Little Rock, Ark. – Survivors of the April 27 severe storms, tornadoes and floods in Randolph County have until 7 pm on Saturday, May 24 to visit the Disaster Recovery Center at 300 Geneva Dr. in Pocahontas.

State and FEMA personnel closely monitor visitor traffic at all Arkansas disaster recovery centers. Traffic to this center has significantly decreased, indicating the information needs of survivors in the area have been met. 

Survivors can visit the remaining Disaster Recovery Centers at:

  • 600 Highway 365
    Mayflower, AR
  • 1122 Main St.
    Vilonia, AR 72173

Hours for both centers are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday. Both will be closed Monday, May 26, in observance of Memorial Day.

Disaster Recovery Centers gather different state and federal agencies and programs under one roof, offering survivors convenient access to guidance from a number of resources. Recovery centers are one-stop shops for eligible tornado survivors to get help as quickly as possible. Representatives of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available at all DRCs to provide information and answer questions about SBA low-interest disaster recovery loans.

Survivors can continue to register and get information about their applications online at www.disasterassistance.gov or via web-enabled phone at m.fema.gov. They may also call 1-800-621-3362 or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.  Those who use 711 Relay or Video Relay Services may call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.  If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). For TTY call 800-462-7585.

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state’s homeland security and preparedness agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies.  For additional information, contact ADEM at (501) 683-6700 or visit the website at www.adem.arkansas.gov

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Last Chance to Visit FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Pocahontas

JACKSON, Miss. – Survivors have until 6 p.m. Friday, May 23, to visit the disaster recovery centers in Itawamba and Rankin counties. Mississippi disaster survivors can visit any of the disaster recovery centers open in the state. Survivors can also call the FEMA helpline for assistance at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585.) Locations can be found by visiting FEMA.gov/DRCLocator or by calling the FEMA helpline. New schedules for the remaining centers take effect Thursday, May 22.

 

Locations and updated schedules

 

Disaster Recovery Centers Closing Friday, May 23:

Itawamba County

265 Tishtontee Dr., Mantachie, Miss.

8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, May 23.

 

Rankin County

601 Marquette Rd., Brandon, Miss.

8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, May 23.

 

Disaster Recovery Centers Remaining Open:

Jones County

1425 Ellisville Blvd., Laurel, Miss.

8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Wednesday, May 21.

Thereafter, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, closed Sundays.

 

Lee County

320 Court St., Tupelo, Miss.

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, closed Sundays.

 

Lowndes County

222 Lawrence Dr. and 381 Stadium Rd., Columbus, Miss.

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, closed Sundays.

 

Wayne County

810 Chickasawhay St., Waynesboro, Miss.

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, closed Sundays.

 

Winston County

826 S. Church Ave., Louisville, Miss.

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, closed Sundays.

 

Disaster survivors in Itawamba, Jones, Leake, Lee, Lowndes, Madison, Montgomery, Rankin, Simpson, Warren, Wayne and Winston counties may be eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. If possible, they should register for FEMA assistance before visiting a disaster recovery center. At a center they can check on the status of their application and learn about recovery services available from other agencies, including the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Individuals and households in those counties can register for FEMA Individual Assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via smartphone or tablet at m.FEMA.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362). People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY should call 800-462-7585. Lines are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (central time) and assistance is available in multiple languages. FEMA assistance does not affect benefits from other federal programs such as Social Security, SNAP or Medicaid and is not considered taxable income.

For more information on Mississippi disaster recovery, go to fema.gov/disaster/4175. Visit the MEMA site at msema.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/msemaorg.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. 

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). If you have a speech disability or hearing loss and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585 directly; if you use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 800-621-3362.

FEMA’s temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan. However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to SBA loan officers to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.

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Survivors Have Until Friday to Visit Disaster Recovery Centers in Itawamba and Rankin Counties

JACKSON, Miss. Federal assistance approved for disaster survivors in 12 Mississippi counties has reached nearly $7 million.

All emergency shelters have closed and all disaster survivors are currently housed.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is leading a Long-Term Housing Task Force, which includes FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department, along with state and local officials to assess and provide assistance to families with housing needs.

FEMA assistance to individuals is not taxable income and does not affect benefits from other federal programs such as Social Security, SNAP or Medicaid.

Individuals and households with home insurance should register with FEMA now even though they may not immediately qualify for FEMA assistance. Once registered, they will have up to a year to request FEMA assistance to help cover the gap if the insurance proves inadequate. It may be too late to register when the insurance settlement is received. The deadline to register is June 30, 2014.

