Deadlines Near for PNPs to Request Disaster Aid
Certain private non-profit (PNP) organizations in Worcester, Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden and Berkshire Counties suffering damage from the ice storm of December 11 have until February 5 to file Requests for Public Assistance (RPAs) with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. PNPs in Middlesex and Essex Counties have until February 17.
Filing RPAs is part of the process of applying for reimbursement grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the cost of debris removal, emergency protective measures, road repairs, repair of water control facilities and restoration of buildings and utilities.
While Public Assistance is oriented to public entities, some private nonprofits may qualify for help, as well, if they provide “essential services” of a governmental nature.
Federal regulations separate nonprofits into two camps: critical PNPs (medical, power, water, sewer and wastewater, education and fire protection, as well as support services for critical PNPs), and non-critical PNPs (low income housing, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation programs, etc.) Both may apply directly to FEMA via the RPA for uninsured costs of debris removal and emergency protective measures.
Nonprofit organizations should file a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) with the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) as soon as possible. Early inspection and documentation will facilitate appropriate reimbursement of eligible damages. Call MEMA at 508-820-2055 for information.
Details of the program and examples of eligible and ineligible facilities are available on the Internet at http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/pa/9521_3.shtm.