Posted on December 6, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County Highway Department anticipates more reimbursement funds from the February flooding event to come in from FEMA.
Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler said the county received about $13,000 for the debris removal portion of the reimbursement requests from the federal agency.
“They just asked for more information last week,” commented Ritzler. “They asked for more maintenance records for the roads. They’ve approved about half of ours and they just wanted to get more of the records on some of the others. Rachel [Oesterrich, Office Manager] was scrambling the last week-and-a-half like we all were and get the records. We turned them in on Friday.”
Ritzler said much more money should be coming in once they approve this last round of requested paperwork.
Showing posts with label FEMA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FEMA. Show all posts
Thursday, December 6, 2018
Thursday, July 5, 2018
Starke County Highway Department Anticipates Visit from FEMA
Posted on July 5, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
FEMA representatives will be visiting the Starke County Highway Department for a site visit next week to assess paperwork and damage repair from flooding that occurred in February.
Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler told the commissioners on Monday night that it should be a good visit.
“They will be meeting us at our office on July 10 at 10 a.m. CT,” said Ritzler. “We will know better then, but it’s optimistic. It looks like we’re getting a pretty good reimbursement. I hate to tell you how much because I’m not sure yet, but it sounds good.”
Ritzler said the crews are working hard to get repairs done prior to the visit.
“They revised our estimates. They told us that all of the work that we have completed already they’re not going to come and inspect. So, they’re only going to inspect the roads we haven’t done yet. We have been busy doing those roads. As of the phone call, we had about 60 percent of the road repairs completed. As of today, we’re about 75 percent. By the 10th, we hope to be at about 90 percent so they’ll only have a couple of roads to inspect.”
While Ritzler is hesitant to give out any reimbursement figures, he believes it will be healthy.
“We can either submit a reimbursement for direct administrative costs with the actual hours or five percent of our damages and our damages total almost $1 million. We’d get about $50,000 which is good. We put in a lot of time but not quite that much time so that could be a good reimbursement as well.”
The flooding event closed 63 miles of roads in Starke County while 18 culverts were damaged. Nine of those culverts are now repaired. No bridges were damaged.
With the department’s concentrated effort to complete flood damaged areas, normal paving operations are a bit delayed. Ritzler expects to turn to the second phase of paving in the next few days.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
FEMA representatives will be visiting the Starke County Highway Department for a site visit next week to assess paperwork and damage repair from flooding that occurred in February.
Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler told the commissioners on Monday night that it should be a good visit.
“They will be meeting us at our office on July 10 at 10 a.m. CT,” said Ritzler. “We will know better then, but it’s optimistic. It looks like we’re getting a pretty good reimbursement. I hate to tell you how much because I’m not sure yet, but it sounds good.”
Ritzler said the crews are working hard to get repairs done prior to the visit.
“They revised our estimates. They told us that all of the work that we have completed already they’re not going to come and inspect. So, they’re only going to inspect the roads we haven’t done yet. We have been busy doing those roads. As of the phone call, we had about 60 percent of the road repairs completed. As of today, we’re about 75 percent. By the 10th, we hope to be at about 90 percent so they’ll only have a couple of roads to inspect.”
While Ritzler is hesitant to give out any reimbursement figures, he believes it will be healthy.
“We can either submit a reimbursement for direct administrative costs with the actual hours or five percent of our damages and our damages total almost $1 million. We’d get about $50,000 which is good. We put in a lot of time but not quite that much time so that could be a good reimbursement as well.”
The flooding event closed 63 miles of roads in Starke County while 18 culverts were damaged. Nine of those culverts are now repaired. No bridges were damaged.
With the department’s concentrated effort to complete flood damaged areas, normal paving operations are a bit delayed. Ritzler expects to turn to the second phase of paving in the next few days.
Monday, July 2, 2018
FEMA Officials Urge Residents to Protect Homes from Flooding
Posted on July 2, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
There are just a few days left to register for federal disaster assistance, following February’s floods. The deadline is Thursday, July 5. You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
At the same time, FEMA urges residents to protect their homes from future flooding. Outside your home, make sure all gutters and downspouts are clean, so water flows away from the building. Keep debris away from storm drains and drainage ditches. FEMA officials also recommend improving your lot grading, to make sure storm water drains away from the house.
