FEMA to overhaul its disaster aid system after decades of criticism

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The agency announced on Friday that it will fundamentally overhaul the way it delivers aid to survivors, launching new programs to provide quick cash payments to those in need and eliminating much of the bureaucracy that hampers aid access. 

“This is really a transformational, deeply impactful, meaningful, and historic change in our provision of individual assistance to survivors of natural disasters,” said Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees FEMA. “For too long, in the face of too many natural disasters and extreme weather events, survivors have had to overcome many barriers to access to federal assistance.”

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Florida Flooding Damage Assessment
http://flvbeoc.org/index.php?action=bda
The completed surveys will help the State Emergency Response Team in determining the needs and level of assistance for impacted businesses. The information provided in this survey will be shared among various state and local agencies to expedite implementation of appropriate disaster relief programs for businesses.

Santa Rosa County Damage Reports
http://santarosa.fl.gov/EmergencyNew/WebDamage.cfm
Residents of Santa Rosa County are asked to submit information about their property damage to the county. Once submitted, your information will be sent to several county departments including emergency management, public works, floodplain management and grants. Staff will document your information in a damage database, review qualifications for mitigation projects/grants, and determine if an additional damage assessment or other action is needed.