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The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it will distribute $160 million in Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) funds as a first tranche of additional funding that the Biden-Harris Administration secured to protect faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations against targeted attacks.
The announcement accompanies DHS’s release of an amended notice of funding opportunity that will now enable qualifying institutions and organizations to apply for these additional NSGP funds.
The $160 million in additional funds are a portion of the $390 million that were included in the fiscal year 2024 National Security Supplemental, a key priority of the Administration as it continues to intensify its efforts to combat the dramatic increase in hate crimes and other forms of targeted violence against faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations. In total for fiscal year 2024, the Administration has secured $664 million for the NSGP, more than double last year’s $305 million appropriation.
Earlier this year, DHS announced $274.5 million in available funds; the department intends to make the balance of NSGP funds available later this year.
In 2023, DHS provided $2 billion to help state, local, Tribal Nations, territorial, campus officials, and nonprofit organizations prepare for, prevent, protect against, and respond to acts of terrorism. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides resources to faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations to strengthen their security posture. The $305 million in 2023 NSGP funding supported more than 2,200 faith-based and other nonprofit organizations.
These grants have had life-saving impacts. During an armed hostage crisis at a Colleyville, Texas synagogue, equipment purchased with NSGP funds was critical to subduing the terrorist and rescuing the hostages. In Denver, an individual threatening harm to a synagogue was identified as a result of cameras purchased using NSGP funds, assisting Denver police with his apprehension.
FEMA is requesting public comments on its latest Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide, which focuses on plain language and increased eligibility for assistance. The 60-day public comment period opened June 18, and written comments may be submitted on the Federal Register Portal and FEMA.gov through Aug. 19.
With this updated guide, Public Assistance applicants will be able to maximize the program’s authorities by submitting cost summaries for their projects rather than detailed, itemized cost information. Likewise, applicants will experience reduced documentation with the ability to group projects with similar damage together rather than undergo individual inspections to help keep recovery moving forward.
To ensure equitable outcomes, applicants can help FEMA prioritize projects that benefit vulnerable populations by submitting information to determine whether disaster impacts affect any underserved communities. In addition, Houses of Worship and their role in communities pre and post disasters are now specifically mentioned in the guide to ensure these types of nonprofits have access to assistance. To promote resiliency when building back, version 5 includes a section on nature-based solutions, which incorporates natural features or processes into the project design and construction phase.
The guide offers an overview of Public Assistance program and policy and how to apply to all disasters declared on or after its publication date.
Please join FEMA Region 2 National Preparedness and Response Divisions for an informative webinar to encourage everyone to evaluate their personal hurricane risk and prepare for hurricane impacts from 3 - 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, June 26.
This webinar will cover hurricane basics, information resources and how to find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone. We will also discuss preparedness measures for people living in hurricane-prone areas, such as emergency supplies, insurance, preparing your home and making an individual or family hurricane plan.
Who should attend? The whole community – individuals and families, volunteer and faith-based organizations, local, state, federal government and private sector.
Registration: https://fema.cosocloud.com/hurrprep24/event/registration.html
Make sure to test your Adobe Connect before the meeting.
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In partnership with the Smithsonian Institution and FEMA, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force (HENTF) is taking applications for a hybrid internship starting this fall. The internship will involve assisting members of the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative with educational resource development and on-site training program management.
Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative training programs focus on filling the knowledge and skill gap identified in the cultural heritage field: the lack of capacity by cultural heritage stewards to act effectively in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. Professional development opportunities to acquire these skills are rare in the current museum and cultural field, which increases the risk of heritage loss.
Since its inception, Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative has developed a robust compendium of training and works continuously to provide information to all cultural stewards working in the field on how to protect cultural heritage impacted by a disaster through webinars, publications and practical on-site training.
The 2024 intern will become a part of the training team and gain experience in adult-learning theory, special event planning and collections preservation and management. This internship is an excellent opportunity to learn more cultural heritage emergency field as well as the Smithsonian Institution.
Up to 50% of the intern’s work can be completed virtually, with 50% to be completed on-site in Washington, DC, under supervision of SCRI staff. Travel expenses such as airfare, hotel, meals and incidentals are not included for the in-person sessions in D.C.
Please visit the HEART Internship webpage for more information or to apply for the internship. Applications due by 10 p.m. on Monday, July 1, 2024.
Last week, FEMA hosted the final Strategic Foresight 2050 Workshop, which is an initiative to prepare the emergency management community for unprecedented change and uncertainty and foster a forward-looking culture in our field. As a discipline, strategic foresight leverages imaginative thinking to anticipate future challenges and opportunities and shape long-term strategy, policy and resourcing. Through the Strategic Foresight 2050 initiative, FEMA developed four divergent scenarios set in the year 2050 using pathways adopted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
In February, FEMA’s leadership explored these scenarios during the Administrator’s Executive Leadership Summit. Scenario planning continued throughout the spring as FEMA facilitated three Strategic Foresight 2050 Workshops with a variety of federal, state, local, tribal, territorial and private sector partners.