Seal basement walls and any cracks in your home’s foundation. Install a sump pump to protect your house from basement seepage and flooding.
FEMA also urges homeowners to buy flood insurance, noting that an inch of floodwater can cause more than $25,000 in damage.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
There are just a few days left to register for federal disaster assistance, following February’s floods. The deadline is Thursday, July 5. You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
At the same time, FEMA urges residents to protect their homes from future flooding. Outside your home, make sure all gutters and downspouts are clean, so water flows away from the building. Keep debris away from storm drains and drainage ditches. FEMA officials also recommend improving your lot grading, to make sure storm water drains away from the house.
Seal basement walls and any cracks in your home’s foundation. Install a sump pump to protect your house from basement seepage and flooding.
FEMA also urges homeowners to buy flood insurance, noting that an inch of floodwater can cause more than $25,000 in damage.
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
SBA Encourages Qualifying Flood Victims to Apply for Disaster Loans
Posted on June 19, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Those who experienced flood damage this past February may qualify for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Federal disaster assistance is now available to residents, businesses, and non-profit organizations across the local area, including Marshall, Starke, and Pulaski counties. The deadline to apply is July 5.
SBA Public Affairs Specialist Brian Beard says that for homeowners and renters, the first step is to register with FEMA. “The first thing they do is look at the financial situation, and somebody who has enough income is quite possibly going to get referred to the SBA for a loan because FEMA just concentrates on the safety and security of the home,” he said during a presentation at Monday’s Pulaski County Commissioners meeting. “And so if somebody does get referred to the SBA, it’s important for them to follow through, and even if they’re not sure they want a loan, they should go ahead and apply. There’s no cost. And if the loan gets turned down for any reason, they might be referred back to FEMA for more direct aid.”
Businesses and non-profit groups looking for disaster loans may apply directly with the SBA. Those who qualify for a loan have two months to decide whether or not to accept it.
Beard said loans of up to $200,000 are available for a homeowner’s primary residence, while up to $40,000 is available for personal property. “Businesses can get up to $2 million, not only for physical damage,” he explained, “but if there’s an interruption in sales and income, in direct effect from flooding, like if a bridge got washed out and you couldn’t get to the business or something, you can get a working capital loan to cover monthly costs, until sales come back up again.”
Beard said repayment terms are up to 30 years, based on the applicant’s ability to pay, and there’s no payment for the first six months. “The SBA loans are directly from the federal government, and the interest rate will not change,” he said. “So it’s 1.813 percent for home or the personal property, and that includes the personal vehicle, the automobile, and 3.58 percent for businesses and 2.5 percent for non-profits.”
To apply for an SBA disaster loan, visit DisasterLoan.sba.gov, or call 800-621-3362 for more information. To register with FEMA, visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Those who experienced flood damage this past February may qualify for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Federal disaster assistance is now available to residents, businesses, and non-profit organizations across the local area, including Marshall, Starke, and Pulaski counties. The deadline to apply is July 5.
SBA Public Affairs Specialist Brian Beard says that for homeowners and renters, the first step is to register with FEMA. “The first thing they do is look at the financial situation, and somebody who has enough income is quite possibly going to get referred to the SBA for a loan because FEMA just concentrates on the safety and security of the home,” he said during a presentation at Monday’s Pulaski County Commissioners meeting. “And so if somebody does get referred to the SBA, it’s important for them to follow through, and even if they’re not sure they want a loan, they should go ahead and apply. There’s no cost. And if the loan gets turned down for any reason, they might be referred back to FEMA for more direct aid.”
Businesses and non-profit groups looking for disaster loans may apply directly with the SBA. Those who qualify for a loan have two months to decide whether or not to accept it.
Beard said loans of up to $200,000 are available for a homeowner’s primary residence, while up to $40,000 is available for personal property. “Businesses can get up to $2 million, not only for physical damage,” he explained, “but if there’s an interruption in sales and income, in direct effect from flooding, like if a bridge got washed out and you couldn’t get to the business or something, you can get a working capital loan to cover monthly costs, until sales come back up again.”