Here is a summary through Friday, May 16, of all federal assistance to individuals and households in the 12 counties designated for FEMA Individual Assistance as a result of the April 28 through May 3, 2014, storms, tornadoes and flooding.

  • Nearly $7 million in total federal disaster assistance has been approved by FEMA and SBA.
  • Nearly $3.6 million in FEMA Individual Assistance grants has been approved to help Mississippi disaster survivors recover, including:
    • More than $2.7 million approved for housing grants, including short-term rental assistance and home repair costs.
    • Nearly $853,000 approved to help cover other essential disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses and lost personal possessions.
  • Nearly $3.4 million in low-interest disaster loans has been approved by SBA for renters and homeowners.
  • More than 3,900 people have contacted FEMA for help or information regarding disaster assistance.
    • In addition to FEMA grants for individuals and families, other forms of disaster assistance are provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration and other partner agencies such as the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army. FEMA refers some survivors to those agencies.
    • All businesses that contact FEMA are also referred to the SBA.
    • Others may be interested in other programs such as disaster unemployment assistance and disaster legal services.
  • 1,759 home inspections completed.
  • Nearly 3,000 visits to disaster recovery centers by people affected by the disaster.
  • 9 disaster recovery centers are open across the affected areas.
  • FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews assisting survivors have visited 5,452 dwellings and assisted 3,520 survivors.

Disaster survivors in Itawamba, Jones, Leake, Lee, Lowndes, Madison, Montgomery, Rankin, Simpson, Warren, Wayne and Winston counties may be eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

Individuals and households in those counties can register for FEMA Individual Assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via smartphone or tablet at m.FEMA.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362). People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY should call 800-462-7585. Lines are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (central time) and assistance is available in multiple languages. FEMA assistance does not affect benefits from other federal programs such as Social Security, SNAP or Medicaid and is not considered taxable income.

For more information on Mississippi disaster recovery, go to fema.gov/disaster/4175. Visit the MEMA site at msema.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/msemaorg.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. 

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). If you have a speech disability or hearing loss and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585 directly; if you use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 800-621-3362.

FEMA’s temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan. However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to SBA loan officers to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.

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Nearly $7 Million Approved for Mississippi Disaster Survivors

PENSACOLA, Fla. – Additional disaster recovery centers are now open in Okaloosa and Walton counties to assist Florida Panhandle survivors affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

The disaster recovery centers will be open until 5 p.m. today, Saturday, May 17, and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 18.

Beginning Monday, May 19, the centers will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sundays. The centers are located at:

Okaloosa County

Senior Centerview Parks and Recreation

205 Stillwell Blvd.

Crestview, FL 32536

 

Walton County

Community Church of Santa Rosa Beach

3524 U.S. 98

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Specialists from the State Emergency Response Team, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be on hand to answer questions. Survivors will be able to:

Discuss their individual disaster-related needs.

  • Submit any additional documentation needed, such as occupancy or ownership verification documents and letters from insurance companies.
  • Find out the status of an application.
  • Obtain information about different types of state and federal assistance.
  • Get help from SBA specialists in completing low-interest disaster loan applications for homeowners, renters and business owners.
  • Receive referrals to the American Red Cross and other voluntary organizations to help with immediate disaster-related needs.

Before going to a center, if possible, survivors should register with FEMA. Apply for assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via smartphone at m.fema.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362. Survivors who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability can call (TTY) 800-462-7585.

Disaster assistance may include money to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs. Low-interest SBA loans may also be available for losses not covered by insurance or other sources.

For more information on Florida disaster recovery, click fema.gov/disaster/4177. Visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management website at FloridaDisaster.org or Facebook page at facebook.com/FloridaSERT.

Link:  

Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open for Survivors in Okaloosa and Walton Counties

DENTON, Texas – Residents, business and residential renters, and business owners in Bellaire, Texas can now enjoy a 5 to 15 percent reduction in flood insurance premiums because of the city’s active participation in the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS).

This means those policyholders who reside in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) will receive a 15 percent reduction on flood insurance premiums, and policyholders located outside the SFHA will enjoy a 5 percent discount.