Through workshopping, participants brainstormed evolving challenges, emerging opportunities and robust actions that can prepare emergency managers and the nation regardless of what the future holds. Themes and key takeaways will be compiled into a Foresight Report to be released in Fall 2024. These findings will directly inform FEMA’s next strategic planning cycle, guiding agency priorities as we prepare for an uncertain future.
Curious about Strategic Foresight at FEMA? You can explore the Strategic Foresight 2050 Toolkit here.
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FEMA and the DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships brought together nearly 40 nonprofit and federal government agencies to explore collaboration opportunities that strengthen national resilience. Last week’s Climate Resilience and Disaster Readiness Roundtable gathered these leaders together in Washington, D.C. to facilitate in-person coordination efforts.
Collaboration before disaster events is vital to ensuring we understand how to build on one another’s strengths during a disaster. This is particularly important work ahead of hurricane season and is in alignment with the White House National Climate Resilience Framework.
The roundtable is a follow up to several engagements focused on the intersection of FEMA’s focus on climate resilience and efforts with community leaders and a coalition of multi-faith leaders. These efforts bring together faith-based and community organizations and partners from private and philanthropic sectors, to share tools and resources to strengthen a whole-of-community approach to climate resilience.
Attendees included National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Center for Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology; Environmental Protection Agency; USDA Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships; National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters; Next Leadership Development; Resilient Nation Partnership Network; National Council of Churches; Disaster Services Corporation – Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA; All Healers Mental Health Alliance; the Historical Black College and University Emergency Management Workforce Consortium; the American Red Cross; United MegaCare; The William Averette Anderson Fund and other representatives from faith- and community-based organizations.
Roundtable attendees learned about efforts to promote climate resilience which includes encouraging feedback for the Draft "Planning Considerations: Putting People First" | FEMA.gov and using the Guide to Expanding Mitigation: Making the Connection to Faith-Based Partners (fema.gov). They also provided feedback on updates to FEMA’s disaster assistance program for survivors Biden-Harris Administration Reforms Disaster Assistance Program to Help Survivors Recover Faster | FEMA.gov.
FEMA appreciates the collaboration with our partners and looks forward to future endeavors as together we work toward protecting our future and building a more equitable, sustainable and resilient nation.
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Disasters can strike with little warning, leaving very little time for last-minute preparations. Many people are responsible for taking care of others, and for some people, that commitment extends to furry or four-legged friends like pets, wildlife and service animals. For livestock owners and caretakers, the challenges are even greater, as these animals often have unique needs that are more difficult to meet.
Learn more on how you can be prepared by visiting FEMA.gov.
Attend Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program Manual Webinar on June 27
FEMA updated the Radiological Emergency Preparedness program manual, which provides planning and assessment guidance for state, local, Tribal Nations and territorial (SLTT) partners in the vicinity of a commercial nuclear power plant.
FEMA will host a series of 60–90-minute webinars to provide an overview of notable changes found in the 2023 program manual. Each webinar will focus on one or two specific parts of the manual. Advanced registration is required.
Register for the last webinar of the series below:
For additional information and event resources, visit the 2023 REP Program Manual and Change Summary on FEMA.gov. For any questions, contact FEMATHDPolicy@fema.dhs.gov.
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FEMA's Funding Opportunity for 110 Mitigation Projects for Nearly $191M Closes June 28
FEMA published the Fiscal Year 2024 funding opportunity, making approximately $191 million available to support 110 mitigation projects nationwide. These projects were congressionally authorized through the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act 2024. The funding for these projects will be made available through FEMA’s Pre-Disaster Mitigation grant program for 35 states, the District of Columbia and one Tribal Nation.
Communities with projects identified for funding must submit an application by June 28. The agency will only disburse funding after all program eligibility criteria, such as Environmental and Historic Preservation requirements, are met.
For general questions about Pre-Disaster Mitigation congressional community projects, please contact the appropriate State Hazard Mitigation Officer or FEMA regional office. The Hazard Mitigation Assistance Helpline is also available at 866-222-3580.
FEMA will offer a webinar series for applicants. For more information and list of the projects, visit FEMA.gov. If you require further assistance after navigating the resources listed above, email FEMA-Ask-PDM@fema.dhs.gov.
