Native Village of Newtok Relocation Efforts

1 week ago
FEMA Awards $6.7 Million for Native Village of Newtok Relocation Efforts

BOTHELL, Wash. – FEMA has awarded $6,768,114.23 for the Native Village of Newtok in Alaska as part of their efforts to relocate their entire village to a new site. This grant will allow the village to acquire 36 homes and provide families with the funds to move to a safer location.     

Newtok, located on the Ninglick River, has faced progressive coastal erosion from ocean storms and degrading permafrost that has threatened homes and critical infrastructure. The community currently faces a rate of erosion of approximately 70 feet per year, with Typhoon Merbok in September 2022 exacerbating conditions and leaving less than 30 feet between the river and the Newtok School, the community’s only emergency shelter. Studies have concluded that the only solution is to move the entire village to a new site. Mertarvik, the site of the new village, is located approximately nine miles across the Ninglick River from Newtok.

“The residents and leaders of Newtok have undertaken a monumental effort as they tackle the impacts of climate change on their community,” said FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn. “This funding forms just one part of our collaborative partnership with the community to provide the resources needed to help them secure their future for generations to come.”

"We appreciate FEMA for this opportunity; it's bittersweet, but it's for the better for the community,” said Calvin Tom, Tribal Administrator. “Relocation has been in talks as far as I can remember, and it’s happening before our eyes. Climate change has impacted the people of Newtok. It’s a new beginning for our people."

The funding was awarded as part of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program which provides funding to state, local, tribal and territorial governments so they can develop hazard mitigation plans and rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities. The subgrant will be managed by Newtok Village Council in partnership with the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

The Native Village of Newtok was also recently selected to receive $25 million to support their relocation efforts as part of the Voluntary Community-Driven Relocation program, an effort led by the Department of the Interior in partnership with FEMA, the Denali Commission, and other federal agencies. Learn more about FEMA Efforts Advancing Community-Driven Relocation | FEMA.gov

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

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

mary.j.edmon Wed, 03/20/2024 - 19:08
mary.j.edmon

Ten Key Facts to Know About Federal Disaster Assistance

1 week ago
Ten Key Facts to Know About Federal Disaster Assistance

LANSING, Mich. – Federal assistance can help Michiganders in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties recover from the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. 

Here are 10 facts to know about the help that may be available to you:

  1. You won’t be taking money away from someone else by applying. FEMA will distribute funds to every eligible applicant regardless of how many people apply.
  2. FEMA assistance is available to homeowners and renters, including owners and renters of mobile homes.
  3. Eligible homeowners and renters will receive FEMA assistance as grants that do not have to be repaid. 
  4. You can apply for FEMA assistance before your insurance claim processes. However, once you receive a settlement, make sure to report it to FEMA. FEMA can’t duplicate benefits from other sources, so we need to see what your insurance covers before we can process your application.
  5. FEMA assistance is nontaxable, and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal or state benefits.
  6. You can ask questions and get in-person one-on-one help applying for assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center. 6 centers are currently open:

    Chesterfield Township Fire Department Central Station, 33991 23 Mile Road, Chesterfield, MI 48047.

    Wayne County Community College Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline Road, Taylor, MI 48180. This center closes at 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

    Boston Township Hall, 30 Center St., Saranac, MI 48881. Closing permanently 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23.

    Gibraltar City Hall, 29450 Munro St., Gibraltar, MI 48173. 

    Kemeny Recreation Center, 2260 S. Fort St, Detroit, MI 48217.

    South Lyon City Hall, 355 S. Warren St., South Lyon, MI 48178. Closing permanently 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23.

    For current locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

  7. If your insurance is delayed by 30 days or more and you need money to relocate immediately, FEMA may be able to help. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you call. Unlike normal FEMA grants, this type of assistance must be repaid once you get your insurance.
  8. If your car was damaged by the disaster, you may be eligible for money to repair or replace it. Apply with FEMA first, then, if referred, submit a U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan application to determine eligibility. 
  9. If FEMA refers you to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), you should apply. SBA’s long-term, low-interest disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds. Applying allows FEMA to evaluate you for more types of aid. SBA may be able to increase your loan amount by up to 20 percent of your damage so you can make improvements to make your home safer. To learn more, visit SBA.gov/disaster.
  10. Calling 211 or applying for assistance through another organization or agency does not automatically register you with FEMA. To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.