Beard said repayment terms are up to 30 years, based on the applicant’s ability to pay, and there’s no payment for the first six months. “The SBA loans are directly from the federal government, and the interest rate will not change,” he said. “So it’s 1.813 percent for home or the personal property, and that includes the personal vehicle, the automobile, and 3.58 percent for businesses and 2.5 percent for non-profits.”
To apply for an SBA disaster loan, visit DisasterLoan.sba.gov, or call 800-621-3362 for more information. To register with FEMA, visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
Monday, June 18, 2018
FEMA Officials Provide Additional Guidelines in Public Notice
Posted on June 18, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
FEMA recently issued a public notice in regards to the major flooding that occurred earlier this year and the subsequent public and individual funding assistance being offered to several counties including Starke, Pulaski, Marshall and La Porte.
The notice, provided by Starke County EMA Director J. Nier, reportedly concerns activities that may affect historic properties, ones that are located in or affecting wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain and critical actions within the 500-year flood plain. FEMA officials report that such incidents may adversely affect the historical property, floodplain, or wetland or could result in continuing vulnerability to flood damage.
Federal actions in or affecting the floodplain or wetlands are required to be reviewed for opportunities to relocate. They must also be evaluated for any historical, environmental, social, economic, legal and safety considerations.
When there is no relocation opportunity available, FEMA is required to perform a detailed review to determine what measures can be taken to minimize future damages. Members of the public are invited to participate in the process by determining their impacts and identifying alternative locations.
When it comes to historic properties, the National Historic Preservation Act required federal agencies to take into account the effects of their undertakings on the structures. The activities or actions affecting buildings, districts or objects 50 years-old or older that affect archeological sites or undisturbed ground will require further review to determine if the property is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.
If the property makes it onto the Register and there is proof that FEMA’s undertaking will adversely affect it, FEMA will provide additional public notices.
Additionally, FEMA intends to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding to the State of Indiana to mitigate future disaster damages. These projects may include construction of new facilities, demolition of structures or other types of projects that will help reduce future disaster damages and prevent them if at all possible.
If you feel that this information applies to your property, click the following link to view the full FEMA Public Notice.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
FEMA recently issued a public notice in regards to the major flooding that occurred earlier this year and the subsequent public and individual funding assistance being offered to several counties including Starke, Pulaski, Marshall and La Porte.
The notice, provided by Starke County EMA Director J. Nier, reportedly concerns activities that may affect historic properties, ones that are located in or affecting wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain and critical actions within the 500-year flood plain. FEMA officials report that such incidents may adversely affect the historical property, floodplain, or wetland or could result in continuing vulnerability to flood damage.
Federal actions in or affecting the floodplain or wetlands are required to be reviewed for opportunities to relocate. They must also be evaluated for any historical, environmental, social, economic, legal and safety considerations.
When there is no relocation opportunity available, FEMA is required to perform a detailed review to determine what measures can be taken to minimize future damages. Members of the public are invited to participate in the process by determining their impacts and identifying alternative locations.
When it comes to historic properties, the National Historic Preservation Act required federal agencies to take into account the effects of their undertakings on the structures. The activities or actions affecting buildings, districts or objects 50 years-old or older that affect archeological sites or undisturbed ground will require further review to determine if the property is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.
If the property makes it onto the Register and there is proof that FEMA’s undertaking will adversely affect it, FEMA will provide additional public notices.
Additionally, FEMA intends to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding to the State of Indiana to mitigate future disaster damages. These projects may include construction of new facilities, demolition of structures or other types of projects that will help reduce future disaster damages and prevent them if at all possible.
If you feel that this information applies to your property, click the following link to view the full FEMA Public Notice.
Friday, June 15, 2018
FEMA Intent Reimburse Eligible Applicants
FEMA has asked that EMA to share the public notice of the intent to reimburse eligible applicants following the severe storms and flooding that occurred from February 14 through March 4, 2018. The public notice can be found at
Please download and share the public notice with contacts in your county.
Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) opened Tuesday, June 12, in LaPorte to help Indiana flood survivors in LaPorte, Porter and Starke counties.