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FEMA Changes Grants Outcome Login Requirements
FEMA has directed that all its systems implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for user login to improve cybersecurity and comply with Executive Order 14028 on Improving the Nation's Cybersecurity. MFA is enabled for FEMA employees through PIV cards, but it is needed for FEMA Grants Outcome (GO) external login ID and password users.
The integration of FEMA GO with login.gov, scheduled for Tuesday, July 2, is a strategic move to bolster our security protection goals. This integration not only aligns with our commitment to cybersecurity but also aims to streamline user access. The chosen date attempts to avoid the bulk of open funding opportunities, while still meeting agency guidance as soon as practical.
For questions related to the adoption of login.gov, users are encouraged to contact the FEMA GO Help Desk. The FEMA GO Help Desk hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. Call the Help Desk at (877) 585-3242 or email femago@fema.dhs.gov.
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FEMA Announces Funding Opportunity for Five Homeland Security Training Programs
FEMA has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for five of the Homeland Security National Training Program’s National Domestic Preparedness Consortium members. Approximately $90.9 million in Fiscal Year 2024 grant funding will be available to eligible consortium members to provide training opportunities for emergency responders and community leaders throughout the nation.
Upon receiving approved submitted applications, funding is provided in the following pre-determined amounts:
- The National Energetic Materials Research and Testing Center, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology: $20,840,000.
- The National Center for Biomedical Research and Training, Louisiana State University: $20,840,000.
- The National Emergency Response and Rescue Training Center, Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service: $20,840,000.
- The University of Hawaii’s National Disaster Preparedness Training Center: $3,770,000.
- The Security and Emergency Response Training Center: $3,770,000.
The National Nuclear Security Administration’s Center for Radiological/Nuclear Training at the Nevada National Security Site is funded separately ($20,840,000) through an Interagency Agreement between FEMA and the Department of Energy.
The NOFO will be posted at Grants.gov. NDPC members must submit applications for the Homeland Security National Training Program no later than 11:59 p.m. ET on July 12.
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$10.8M Available for Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grants
FEMA released the funding notice for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program. The program provides $10.8 million to eligible states and local governments to close known preparedness capability gaps, encourage innovative regional solutions to issues related to catastrophic incidents and build on existing regional preparedness efforts.
Awards will be made on a competitive basis to applicants who present an ability to successfully meet the requirements described in the funding notice.
The application period will close at 5 p.m. ET on July 25. Submissions must be made through FEMA Grants Outcomes (GO). The Notice of Funding Opportunity is available on Grants.gov (Assistance Listings Number 97.111), as well as on the FEMA website at www.fema.gov/grants.
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Fiscal Year 2024 Spring Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Application Period Closes July 26
The application period for FEMA’s Fiscal Year 2024 Spring Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Program opened on June 24 and will close on Friday, July 26. This year’s funding opportunity is for $7.5 million. The State Assistance (SA) grant program provides financial assistance to states and territories to help strengthen the administration of their dam safety programs. Eligible activities include training for state dam safety personnel, dam inspections, public awareness campaigns, emergency action plans and similar activities.
To be eligible for the grant, applicants must have a state dam safety program authorized by state legislation and working toward meeting specific criteria and budgeting requirements. Each state or territory will submit one application to FEMA on behalf of its respective dam safety program.
All applications must be submitted through FEMA Grant Outcomes. Applicants can find more detailed information on applicant eligibility and the application process on this fact sheet. The Dam Safety webpage on FEMA.gov will be periodically updated with timeline and award information.
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FEMA Announces $300M to Strengthen Community Resilience to Flooding
The third round of Swift Current funding is now available to help National Flood Insurance Program policyholders across the nation become more resilient to flooding. This funding makes $660 million, which FEMA is using from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for the Flood Mitigation Assistance Program’s Swift Current opportunity.
For the first Swift Current announcement in 2022, FEMA made available a total of $60 million. The second announcement in 2023 made $300 million available and expanded criteria to benefit more places, which as of May 30, includes 19 states and one Tribal Nation.
One of the following criteria must also be met:
- The state, territory or federally recognized tribal government has at least $1 million in National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood insurance claims paid in the 12 months prior to the disaster declaration date.
- The state, territory, District of Columbia or federally recognized tribal government has 500 or more NFIP flood insurance claims submitted in the declared flood-related event.
- The applicant is a U.S. territory or a federally recognized tribal government applying directly to FEMA.
The application window opened on June 1, and the last eligible disaster declaration date is May 31, 2025. The funding opportunity is available on Grants.gov. Potential applicants who have questions may contact their FEMA regional office.
All applications must be submitted in FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO) and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The application deadline date will be provided to the applicant. Applications received by FEMA after the deadline will not be considered for funding. For more information, interested NFIP policyholders should contact their state or territory hazard mitigation officer.
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