RACES Logger by KB3HIY

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — After Hurricanes Irma and María, trees, endemic birds and other forms of wildlife lost their habitats, or their populations dwindled in various protected areas in Puerto Rico. To help the recovery of the different structures in these ecologically valuable areas, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) granted over $2.2 million to the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA, for its Spanish acronym) and the Puerto Rico Conservation Trust, known as Para la Naturaleza.

These federal funds will be used to repair various structures in nine areas catalogued as nature reserves, refuges, protected areas or recreational sites in seven municipalities. They are home to local fauna and flora, some of which are endemic or protected, bodies of water and even particular geological features.

“The island's recovery encompasses aspects of infrastructure reconstruction and includes works to help renew our natural resources. These are part of the heritage for future generations to enjoy,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

One of the places that has been awarded funds is the Efraín Archilla Diez Nature Reserve in Humacao, for about $285,000. Here the most affected areas were the floating docks, pavilions, aquatic and terrestrial trails, and the loss of wildlife, flora and fauna, among others. The reserve, which before María received 12,000 visitors a year, is home to endemic species such as the leatherback sea turtle, the hawksbill sea turtle, the brown pelican, the Puerto Rican boa and the “palancú” crab. It also has six lagoons that help control the flow of water during heavy rainfall events, making it an important water retention center, according to data provided by Dr. Carlos Toledo Hernández, a FEMA environmental specialist with a doctorate in biology.

On the other hand, according to the reserve's management officer, Luis Encarnación Santiago, this space is a main point for local and international tourism and directly benefits various businesses in the town of Punta Santiago. “The floating docks, located in Laguna Santa Teresa and Lagunas Palma, are used for recreational fishing, aquatic bird watching, recreation and education,” said Encarnación. “They are also used for bird watching and to educate visiting school groups.”

For the DRNA, the federal funds represent support for its plans. In this regard, DRNA Secretary Rafael Machargo Maldonado said that since he took office in March 2020, this has been his priority. “We hope to soon reestablish each of the reserves, natural areas and forests under the jurisdiction of the DRNA, for the enjoyment of all our visitors and thus help promote the economic development of the regions where they are located, through green tourism,” he added.

Likewise, Cayo Ratones will benefit from an obligation of just over $650,000, as well as the Iris Alameda Wildlife Refuge with about $544,000, both located in Cabo Rojo and administered by the DRNA. Cayo Ratones, a small one-acre island a quarter mile offshore used for recreational purposes, will use the funds for repairs to the boat dock, covered pavilions and barbecue facilities. The Iris Alameda Refuge, which includes the Boquerón State Forest and has space for amateur and recreational fishing, will repair its docks, solar-powered fishing stations and bird-watching station.

Another area that has an allocation of just over $700,000 is the Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve, one of the island's main tourist attractions. Under the administration of Para la Naturaleza, this reserve is home to the Fajardo Lighthouse, the second oldest of Puerto Rico's lighthouse system and one of the three bodies of water on the island-and one of the few in the world-where bioluminescent microorganisms live. Also in Laguna Grande grows turtle grass that serves as a fish hatchery, an important resource for the local economy. The funds will be used to rebuild the lighthouse, visitor's pavilion and observation platform, among others.

Similarly, $17,000 was allocated to the Medio Mundo y Daguao Nature Reserve. This protected area between Ceiba and Naguabo contains the second largest mangrove forest on the island and is home to 26 species catalogued as rare, vulnerable or endangered, including the Puerto Rican yellow-shouldered blackbird and several species of turtles. The funds will be used to replace the facility’s contents and roof components.

Thanking FEMA for the allocation of funds, the executive director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience of Puerto Rico, or COR3, engineer Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, emphasized the importance of moving forward with the development of these and other projects that protect the environment. “Our commitment is to continue joining efforts with the DNRA to guarantee the execution of projects for the recovery of nature reserves, refuges and protected areas, among others,” said Laboy.

[Video] To learn more about the recovery of the Efraín Archilla Diez Nature Reserve in Humacao, click here.

For more information on Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on our social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

WASHINGTON -- Texas homeowners and renters in 31 additional counties can now apply for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. The additional counties were approved last night, paving the way for more individuals and families impacted by the winter storms to receive much needed grants that can be used for temporary housing and home repairs. Since the Texas major disaster declaration on Feb. 19, more than $2.8 million in grants has now been awarded to survivors in Texas.

