How
does
the
FEMA
aid process work?
Preparation and safety are top priorities leading up to a potential disaster, but once the danger has passed, the focus shifts to recovery. For individuals, that often means determining what disaster relief assistance is available.
For individuals to be eligible for federal funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, an area must first receive a presidential disaster declaration. Following an event like the tornadoes that ripped through Georgia in January 2017, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and Homeland Security Agency plays a vital role in the disaster relief process by conducting preliminary damage assessments. These assessments help areas qualify for federal aid by determining that the dollar amount of damages sustained meets the federal threshold required to be declared a federal disaster area.
“Assessors travel throughout each affected county, make an initial observation of damaged property and provide an estimate of the total dollar amount of damages,” said GEMA/HS Field Coordinator CJ Worden.
Once an area reaches the federal threshold and receives a presidential disaster declaration, FEMA funding becomes available to provide a safety net for uninsured losses through federal disaster grants. These grants are tax-free and do not have to be repaid, but they are not given automatically.
“Dealing with the aftermath of a disaster can be overwhelming, but taking the time to apply for federal assistance is a crucial step in getting the help needed to begin to recovering from the effects of the disaster," said Charlie Dawson of GEMA/HS' public asistance and recovery division.
Disaster recovery centers are set up at locations around the areas affected by the disaster to enable easier access to resources and support. GEMA/HS and FEMA team members staff the centers to provide assistance and guidance on the grant application process. Survivors can also complete the grant application online. Expenses that may be covered by federal grants include:
$1.43/Person
Damage $ Amount
Georgia
Population
AID
Home repairs (e.g., structure, water, septic and sewage systems)
Rental assistance for a different place to live temporarily
Repair or replacement of a flooded essential vehicle
Medical care for an injury caused by the disaster
Repair, cleaning or replacement of clothing, specialized tools
Necessary educational materials (e.g., computers, school books, supplies)
Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster
Other disaster-related expenses
In addition to FEMA Individual Assistance grants, other support may be available to survivors. Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, volunteer groups and other agencies are also at the disaster recovery centers to answer questions about additional sources of disaster assistance and low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses.
Once grants have been applied for, FEMA will contact the applicant within 10 days to schedule an appointment. For more on what happens after you apply for FEMA aid, see page 9.
DISPATCH
By Lisa Rodriguez-Presley