The purpose of the Disaster Recovery Center is to assist residents that were impacted by the December 2022 and January 2023 winter storms. Now through Wednesday, March 8th, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a mobile Disaster Recovery Center located at the City parking lot on Nevin Avenue between 24th and 25th Street.
(Part of a Press Release from Contra Costa County's Administrator’s Office, Feb. 24, 2023 with updated info)
(Martinez, CA) – A mobile Disaster Recovery Center (Center) is now open for Contra Costa County residents impacted by the December and January winter storms to connect with federal recovery resources in person.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has open the mobile center, which is available at these dates and times, depending on need (and weather permitting):
Location:
Richmond Civic Center Parking Lot
Between 24th and 25th streets in Richmond
Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Dates: March 7th and 8th, 2023*
* In case of inclement weather, FEMA representatives will be available inside of 450 Civic Center Plaza.
The Center can help residents:
- Apply directly for assistance. Residents can still apply online or check the status of their application at www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362;
- Learn more about disaster assistance programs;
- Learn the status of a FEMA application;
- Ask questions regarding eligibility;
- Find housing and rental assistance information;
- Get answers to questions or resolve issues; or
- Get referrals to agencies that might offer other assistance.
Other resources through the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available.
For those who have experienced personal property damage, please contact your insurance company first to determine available resources. FEMA provides assistance to applicants for uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses and serious needs.
County Approved for Public Assistance Program:
On Feb. 24, Contra Costa County submitted its request for Public Assistance for the unincorporated areas. Each city within the county will have to submit a request to be eligible for federal reimbursement. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to local governments so communities can respond and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like severe storms, government organizations need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure.
The County, including unincorporated and incorporated areas, reported an estimated $43 million in damage to public infrastructure from the storms, including bridges, roads and culverts.
To prepare for future storms, sign up for emergency alerts through the Community Warning System at www.CWSAlerts.com. Visit www.contracosta.ca.gov to find information about County services.
Contact: Kristi Jourdan, PIO
(925) 313-1183
Send email to Kristi Jourdan