If you received damages from the Texas storms and have insurance - file a claim. When you apply for FEMA disaster assistance, you will also need to provide your claim information. The Texas Department of Insurance can provide contact information for insurance companies and answer questions about how to file a claim. Call 800-252-3439 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday. Survivors can also view insurance company contact information online.

The quickest way to apply for disaster assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Additional food assistance is also available in Texas through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Recipients may apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed by dialing 2-1-1.

After a disaster, people want to know how to help. Cash donations to the non-profit of your choice is the best way to assist with recovery efforts. To find a list of trusted organizations that can put your generous contributions to the best possible use, visit National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

Texas Disaster Declaration

President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s major disaster declaration now provides assistance for disaster survivors in 108 counties. This 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 this storm. Local resources and volunteers may be able to assist with needs not covered by insurance. Visit Texas 211 for a list of resources searchable by zip code or call 2-1-1. Survivors who have underinsured or unsured losses in the counties approved for assistance may apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).

Federal Assistance to Texas

FEMA has provided personnel, equipment and resources to the state to alleviate impacts from these storms. As of Feb. 22:  

• FEMA provided 60 generators, 70,000 gallons of winterized diesel and 70,000 gallons of gasoline to support critical infrastructure over a seven-day period starting Feb. 20
• FEMA has provided over 5.1 million liters of water, more than 126,900 blankets and more than 1.5 million meals.
• Incident Management Assistance Teams are in Austin and Houston supporting response and recovery efforts.
• FEMA has provided 50 ambulances through the National EMS contract.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed due to the severe winter weather by dialing 2-1-1. Recipients need to apply for replacement food benefits for regular SNAP allotments and SNAP emergency allotments that were provided in response to COVID-19. To assist people in the impacted area in coping with the stress of the winter storms, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activated the Disaster Distress Helpline. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support line provides immediate crisis counseling and support. Residents in affected areas may call or text 800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Avoid Scams

The best information on legitimate sources of help in your area will come from local officials. Do not disclose information to any unsolicited telephone calls and e-mails. Do not trust anyone who offers financial help and then asks for money or personal information. The Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention staff never charge for disaster assistance. Beware of visits, calls or emails from people claiming to be from FEMA asking for your social security number, bank account or other sensitive information. Giving out this type of information can lead to identify theft. The Texas Department of Insurance is warning people to be aware of potential contracting scams as they begin making repairs. They are operating a help line to prevent contractor scams: 800-252-3439.

Donate Blood

The severe cold, snow and ice canceled blood drives across the nation. As weather improves, it’s vital that eligible individuals give blood to ensure patients have continued access to the treatments they need. Appointments can be made by contacting:

• American Association of Blood Banks: www.aabb.org; 301-907-6977.
• America’s Blood Centers: americasblood.org; 202-393-5725.
• American Red Cross: www.redcrossblood.org; 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767.)

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WASHINGTON -- Texas homeowners and renters in 31 additional counties can now apply for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. The additional counties were approved last night, paving the way for more individuals and families impacted by the winter storms to receive much needed grants that can be used for temporary housing and home repairs. Since the Texas major disaster declaration on Feb. 19, more than $2.8 million in grants has now been awarded to survivors in Texas.

If you received damages from the Texas storms and have insurance - file a claim. When you apply for FEMA disaster assistance, you will also need to provide your claim information. The Texas Department of Insurance can provide contact information for insurance companies and answer questions about how to file a claim. Call 800-252-3439 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday. Survivors can also view insurance company contact information online.

The quickest way to apply for disaster assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Additional food assistance is also available in Texas through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Recipients may apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed by dialing 2-1-1.

After a disaster, people want to know how to help. Cash donations to the non-profit of your choice is the best way to assist with recovery efforts. To find a list of trusted organizations that can put your generous contributions to the best possible use, visit National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

Texas Disaster Declaration

President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s major disaster declaration now provides assistance for disaster survivors in 108 counties. This 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 this storm.

Local resources and volunteers may be able to assist with needs not covered by insurance. Visit Texas 211 for a list of resources searchable by zip code or call 2-1-1.

