May 2007

Disaster Recovery Center To Open In Salina

WICHITA, Kan. — A Disaster Recovery Center will open at 1 p.m. Friday, June 1, in Salina, Saline County. [more]

Mobile Recovery Centers Move Through Disaster Areas

SCARBOROUGH, Maine — Several mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are moving through disaster-affected communities to assist individuals and business owners affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred April 15-23. [more]

Disaster Recovery Center To Remain Open In Great Bend

WICHITA, Kan. — The mobile Disaster Recovery Center operated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in Great Bend will now be open as long as there is a need in Barton County. [more]

Free Counseling Available For Storm Stress

WICHITA, Kan. — Free crisis counseling is available to Kansans who may be suffering stress, anxiety or depression as a result of the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding which hit the state from May 4-18. [more]

Experts to Offer Valuable Mitigation Information

EAGLE PASS, Texas — As Texans begin to repair and rebuild their homes and businesses, damaged by April's destructive storms and tornadoes, they can get free advice from the experts on how to rebuild stronger and safer. [more]

Business Owners Should Prepare in Advance for Disasters

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — When the next flood or other disaster strikes, getting your company back to business quickly may depend on emergency planning done today. "Planning for disasters, natural or manmade, will help protect your business investment and give your company a better chance for survival," said Peter J. Martinasco, federal coordinating officer for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]

Disaster Recovery Centers Open

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FEMA Approves Fire Management Assistance Grant For Florida?s Okeechobee Fire Complex; Ninth This Year In Region

ATLANTA, Ga. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to reimburse costs to Florida to fight the Okeechobee Fire Complex in Glades, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties. [more]

$5.2 Million To Help New Hampshire Recover From April Nor'easter

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — In the one month that has passed since President Bush declared a major disaster for New Hampshire on April 27, more than $5.2 million in grants and low interest disaster loans have been approved to help New Hampshire residents recover, according to figures released today by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM). [more]

New Orleans City Park Rebuilds With FEMA Funding

NEW ORLEANS, La. — By now, it is no secret how much damage Hurricane Katrina caused the state of Louisiana in the summer of 2005, and few places suffered more extensive damages than City Park. With funds recently obligated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the park continues with its recovery process. [more]

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center To Open At Ottawa Lake

WICHITA, Kan. — A federal-state Disaster Recovery Center will open Thursday to help Kansans in Ottawa County affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from May 4 through 18. [more]

Disaster Assistance Expands to Individuals in Nine Counties

WICHITA, Kan. — Homeowners, renters and business owners in Clay, Cloud, Comanche, Leavenworth, Lyon, Reno, Rice, Saline and Shawnee counties who suffered damage as a result of the early May severe storms, tornadoes and flooding are now eligible to apply for federal disaster assistance. [more]

Everyone Lives In a Flood Zone

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — Many people think that if they do not live near a river or the coast, they are not in danger of flooding – not true. In recent years, remnants of tropical storms, dam failures, land development runoff and heavy spring and summer rainfalls have caused serious flood damage across New Hampshire. Everyone lives in a potential flood zone, and most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. [more]

Within Four Weeks- More Than $6.3 Million Has Been Approved For Disaster Assistance

EAGLE PASS, Texas — Four weeks since President Bush signed a disaster declaration for the Texas counties affected by the severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24, more than $6.3 million in disaster aid has been approved for residents and businesses. [more]

New Task Orders Being Awarded on Second Year of Contracts for Mobile Home and Travel Trailer Maintenance and Deactivation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that progress in the Gulf Coast region?s recovery has reduced the need for ongoing maintenance and support of temporary housing, and as a result, the agency is streamlining its contract support for the mission. A reduction in task orders for maintenance and deactivation of temporary housing will both save money, and still provide for continued support commensurate to the needs of the Gulf Coast states. [more]

Cactus Disaster Recovery Center to End Operations on Saturday But Help Continues to Be Available

