FEMA Team Deploys to Michigan to Support State's Vaccine Distribution Program

troy.christensen — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 16:08:25 +0000

CHICAGO – A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) team has deployed to Michigan to assist the state’s efforts in expanding COVID-19 vaccination capacity across the state. The DSA team—consisting of ten FEMA staff with expertise in community outreach—will support state health strike teams across the state starting this week.

“This FEMA team is prepared to fully support Michigan’s vaccine distribution plan,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “These specialists are an important resource to the state’s overall COVID-19 response, helping to ensure everyone in Michigan who wants a vaccine can get one.”

The DSA team's mission will include assisting the state with creating county health profiles to expand vaccine capacity at the local level and staffing state health strike teams to help communities address shortfalls and expand the vaccine program across Michigan.

“We truly appreciate the support from our federal partners as we continue our efforts to distribute these vaccines across the state of Michigan,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. “This will help us to achieve our goal of providing a safe and effective vaccine to everyone who wants one.”

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, DSA teams were used to build community outreach to educate disaster survivors about the availability of federal disaster assistance and services. DSA teams were virtually deployed to support the mid-Michigan flood disaster last year and these teams also assisted disaster survivors after the 2017 central Michigan flooding.

DSA team members hail from throughout the nation. Like all FEMA personnel, DSA team members can be identified by their official federal photo ID badge. If in doubt, immediately contact your local law enforcement or local emergency number for assistance.

For information on how to make an appointment to receive the vaccine, updates on the state’s plan and eligibility, and answers to frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, go to Michigan.gov/covidvaccine. To learn more about FEMA’s vaccine support mission, go to www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 02/17/2021 - 16:08

Brown County Residents Invited to Attend Virtual Coastal Flood Map Open House

troy.christensen — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 16:02:17 +0000

Brown County Residents Invited to Attend Virtual Coastal Flood Map Open House

CHICAGO – On Feb. 22 and 24, representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host two sessions of a Virtual Coastal Flood Map Open House for the Lake Michigan shoreline communities in Brown County, Wisconsin. The open house will give residents the chance to review preliminary versions of a recently completed Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report and its accompanying preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).

This FIS report and FIRM provide information on the base flood (also known as the 1-percent-annual-chance event) and the shoreline areas that are subject to significant flood hazards. They also offer information that public officials will use when managing development in the floodplain.

At the virtual open houses, representatives from various local, state, and federal agencies will be available to provide the most current information about flood risk, flood insurance, floodplain development regulations, and the process used to map Brown County’s floodplains. The newly prepared maps can be reviewed. Once these maps become effective, they will be used as the basis for flood insurance rates and for local floodplain management ordinances adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA also encourages public officials to use the effective maps as tools to assist planning processes and outreach efforts and to prepare the community to quickly respond to and recover from future events. Details for the Brown County meetings are as follow:

WHAT: Brown County, Wisconsin – Virtual Coastal Flood Map Open House meeting

WHEN: February 22 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. CT

Meeting ID: 952 3987 3338, Password: FEMA21

February 24 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. CT

Meeting ID: 952 3987 3338, Password: FEMA21

Note: the same information will be provided at both sessions

WHERE: https://zoom.us/join

In the United States, 98 percent of counties have experienced a flooding event. Property owners, real estate agents, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about coastal flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the Preliminary FIRM and FIS report can be downloaded from www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata. For more information, contact the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

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

troy.christensen Tue, 02/16/2021 - 16:02

FEMA Provides $7.9 Million to Indiana for Vaccine Distribution Support

troy.christensen — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 20:47:53 +0000

FEMA Provides $7.9 Million to Indiana for Vaccine Distribution Support

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) announced today that $7,973,169 in federal funding has been made available to the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 27, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to ISDH for eligible reimbursable costs associated with operating more than 200 vaccination sites across the state to rapidly distribute and administer available COVID-19 vaccines.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for states in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will increase access to COVID-19 vaccines for individuals in Indiana, helping ensure anyone who wants a vaccine can get one.”