For information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

kirsten.chambers Wed, 03/20/2024 - 18:18
kirsten.chambers

Two Weeks Left to File for Flood Insurance Through the Claims Office

1 week ago
Two Weeks Left to File for Flood Insurance Through the Claims Office

SANTA FE, N.M. – The deadline to file a claim for National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood insurance is April 1.  Individuals and businesses impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire have just two more weeks to submit a claim. Claims for flood insurance submitted after April 1 will not be accepted.

The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is making five years of flood insurance available to individuals and business impacted by the fire. To receive a federal National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy, you must submit a claim for flood insurance no later than April 1. There is a 30-day mandatory waiting period for all new NFIP policies. Submitting a claim for flood insurance coverage by April 1 will help to ensure coverage goes into effect before spring snow melt and monsoon season begin. 

People have two options for obtaining flood insurance through the Claims Office:
  • The Claims Office can pay up to five-years of flood insurance coverage through the NFIP. There are no out of pocket expenses, the Claims Office will pay for the premium directly. 
  • You can be reimbursed for a policy you purchased through either the NFIP or a private insurance company after the fire.
Eligible claimants include:
  • Households that were not required to carry flood insurance prior to the start of the fire on April 6, 2022. 
  • Properties located in NFIP-participating communities in Mora and San Miguel counties.
  • Properties outside of Mora and San Miguel counties but in proximity to the burn scar may be eligible on a case-by-case basis if they can demonstrate an increased risk of flooding.

If your property was required to carry flood insurance before the fire, you are not eligible to obtain flood insurance through the Claims Office. If your community is not an NFIP participating community, you are only eligible to be reimbursed for flood insurance purchased through the private market. To find out if your community is a participating NFIP community contact your Navigator or call the Helpline at 505-995-7133.

If you have already submitted a Notice of Loss and would like to discuss eligibility for a new flood insurance policy, reach out to your navigator to discuss options. 

If you have not yet submitted a Notice of Loss but would like to discuss your eligibility for a flood insurance policy through the Claims Office, you may call the Claims Office Helpline, 505-995-7133, or reach out by email, fema-hermits-peak@fema.dhs.gov.

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.

erika.suzuki Wed, 03/20/2024 - 18:00
erika.suzuki

FEMA and SBA Assistance Tops $105.3 Million for Michigan Storm Survivors

1 week 1 day ago
FEMA and SBA Assistance Tops $105.3 Million for Michigan Storm Survivors

LANSING, Mich. – A little over one month since President Joe Biden declared a major disaster for the state of Michigan following the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, more than $105.3 million in federal assistance has been provided by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration to support disaster recovery. 

Homeowners and renters whose homes and property were damaged by the storms, and who still need to apply for federal assistance, have until April 8, 2024, to do so.

As of March 19, Michigan’s recovery assistance includes:

  • More than $103.1 million in FEMA’s Individual and Households Program (IHP) grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in nine Michigan counties. These grants help pay for uninsured and underinsured losses and storm-related damage, including:
    • More than $83.1 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
    • More than $19.9 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs—such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
  • More than $2.2 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the SBA for homeowners and renters to help repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and to cover economic injury for businesses of all sizes and non-profit organizations. 

The nine Michigan counties designated for Individual Assistance in this disaster are: Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne.

The state and FEMA have staffed and operated 15 Disaster Recovery Centers in the nine designated counties that provide one-on-one assistance to survivors. The centers have tallied more than 1,270 visits by survivors.  

Recovery specialists from FEMA, state and the U.S. Small Business Administration at the recovery centers provide information on available services, explain assistance programs, and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance. No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome. All centers are open 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays.

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.govor download the FEMA App.