EAGLE PASS, Texas — After successfully serving more than 450 storm victims, the Cactus Disaster Recovery Center will end operations at 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 2. The center, located at the Cactus Community Center on North Dr. and Sherri St., will remain open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. until the Saturday closure. [more]

FEMA Trains 700 Responders on Homeland Security Equipment at New Orleans Conference

WASHINGTON, D.C. — More than 700 emergency responders from 47 states and Puerto Rico will travel to New Orleans this week to receive training on equipment their departments will receive through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency's Fiscal Year 2006 Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP). This includes representatives from 19 departments who will receive accelerated training and equipment delivery because they are located in areas at high risk for hurricanes, tornados, or wildfires. [more]

Hurricane Season Begins - FEMA Urges Personal Preparedness and Responsibility

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Fortunately last year’s hurricane season proved uneventful. However, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) wants residents living in hurricane prone areas not to be caught off guard for this year’s season. The agency urges residents to prepare now for their personal safety and survival so they are ready in case a hurricane threatens their community. June 1 is the start of hurricane season and a good time to begin preparing before a storm threatens. [more]

Registration Is First Step To Recovery

URBANDALE, Iowa — Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division (HSEMD) and the U.S Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continue to encourage residents affected by the severe storms, flooding and tornadoes from May 5 -7, 2007 to apply for federal and state disaster assistance. On May 25, the President declared that individuals living in Cass, Fremont, Harrison, Ida, Mills, Montgomery, Page, Pottawattamie, Shelby, Taylor and Union counties are eligible for federal disaster aid. [more]

Federal Emergency Management Agency Launches Call Center, Web Site for Flood Map Information

BILOXI, Miss. — Property owners in Jackson, Harrison and Hancock Counties are getting two new resources-a call center and a Web site- that will provide them with information on the work being done to produce the Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps (DFIRMs) being released later this year. Both are being rolled out June 4 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]

Get The Real Disaster Aid Facts - Beware Of Misinformation

EAGLE PASS, Texas — In the days and weeks following a disaster, residents may be misled by half-truths and rumors concerning recovery help. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Governor?s Division of Emergency Management, the best way to avoid misinformation is to verify facts with a responsible source. Below are some of the most common untruths along with the real facts. [more]

Federal Aid Programs For Iowa Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration for Iowa. [more]

FEMA Approves Adding Fire, County To Fire Management Assistance Grant Calloosahatchee Fire Complex

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved the addition of a third Florida county to an existing Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). [more]

Federal Aid Programs For Rhode Island Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration issued for Rhode Island. [more]

Federal Aid Programs For Iowa Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration for Iowa. [more]

President Declares Major Disaster For Iowa

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Iowa to help people and communities recover from the effects of severe storms, flooding and tornadoes during the period of May 5-7, 2007. [more]

President Declares Major Disaster For Rhode Island

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for Rhode Island to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and inland and coastal flooding during the period of April 15 -16, 2007. [more]

Kansas Disaster Aid Tops $10 Million

WICHITA, Kan. ?- Disaster assistance in the form of grants and loans adds up to more than $10 million for Kansas. [more]

President Declares Major Disaster for Kentucky

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for Kentucky to supplement commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, flooding, mudslides and rockslides during the period of April 14 -15, 2007. [more]

Federal Aid Programs For Kentucky Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush’s major disaster declaration issued for Kentucky. [more]

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center To Open In Great Bend

WICHITA, Kan. ? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will open a mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Great Bend, Barton County, at 10 a.m. Sunday, May 27, in the Great Bend High School parking lot, 1800 Morton St. [more]

Federal Disaster Aid To West Virginia Tops $5 Million

CROSS LANES, W. Va. — Delivering aid quickly to affected West Virginia communities, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has obligated more than $5 million in Public Assistance (PA) funding. These funds will help repair and replace public infrastructure in 18 West Virginia counties damaged during mid-April storms, mudslides and flooding. [more]

FEMA Approves Adding Fire, County To Fire Management Assistance Grant Calloosahatchee Fire Complex