“This FEMA assistance will allow Indiana to continue its charge to vaccinate all eligible people as quickly as possible,” said Steve Cox, executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. “Hoosiers are waiting anxiously to get vaccines and move beyond this pandemic, and this assistance will play an important role in helping us to return to some sort of normalcy.”

FEMA provides funding at 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.

# # #

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

troy.christensen Fri, 02/12/2021 - 20:47

FEMA Provides $49.6 Million to Cook County for Vaccine Distribution Support

troy.christensen — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 14:04:12 +0000

FEMA Provides $49.6 Million to Cook County for Vaccine Distribution Support

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced today that $49,629,801 in federal funding has been made available to the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security for costs related to the County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 25, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to Cook County for eligible reimbursable costs associated with establishing and operating seven vaccination centers across the County to rapidly distribute and administer available COVID-19 vaccines.

“FEMA is committed to supporting COVID-19 vaccination efforts across the country,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will increase access to COVID-19 vaccines for Cook County residents, helping to ensure every person in the County who wants a vaccine can get one.”

“The Pritzker administration is committed to ensuring every Illinoisan who wants a vaccine can get a vaccine. These expedited grants from FEMA provide local governments with the means to expand vaccination efforts to ensure equity and availability throughout our state. I encourage all local jurisdictions to contact their local emergency management agency to learn more about the availability of these federal dollars,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau.

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

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

troy.christensen Fri, 02/12/2021 - 14:04

FEMA Provides $18.6 Million to Detroit for Vaccine Distribution Support

troy.christensen — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 15:19:45 +0000

FEMA Provides $18.6 Million to Detroit for Vaccine Distribution Support

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division announced today that $18,675,763 in federal funding has been made available to the city of Detroit for costs related to their COVID-19 response under the federal disaster declaration of March 27, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to Detroit for eligible reimbursable costs to administer the COVID-19 vaccine at various facilities throughout the city. The grant will also include costs to procure personal protective equipment and supplies needed for vaccine administration.

“FEMA is committed to ensuring anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine can get one,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will increase vaccine access across Detroit and is an important resource in the state’s fight to stop the spread of this virus.”

“This funding will help Michigan achieve its goal of providing a vaccine to everyone who wants one,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. “We appreciate this support from our federal partners as we work diligently to make these safe and effective vaccines available to our residents.”

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

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

troy.christensen Thu, 02/11/2021 - 15:19

FEMA Provides $8.3 Million to Michigan for Vaccine Distribution Support

troy.christensen — Sun, 07 Feb 2021 20:07:14 +0000

FEMA Provides $8.3 Million to Michigan for Vaccine Distribution Support

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division announced today that $8,375,955 in federal funding has been made available to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 27, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to MDHHS for eligible reimbursable costs for a public information campaign focused on the vaccination efforts across the state. The campaign will inform the public about COVID-19 vaccination safety, COVID-19 vaccination sites, hours of operation and the registration process to get the vaccine.

“FEMA is committed to supporting COVID-19 vaccination efforts across the country,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding helps ensure MDHHS has the resources to communicate important information about the vaccine and is just one part of our support to the state of Michigan in the fight against this pandemic.”

“This funding will help ensure Michigan residents stay informed about vaccine efforts across the state,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. “It is our utmost priority that anyone who wants these safe and effective vaccines can quickly and equitably receive one.”

FEMA provides funding at 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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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

troy.christensen Sun, 02/07/2021 - 20:07

FEMA Provides $22.8 Million to Illinois for Mobile Vaccination Support

troy.christensen — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 18:55:33 +0000

FEMA Provides $22.8 Million to Illinois for Mobile Vaccination Support

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced today that $22,876,827 in federal funding has been made available to IEMA for vaccination costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 25, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to IEMA for eligible reimbursable costs associated with supporting the establishment and operation for rapid distribution and administration of available COVID-19 vaccines. The grant will help fund mobile vaccination assistance teams and facilities, including costs for medical and non-medical staff to support these efforts.