Survivors who have underinsured or unsured losses in the counties approved for assistance may apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).

Federal Assistance to Texas

FEMA has provided personnel, equipment and resources to the state to alleviate impacts from these storms. As of Feb. 22:  

• FEMA provided 60 generators, 70,000 gallons of winterized diesel and 70,000 gallons of gasoline to support critical infrastructure over a seven-day period starting Feb. 20
• FEMA has provided over 5.1 million liters of water, more than 126,900 blankets and more than 1.5 million meals.
• Incident Management Assistance Teams are in Austin and Houston supporting response and recovery efforts.
• FEMA has provided 50 ambulances through the National EMS contract.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed due to the severe winter weather by dialing 2-1-1. Recipients need to apply for replacement food benefits for regular SNAP allotments and SNAP emergency allotments that were provided in response to COVID-19.

To assist people in the impacted area in coping with the stress of the winter storms, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activated the Disaster Distress Helpline. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support line provides immediate crisis counseling and support. Residents in affected areas may call or text 800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Avoid Scams

The best information on legitimate sources of help in your area will come from local officials. Do not disclose information to any unsolicited telephone calls and e-mails. Do not trust anyone who offers financial help and then asks for money or personal information. The Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention staff never charge for disaster assistance.

Beware of visits, calls or emails from people claiming to be from FEMA asking for your social security number, bank account or other sensitive information. Giving out this type of information can lead to identify theft.

The Texas Department of Insurance is warning people to be aware of potential contracting scams as they begin making repairs. They are operating a help line to prevent contractor scams: 800-252-3439.

Donate Blood

The severe cold, snow and ice canceled blood drives across the nation. As weather improves, it’s vital that eligible individuals give blood to ensure patients have continued access to the treatments they need. Appointments can be made by contacting:

• American Association of Blood Banks: www.aabb.org; 301-907-6977.
• America’s Blood Centers: americasblood.org; 202-393-5725.
• American Red Cross: www.redcrossblood.org; 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767.)

DENTON, Texas – If you received a letter from FEMA that says you’re ineligible for help or that there is “no decision,” read the letter carefully. FEMA may need additional information from you to continue processing your application. If you have insurance and are applying for federal assistance, you must file a claim with your insurance provider. If applicable, you will need to provide a copy of your insurance settlement approval or denial letter.

A few common reasons for being determined ineligible or receiving “no decision” include:

• You are insured. You must provide a copy of your insurance settlement approval or denial letter to FEMA. If your insurance settlement is insufficient to meet your disaster-related needs, you may be eligible for federal assistance. Contact FEMA to provide any additional information or documentation.
• You reported no home damage or minimal damage when you registered with FEMA. If you reported your home had no disaster-related damage but later discover it’s not habitable, contact FEMA to let them know. Documentation from a local official or contractor supporting your appeal may help you prove that your home is not habitable.
• Proof of occupancy. When FEMA is unable to verify the occupancy of your primary residence, you may need to provide documentation, such as utility bills, a bank or credit card statement, phone bill, pay stubs, a driver’s license, state-issued ID card or voter registration card showing the damaged dwelling’s address.
• No initial rental assistance. You indicated to the inspector that you were not willing to move while your damaged home was being repaired. This made you ineligible for FEMA temporary rental assistance. If you later found further damage to your home or your housing needs have changed, contact FEMA as soon as possible to update your housing status and explain why you have a need to relocate.
• No communication with FEMA. If you missed an inspection and did not follow up with FEMA, your assistance could be affected. Make sure that FEMA has your contact information. If you are unable to meet with an inspector as planned, let FEMA know.
• Your home is safe to occupy. FEMA housing assistance typically only covers costs to make your home habitable. Damage to non-essential space, landscaping or spoiled food is not covered by FEMA grants.

If you have questions or need to speak about your eligibility status, call 800-621-3362, open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., CDT. Multilingual operators are available.

Applicants can appeal a FEMA determination, to do so, you need to submit supporting information along with a letter describing in detail the reason (or reasons) you are appealing.

You should include your full name, FEMA application number and disaster number, pre-disaster primary residence address and current phone number and address on all submitted documents. You can find the application and disaster number printed on page 1 of your determination letter.