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved the addition of a third Florida county to an existing Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). [more]

More Than $21 Million Approved for NJ Residents

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Individuals and businesses affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred in April, have 30 days remaining to apply for state and federal disaster assistance before the June 25 deadline. [more]

FEMA Warns Of Possible Scams, Illegal Activity in Housing Sales Program

Biloxi, Miss. — Officials at FEMA's Transitional Recovery Office (TRO) in Biloxi are warning occupants of FEMA-provided travel trailers and mobile homes that a scam associated with the sale of these temporary housing units may be underway. [more]

Disaster Recovery Centers to Open in Oxford and Lincoln Counties

SCARBOROUGH, Maine ? Officials from Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be opening two additional Disaster Recovery Centers in Lincoln and Oxford counties next week to assist individuals and business owners impacted by the severe storms and flooding that occurred April 15-23. The centers will be at: [more]

Stay in Touch with FEMA

EAGLE PASS, Texas — Recovery officials want to remind those who have registered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to keep in touch and report any changes in their status or personal information. [more]

FEMA Funds Repairs To Wastewater Lagoon

DENTON, TEXAS ? The U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced it has obligated over $1 million to the State of New Mexico for repairs to the Skyline Lagoon, Pueblo of Acoma, in Cibola County. The wastewater lagoon was damaged by the heavy rains and flooding that took place in late July 2006. [more]

New Hours For Disaster Recovery Centers, Closed On Memorial Day

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The state/federal Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in New Jersey will be closed on Monday, May 28, for the Memorial Day holiday. To date, more than 3,300 New Jersey residents affected by the April nor'easter storm have visited one of the 12 DRCs statewide, said officials at the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]

Paterson Recovery Center Transitions to Loan Outreach Center

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The state/federal Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Thomas Roger Building, 2 Market Street , 2nd Floor, in Paterson will transition to a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) beginning Friday, May 25, federal and state disaster officials announced today. The DLOC will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday until further notice, but will be closed Monday, May 28 for Memorial Day. [more]

North Louisiana Parishes Receive Funding for Planning Grants

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently approved funding to update existing hazard mitigation plans for eight Louisiana parishes ? Bienville, Caldwell, Catahoula, LaSalle, Madison, Ouachita, Richland and Winn. [more]

Orleans Parish Prison Restoration Gets FEMA's Financial Backing

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The ongoing restoration of the Orleans Parish Prison in New Orleans has gained a foothold. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has recently obligated funds to repair the four-story building, which became uninhabitable after Hurricane Katrina flooded it with five feet of water. [more]

Non-Profit, State and Federal Partners Want You to Be Ready

BILOXI, Miss. — With June 1 right around the corner, everyone should take the necessary steps to prepare for hurricane season. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) remind all Mississippians to take advantage of valuable disaster preparedness resources available to the community. [more]

Caregivers And Disaster Planning: It?s All About Details

BILOXI, Miss. — Some say the devil is in the details. For caregivers of those with disabilities or special needs, it’s the attention given to details that makes a good disaster plan for the approaching hurricane season. [more]

President Declares Major Disaster For South Dakota

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of South Dakota to help people and communities recover from the effects of severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding beginning on May 4, 2007, and continuing. [more]

Federal Aid Programs For South Dakota Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush?s major disaster declaration for South Dakota. [more]

Lumberton Recovery Center Transitions to Loan Outreach Center

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The state/federal Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Lumberton Municipal Bldg. Parking Lot, 34 Municipal Drive, in Lumberton, will transition to a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) beginning Friday, May 25, federal and state disaster officials announced today. The DLOC will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday until further notice, but will be closed Monday, May 28 for Memorial Day. [more]

Fond du Lac County Flood Risk Information Open House Scheduled

CHICAGO, Ill. — Representatives from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in conjunction with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), will be hosting a Flood Risk Information Open House on June 12, 2007, starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Fond du Lac City/County Building, 160 South Macy Street in Fond du Lac, Wisc. The Open House will provide county residents with an opportunity to review a recently completed preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and its accompanying preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). [more]