“Expediting funds to support our states’ vaccination efforts is a priority for FEMA and the federal government,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant will be used to expand access to the COVID-19 vaccination to more communities across the state of Illinois, helping ensure every Illinoisan who wants a vaccine, can get one.”

“These additional resources will allow our state to supplement the efforts of local health departments to accelerate vaccination efforts with a keen focus on equitability and accessibility,” said IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “We appreciate the cooperation and collaboration of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and we look forward to assisting our partners at the Illinois Department of Public Health to distribute a safe and effective vaccine.”

FEMA provides funding at 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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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

troy.christensen Fri, 02/05/2021 - 18:55

FEMA Provides $15 Million to the Minnesota Department of Health

troy.christensen — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 20:58:34 +0000

FEMA Provides $15 Million to the Minnesota Department of Health

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 $15 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 for eligible reimbursable costs to distribute and administer available COVID-19 vaccines through the establishment of 10 vaccination centers across the state. The grant also includes equipment, medical supplies and staffing costs related to the set-up of these centers.

“FEMA is committed to expanding COVID-19 vaccination efforts across the country,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will increase access to COVID-19 vaccines for Minnesotans, protecting residents across the state while helping reduce the spread of this virus.”

“Everyone involved in the vaccination effort in Minnesota really appreciates how quickly FEMA processed our request for advanced funding,” said DPS-HSEM Director Joe Kelly. “These funds will help us administer the available shots to people as fast as possible.”

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 02/03/2021 - 20:58

Prepare Now for Severe Winter Weather to End the Week

troy.christensen — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 19:13:27 +0000

Prepare Now for Severe Winter Weather to End the Week

CHICAGO – With forecasts of snow, high winds and icy conditions Thursday, followed by dangerously low temperatures through the weekend, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) wants individuals and families to take precautions to protect against the hazards severe winter weather may bring.

“Icy roads and blowing snow can make travel extremely hazardous,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Stay inside your home as much as possible; if you must drive, bring an emergency kit that includes an ice scraper, blanket and flashlight, and keep the fuel tank above half full.”

Protect yourself and your family by taking the necessary precautions:

Before the temperatures drop, gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days. Keep in mind each person’s and pet’s specific needs, including medication;
Dress in layers and keep dry;
Check on neighbors, family and friends while following the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on maintaining social and physical distancing;
Know the symptoms of cold-related health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia and seek medical attention if health conditions are severe. Learn more at the CDC’s webpage Prevent Frostbite & Hypothermia;
Plug only one heat-producing appliance (such as a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time and turn space heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. Never use an oven to heat your home;
Bring your pets indoors or ensure they have a warm shelter area with unfrozen water; and
Prepare for power outages. Make sure to fully charge all electronics before severe weather begins to impact your area. Use generators outside only and away from windows.

You can always find valuable information to help you prepare for winter emergencies at www.ready.gov/winter. Bookmark FEMA’s mobile site http://m.fema.gov or download the FEMA app today to have important readiness information just one click away.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 02/03/2021 - 19:13

FEMA Provides $47 Million to the State of Wisconsin for Vaccine Distribution Support

troy.christensen — Sun, 31 Jan 2021 19:41:54 +0000

FEMA Provides $47 Million to the State of Wisconsin for Vaccine Distribution Support

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) announced today that $47,056,978 in federal funding has been made available to Wisconsin Department of Health Services for costs related to the state’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan under the federal disaster declaration of April 4, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to Wisconsin Department of Health Services for eligible reimbursable costs to distribute and administer COVID-19 vaccines, including the establishment and operation of temporary vaccination assistance teams and facilities throughout the state.

“FEMA is committed to expanding COVID-19 vaccination efforts across the country,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding will increase vaccine access across Wisconsin and is an important resource in the state’s fight to stop the spread of this virus.”

“We are grateful to FEMA Region 5 for their ongoing support,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator. “The partial fulfillment of this expedited request will go a long way towards helping our ongoing response to COVID-19 to include our vaccination efforts throughout the great state of Wisconsin.”