In addition to lower premiums, the rating program helps to reduce the threat of damage from flooding, according to officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). “The flood insurance program rewards communities for implementing programs and policies that protect their residents from flooding,” said FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “Bellaire’s higher regulatory standards, public education outreach, drainage system maintenance and effort at developing additional flood data, among other activities, have earned the city lower premiums as a CRS Class 7 Community.”

The reduction in flood insurance premiums represents an annual savings in premium costs for Bellaire policy holders and will take effect at the time a new policy is written or an effective policy is renewed. Those individuals and business owners with a Preferred Risk Policy will not receive premium rate credits under the CRS because it already has a lower premium than other policies.

The city’s participation in the program has been beneficial in many respects. In addition to the reduction in insurance premiums, local officials are more knowledgeable about floodplain management and residents are more knowledgeable about mitigation and flood insurance.    The CRS program has helped make Bellaire a safer place to live, reduced the economic impact of flood hazards and saved their citizens money on flood policy premiums.

CRS is a voluntary program for National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)-participating communities. The intended goals of the CRS are to reduce flood losses; facilitate accurate insurance ratings; and to promote the awareness of flood insurance.  For more information on the NFIP’s CRS program, visit http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program-community-rating-system.

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FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.   Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/femaregion6  and the FEMA Blog at http://blog.fema.gov.

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Bellaire, Texas Celebrates a Safer Community

OKLAHOMA CITY – One year after severe storms and tornadoes, including an EF-5 tornado, devastated the central region of Oklahoma, progress continues to be made for survivors and communities affected.

Millions of dollars in state and federal assistance has helped in repairing and rebuilding homes, businesses and schools damaged by the storms.

To date, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have awarded more than $15 million to eligible survivors in Canadian, Cleveland, Le Flore, Lincoln, McClain, Okfuskee, Okmulgee, Oklahoma and Pottawatomie counties for rental assistance, repair or replacement of damaged homes and other disaster-related needs; the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $50.9 million in low-interest disaster loans to 937 Oklahoma residents and businesses to help with their recovery; and more than $41 million in state and federal aid will pay for emergency protective measures, debris removal, and infrastructure repair and replacement in Atoka, Canadian, Cleveland, Coal, Craig, Haskell, Hughes, Latimer, Lincoln, McClain, McIntosh, Nowata, Okfuskee, Oklahoma, Okmulgee, Ottawa, Pittsburg, Pottawatomie, Pushmataha and Seminole counties.

Also, $3.5 million in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding has already been fast-tracked to support projects designed to help reduce damage in future disasters. This included residential safe room programs, warning systems and other projects.

“The spring of 2013 was a horrific time for Oklahomans, but the hard work and determination we’ve seen in only a year has been amazing,” said OEM Director Albert Ashwood. “We continue to work with FEMA, local emergency managers, other state, local and federal agencies, as well as voluntary organizations and private sector partners to help ensure the best possible recovery for these communities.”

“Oklahomans are a resilient people who come together to support one another when disaster strikes and stay together through both the short- and long-term recovery efforts,” said FEMA R6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “We were proud to work side by side with our local, state, federal, tribal, volunteer and private sector partners during this challenging time.”

The storms of May 18 to June 2, 2013 resulted in a federal disaster declaration on May 20 for Cleveland, Lincoln, McClain, Oklahoma and Pottawatomie counties, while other counties and more FEMA programs were added at later dates. Find more information on the disaster operations at www.oem.ok.gov or www.fema.gov/disaster/4117.

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The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) prepares for, responds to, recovers from and mitigates against emergencies and disasters. The department delivers service to Oklahoma cities, towns and counties through a network of more than 350 local emergency managers.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.   Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/femaregion6 and the FEMA Blog at http://blog.fema.gov.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is the federal government’s primary source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and private nonprofit organizations fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property. These disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.

 

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Disaster Assistance Tops $110 Million One Year after Oklahoma May Tornadoes

OAKLAND, Calif. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California combat the Cocos Fire burning in San Diego County, in the San Marcos community.

On May 14, 2014, the State of California submitted a request for a fire management assistance declaration for the Cocos Fire.  The authorization makes FEMA funding available to reimburse up to 75 percent of the eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling the fire.

At the time of the request, the fire was threatening 1,500 homes in and around the community of San Marcos with a population of 86,752.  Mandatory evacuations due to the Cocos fire are in effect for approximately 6,000 people. The fire started on May 14, 2014 and has burned in excess of 200 acres of state and private land.