You can submit your appeal and any associated documentation by:

1. Uploading your documentation online at disasterassistance.gov.
2. Mailing your documents and letter within 60 days of receiving your determination letter to the address below. Your letter with accompanying documents must be postmarked within 60 days of the date on your letter from FEMA regarding your eligibility.

FEMA National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055

3. Faxing your information to 800-827-8112.

Survivors should register online at disasterassistance.gov. If you cannot register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Since historic wildfires swept across the State of California in 2020, more than $103 million in federal disaster assistance has been disbursed to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover, with more than 95 percent of those who lost their homes placed in temporary housing.

Here is a snapshot of the Individual Assistance disaster-recovery effort as of Feb. 16, 2021:

• More than 41,600 Californians have contacted FEMA for information or registered for assistance with FEMA and more than $26.8 million in aid has been approved for them.
• Housing Assistance approved: more than $20.9 million
• Other Needs Assistance approved: more than $5.9 million
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved nearly $76.2 million in low-interest disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters. To date, 657 loans have been approved: 592 home loans and 65 business loans.
• FEMA operated 27 Mobile Recovery Intake Centers in the affected areas. During their operation, more than 4,665 survivors visited the centers to register for disaster assistance and receive information and advice for their recovery.

Residents in Butte and Siskiyou counties eligible for FEMA’s Direct Housing Program who opted for temporary housing, such as travel trailers and manufactured housing units, have been placed in existing mobile home parks. More than 75 percent of disaster survivors who chose the direct lease option have been matched with a place to live and are moving into apartments.

A Housing Task Force, created to implement FEMA’s Direct Housing Program, focused on locating temporary housing solutions for eligible survivors in Butte and Siskiyou counties. The task force worked with vendors to secure apartment units and matched survivors to units and locations that meet their family’s needs. 

Survivors in Siskiyou County have been placed in travel trailers in commercial parks. In Butte County, survivors have been placed in temporary housing in commercial parks and apartments. This was the most efficient and quickest way to get survivors into temporary housing solutions, keeping them as close to home as possible. 

Wildfire survivors receiving rental assistance for temporary housing through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program must let FEMA know if they have a continuing need. Extensions on rental assistance may be granted for three-month periods, up to a maximum of 18 months from the date of the presidential declarations: Aug. 22, 2020, for Disaster 4558 and Oct. 16, 2020, for Disaster 4569.

Rental assistance is for paying rent, including a security deposit, at a place other than your damaged home. To continue to receive it, you must prove an ongoing need, which may be that suitable housing is not available, or that your permanent housing plan has not been completed through no fault of your own.

Two federal disasters were declared for California wildfires in 2020. The first was DR-4558-CA for August/September wildfires in the counties of Butte, Lake, Lassen, Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Trinity, Tulare and Yolo. The second was DR-4569-CA for later fires in the counties of Fresno, Los Angeles, Madera, Mendocino, Napa, San Bernardino, San Diego, Shasta, Siskiyou and Sonoma.

There is still time for small businesses to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). For Disaster 4558 (the 1st Disaster) the deadline to apply for an EIDL in these counties is May 24, 2021.  For Disaster 4569 (the 2nd Disaster) the deadline to apply for an EIDL in these counties is July 16, 2021.

Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX  76155.

Survivors who registered for assistance with FEMA should continue to track their cases and notify the agency of changes to their mailing or email addresses or phone numbers, and to report insurance settlements or additional damage discovered since their home inspection.

Here’s how to reach FEMA:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. PST, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to that service when they register. Multilingual operators are available.

FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) grant program provides federal assistance to state and local governments and certain types of private nonprofit organizations following a presidential disaster declaration. As of Feb. 5, there have been 160 eligible Requests for Public Assistance (RPAs).

• Through the program, FEMA provides supplemental federal disaster grant assistance for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures and the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged publicly owned facilities and the facilities of certain private nonprofit organizations.
• The PA program benefits everyone – neighborhoods, towns, cities, counties, states and their residents. PA funds are used for projects to renovate classrooms, refurbish hospitals, restore parks and repair public transportation systems so students can go to safe schools, doctors and nurses can provide medical care, and families can enjoy the outdoors in public parks.
• The federal share of Public Assistance is at least 75 percent of the eligible cost. 