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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

troy.christensen Sun, 01/31/2021 - 19:41

FEMA Provides $43 Million to the State of Illinois for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Support

troy.christensen — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 15:43:24 +0000

FEMA Provides $43 Million to the State of Illinois for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Support

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced today that $43,361,000 in expedited federal funding has been made available to IEMA for costs related to the state’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan under the federal disaster declaration of January 20, 2020.

This funding is an advance payment to IEMA for eligible reimbursable costs to provide contract healthcare staffing for rapid distribution and administration of available COVID-19 vaccines across the state. The grant also includes the establishment and operation of temporary facilities and vaccination assistance teams throughout Illinois, including mobile vaccination assistance teams staffed by National Guard members and contract temporary healthcare providers.

“FEMA is committed to expanding COVID-19 vaccination efforts across the country” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited grant funding ensures the availability of critical healthcare resources to vaccinate Illinoisans and is just one part of our support to the state in their fight against this pandemic.”

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

“This federal funding will help the state of Illinois build vaccination teams that will be utilized throughout the state to help vaccinate Illinoisans eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine,” said IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “These additional resources will allow our state to augment the efforts of local health departments to accelerate vaccination efforts with a keen focus on equitability and accessibility.”

“Just two days after announcing an increase in weekly vaccine allocations to states and a deal to secure an additional 200 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine by the end of the summer, I’m incredibly grateful to see another action from the federal government to speed up the national vaccination effort, our best tool for putting this pandemic behind us,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With this $43 million in additional funding for vaccine distribution here in Illinois, we’ll be able to further expand our vaccination operations and offer more easy-access locations for our residents as the national vaccine supply increases. This is a welcome development in our Vaccination Administration Plan, and I look forward to collaborating with the federal government on bringing more vaccine and vaccination sites to Illinois.”

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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troy.christensen Fri, 01/29/2021 - 15:43

Take Precautions Now as Winter Storm Threatens the Area

troy.christensen — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 15:54:47 +0000

Take Precautions Now as Winter Storm Threatens the Area

CHICAGO – With a forecast that includes the potential for heavy snow, ice and high winds late Monday into Tuesday, FEMA Region 5 encourages everyone to stay off the roads, remain indoors and follow the instructions of local and state officials to stay safe.

“During this potentially dangerous weather event, the best place to be is home,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “If you must be on the road during the storm, take precautions to get to your destination safely. Make sure you have a full tank of gas and have essentials on hand before you leave—including a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets and food and water.”

Monitor local radio or TV stations for updated emergency information. Prepare for possible power outages as a result of the storm; be sure to fully charge all electronics before the storm impacts your area. When it is safe, check on your neighbors or friends while following the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on maintaining social and physical distancing. Consider connecting with family and friends by telephone, email, text messages, video chat and social media.

Find valuable tips to help you prepare for severe winter weather at www.ready.gov/winter-weather or download the free FEMA app, available for your Android, Apple or Blackberry device. Visit the site or download the app today so you have the information you need to prepare for severe winter weather.

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

troy.christensen Mon, 01/25/2021 - 15:54

FEMA is Now Accepting Applications for the Youth Preparedness Council

troy.christensen — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 14:42:41 +0000

FEMA is Now Accepting Applications for the Youth Preparedness Council

CHICAGO – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is committed to actively involving youth in preparedness-related activities through the Youth Preparedness Council (YPC) and is seeking applicants for 2021.

YPC members are students in grades 8 through 11 who are selected to support disaster preparedness and make a positive impact on their communities. The 2021 YPC is now open for applications. The YPC is an opportunity for young leaders to engage with FEMA and provide their perspectives, feedback, and opinions related to preparedness, to grow their leadership skills, and to support the resilience of their communities.

YPC members are selected for two-year terms and are chosen based on their passion for preparedness and helping others, their involvement in their community, and their aptitude for working in a team and as a leader.

Students from Region 5 states who apply for the National Youth Preparedness Council will also be considered for a place on the Region 5 Youth Preparedness Council (Region 5 YPC). The Region 5 YPC is an additional service and leadership opportunity for high school students living in the states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

“FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council empowers young people to not only participate in disaster readiness within their families and communities but also be the leaders to affect positive change,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “By applying to and joining the council, youth will have the opportunity to build preparedness and become change agents in their community.”