The DRC hours are
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
LaPORTE COUNTY
LaPORTE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
SHERIFF’S BUILDING, CONCESSION BLVD.
2581 W. STATE ROAD 2
LaPORTE, IN 46350
LaPORTE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
SHERIFF’S BUILDING, CONCESSION BLVD.
2581 W. STATE ROAD 2
LaPORTE, IN 46350
Thursday, May 31, 2018
FEMA Representatives Are Still Determining If Starke County Will be Granted Individual Assistance
Posted on May 31, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Starke County Emergency Management Agency Director J. Nier is still waiting to hear back from FEMA representatives about individual assistance for the county.
When FEMA initially declared which counties were eligible for individual assistance for flood damage, Starke County was not included. However, Nier explained that was due to an error with the organization’s reporting app, not because the county didn’t need the help.
She reported, “FEMA had an app that they originally had us using. Well, they found out that there were some glitches in the app. So the good thing is that I actually documented everything on paper and had pictures to back it up.”
After Nier submitted the necessary documentation through the proper channels, FEMA representatives were sent out to evaluate the status of the county. On Friday, FEMA crews began conducting individual assessments on damaged homes.
Nier added that aside from structural assessments, the individuals living in the damaged homes will be interviewed as well.
Starke County has already been deemed eligible for public assistance through FEMA, which allows for federal funds to be utilized by department heads for flood-related infrastructure repairs. If individual assistance is provided, federal funds will be available to assist homeowners with costs related to repairing the flood damage on their own properties.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Starke County Emergency Management Agency Director J. Nier is still waiting to hear back from FEMA representatives about individual assistance for the county.
When FEMA initially declared which counties were eligible for individual assistance for flood damage, Starke County was not included. However, Nier explained that was due to an error with the organization’s reporting app, not because the county didn’t need the help.
She reported, “FEMA had an app that they originally had us using. Well, they found out that there were some glitches in the app. So the good thing is that I actually documented everything on paper and had pictures to back it up.”
After Nier submitted the necessary documentation through the proper channels, FEMA representatives were sent out to evaluate the status of the county. On Friday, FEMA crews began conducting individual assessments on damaged homes.
Nier added that aside from structural assessments, the individuals living in the damaged homes will be interviewed as well.
Starke County has already been deemed eligible for public assistance through FEMA, which allows for federal funds to be utilized by department heads for flood-related infrastructure repairs. If individual assistance is provided, federal funds will be available to assist homeowners with costs related to repairing the flood damage on their own properties.
Friday, May 25, 2018
FEMA Crews Conducting Individual Assessments in Starke County Today
Posted on May 25, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Starke County EMA Director J. Nier reports that FEMA crews are in the county today conducting individual assessments to determine whether or not individual financial assistance will be provided.
Nier previously shared that there was a technical issue with FEMA’s damage reporting app which resulted in the submissions from several counties going unrecorded. That led to many places not being included in FEMA’s list of counties to receive individual assistance damage caused during February’s floods.
Fortunately, the director had pictures and physical copies of damage reports that she was able to show officials to make the case that individual assistance is a necessity in the county.
Nier stated that while conducting damage assesments, she visited over 50 homes where owners reported damage. According to standards set out by FEMA, she found that 13 house were affected, 20 had minor damage and 22 houses had major damage.
FEMA crews are conducting their own damage assement today and Nier said she hopes to know whether the county will receive individual assistance at some point today. More information will be shared as it becomes available.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Starke County EMA Director J. Nier reports that FEMA crews are in the county today conducting individual assessments to determine whether or not individual financial assistance will be provided.
Nier previously shared that there was a technical issue with FEMA’s damage reporting app which resulted in the submissions from several counties going unrecorded. That led to many places not being included in FEMA’s list of counties to receive individual assistance damage caused during February’s floods.
Fortunately, the director had pictures and physical copies of damage reports that she was able to show officials to make the case that individual assistance is a necessity in the county.
Nier stated that while conducting damage assesments, she visited over 50 homes where owners reported damage. According to standards set out by FEMA, she found that 13 house were affected, 20 had minor damage and 22 houses had major damage.