More Disaster Recovery Centers To Open In Maine

SCARBOROUGH, Maine - Officials from Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will open additional Disaster Recovery Centers the last week of May to assist individuals and business owners affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred April 15-23. There will be several mobile facilities that operate for a few days each at multiple locations throughout York and Cumberland counties. A fixed site in each county will also continue to operate. Residents can visit any location that is convenient for them. Current operating hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday for all locations. Effective May 25, hours will change to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday for all locations. All centers will be closed on Memorial Day. [more]

Manville Disaster Recovery Center Closing

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Manville Rescue Squad, 2 South Third Ave., in Manville is closing Thursday, May 24, federal and state disaster officials announced today. The DRC will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, its final day of operation. [more]

Milltown Disaster Recovery Center Closing

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Milltown Borough Park, 71 Violet Terrace in Milltown, is closing Thursday, May 24, federal and state disaster officials announced today. The DRC will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday for its final day of operation. [more]

The Prompt Return of an SBA Application May Help Speed Disaster Aid

EAGLE PASS, Texas — Texans who have applied for disaster assistance and have received U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) forms are encouraged to complete the loan application and return it to SBA as soon as possible. [more]

Disabled, Elderly Need To Prepare For Hurricanes

AUSTIN, Texas — For the millions of Americans who have physical, medical, or other disabilities, emergencies such as hurricanes, floods and tornadoes present a real challenge. The same challenge also applies to the elderly and other special needs populations. [more]

FEMA Study: Ventilating Travel Trailers Can Significantly Reduce Formaldehyde Emission Levels

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) said today that its study of air samples collected from travel trailers in the Gulf shows that formaldehyde emission levels in the units can be significantly reduced through adequate ventilation. [more]

Hurricane Preparedness

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Hurricane Preparedness

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Tulia Disaster Recovery Center to End Operations on Saturday

EAGLE PASS, Texas — After successfully serving more than 125 storm victims, the Tulia Disaster Recovery Center will end operations at 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 26. The center, at Tulia City Hall, 127 SW 2nd St. #300, remains open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Saturday. [more]

Disaster Assistance Update More than $5.1 Million Approved for Disaster Assistance

EAGLE PASS, Texas — State, federal, local officials and voluntary agencies continue to help Texans recover from severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24. To date, more than $5.1 million in disaster aid has been approved for residents and businesses. [more]

Make a Disaster Kit and a Family Plan

BILOXI, Miss. — Governor Haley Barbour declared May 21-25 Hurricane Preparedness Week in Mississippi and this is an excellent time for residents to make sure their home has a disaster supply kit and a family communication plan. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) urge all Mississippians to act now to assemble their family's emergency supplies and develop a plan before the start of the new hurricane season on June 1. [more]

FEMA Approves Over Half Million Dollars In Planning Grants

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently approved funding to update existing hazard mitigation plans for the city of Covington and four Louisiana parishes - Plaquemines, Washington, Vermilion and Terrebonne. [more]

FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Helps Fight Fires and Protect Property in Minnesota

CHICAGO, Ill. — Seven wildfire-focused Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) projects funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in 1999 have proven effective in the fight against the raging fires and protection of homes and businesses in Minnesota's Cook and Lake Counties. [more]

FEMA's Private Property Debris Removal in the State Nears End

NEW ORLEANS, La. — Thirteen parishes affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita have benefited from the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) private property debris removal program. Now, 14 months after the state of Louisiana requested assistance with the effort, FEMA is nearing the completion of this mission. [more]

Disaster Volunteers Arrive Early and Stay Late in Recovery

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. - When the news of flooding from the April nor'easter spread through the volunteer network, the New Hampshire Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NH VOAD) and Operation Disaster Recovery began mobilizing members. They had been through the drill before in the aftermath of the 2006 Mother's Day flooding. They hit the ground running. Meals were served, flooded houses cleaned and, looking ahead, services were being coordinated to support flood victims in the long term. [more]