The online application opened on January 18, 2021, and students must complete their applications by March 7, 2021, 11:59 p.m. PST to be considered. Selected candidates will be notified in May 2021. Interested students can apply online at https://community.fema.gov/PreparednessCommunity/s/apply-to-ypc.

For more information about the Youth Preparedness Council or other youth-focused preparedness initiatives contact us at FEMA-Prepare@fema.dhs.gov.

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troy.christensen Thu, 01/21/2021 - 14:42

FEMA Provides $1.9 to Allina Health Systems

troy.christensen — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 14:59:09 +0000

FEMA Provides $1.9 to Allina Health Systems

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Minnesota Department of Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division (DPS-HSEM) announced today that $1,906,728 in federal funding has been made available to Allina Health System for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of April 7, 2020.

This funding will reimburse Allina Health System for costs to purchase and distribute personal protective equipment, ventilators and medical supplies to eliminate the immediate threat to life, public health and safety during the COVID-19 response.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding has helped ensure the availability of critical medical supplies and services in Minnesota to combat this virus.”

“Supporting Minnesota’s medical facilities and staff as they care for our family, friends, and neighbors is a priority for us,” said Joe Kelly, DPS-HSEM director. “FEMA’s Public Assistance grant funding allows us to acquire the tools and resources they need to save countless lives and protect many others.”

FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. The eligible cost for this project is $2,542,304. The remaining 25 percent, or $635,576, will be paid by Allina Health System.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 01/13/2021 - 14:59

Pope County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Information Virtual Open House

troy.christensen — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 14:44:31 +0000

Pope County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Information Virtual Open House

CHICAGO — Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a Flood Map Information Virtual Open House for Pope County online from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 6, 2021. The virtual 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).

The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood (also known as the 1-percent-annual-chance event) information, designate areas that are subject to significant flood hazards, and offer information that public officials may use when permitting development in the floodplain.

The virtual open house will be staffed with representatives from state and federal agencies who will provide the most current information about flood risk, flood insurance, floodplain development regulations, and the process for floodplain mapping within Pope County. Once the maps become effective, they will be used as the basis for flood insurance policy writing as well as local flood protection regulations adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA also intends that they be used by local officials in emergency management to assist planning processes and outreach efforts to increase resiliency in response to flood and storm events. Details for the Pope County meeting are as follows:

WHAT:             Pope County Flood Map Information Virtual Open House
WHEN:             January 6, 2021 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
WHERE:           Virtual Zoom Meeting: visit the Pope County Website (https://www.co.pope.mn.us/events/6980/) for the link

Property owners, realtors, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the Preliminary FIRMs and FIS report can be downloaded at: https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/.

For more information, contact FEMA at FEMA-R5-news-desk@fema.dhs.gov or (312) 408-4455.

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troy.christensen Mon, 01/04/2021 - 14:44

FEMA Provides $147 Million for Illinois COVID-19 Response

zella.campbell — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 15:51:34 +0000

FEMA Provides $147 Million for Illinois COVID-19 Response

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced this week that two grants totaling $146,986,960 have been made available in federal disaster aid to reimburse IEMA for emergency protective measures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This grant funding is part of the recovery efforts in response to the federal disaster declaration of March 31, 2020. In response to COVID-19, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) utilized contracts to purchase and distribute personal protective equipment (PPE) statewide to reduce the threat of COVID-19. PPE was stored in state operated warehouses for statewide distribution in response to resource requests submitted by eligible partners. A major objective of the Illinois response to the public health emergency was to ensure that hospitals, medical facilities, response organizations, public health and safety agencies and other essential functions had adequate PPE, supplies and equipment to respond and continue providing essential and critical services.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for states affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “These grant funds helped ensure PPE was available statewide to protect essential workers, first responders and others.”