  • FEMA has sent Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams to storm-affected neighborhoods in every designated county. These teams travel door-to-door in hard-hit neighborhoods helping survivors apply for assistance. DSA teams visit homes, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to help residents apply for assistance, identify, and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state, and voluntary agencies for additional support.
    • These teams provide information on resources available from federal and state governments, nonprofit organizations, and the faith-based community to help address immediate needs.
    • To date, DSA personnel have interacted with more than 8,860 survivors; and have helped more than 33,610 households apply for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. They visited more than 930 businesses and 1,400 community locations. FEMA is working to remove barriers to assistance, ensuring all survivors have equal access to disaster aid and resources.

No one’s background or primary language is a barrier to receiving FEMA financial assistance. FEMA offers help in many languages available through our call centers to assist caseworkers and processing staff to provide customer service to non-English speaking applicants. Call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

darrell.habisch Wed, 03/20/2024 - 11:53
darrell.habisch

West Virginians Have Less Than Two Weeks to Apply for Disaster Assistance

1 week 1 day ago
West Virginians Have Less Than Two Weeks to Apply for Disaster Assistance

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Renters and homeowners in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties who were affected by the Aug. 28-30, 2023, severe storms and flooding have two weeks to apply for assistance. MONDAY, APRIL 1 IS THE LAST DAY TO APPLY.

FEMA has many kinds of assistance to fit many kinds of needs. People with losses after the Aug. 28-30, 2023, severe storms and flooding should think about applying.

Here is how to register:

  • Visit your nearest Disaster Recovery Center.  Find that center by calling 800-621-3362 or going online to www.fema.gov/drc
  • Call 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or video relay services) or 800-462-7585 for TTY users
  • Go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov
    1. Disaster Loans Application Deadline

FEMA grants can meet basic needs but cannot compensate for all losses. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits.

APRIL 1 ALSO IS THE PHYSICAL DAMAGE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR LOW-INTEREST DISASTER LOANS from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). These flexible loans help homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and nonprofit organizations fund repair, rebuild, and help cover the cost of replacing destroyed or damaged real estate and personal property, beyond insurance settlements or FEMA grants.

For more information about SBA loans, call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also apply online via SBA’s secure website at http://www.sba.gov/disaster or in person at the nearest Disaster Recovery Center. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Tue, 03/19/2024 - 20:19
tiana.suber

WV Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Be Closed Tuesday, March 19, 2024

1 week 1 day ago
WV Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Be Closed Tuesday, March 19, 2024

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– The state-federal Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Clay County will be closed Tuesday, March 19, 2024, due to forecast inclement weather. 

The Mobile Disaster Recovery Center will reopen at 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 20, 2024.

The center is located at:

  1. Clay County Disaster Recovery Center

223 Main Street Clay, WV 25043

Hours of operation:

Closed Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Reopening 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Centers in Harrison and Kanawha counties will be open on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. to assist survivors. Find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center by calling 800-621-3362 or going online to www.fema.gov/drc

If it is not possible to visit a Disaster Recovery Center or to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

  1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
tiana.suber Tue, 03/19/2024 - 20:06
tiana.suber

DHS, FEMA and HHS Announce Completion of Multi-Year Review of State Efforts to Provide Language Access During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

1 week 1 day ago
DHS, FEMA and HHS Announce Completion of Multi-Year Review of State Efforts to Provide Language Access During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (HHS OCR), U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (DHS CRCL), and the FEMA Office of Equal Rights (OER) has announced the successful completion of a language access compliance review of COVID-19 public health messaging in 19 states. This review included trainings and technical assistance for the states to ensure vital public health resources are available to people with limited English proficiency (LEP). These trainings help build skilled emergency management workforces that are better able to meet the needs of the communities they serve.  

“Language access is a vital component of the federal government’s commitment to equity,” said Leslie Saucedo, Director of FEMA OER. “FEMA is focused on the fair, just and impartial treatment of all individuals, including those whose primary language is not English.”

The agencies initiated the review in response to National Health Law Program (NHeLP) concerns alleging that, in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, individuals with LEP in 19 states had not received meaningful language access to COVID-19 services during the public health emergency. Understanding that language barriers can pose significant challenges during times of crisis, HHS OCR, DHS CRCL and FEMA OER responded to NHeLP’s concerns by requesting and reviewing data from each state, and by developing and presenting webinars on language access to the 19 states’ emergency management or public health agencies during the winter of 2022 and spring of 2023. The states reviewed were California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington. 