Misunderstandings May Cause Some New Yorkers To Miss Out On Disaster Assistance

ALBANY, N.Y. — State and federal disaster assistance officials today said that some common misunderstandings about disaster assistance may deprive individuals of vital help from the state and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]

There is Help for Those Coping with Disaster-Related Stress

EAGLE PASS, Texas — The emotional consequences of disasters can be far reaching and long lasting. Stress can surface in many forms, and it often appears weeks or months after the traumatic event, mental health experts say. [more]

DHS Awards Over One Million to Prevent Fire Death and Injury

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today the third round of Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grants, awarding 25 grants totaling over $1.2 million to fire departments and fire prevention organizations throughout the United States. [more]

FEMA and State Alert to Fraud

EAGLE PASS, Texas — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Governor's Division of Emergency Management warn storm and tornado victims to be especially alert to fraud during the recovery process. One type of fraud that may surface after disaster strikes is the improper use of federal and state recovery funds by recipients. [more]

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Trousdale, Edwards County

WICHITA, Kan. — A third federal-state Disaster Recovery Center is now available to help Kansans affected by this month's severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. [more]

FEMA Announces Housing Sales Program

Montgomery, Ala. — The U. S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that eligible FEMA travel trailer occupants may now purchase their unit. As part of the recent announcement to extend housing assistance past August 31, 2007, FEMA also announced it would begin selling travel trailers to current occupants of these units. The "Sales to Occupants" program allows families currently living in FEMA temporary housing units to purchase them. [more]

Use Disaster Funds Wisely

EAGLE PASS, Texas — As storm victims begin to receive disaster assistance checks, federal and state officials want to remind them to use the money carefully. Thus far, more than $3.3 million in federal grants has been approved for the victims of the severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24. [more]

FEMA Announces Travel Trailer Sales Program To Occupants in Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched a sales program that will give eligible occupants the opportunity to buy their travel trailer, park model or mobile home. [more]

Federal/State Disaster Recovery Centers Change Hours

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. - As disaster recovery progresses in the communities affected by April's nor'easter, the operating hours for FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers are changing to reflect the lessening level of activity. So far, more than 500 people have visited the centers to talk with recovery officials and get help completing U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loan applications. [more]

Applicants May Appeal Denial Letters

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Applicants who received a denial letter stating that they are ineligible for disaster assistance can follow a process to appeal this decision, said recovery officials at the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]

Disaster Assistance Update More Than $3.6 Million Approved For Disaster Assistance

EAGLE PASS, Texas — State, federal, local officials, and voluntary agencies continue to help Texans, affected by the severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24, recover. To date, more than $3.4 million in disaster aid has been approved for residents and businesses. [more]

FEMA Public Assistance To West Virginia Tops $1.5 Million

CROSS LANES, W.Va. — Within two weeks of the disaster declaration, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency has obligated more than $1.5 million in federal funding to help West Virginia repair and replace public facilities damaged during mid-April flooding, landslides and mudslides. President Bush declared a major disaster in seven West Virginia counties on May 1, and 11 additional counties were made eligible for assistance on May 12. [more]

Disaster Recovery Centers To Open In Cumberland County

SCARBOROUGH, Maine ? Officials from Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will open Disaster Recovery Centers to assist individuals and business owners affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred April 15-23. There will be several mobile facilities that operate for a few days each at multiple locations throughout Cumberland County as well as a fixed site. Residents can visit any location that is convenient for them. Operating hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday for all locations. [more]

Register With FEMA Even If You Have Insurance

EAGLE PASS, Texas — If the severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24 did more damage to your personal or business property than your insurance will cover, or if you had no insurance at all, you may be eligible for a variety of state and federal disaster aid programs. The vital key is to register with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by calling 1-800-621-3362 or TTY 1-800-462-7585. You can also register online at www.fema.gov. [more]