For the latest information on wildfire recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4558 or fema.gov/disaster/4569 and follow the FEMA Region 9 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion9.

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All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status, or retaliation. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, call 800-621-3362 or 800-462-7585(TTY/TDD).

FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during, and after disasters.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is the federal government’s primary source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property.

For more information, applicants may contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. TTY users may also call 800-877-8339. Applicants may also email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit SBA at SBA.gov/disaster.

DENTON, Texas – New preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Greene County, Arkansas. Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The new flood hazard information from FEMA has been generated in coordination with local community, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review has already taken place.

The 90-day appeal period will begin Feb. 23, 2021. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. 

Appeals/comments may be submitted through May 24, 2021, for:

• The unincorporated areas of Greene County

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Change Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com. 

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the  Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division (DPS-HSEM) announced today that $3 million in federal funding has been made available to the Minnesota Department of Health for costs related to the state’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan under the federal disaster declaration of April 7, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) for eligible reimbursable costs to setup three vaccination centers throughout the state for rapid distribution and administration of available COVID-19 vaccines. A call center and website were also established to disseminate public information regarding vaccinations.

“Our main priority is to ensure vaccinations are accessible and are distributed equitably across Minnesota,” said Joe Kelly, director of DPS-HSEM. “These funds helped Minnesota launch the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, which allows MDH to alert those who signed up about eligibility and upcoming vaccination opportunities.”

“FEMA is committed to ensuring anyone who wants a vaccine can get one,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will help Minnesota fight this pandemic and expand availability of COVID-19 vaccines across the state.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.

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

DENTON, Texas – Texas homeowners and renters in 31 additional counties who suffered damage from the winter storm that recently struck Texas may now apply for disaster assistance with FEMA.

If you have insurance and are applying for disaster assistance, you must also file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If insurance does not cover all your damage, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.

If it is not possible to register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

The 31 additional counties are: Anderson, Austin, Bosque, Bowie, Burnet, Cherokee, Colorado, Erath, Fannin, Freestone, Gonzalez, Grayson, Gregg, Harrison, Hill, Houston, Hunt, Jackson, Jim Wells, Jones, Limestone, Lubbock, Medina, Milam, Navarro, Rusk, Taylor, Tom Green, Val Verde, Washington, and Wood.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security number, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name

If it is safe to do so, start cleaning up now. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial assistance for temporary lodging and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

The additional counties join the 77 counties previously approved for disaster assistance. The counties are: Angelina, Aransas, Bastrop, Bee, Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Brazoria, Brazos, Brown, Burleson, Caldwell, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Collin, Comal, Comanche, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, DeWitt, Ellis, Falls, Fort Bend, Galveston, Gillespie, Grimes, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Hays, Henderson, Hidalgo, Hood, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Kaufman, Kendall, Lavaca, Liberty, Madison, Matagorda, Maverick, McLennan, Montague, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Nueces, Orange, Palo Pinto, Panola, Parker, Polk, Rockwall, Sabine, San Jacinto, San Patricio, Scurry, Shelby, Smith, Stephens, Tarrant, Travis, Tyler, Upshur, Van Zandt, Victoria, Walker, Waller, Wharton, Wichita, Williamson, Wilson, and Wise.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to businesses, homeowners and renters. Call the SBA at 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 800-877-8339) or visit www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that additional disaster assistance is available to the state of Louisiana for Public Assistance projects undertaken in the state as a result of Hurricane Laura during the period of Aug. 22 to 27, 2020.

Under President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.'s order today, the federal share for Public Assistance, including direct federal assistance, has been increased to 90% of the total eligible costs, except for assistance previously authorized at 100%.

This additional funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations.

Previously, under the major disaster declaration issued for the state on Aug. 28, 2020, federal funding was made available for Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation and a portion of FEMA’s Individual Assistance program at 75% of the total eligible costs.   

WASHINGTON --  Since President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.’s Feb. 19 major disaster declaration in Texas, more than $600,000 has now been awarded in grants for survivors. The declaration provides assistance for disaster survivors in 77 counties. This 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 this storm.

If you received damages from the Texas winter storms and have insurance - file a claim. When you apply for FEMA disaster assistance, you will also need to provide your claim information. The Texas Department of Insurance can provide contact information for insurance companies and answer questions about how to file a claim. Call 800-252-3439 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday. Survivors can also view insurance company contact information online.