“Extensive data shows there’s a lack of meaningful language access across the country and that can lead to inequitable access to health care and impact health outcomes,” said Melanie Fontes Rainer, Director of HHS OCR.  “If you can’t communicate with your doctor or state health official at a testing site, how are you supposed to understand the severity of what’s happening to you or what is needed to make you feel better?  It’s critical that states do their part to meet the needs of their communities, which includes language services. This is a top priority for HHS.”

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin (including persons with LEP) and requires covered entities, such as state and local government entities receiving federal financial assistance, to provide meaningful language access to individuals with LEP. This longstanding obligation cannot be waived and is especially important during public health emergencies or major disasters.

“I’m grateful for the collaboration with HHS OCR and FEMA OER in conducting this compliance review focused on ensuring that persons who are limited English proficient receive meaningful access to federally assisted programs and activities related to the COVID-19 response,” said Shoba Sivaprasad Wadhia, DHS Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. “I also wish to express my appreciation to NHeLP for bringing concerns about language access in the COVID-19 response to our attention.”  

The training highlighted effective practices states have employed to meet their language access obligations under Title VI, such as:

  • Planning ahead to serve LEP communities during public health emergencies and major disasters
  • Identifying LEP populations and the most common languages spoken
  • Engaging with community-based organizations
  • Providing high-quality language services
  • Offering print materials in other languages 
  • Ensuring that individuals with LEP know how to request print materials in other languages
  • Minimizing use of machine translations and utilizing qualified human translators to review any machine translations before posting to ensure accuracy of translated information  

In addition to the training, HHS OCR, DHS CRCL, and FEMA OER sent technical assistance letters to remind the state emergency management or public health agencies that their Title VI obligations, including language services, apply not only to direct recipients of federal funding, but also extend to subrecipients of federal funding. Thus, if states rely on subrecipients as part of their pandemic response efforts, they are responsible for the subrecipients’ compliance with Title VI language access requirements. As a result of the compliance review by the agencies, over 10,900 state agencies and subrecipients of those agencies received and reviewed the agencies’ training materials. 

The webinar, Language Access During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Other Health Emergencies, and more information about Title VI language access obligations can be found on the DHS Civil Rights Resources for Recipients of DHS Financial Assistance webpage under the Recipient Resources menu as well as on HHS OCR’s “Special Topic” webpage devoted to LEP resources. All state and community officials are encouraged to use these resources to examine and enhance their program accessibility for individuals with LEP.

Recipients of federal financial assistance who would like to receive language access training may contact HHS OCR at LanguageAccess@hhs.gov, DHS CRCL at TitleVILanguageAccess@hq.dhs.gov, or FEMA OER at FEMA-EqualRights@fema.dhs.gov.

Individuals who would like to file a civil rights complaint are encouraged to visit: Filing a Complaint | HHS.gov ; HHS.gov/LEP; email: OCRComplaint@hhs.gov; or call 1-800-368-1019; Make a Civil Rights Complaint | Homeland Security (dhs.gov); email: CRCLCompliance@hq.dhs.gov; visit: External Civil Rights Division | FEMA.gov; or email: FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov

erika.suzuki Tue, 03/19/2024 - 14:39
erika.suzuki

Costs for Hosting Fire Evacuees May be Reimbursed

1 week 1 day ago
Costs for Hosting Fire Evacuees May be Reimbursed

SANTA FE, N.M. -- The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office may reimburse individuals for some costs incurred for hosting fire evacuees between April 6, 2022, and November 14, 2022. Compensation for hosting fire evacuees is separate than compensation provided to evacuees for their evacuation. The host’s compensation does not impact an evacuee’s ability to file for evacuation compensation.

The evacuee’s residence must have been unlivable or inaccessible due to mandatory evacuation orders, blocked access, fire and smoke damage, flood damage, or utility outages.

Examples of costs associated with hosting evacuees include food, utilities, increased mileage or gas used for transporting evacuees, toiletries, clothing, mattresses, linens, pet food, and other supplies. These costs apply from the day evacuees moved into a host home, until they found other housing or returned to their home, as long as that was before November 14, 2022.