The President’s Disaster Relief Fund provides funding for federal fire management grants made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible costs covered by the grant can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; tools, materials and supplies; and mobilization and demobilization activities.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

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FEMA Provides Federal Funding to Assist Cocos Firefighting Efforts in San Diego County, California

LINCROFT, N.J. – For many households, there is an extra element to account for when making plans for disasters – the family pet.

Pets are an important part of many households and their unique needs should be taken into account, as they are particularly vulnerable when a disaster strikes, particularly one that requires evacuation or relocation. They are unlikely to survive on their own if left behind, and if they do, they could run away and be difficult to find afterwards.

 “A pet needs the bare necessities during a disaster. These include food for a few days, one gallon per day of water, medical records and medication, and leash and collar,” explained Kathy Johnson, Director of the Bergen County Humane Society. Pets’ basic needs are similar to those of humans:

  • Water: A minimum of a week’s worth of water for each pet.
  • Food: A minimum of a week’s worth of food. Keep canned or dried food in airtight containers. Include a manual can opener. Food should be changed every six months.
  • Shelter: A pet may require a personal carrier or cage, which should be big enough for your pet to stand and move around in.

You can create a pet disaster kit with a first aid kit and pet first aid guide book, which can be bought at any pet store or online. Your pet’s medicine and medical records can be kept in the first aid kit and kept up to date. Other important documentation, such as adoption papers, vaccination records, feeding schedules, behavior issues and your veterinarian’s contact information, should also be kept in a waterproof bag or container.

Not all emergency shelters allow pets, so pet owners need to know what their other options are if they need to evacuate. Ask family and friends that live outside your area if they might be willing to take your pets until you return, or just to check on them if something happens when you are not home. A kennel or your veterinarian’s office could have the resources to board your pet if you have to evacuate.

Another option is hotels and motels that allow pets during emergencies. Some websites that have information on these hotels and motels are: BringFido.com, DogFriendly.com, DogInMySuitcase.com, Pet Friendly Hotels & Motels, PetsWelcome.com and TripsWithPets.com. Call ahead for a reservation as soon as the possibility of evacuation comes up.

Bring a few of your pet’s favorite toys and comfort items to help him stay calm and reduce stress. Have some sanitation items such as cat litter, litter box and scoop, trash bags, newspaper and paper towels. Also consider taking a picture of you with your pet. In case you get separated, you can show what your pet looks like. You will also have proof that it is your pet if he’s found.

Pets should have some form of identification on them. The simplest way is a regular collar tag, which should have the pet’s name, your name, address and phone number on it. A waterproof pouch containing identification information can be attached to the collar.

The other common identification method is a microchip implanted underneath the animal’s skin with all of its information on it. A veterinarian or an animal shelter can perform the procedure, but the chip also has to be registered. For confined animals, such as birds, reptiles and small mammals, identification should be kept on the cage.

Birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians require special care, especially during a disaster. Birds can be transported in a covered carrier and then moved to a regular cage. They should be kept in a quiet area. You will need a plant mister to keep the bird cool, a hot water bottle to heat the cage, materials to line the bottom of the cage, and necessary dietary supplements.  

Reptiles can be transported in a cloth sack, such as a pillowcase, or a regular carrier. Upon arrival, immediately transfer the reptile to a secure cage. If possible, have the reptile defecate before transporting by soaking it in a shallow water bath. Also, have a water bowl for soaking, spray bottle for misting, heating pad, appropriate handling supplies, extra bags and newspapers, and dietary supplements.

Fish and amphibians can be transported in watertight plastic bags or ventilated plastic containers. Terrestrial or semi-aquatic amphibians only require a small amount of water. Moistened paper towels, clean foam rubber, or even moss will suffice. Fish and aquatic amphibians need plenty of water. The bag should be at least one-third full, then inflated with air and closed. Using water from your pets’ normal living space will probably reduce physiologic stress. It is recommended to monitor the water, temperature, humidity, lighting, and nutrition while your pet is at the shelter.

All of these animals should be kept away from heavy traffic areas, loud noises, and vibrations. All carriers should be escape-proof. Birds need to be fed and given water on a daily basis. Feed your fish, reptile or amphibian on its regular schedule if you can.

For more information on preparedness for your pets, visit www.ready.gov.

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http://www.fema.gov/disaster/4086/updates/sandy-one-year-later

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

 The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications

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Remember Pets When Planning For Emergencies

JACKSON, MS – Mississippians whose homes were damaged in the recent storms and tornadoes may encounter people attempting to cheat them by posing as inspectors, government officials or contractors. These persons may try to obtain personal information or collect payment for disaster assistance or repairs.