Disaster Recovery Centers To Open In Maine

SCARBOROUGH, Maine ? Officials from Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will open Disaster Recovery Centers to assist individuals and business owners affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred April 15-23. There will be several mobile facilities that operate for a few days each at multiple locations throughout York and Cumberland counties as well as a fixed site in each county. Residents can visit any location that is convenient for them. Operating hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday for all locations. [more]

Federal Aid Programs For Connecticut Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration for Connecticut. [more]

President Declares Major Disaster For Connecticut

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Connecticut to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding during the period of April 15-27, 2007. [more]

Federal Government Stands Ready to Support Missouri Flooding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other federal agencies are in close coordination with Missouri state emergency management officials and local officials as they respond to flooding resulting from severe storms on May 5 and continuing. [more]

Is FEMA Ready?

In the short time since R. David Paulison was confirmed as FEMA’s new Administrator last summer, the agency has made major improvements in our communications, logistics, customer service and financial controls. The New FEMA is stronger and more nimble. [more]

Disaster Recovery Center To Open In Belknap County

Posted 2 days ago

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More than $2.2 Million in the Hands of Disaster Victims

EAGLE PASS, Texas — In a short ten days since the federal disaster declaration of May 1, more than $2.2 million in housing funds has been distributed to applicants. [more]

DHS Awards Over $2 Million To Prevent Fire Death And Injury

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today the second round of Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grants, awarding 29 grants totaling over $2 million to fire departments and fire prevention organizations throughout the United States. [more]

Disaster Assistance In New Hampshire Expanded For Belknap And Coös Counties

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. - Disaster assistance for Belknap County is now available to help homeowners, renters and business owners recover from the effects of the severe storms and flooding that occurred April 15 ? April 23, according to officials from Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM). In addition, disaster assistance for state and local governments and certain private non-profits in Coös County has been approved, making communities in all New Hampshire counties eligible for assistance to rebuild or repair facilities damaged by the April nor'easter. [more]

Decreasing Future Flood Damage Can Be Easy And Inexpensive

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. - As New Hampshire residents continue repairing damage from April's nor'easter, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) wants you to know it can be simple and relatively inexpensive to make improvements to your homes and businesses that will help prevent future damage when a similar flooding event occurs. [more]

FEMA Expands Disaster Declaration in West Virginia

CROSS LANES, W. Va. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management announced today that 11 additional counties affected by the mid-April storms that caused severe flooding, landslides, and mudslides are now eligible for disaster Public Assistance. [more]

Disaster Unemployment Aid Available to Workers in Maverick, Moore, Swisher and Denton Counties

EAGLE PASS, Texas — Workers in Maverick, Moore, and Swisher counties, who were affected by severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24, have until June 2, 2007, to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) under the Presidential Disaster Declaration of May 1. Those in Denton have a deadline of June 7 to apply for DUA. [more]

FEMA Approves Fire Management Assistance Grant for Georgia's Bugaboo Scrub Fire; Fourth Of Spring in Georgia

ATLANTA, Ga. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to reimburse costs to Georgia to fight the Bugaboo Scrub Fire in Charlton County. [more]

FEMA Approves Fire Management Assistance Grant For Florida's Calloosahatchee Fire Complex; Fifth Of Spring In Florida

ATLANTA, Ga. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to reimburse costs to Florida to fight the Calloosahatchee Fire Complex in Lee and Collier counties. [more]

FEMA/State Assistance Program Can Help Those Affected by April Storms

EAGLE PASS, Texas — The Governor's Division of Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) want to help those who were affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding of April 21-24. [more]

Community Relations Teams Blanket Storm-Damaged Counties

EAGLE PASS, Texas — Community Relations (CR) teams comprised of state, local volunteers and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) personnel are busy reaching out to those affected by the severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24. [more]