Hosts are encouraged to meet with a Claims Office Navigator to complete a worksheet and provide details such as the name, age, and gender of each evacuee, dates evacuees were hosted, and any additional expenses. The information provided will be applied to the Claims Office’s standard rate calculator to calculate the available compensation. The standard rate calculator reduces the amount of documentation needed to seek reimbursement. If the host spent more money than determined by the standard rate calculator, they may submit documentation for actual costs. 

The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. More than $455 million in payments have been approved. FEMA is only permitted to pay claims that have a signed Proof of Loss form and supporting documentation. Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is welcome to visit any one of our three Claims Offices. Visit fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak/contact-us for locations and hours.

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. Follow our Facebook page at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice/ and turn on notifications to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements.

erika.suzuki Tue, 03/19/2024 - 14:09
erika.suzuki

ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Calls for Collaboration in Building a Resilient Nation at National Emergency Management Association Conference

1 week 2 days ago
ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Calls for Collaboration in Building a Resilient Nation at National Emergency Management Association Conference

WASHINGTON – Yesterday, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell addressed the nation’s emergency managers at the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA)’s 2024 Mid-Year Forum in Washington, D.C. In her speech, she celebrated NEMA’s 50th anniversary and the long-standing partnership between the emergency management organizations. As the role of emergency managers continues to shift to meet changing needs of the nation, Administrator Criswell called for resilience-focused collaboration to find ways to “equitably deliver our resources to communities before they need them.”

From the accident at Three Mile Island in 1979 to the COVID-19 pandemic, the field of emergency management has evolved through the decades. Emergency managers are called upon to respond to more and more incidents and a variety of natural and man-made hazards. The profession is no longer expected to just pick up the pieces; emergency mangers are expected to be there before, during and after disaster strikes. 

“You, the state emergency managers are on the frontline!” said Administrator Criswell. “If we’re going to prepare our communities for a future driven by climate change, then we need to invest in hazard mitigation before a disaster even strikes. This is our “Year of Resilience.” And we want to be your partners in this critical work, because you are the backbone of emergency management. As state directors, you know your communities best -- you’re ready to do what it takes to keep people safe.” 

Communities across the nation have been, and continue to be, tested by natural hazards and adversaries looking to do harm. Amidst these challenges, there are stories of how thoughtful planning helped a family, a neighborhood or a community. Administrator Criswell underscored the critical importance of fostering robust partnerships to leverage resources, share best practices and break down barriers in order to enhance resilience and safeguard communities nationwide. 

Read Administrator Criswell’s full speech at Administrator Criswell's Remarks at the National Emergency Management Association 2024 Mid-Year Forum.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 03/18/2024 - 20:10
amy.ashbridge

FEMA Funds Promote the Study of Puerto Rico’s Ecosystem

1 week 3 days ago
FEMA Funds Promote the Study of Puerto Rico’s Ecosystem

The agency awarded funds to the Jobos Bay Natural Reserve and the Cambalache Species Refuge

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources’ (DNER) Jobos Bay, located between the municipalities of Salinas and Guayama, is much more than a nature reserve where flora and fauna coexist in harmony. It is the only national estuarine research reserve in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, and one of only 30 in the United States and its territories, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

The strong winds of Hurricane María destabilized the ecological balance of the reserve, but time and nature's own regenerative power helped it resurge. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has complemented this effort by allocating over $462,000 to the DNER to repair structures and technology that support the mission of this research center. 

“Aside from being an eco-tourism destination, Jobos Bay contributes to the management and conservation of the nation's network of estuarine reserves. This funding allocation helps the reserve improve its facilities and acquire the necessary equipment to continue its scientific and educational mission,” said FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The reserve has a dual function: it is a scientific research laboratory and a wildlife monitoring center. Aitza E. Pabón Valentín, director and manager of the Jobos Bay National Reserve and Estuarine Research, said that they study changes in vegetation, the behavior of endemic species and phenomena related to climate change.

“We have a station that we call the sentinel. From there, we measure ground pressure, water inflow and changes in vegetation every month. The theory is — and one can already see it — that the habitats are migrating inland. That is, the mangrove forest is moving inland as the sea level rises. We are quantifying that effect of climate change,” said Pabón Valentín.