Survivors who have underinsured or uninsured losses in the 77 counties approved for assistance may apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).

The quickest way to apply for disaster assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients in Texas may apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed by dialing 2-1-1. Local resources and volunteers may be able to assist with needs not covered by insurance. Visit Texas 211 for a list of resources searchable by zip code or call 2-1-1. Cash donations to the non-profit of your choice is the best way to help. To find a list of trusted organizations that can put your generous contributions to the best possible use, visit National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

Winter Storm Impact on COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts

Lingering power outages continue in areas impacted by the winter storm. More than 3,000 vaccine centers are located in areas that experienced power outages. FEMA continues working with our state partners to ensure they have everything necessary to safely reopen any closed facility.

FEMA Response Actions

FEMA has been on the ground in Texas now for more than a week, moving water, fuel, blankets, commodities and emptying warehouses and purchasing new supplies to help winter storm survivors. The best and fastest way for individuals with damaged property to start recovery is by contacting their insurance company and taking photos of any damage. If individuals are not insured or are underinsured, they should then seek individual assistance by visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov.  

FEMA Assistance to Texas

FEMA has provided personnel, equipment and resources to the state to alleviate impacts from these storms. As of Feb. 21, FEMA provided 60 generators, 10,000 gallons of winterized diesel and 10,000 gallons of gasoline for the last seven days to the state of Texas to support critical infrastructure. FEMA is coordinating flights of water to multiple locations in Texas.  The agency has provided over 4 million liters of water, more than 126,900 blankets and more than 1 million meals.

A FEMA staging management team and an incident support base team are in Seguin, Texas to support the state’s winter storm response.  Additionally, one Incident Management Assistance Team is in Austin and one is in Houston to support response and recovery efforts. FEMA activated the National EMS contract to support the state with 50 ambulances.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed due to the severe winter weather by dialing 2-1-1. SNAP recipients need to apply for replacement food benefits for regular SNAP allotments and SNAP emergency allotments that were provided in response to COVID-19.

To assist people in the impacted area in coping with the stress of the winter storms, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activated the Disaster Distress Helpline. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support line provides immediate crisis counseling and support. Residents in affected areas may call or text 800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.  

Stay Safe in Winter Weather

While temperatures are forecast to rise over the coming days, residents in impacted areas should remain vigilant to continued risks. Listen to state and local officials about warming centers and road conditions in your area.

If you do not have power, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.  Use a generator safely. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage, even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators far away from windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. Grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning devices should never be used inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. These should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home and do not run a car in a closed garage.

Find Immediate Help

Check on neighbors who may need assistance such as infants, children, older adults and people with disabilities.  If you have immediate needs including food and shelter, state resources are available: To find 2-1-1 services available in your area or to search for resources, visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1.

Residents in Texas can find the closest warming shelter online.

Oklahoma residents can visit the Department of Emergency Management site for updated locations.

Water system outages and boil water advisories remain an ongoing issue across the region. For more information on water safety and treatment, visit Ready.gov/water.  

Donate Blood

The severe cold, snow and ice canceled blood drives across the nation. As weather improves, it’s vital that eligible individuals give blood to ensure patients have continued access to the treatments they need. Appointments can be made by contacting: American Association of Blood Banks: www.aabb.org; 301-907-6977, America’s Blood Centers: americasblood.org; 202-393-5725 or American Red Cross: www.redcrossblood.org; 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767.)

Avoid Scams  

Do not trust anyone who offers financial help and then asks for money or personal information. The Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention staff never charge for disaster assistance.

The best information on legitimate sources of help in your area will come from local officials.  Do not disclose information to any unsolicited telephone calls and e-mails.

Beware of visits, calls or emails from people claiming to be from FEMA asking for your Social Security number, bank account or other sensitive information. Giving out this type of information can lead to identify theft.

The Texas Department of Insurance is warning people to be aware of potential contracting scams as they begin making repairs. They are operating a help line to prevent contractor scams: 800-252-3439.

Background

Last week, President Biden approved emergency declarations for Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. These declarations authorize FEMA to provide emergency protective measures for mass care and sheltering and direct federal assistance.