FEMA crews are conducting their own damage assement today and Nier said she hopes to know whether the county will receive individual assistance at some point today. More information will be shared as it becomes available.
Friday, May 18, 2018
Starke County EMA and EMS Directors Attend Briefing over FEMA Public Assistance
Posted on May 18, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Starke County Emergency Management Agency Director J. Nier and EMS Director Travis Clary attended a briefing with FEMA representatives on Thursday in order to learn more about the public financial assistance that is available to the county to help with flood relief.
EMA Director Nier explained that in order to be eligible for public assistance, the county had to reach about $85,000 spent dealing with flood recovery. Nier said that number was not only reached, but it was surpassed, with close to $2 million spent during the immediate response.
The public assistance provided deals specifically with infrastructure concerns and the federal funds will be provided on a reimbursement basis. The funding is offered to county departments including the Surveyor’s Office, the Highway Department, Debris Management, EMS, various fire departments and multiple other agencies who were involved in the flood response.
The county’s department heads will utilize a reporting portal through FEMA where they will upload their invoices directly. Director Nier said that during this process, it is imperative that department heads take detailed records of everything that a repair entails including equipment, materials, man hours and anything else that has a cost associated with it.
A FEMA representative will be in the county, working with department heads to show them how to utilize the portal.
Nier noted that once the representative is no longer working with the departments on an individual basis, individuals will still be able to reach them over the phone if any questions or concerns arise.
Additionally, Director Nier shared that she has submitted documentation to help bring individual assistance into the county as well.
She said FEMA experienced some technical difficulties with their reporting app that led to damage in multiple counties going unrecorded even though it was submitted. Nier said fortunately she had pictures and physical copies of her reports that she has since turned in for consideration.
An appeal will be submitted to FEMA, asking officials to reconsider providing individual assistance to those areas. While public assistance focuses on infrastructure, individual assistance would help impacted residents on a more personal basis.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Starke County Emergency Management Agency Director J. Nier and EMS Director Travis Clary attended a briefing with FEMA representatives on Thursday in order to learn more about the public financial assistance that is available to the county to help with flood relief.
EMA Director Nier explained that in order to be eligible for public assistance, the county had to reach about $85,000 spent dealing with flood recovery. Nier said that number was not only reached, but it was surpassed, with close to $2 million spent during the immediate response.
The public assistance provided deals specifically with infrastructure concerns and the federal funds will be provided on a reimbursement basis. The funding is offered to county departments including the Surveyor’s Office, the Highway Department, Debris Management, EMS, various fire departments and multiple other agencies who were involved in the flood response.
The county’s department heads will utilize a reporting portal through FEMA where they will upload their invoices directly. Director Nier said that during this process, it is imperative that department heads take detailed records of everything that a repair entails including equipment, materials, man hours and anything else that has a cost associated with it.
A FEMA representative will be in the county, working with department heads to show them how to utilize the portal.
Nier noted that once the representative is no longer working with the departments on an individual basis, individuals will still be able to reach them over the phone if any questions or concerns arise.
Additionally, Director Nier shared that she has submitted documentation to help bring individual assistance into the county as well.
She said FEMA experienced some technical difficulties with their reporting app that led to damage in multiple counties going unrecorded even though it was submitted. Nier said fortunately she had pictures and physical copies of her reports that she has since turned in for consideration.
An appeal will be submitted to FEMA, asking officials to reconsider providing individual assistance to those areas. While public assistance focuses on infrastructure, individual assistance would help impacted residents on a more personal basis.
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Starke County Highway Superintendent Meets with FEMA Representatives
Posted on April 3, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler met with FEMA representatives last week to discuss flood damage to the county’s roads, bridges and culverts.
Ritzler told the Starke County Commissioners Monday night that there are three categories that the county qualifies for when it comes to reimbursement funding.
“There are debris removal events that we have to report and one of the smaller things. That’s only $3,200. We also have to report emergency protective measures. That’s mostly opening and closing the roads, repairing existing road closed signs, monitoring damage, and other emergency repairs. That total is $50,000. There are two category “C” lists. The first one is roads and bridges that display completed temporary repair. Six culverts and a lot of roadways are done at a current cost of $116,420,” said Ritzler.