The facilities also have an educational function aimed at the conservation of the reserve's marine and terrestrial ecosystems, which is undertaken in collaboration with local and federal agencies, schools, universities and community groups.

“We have several ongoing scientific investigations. One student is working on her doctoral work with the populations of Cassiopeas, which are marine jellyfish. We have work that the Natural Resources Conservation Service of the Department of Agriculture is doing on the seafloor census and others related to sea weeds, and we are monitoring migratory and local birds,” the director said. 

Meanwhile, the training coordinator of the DNER’s coastal program and environmental scientist Jimmy Peña added that, in addition to studying phenomena related to climate change, the reserve also has a function aimed at rehabilitating the estuary.

“Although people and tourism are welcome, (the reserve) is based on research. We develop mangrove growth scientifically, that's why we have the different stages of mangrove development,” Peña said. “The juvenile mangroves are being used to restore the coast of Mata la Gata Island, but also to restore other places.” To date they have planted more than 4,000 juvenile mangrove trees.      

The reserve’s Visitors Center is located in what was once the Aguirre Sugar Plantation Clubhouse and currently serves as a laboratory where field samples obtained from the bay are analyzed. Meanwhile, the cultural activities center was built in the old Aguirre train station. 

FEMA’s allocation contemplates repairing the walls and roofs of both buildings, as well as the observation towers, wooden gazebos and a boardwalk. The Wi-Fi antennas, which are vital for the collection and dissemination of investigative data, will also be repaired.

Moreover, the agency also allocated over $509,000 to repair the Cambalache Species Refuge, a detention center located in Arecibo that houses exotic animals brought illegally to Puerto Rico. The shelter currently houses different types of mammals, reptiles — including alligators, crocodiles and snakes — and several species of birds.   

Repairs scheduled for the Species Refuge include work on the main office, repair of electrical infrastructure, and replacement of fixtures and the water cistern. Several species cages will also be repaired and replaced, including the reptile terrarium and the bird and mammal cages. 

The two DNER projects have hazard mitigation funds: over $127,000 for the Jobos Bay Estuarine Research Center and nearly $47,000 for the Cambalache Species Refuge, to address water infiltration problems in the roofs, doors and windows, and to add additional protection to the electrical systems. 

Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “DNER’s permanent works are important and very particular because they are aimed at restoring facilities that seek to preserve natural resources for scientific purposes or for the use and enjoyment of the people, as is the case of these projects to which FEMA allocated funds. Currently, the DNER has 155 projects in design acquisition process, design or construction bidding, with investments totaling $90.8 million. We will continue to support the DNER throughout the required process for these projects in Salinas and Guayama to begin development soon.”

To date, FEMA has allocated over $32.4 billion for more than 10,900 projects that will address damages following Hurricane María. Of these, the DNER has nearly $152 million from the agency for permanent works to repair its infrastructure.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRicoFacebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Salinas, PR

SALINAS, Puerto Rico (March 1, 2024) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated over $462,000 to the PR Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) to repair structures and technology that support the mission of the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández

Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Salinas, PR

SALINAS, Puerto Rico (March 1, 2024) – The Jobos Bay is the only national estuarine research reserve in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, and one of only 30 in the United States and its territories, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The facilities also have an educational function aimed at the conservation of the reserve's marine and terrestrial ecosystems, which is undertaken in collaboration with local and federal agencies, schools, universities and community groups. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 03/18/2024 - 12:22
frances.acevedo-pico

Three Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open March 18

1 week 3 days ago
Three Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open March 18

LANSING, Mich. – Three Disaster Recovery Centers in Saranac, Detroit and Gibraltar are set to open at 8 a.m., Monday, March 18, 2024, at the following locations

Ionia County:

Boston Township Hall​

30 Center St. 

Saranac, MI 48881

 

Wayne County (Detroit):

Kemeny Recreation Center

2260 S. Fort St.

Detroit, MI 48217

 

Wayne County (South East):

Gibraltar City Hall

29450 Munro St.

Gibraltar, MI 48173

 

Regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays. 