Please keep in mind that FEMA employees DO NOT solicit or accept money from disaster survivors. Many legitimate disaster assistance employees may visit your property such as insurance agents, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams and inspectors.

Here are some tips to remember to safeguard against fraud:

  • Ask to see ID badges. All FEMA representatives will have a laminated photo ID. A FEMA shirt or jacket is not proof of identity. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with anyone you encounter, please contact local law enforcement.
  • Safeguard personal information. Be cautious when giving personal information such as Social Security or bank account numbers to anyone. FEMA will only request an applicant’s bank account numbers during the initial registration process. However FEMA inspectors will require verification of identity.
  • Beware of people going door-to-door. People knocking on doors at damaged homes or phoning homeowners claiming to be building contractors could be con artists, especially if they ask for personal information or solicit money.
  • Federal workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help to fill out applications. FEMA inspectors verify damages, but do not involve themselves in any aspect of the repair nor recommend any contractor.
  • FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams may be in your community providing information and assisting people in registering with FEMA or updating their files. The teams coordinate their activities with local emergency managers and make local law enforcement agencies aware of their presence. The teams always consist of at least two people, and may include employees of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) as well as FEMA. They will always be wearing FEMA (or MEMA) shirts and laminated photo IDs. Disaster Survivor Assistance teams never ask for or accept payment for their services.

Always use licensed and bonded contractors and ask for credentials. Use Mississippi contractors if you can. You can verify a Mississippi contractor’s license online at msboc.us. If you have a complaint about anyone soliciting your business, contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office toll-free number at 800-281-4418.

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721.

Disaster survivors in Itawamba, Jones, Leake, Lee, Lowndes, Madison, Montgomery, Rankin, Simpson, Warren, Wayne and Winston counties may be eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

Individuals and households in those counties can register for FEMA Individual Assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via smartphone or tablet at m.FEMA.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362). People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY should call 800-462-7585. Lines are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (central time) and assistance is available in multiple languages.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. 

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). If you have a speech disability or hearing loss and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585 directly; if you use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 800-621-3362.

 

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Don’t Be Victimized by Fraudulent Contractors or Disaster Workers

JACKSON, MS – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has extended federal disaster aid in nine Mississippi counties to help the state, local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofits cover disaster-related expenses and the repair or rebuilding of critical infrastructure.

The state, local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofits in Itawamba, Jones, Leake, Lee, Lowndes, Newton, Rankin, Wayne and Winston counties can now request funding through all categories of the Public Assistance grant program to help pay for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and the repair or rebuilding of roads, bridges, water control facilities, buildings, equipment, utilities, parks and recreational facilities.

Itawamba, Lee, Lowndes, Madison, Rankin, Wayne and Winston counties were previously designated for FEMA Public Assistance funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures taken before, during and after the disaster.

“The additional federal infrastructure funding is intended to help Mississippi’s hard-hit communities recover from the devastation left by the tornadoes of April 28,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Mark Landry.

Supplementary funding under the Public Assistance program goes to the state and its agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations.

Under the program, the federal share of a project’s expenses typically cannot be less than 75 percent of eligible costs. The remaining 25 percent of eligible cost is usually split by the state and applicant. The state manages the program and forwards the federal funds to eligible applicants that incurred costs.

Individuals cannot apply for FEMA Public Assistance program funding. However, survivors who sustained damage in any of the 12 Mississippi counties eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance can register for that program. Itawamba, Jones, Leake, Lee, Lowndes, Madison, Montgomery, Rankin, Simpson, Warren, Wayne and Winston counties are all eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

Individuals and households in those counties can register for FEMA Individual Assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via smartphone or tablet at m.FEMA.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362). People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY should call 800-462-7585.

All Mississippi counties are eligible to apply for funding under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which is partially funded by FEMA and managed by MEMA.

Disaster assistance may include money to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs. Low-interest SBA loans may also be available for losses not covered by insurance or other sources.

For more information on Mississippi disaster recovery, click fema.gov/disaster/4175. Visit the MEMA site at msema.org  or on Facebook at facebook.com/msemaorg.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. 

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). If you have a speech disability or hearing loss and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585 directly; if you use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 800-621-3362.

 

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FEMA Public Assistance Extended in Nine Mississippi Counties Hit by Storms

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