FEMA Approves Over $1 Million In Planning Grants For Nine Louisiana Parishes

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently approved funding to update existing hazard mitigation plans in nine Louisiana parishes ? Lincoln, St. James, Union, St. Martin, Livingston, Ascension, Avoyelles, East Feliciana and West Feliciana. [more]

FEMA, SEMO And NYC Send Mobile Disaster Recovery Center To Staten Island

ALBANY, N.Y. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), New York State Emergency Management Office (SEMO) and the City of New York have opened a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Staten Island to provide face-to-face assistance to those affected by the April 14-18 nor?easter. The mobile unit was opened today at noon at 4434 Amboy Road, Staten Island 10312, and will remain open through Tuesday, May 15. [more]

Hudson County Disaster Recovery Center Moves

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The state/federal Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) located at the Secaucus Municipal Building will close on Wednesday, May 9 and a new DRC will open Thursday, May 10 at the Mary McLeod Bethune Life Center in Jersey City. The new DRC, located at 132-150 Martin Luther King Drive, will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, until further notice, said officials at the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]

Hurricane Katrina/Rita Student Recoupment Modification

FEMA has reviewed and modified its guidance for recoupment of funds from students who resided in university or college-owned dormitories affected by Hurricanes Katrina or Rita. As a result, students are eligible for assistance if they can demonstrate that they were housed in dormitories for the major portion of the school year. This new policy applies only to students impacted by Hurricanes Katrina or Rita. [more]

Mold May Be Present from New York Flooding

ALBANY, N.Y. — Mold is an ever-present problem following storm flooding and can be a significant health risk if care is not taken, state and federal officials warn. [more]

Cleaning Up Mold-How to Get Rid of It

ALBANY, N.Y. — Steps can be taken to combat mold growth and its potential to cause serious health problems as well as structural damage to homes, according to officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the New York State Emergency Management Office. [more]

Residents Urged To Beware Of Scam Artists In Flooding Aftermath

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. - State and federal disaster recovery officials advise New Hampshire residents who suffered disaster-related damages following the April flooding to be careful when hiring unknown contractors to clean up and repair their homes and businesses. [more]

Long-Term Tornado Recovery: Local Spirit Keeps The Ball Rolling

CORDELE, Ga. — On a sunny day two months after a killer tornado struck the city of Americus, volunteer recovery efforts there continued showing how a community ravaged by natural disaster can come together to rebuild. [more]

Free Home Cleanup Available For Flood Damage, Call 2-1-1

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Volunteers are on hand to help New Jersey residents clean their flood damaged homes after the April nor'easter storm. Residents in need of assistance should call 2-1-1 to request a free home cleanup. Priority is being given to the elderly, disabled and others who have circumstances that make cleanup difficult, but all who need assistance with flood cleanup are encouraged to call. [more]

More Than $1 Million in Disaster Assistance Approved For New Hampshire Residents

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. ? More than $1 million in disaster assistance has been approved in the ten days since President Bush issued a major disaster declaration for New Hampshire. Assistance is available to individuals and local governments in Grafton, Hillsborough, Merrimack, Rockingham and Strafford counties and to local governments only in Belknap, Carroll, Cheshire and Sullivan counties. [more]

Registering With Voluntary Agencies for Disaster Aid Does Not Register You with FEMA

EAGLE PASS, Texas –It is important to know that if you suffered damages and losses from the severe storms and tornadoes of April 21-24, and registered with any voluntary agency for assistance, it does not register you with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers To Open In The Texas Panhandle

EAGLE PASS, Texas — The Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announce the opening of two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in the Texas Panhandle in Moore and Swisher Counties. [more]

Disaster Assistance for Individuals and Businesses Now Available in Denton County

EAGLE PASS, Texas — Disaster assistance for Denton County, Texas is now available for homeowners, renters and business owners affected by the severe storms of April 21-24, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today. [more]

Disaster Assistance Available for Kansas Residents

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A toll-free application telephone number and on-line registration are now operational for residents in Kiowa County who suffered property damage or losses from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 4 and continuing. [more]