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.govor download the FEMA App.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

darrell.habisch Sun, 03/17/2024 - 21:30
darrell.habisch

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Wrangell Cooperative Association

1 week 4 days ago
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Wrangell Cooperative Association

WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Wrangell Cooperative Association to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm, landslides and mudslides on Nov. 20, 2023. 

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Wrangell Cooperative Association. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. 

Federal funding is also available to the Wrangell Cooperative Association and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures. 

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Wrangell Cooperative Association. 

Brian F. Schiller has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

luther.wills-dudich Sat, 03/16/2024 - 22:29
luther.wills-dudich

More Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open; Others to Close March 16

1 week 4 days ago
More Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open; Others to Close March 16

LANSING, Mich. – Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open at 8 a.m., Monday, March 18, in 

Ionia, Wayne (Detroit) and Wayne (South East). Locations will be announced soon.

The deadline to apply for assistance is Monday, April 8, 2024.

The recovery centers in Canton, Lansing, Comstock Park and Monroe will close permanently at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 16, 2024. 

Regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, except for the Wayne County (South East) center, which closes at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays. 

The centers closing March 16 are at these locations:

Wayne County (Canton West Central):

Canton Human Services Building

50430 School House Road

Canton, MI 48187

Eaton County:

Lansing Community College –West Campus

5708 Cornerstone Drive

Lansing, MI 48917

Kent County: 

Henze Community Center

In the Alpine Township Fire Station #1

1100 Henze St. NW

Comstock Park, MI 49321

Monroe County: 

Frenchtown Township Fire Dept.

2885 Nadeau Road

Monroe, MI 48162

 

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.govor download the FEMA App.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757

darrell.habisch Sat, 03/16/2024 - 14:37
darrell.habisch

FEMA is Hiring in Michigan

1 week 5 days ago
FEMA is Hiring in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. – FEMA, in partnership with the state of Michigan, is hiring state residents in Grand Rapids, Lansing and Detroit to assist with recovery from the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

FEMA is currently seeking local candidates for positions within the agency’s Operations, Logistics, Planning, Voluntary Agency Liaison (VAL) and Interagency Recovery Coordination (IRC) sections. More positions may be added later.

The initial appointment of 120 days can be extended or reduced dependent on mission needs. Federal benefits are offered, such as: Eligible Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) enrollment; federal holiday pay; and accruing four hours of sick leave per pay period. 

Local hires provide an economic stimulus to communities where jobs have been lost due to the August disaster and help augment FEMA’s disaster workforce.

Working with FEMA will allow Michigan residents to help their neighbors with their recovery. Hiring locally is part of FEMA’s commitment to the community. And hiring locally helps build America’s disaster recovery workforce: many current FEMA employees started as local hires after major disasters in their states.

To learn more and apply, visit this link: USAJobs - Search. Or visit USAJobs.gov, then search for “FEMA” under “Keywords” and “Michigan” under “Location.”

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757

kirsten.chambers Fri, 03/15/2024 - 22:41
kirsten.chambers

More Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open; Others to Close March 16

1 week 5 days ago
More Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open; Others to Close March 16

LANSING, Mich. – Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open at 8 a.m., Monday, March 18, in 

Ionia, Wayne (Detroit) and Wayne (South East). Locations will be announced soon.

The deadline to apply for assistance is Monday, April 8, 2024.

The recovery centers in Canton, Lansing, Comstock Park and Monroe will close permanently at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 16, 2024. 

Regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, except for the Wayne County (South East) center, which closes at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays. 

The centers closing March 16 are at these locations:

Wayne County (Canton West Central):

Canton Human Services Building

50430 School House Road

Canton, MI 48187

 

Eaton County:

Lansing Community College –West Campus

5708 Cornerstone Drive

Lansing, MI 48917

 

Kent County: 

Henze Community Center

In the Alpine Township Fire Station #1

1100 Henze St. NW

Comstock Park, MI 49321

 

Monroe County: 

Frenchtown Township Fire Dept.

2885 Nadeau Road

Monroe, MI 48162

 

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

kirsten.chambers Fri, 03/15/2024 - 21:47
kirsten.chambers
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