“The State of Illinois remains steadfast in its commitment to save lives during this pandemic,” said IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “Studies show wearing personal protective equipment, such as a face mask, is critical to slow the spread of COVID-19 from one person to another. Under the direction of Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency has gone to great lengths to procure PPE for our frontline healthcare workers, first responders and our state’s critical workforce. This agency will continue to work tirelessly to meet the needs of our communities.”

FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for these projects. The eligible costs for the awards are $179,027,466.46 and $16,955,146.69 with a federal share of 134,270,599.85 and $12,716,360.02 respectively.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to state and local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.

zella.campbell Thu, 12/31/2020 - 15:51

Take Extra Precautions as Temperatures Drop This Week

troy.christensen — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 14:09:13 +0000

Take Extra Precautions as Temperatures Drop This Week

CHICAGO – Sub-zero temperatures are forecast this week and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) wants individuals and families to be safe when faced with the hazards of severely cold weather.

Beginning midweek, wind chills are forecast to be near or below zero in parts of the Upper Midwest, with high winds and snow expected across Minnesota, Wisconsin and western Michigan. “As some of us prepare for the upcoming holidays, we must also take steps to protect against the dangers of extremely low temperatures and severe winter weather,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “Stay inside your home as much as possible; this simple step will not only limit the spread of COVID-19 but will also limit your exposure to the cold.”

Protect yourself and your family by taking the necessary precautions:

Before the temperatures drop, gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days. Keep in mind each person’s and pet’s specific needs, including medication;
Dress in layers and keep dry;
Check on neighbors, family and friends while following the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on maintaining social and physical distancing;
Know the symptoms of cold-related health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia and seek medical attention if health conditions are severe. Learn more at the CDC’s webpage Prevent Frostbite & Hypothermia;
Plug only one heat-producing appliance (such as a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time and turn space heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. Never use an oven to heat your home;
Bring your pets indoors or ensure they have a warm shelter area with unfrozen water; and
Make sure your vehicle has an emergency kit that includes an ice scraper, blanket and flashlight – and keep the fuel tank above half full.

You can always find valuable information to help you prepare for winter emergencies at www.ready.gov/winter or www.usfa.fema.gov. Bookmark FEMA’s mobile site http://m.fema.gov or download the FEMA app today to have important readiness information just one click away.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 12/23/2020 - 14:09

FEMA to Host Telephone Town Hall Meeting for the Freeport Flood Mitigation Project

troy.christensen — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 20:36:27 +0000

FEMA to Host Telephone Town Hall Meeting for the Freeport Flood Mitigation Project

CHICAGO - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 5 office in Chicago is hosting a telephone town hall meeting to discuss the Freeport, Ill. flood mitigation project on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020, at 4 p.m. CT. FEMA will be hosting the meeting to solicit public feedback as part of its grant application review process.

The City of Freeport applied for FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) grant funding for the project to acquire and demolish approximately 150 flood prone properties located in the floodway of the Pecatonica River in the Eastside community. The owners of the acquired properties must voluntarily agree to sell the land then the structures will be removed, and the land will be converted to green space by the City of Freeport.

All interested and affected individuals should register to learn more and provide input. The telephone town hall is replacing a public meeting due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and will be simulcast in English and Spanish.

Telephone Town Hall Meeting Details:

Date and Time: Dec. 9, 2020 at 4 pm CT.
Registration: Visit website: https://tthm.wufoo.com/forms/freeport-flood-mitigation-project-town-hall. Registrants will receive a phone call that will automatically connect them to the meeting. Individuals may also call into the telephone town hall meeting at 888-410-3427 (English language line) or 844-881-1317 (Spanish language line).

To learn more about FEMA’s hazard mitigation assistance, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation. For questions about the meeting or the project, email FEMA-R5-news-desk@fema.dhs.gov or call 312-408-4455.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 12/02/2020 - 20:36

FEMA Provides $46 Million to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation

troy.christensen — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 16:20:58 +0000

FEMA Provides $46 Million to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) announced today that $46,077,160 in federal funding has been made available to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 31, 2020.

This funding will reimburse Cleveland Clinic Foundation for costs to expand capacity at their existing medical facility to treat COVID-19 patients and to purchase and distribute medical supplies, ventilators and personal protective equipment.

