The deadline to apply for individual assistance has already passed, but FEMA remains in Louisiana to assist with long-term recovery and rebuilding following Hurricane Ida.
Here’s how FEMA and its federal partners continue the mission, and what assistance survivors can still seek in the weeks and months ahead.
Individual Assistance: The work to ensure survivors receive all their eligible benefits doesn’t end when the application deadline passes. Hundreds of personnel on the ground in Louisiana, along with their colleagues on the FEMA Helpline, are reaching out to survivors to follow through with their applications, process their appeals, and get assistance money into their pockets. At the same time, 112 FEMA inspection staff are wrapping up the last 1,444 outstanding inspections of damaged property, out of a total of a 482,000 completed thus far, or a completion rate of 99%. Starting in mid-Dec., FEMA will be conducting an additional outreach campaign to call survivors who registered for assistance but haven’t stayed in contact. Sometimes FEMA needs more information from you to complete or correct an application for assistance. Call 800-621-3362 to talk to FEMA.
Public Assistance: FEMA has approved $27.7 million for 12 public assistance projects benefitting local governments and nonprofits, with hundreds of additional potential projects in the pipeline. The deadline to apply for public assistance is Dec. 28. Learn more about the public assistance program by visiting www.fema.gov/assistance/public/apply or register through the Grants Portal at grantee.fema.gov/.
Local Hires: FEMA is seeking to hire at least 150 Louisianans to aid in the recovery of the community and help their fellow citizens in the recovery process. A local hire’s term of employment is up to 120 days, with the possibility of extension. It’s an investment in Louisianans, for Louisianans, for the long haul. Interested in applying, or know someone who would be a perfect fit? Search through current FEMA positions on USAJobs.gov.
Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) and Disaster Loan Outreach Centers: 8 DRCs remain open and available to Ida survivors throughout Louisiana. DRCs are a one stop shop for survivors who want to follow up with their applications for assistance, update their information, or learn about ways to make their homes more disaster resistant. A current list of active DRCs is available online through the DRC locator.