He said the most important category is road and bridges permanent repairs.
“The wedging and pavement repairs is the most important one. You can see it’s the highest priced. That includes repairing Toto Road, Range Road and all of the roads that were significantly damaged – 700 North. We sat down for a couple of hours with FEMA the other day and went through all of these. They gave us a few more things that we have to submit to them and then we will be ready to get our reimbursement. Our permanent repairs total $1.4 million so the total of everything is just over $1.5 million.”
Ritzler noted that they are about halfway through the reporting requirements set forth by FEMA and they will be working on the rest of the report this week. All of the documentation will be submitted for reimbursement.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler met with FEMA representatives last week to discuss flood damage to the county’s roads, bridges and culverts.
Ritzler told the Starke County Commissioners Monday night that there are three categories that the county qualifies for when it comes to reimbursement funding.
“There are debris removal events that we have to report and one of the smaller things. That’s only $3,200. We also have to report emergency protective measures. That’s mostly opening and closing the roads, repairing existing road closed signs, monitoring damage, and other emergency repairs. That total is $50,000. There are two category “C” lists. The first one is roads and bridges that display completed temporary repair. Six culverts and a lot of roadways are done at a current cost of $116,420,” said Ritzler.
He said the most important category is road and bridges permanent repairs.
“The wedging and pavement repairs is the most important one. You can see it’s the highest priced. That includes repairing Toto Road, Range Road and all of the roads that were significantly damaged – 700 North. We sat down for a couple of hours with FEMA the other day and went through all of these. They gave us a few more things that we have to submit to them and then we will be ready to get our reimbursement. Our permanent repairs total $1.4 million so the total of everything is just over $1.5 million.”
Ritzler noted that they are about halfway through the reporting requirements set forth by FEMA and they will be working on the rest of the report this week. All of the documentation will be submitted for reimbursement.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Tips for Hoosiers Looking to Help Victims of Hurricane Harvey
Posted on August 29, 2017
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
We may be more than a thousand miles away from Hurricane Harvey’s impact but there are still many ways that Hoosiers can help positively impact the lives of those in need. When donating money or supplies, be especially aware of who you’re assisting. Unfortunately during times like these, criminals can prey on eager humanitarians just trying to help.
In order to ensure your assistance will get into the right hands, work with legitimate, well-known relief agencies such as FEMA or The Red Cross. The Red Cross already experiences blood shortages during the summer months and with the addition of injuries incurred during this natural disaster, they are even more in need of donations.
Individuals also have the ability to submit monetary donations to help Red Cross coordinate emergency relief efforts to provide disaster relief as quickly as possible. To schedule an appointment, locate a blood drive near you or to make a monetary donation visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS [1 800 733 27677].
Additionally, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security provides the following warnings and tips about responsible giving and volunteering.
Avoid the use of social networking sites that promote impromptu collections drives. Not only can this lead to scams, but it could also potentially lead to crowded warehouses of unrequested items and clogged distribution channels in the impacted area. Cash donations can be managed much easier since the type and amount of supplies required can change frequently. Providing monetary donations to valid agencies allows volunteers to acquire the needed supplies and address the most urgent needs more quickly and efficiently.
If you’re looking to provide volunteer assistance, be sure you have a plan before heading for impacted areas. As much as volunteers play a vital part in disaster recovery, sometimes well-meaning individuals who show up without prior contact or coordination with disaster management personnel can further complicate or even hinder response and recovery operations.
Contact a volunteer organization before heading out and inform them of your specific skills so you can be directed to the area where you can provide the most assistance. Make necessary arrangements for things you’ll need while volunteering such as appropriate clothing, food, water and a place to stay. If you’re unsure of what you’ll need, ask the organization you’ll be working with.
A list of legitimate relief agencies as well as more information about how you can help victims of Hurricane Harvey can be found here.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
We may be more than a thousand miles away from Hurricane Harvey’s impact but there are still many ways that Hoosiers can help positively impact the lives of those in need. When donating money or supplies, be especially aware of who you’re assisting. Unfortunately during times like these, criminals can prey on eager humanitarians just trying to help.