“Areas in and around Cleveland continue to have the second highest rates of COVID-19 cases in the state,” said Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick. “This funding allows for the Cleveland Clinic Foundation to continue its mission of providing critical medical care to patients.”

FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project, which totals $46,077,160. The eligible cost for this project is $61,436,213.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and 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.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 11/25/2020 - 16:20

Steps to Safely Celebrate the Holidays

troy.christensen — Fri, 20 Nov 2020 14:16:12 +0000

Steps to Safely Celebrate the Holidays

CHICAGO - Thanksgiving is less than a week away, and while smart travel, cooking, decorating and heating practices are always important to remember this time of year, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic means even more safety measures should be taken this holiday season.

“The safest option for celebrating Thanksgiving this year is to celebrate with people in your household,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “As COVID-19 continues to spread, staying home is the best way to save lives. If you need to leave your home, remember to wear your mask and maintain six feet of distance between you and others.”

Keep in mind these additional tips to keep your holidays as safe as possible:

Consider alternative celebrations. While the holidays are traditionally a time to gather with friends and loved ones, consider “virtual” alternatives that allow everyone to remain safely at home. CDC has some helpful suggestions on their Thanksgiving page at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.
Be a prepared traveler. If you must travel, check travel restrictions and get your flu shot before you go. Always wear a mask in public settings and wash your hands often. If you plan to leave the state, understand the requirements for isolating or quarantining when you arrive and/or return, then plan accordingly. If you’re driving to your destination, ensure you have an emergency supply kit in your car, and if you’re packing for a flight or train ride, consider a small kit in case of emergency: flashlight, batteries, & a spare USB power bank.
Protect against home fire risks. Put working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home and inside and outside sleeping areas. Change the batteries in these alarms twice per year, or per manufacturer’s guidelines.
Practice smart cooking. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, broiling, or boiling food and turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so they won’t get bumped. Clean cooking equipment after each use—crumbs in a toaster or grease on the stove can catch on fire.
Heat your home safely. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves, portable heaters and radiators. When you leave a room or go to bed, turn heaters off or unplug them.
Decorate with care. Nearly half of holiday decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source. Think about using battery-operated flameless candles this season. If that isn’t an option, place candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns and ensure they cannot be reached by children or pets. Inspect holiday lights before you put them up and throw away light strands with frayed or pinched wires. If you’re putting up a tree inside your home, water it every day.

For more readiness tips, visit www.ready.gov, www.cdc.gov, www.usfa.fema.gov, or download FEMA’s free app, available for your Android, Apple or Blackberry device.

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

troy.christensen Fri, 11/20/2020 - 14:16

FEMA Provides $1.6 Million to the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

troy.christensen — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 16:31:12 +0000

FEMA Provides $1.6 Million to the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that $1,602,360 in federal funding has been made available to the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago for critical medical services provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This grant funding is part of the recovery efforts for the federal disaster declaration of March 26, 2020. This funding will reimburse the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago for emergency response and protective measures taken during the pandemic, including costs for facility disinfection, medical supplies, personal protective equipment, and testing, diagnosis and treatment methods for patients who were exposed to or contracted the virus.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding has helped ensure the availability of critical medical services in the Chicago area to help combat this virus.”

FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. The total project cost is $2,136,480.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

troy.christensen Tue, 11/17/2020 - 16:31

FEMA Provides More than $3.6 Million to Loyola University Medical Center

troy.christensen — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 15:18:21 +0000

FEMA Provides More than $3.6 Million to Loyola University Medical Center

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that $3,629,528 has been made available in federal disaster aid to Loyola University Medical Center for emergency protective measures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This grant funding is part of the recovery efforts in response to the federal disaster declaration of March 26, 2020. In response to COVID-19, Loyola University Medical Center altered existing facilities to allow for proper distancing, purchased personal protective equipment, established screening areas, created COVID-19 testing locations and increased onsite cleaning to limit the virus’ spread.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding helped Loyola University Medical Center protect their healthcare workers and ensure critical services remained accessible and safe for patients in Illinois.”

