August 3, 2023
Hello friends -
I would like to extend our love and support to the many Vermonters that have been impacted by the flooding and landslides that impacted Vermont in July. My hometown of Barre City received significant damage and it is heartbreaking to see the significant extent of the damage. More locally in our district, the Intervale and our local farmers saw widespread damage essentially ending their growing season. Thank you to the many people fundraising to support our local farmers. The City of Burlington worked to address a major break in a river crossing sewer pipe caused by major flood debris. Thank you to residents in the New North End for your patience and willingness to conserve water to minimize flow into the system and the city staff for quickly addressing the break. The state's recovery will be long. The state, federal government and local communities have a number of resources available for impacted individuals, homes, businesses, farms and communities. Some programs, such as the Efficiency Vermont appliance replacement program and State of Vermont Business Emergency Gap Assistance Grants are just coming online. Please see the following resources and be in touch if I can be of any assistance with your navigation of state or federal resources. Please also see information on how to volunteer and donate to support the most impacted communities. Our neighbors still need our help!
GENERAL INFORMATION Vermont Flood Assistance, Resources, and Referrals. This state site is a clearing house for many important pieces of information. It also offers information in 10 languages. This page includes immediate help information ranging from emergency housing to mental health to FEMA information.
Vermont Emergency Management Flood Resources. This is another state site with more detailed information for state programs for individuals, businesses and communities. VT-Alert. A state-operated service providing real-time information on what’s happening in your area, including instructions and recommendations from emergency personnel. All areas of Vermont are included in the system. Users can decide which area they want to receive alerts about, and on which device to receive them. Register at vem.vermont.gov/vtalert.
Vermont 211. For non-life-threatening emergencies, the state is asking Vermonters to call 211, a free referral program that can connect you with the right agency or organization for assistance. The State is also strongly encouraging every Vermonter who experienced damage, even if it is minimal, to report the damage via 211. This will assist towns, the state, and federal government in accurately understanding the full scope of damage. Call 211 between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily, or text your zip code to 898211 between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily, or email info@vermont211.org.
Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Flood Recovery Resources. A state site with information related to landslide information, drinking water wells, and public water supplies.
Flood FAQs. The Vermont Emergency Management website for frequently asked questions related to flooding.
Mold Cleanup Guide. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention resource for people cleaning up mold.
Guidance for Vermont Flood Recovery, Health, and Safety. Resources from the Vermont Department of Health related to health and safety guidelines related to flood recovery.
FEMA Individual Assistance Program Information. Vermonters can apply for financial help through FEMA for flood recovery. Residents and business owners can call 1-800-621-3362 or visit DisasterAssistance.gov to apply. For a step by step guide on the application process click here. FEMA also set up several physical sites (Disaster Recovery Centers) around the state to support people in filing damages. You can find the locations here.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits. These funds are designed to help fill the gap left after FEMA and insurance payments are made. Application deadline September 12th, 2023.
RESOURCES FOR INDIVIDUALS
3SquaresVT Replacement Benefits. If you experienced a "Household Misfortune" such as a flood or power outage lasting over 4 hours and lost food, you may be eligible for replacement benefits. Report the loss within ten days of the incident.
Returning Home After a Flood. A resource from FEMA to assist in preparation for returning to your home after a flood.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance. The Department of Labor site explaining eligibility for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. Please note that you may be eligible for DUA even if you do not qualify for regular unemployment. You can file online at this site. Also, note that the deadline to file for DUA is 30 days as of the day your county received federal disaster designation.
Individual Flood Disaster Recovery Loans. VSECU and Vermont Community Foundation created a new loan program to support Vermonters in flood recovery.
Emergency Financial Assistance Program for Flood-Impacted Vermonters. Efficiency Vermont and the Vermont Department of Public Service are working to stand up an emergency grant program to support flood-impacted Vermonters, including homeowners and renters, who need to replace flood-damaged and flood-destroyed appliances and equipment. More information will be released soon and posted to the DPS website.
RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES
Business Emergency Gap Assistance Program. This is the new $20 million grant program by the Vermont Department of Economic Development. This grant program is for businesses and nonprofits that suffered physical damages from flooding dating back to July 7, 2023. Applicants must intend on restoring, reopening, and bringing their employees back to work as soon as possible and will utilize these grant funds for that purpose. Applications will be approved on a rolling basis until all funds are expended. The application portal is expected to open on Thursday, August 3.
Vermont Main Street Flood Recovery Grants. Businesses can receive up to $2,500 with a chance to reapply.
The Montpelier Fund. Montpelier businesses can access grants through this program via Montpelier Alive.
Disaster Recovery Guide for Business. Developed by the Small Business Association (SBA) Vermont District Office.
RESOURCES FOR FARMS AND AGRICULTURE
Flood Response & Recovery Information for Vermont Produce Growers. Find valuable information for Vermont produce growers regarding flood response and recovery on the website of the Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets.
Farmers Disaster Tool. Developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support farmers in flood recovery.
Farm First. Access free technical, legal, financial, and mental health services for farmers at Farm First. Visit farmfirst.org or call 1-877-493-6216.
NOFA-Vermont Flood Resources. A site full of resources for Vermont farmers, including information on the NOFA-Vermont Farmer Emergency Fund which is offering grants and emergency loans.
RESOURCES FOR VOLUNTEERING
WAYS TO DONATE
Peace, Emma Mulvaney-Stanak VT State Representative Chittenden 17 Old North End | New North End, Burlington, VT House Commerce Committee Member (she/her/hers - here's a resource on personal pronouns) Social Media @staterepemma 802-448-0838
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