In order to ensure your assistance will get into the right hands, work with legitimate, well-known relief agencies such as FEMA or The Red Cross. The Red Cross already experiences blood shortages during the summer months and with the addition of injuries incurred during this natural disaster, they are even more in need of donations.
Individuals also have the ability to submit monetary donations to help Red Cross coordinate emergency relief efforts to provide disaster relief as quickly as possible. To schedule an appointment, locate a blood drive near you or to make a monetary donation visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS [1 800 733 27677].
Additionally, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security provides the following warnings and tips about responsible giving and volunteering.
Avoid the use of social networking sites that promote impromptu collections drives. Not only can this lead to scams, but it could also potentially lead to crowded warehouses of unrequested items and clogged distribution channels in the impacted area. Cash donations can be managed much easier since the type and amount of supplies required can change frequently. Providing monetary donations to valid agencies allows volunteers to acquire the needed supplies and address the most urgent needs more quickly and efficiently.
If you’re looking to provide volunteer assistance, be sure you have a plan before heading for impacted areas. As much as volunteers play a vital part in disaster recovery, sometimes well-meaning individuals who show up without prior contact or coordination with disaster management personnel can further complicate or even hinder response and recovery operations.
Contact a volunteer organization before heading out and inform them of your specific skills so you can be directed to the area where you can provide the most assistance. Make necessary arrangements for things you’ll need while volunteering such as appropriate clothing, food, water and a place to stay. If you’re unsure of what you’ll need, ask the organization you’ll be working with.
A list of legitimate relief agencies as well as more information about how you can help victims of Hurricane Harvey can be found here.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
FEMA Urges Residents to Prepare for Spring Flooding
Posted on April 4, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
With spring comes the chance of heavy rainfall and flooding, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency says now’s the time to make sure you’re ready.
FEMA officials suggest putting together an emergency supply kit with food, water, first aid supplies, medications, and a battery-operated radio. They also say residents should plan an evacuation route and practice it. Also, designate someone out of state as a “family contact” person and make sure everyone in your family knows that person’s phone number and address.
FEMA also has a few suggestions for protecting your home’s valuables. Conduct a household inventory and keep a record of all major items and valuables. Keep irreplaceable documents like birth certificates and passports in a safe deposit box, and store copies in a safe, dry place. FEMA officials urge residents to consider flood insurance, since homeowner’s insurance policies typically don’t cover floods. They warn not to wait until it’s too late, since policies don’t go into effect until 30 days after application and payment.
More flood safety tips can be found at Ready.gov.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
With spring comes the chance of heavy rainfall and flooding, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency says now’s the time to make sure you’re ready.
FEMA officials suggest putting together an emergency supply kit with food, water, first aid supplies, medications, and a battery-operated radio. They also say residents should plan an evacuation route and practice it. Also, designate someone out of state as a “family contact” person and make sure everyone in your family knows that person’s phone number and address.
FEMA also has a few suggestions for protecting your home’s valuables. Conduct a household inventory and keep a record of all major items and valuables. Keep irreplaceable documents like birth certificates and passports in a safe deposit box, and store copies in a safe, dry place. FEMA officials urge residents to consider flood insurance, since homeowner’s insurance policies typically don’t cover floods. They warn not to wait until it’s too late, since policies don’t go into effect until 30 days after application and payment.
More flood safety tips can be found at Ready.gov.
Saturday, July 25, 2015
State Still Short of FEMA Damage Qualification Threshold
Published:
Businesses, individual and nonprofit organizations whose property has sustained damages as a result of recent flooding and storms have a few more days to report uninsured damage to the state. Doing so is a first step to see if Indiana may qualify for federal disaster assistance funds.
Indiana Department of Homeland Security spokesman John Erickson says the state is “not even close” to that threshold right now. The reporting deadline is Wednesday, July 29th.
Damage can be reported online https://myoracle.in.gov/hs/damage/ia-public.do?method=active&incidentId=IA20150708112230.
Individuals will be asked to provide their name, address, phone number and type of damage the property sustained. Losses can include structural damage to homes and loss of personal property. Officials stress this is NOT an application for a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Contact your county emergency management agency director with any questions. Contact information is available at http://www.in.gov/dhs/2797.htm.
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