Tag

Disaster Assistance

All articles tagged with #disaster assistance

climate2 years ago

"FEMA Adapts to Climate-Driven Disasters with Overhauled Assistance Program"

The Biden administration is revamping the U.S. disaster assistance programs through FEMA, aiming to provide more comprehensive aid to survivors of climate-related disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires. The changes include easier access to immediate cash assistance, increased support for temporary housing, and streamlined processes for repairing and improving damaged homes, in response to criticism that the existing programs were insufficient and disproportionately benefited wealthier and white Americans.

politics2 years ago

"Gov. Hochul Slams Delayed Disaster Aid as Unconscionable Amid Historic Rainfall"

New York Governor Kathy Hochul criticized the federal government for leaving disaster assistance in limbo until the last minute, calling it "unconscionable" and "tone-deaf" given the record-breaking rain that has hit her state and others during hurricane season. Congress passed a bipartisan bill to keep the government funded and reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program just three hours before the midnight deadline, avoiding a shutdown and a gap in the insurance program. Hochul emphasized the need to reassess how states and homeowners are reimbursed after catastrophic weather events and called for help in building resilience and reimbursing localities for the resources expended during emergencies.

"Rising Heat Deaths in Phoenix Spark Urgent Call for Assistance"

The state of Arizona is experiencing a surge in heat-related deaths, prompting calls for disaster assistance. With record-breaking temperatures, the state is grappling with the deadly consequences of extreme heat, particularly among vulnerable populations. Advocates are urging the federal government to declare a state of emergency and provide additional resources to combat the escalating heat crisis, highlighting the urgent need for action on climate change.

natural-disasters2 years ago

Maui Fire Tragedy: Death Toll Rises, Relief Efforts Begin

The death toll from the Lahaina fire in Maui has risen to 114, with 78% of the burn area searched. The Maui Fire Department reported that the fire is now 90% contained after burning 2,168 acres and over 2,000 structures. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has deployed over 1,000 responders to assist with the disaster and has provided over $5.6 million in assistance to nearly 2,000 households. President Joe Biden has authorized increased federal funding for emergency work in Hawaii. The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened a Disaster Business Recovery Center for affected residents to seek financial assistance.