The Public Assistance Program funding will be administered by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. The total cost of the project is $4,839,371, with the remaining amount paid by Loyola University Medical Center.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

troy.christensen Thu, 11/12/2020 - 15:18

FEMA Provides More Than $8.6 Million to Cleveland Clinic Foundation

troy.christensen — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 14:31:42 +0000

FEMA Provides More Than $8.6 Million to Cleveland Clinic Foundation

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Ohio Emergency Management Agency announced today that $8,602,811 has been made available in federal disaster aid for critical emergency medical care in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

This grant funding is part of the recovery efforts for the federal disaster declaration of March 31, 2020. Cleveland Clinic Foundation added 1,000 beds for the treatment of COVID-19 patients at an alternate care facility and purchased necessary emergency supplies and equipment to eliminate the immediate threat to life, public health and safety during the COVID-19 response.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding helped ensure the availability of critical medical services and equipment in Ohio to help combat this virus.”

“Areas in and around Cleveland, Ohio continue to have the second highest rates of COVID-19 cases in the state,” said Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick. “This funding allows the Cleveland Clinic Foundation to continue its mission of providing critical medical care to patients.”

The Public Assistance Program funding will be administered by Ohio EMA. FEMA provides 75 percent federal share of the total eligible project cost of $11,470,414.80.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

troy.christensen Tue, 11/03/2020 - 14:31

FEMA Provides $8.1 Million to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency

troy.christensen — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 14:27:31 +0000

FEMA Provides $8.1 Million to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency

CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that $8,119,618 in federal funding has been made available to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency for costs related to the state’s response to the coronavirus pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of March 26, 2020.

This funding was part of two FEMA grants; the first grant totaling $5,134,962 will reimburse IEMA for costs to provide medical care and support to correctional facilities. The second grant totaling $2,984,656 will reimburse IEMA for costs to provide non-congregate housing for quarantine, isolation, and modified isolation for COVID-19 patients, those exposed to the virus, and high-risk individuals across the state.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This funding was critical to support medical care and protective measures necessary to combat the spread of COVID-19 in Illinois.”

“As we see a surge in COVID-19 cases nationwide, we cannot underscore the importance of continued federal support to ensure that these facilities and services remain available to help Illinois residents as infection rates continue to rise,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau.

FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for these projects. The eligible costs for both projects totaled $6,846,616 and $3,979,541. The remaining 25 percent will be paid by IEMA.

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 debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

troy.christensen Mon, 11/02/2020 - 14:27

Daylight Savings Time Ends This Weekend: Three Steps for a Smart “Fall Back” into Fall

troy.christensen — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 13:16:21 +0000

Daylight Savings Time Ends This Weekend: Three Steps for a Smart “Fall Back” into Fall

CHICAGO – On Sunday, November 1, Daylight Saving Time ends, and we set our clocks back an hour. Take advantage of extra sleep then take a few simple steps to ensure you, your family and your home stay safe into the colder months ahead.

“As we near the end of 2020, we need to continue preventing the spread of COVID-19 through social distancing, mask wearing and hand washing. It’s also important to prepare for other types of disaster risks; consider using the extra hour this Sunday to verify your home is adequately protected for the upcoming winter season and ensure everyone in your family knows what to do in an emergency,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5.

1. Make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detector work. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing the equipment to ensure it is functioning appropriately. Invest in new detectors if they’re near or past the manufacturer’s recommended replacement age.

2. Ready your home and verify your insurance coverages adequately protect your property. Keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping and learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Review your insurance policies and talk to your agent to ensure your property is fully covered for the hazards in your area.

3. Update your family’s emergency plan. Make sure each family member knows how they will receive emergency alerts and warnings and how to stay in touch with each other if something happens and you’re not together. Check with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and make any necessary updates to your plan due to COVID-19, to include having masks (for everyone over 2 years old) and disinfectants if needed.

For more emergency preparedness information and tips, visit Ready.gov.

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

troy.christensen Thu, 10/29/2020 - 13:16