Virginia Department of Emergency Management

An Agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia

by

  • Disaster
  • Anywhere

Overview of Public Assistance Program

For the current Severe Winter Storms (FEMA-4602-DR-VA) disaster declaration, all categories of costs are potentially reimbursable costs that do not qualify under another state or federal grant program.  In accordance with section 502 of the Stafford Act, the program provides funding for emergency assistance to save lives and protect property, and assists with funding for permanently restoring community infrastructure affected by a federally declared incident. Eligible work must be required as a result of the declared incident, be located in the designated area, be the legal responsibility of the applicant, and be undertaken at a reasonable cost. FEMA will not duplicate assistance provided by other programs, insurance, or federal agencies.  Local government and authorities, state agencies, tribal governments, and certain private non-profits organizations are eligible to apply.  FEMA reimbursements are available at 75% of the total eligible cost.  For public assistance guidance, please visit https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/policy-guidance-fact-sheets

Overview of HMGP

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the entire commonwealth under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) will be available in all areas of Virginia. This program provides financial grant assistance for actions taken to reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards. More information will be forthcoming about the application timeline for HMGP, as VDEM has 12 months to submit applications to FEMA.

Pre-Award Process

Before a project can be created and federal funds can be obligated, sub-recipients will need to submit a request for public assistance (RPA) on the FEMA portal. Sub-recipients may request assistance for RPA submission for 4602 Severe Winter Storms grant costs. For more pre-award information please see the following resources:

Recovery from Severe Winter Weather Event: What Happens Next Applicant Briefing Slides

Executive Order 76 – Amended

Getting Started

  • Step 1: Contact your Regional Grant Administrator or email the recovery inbox with your intent to submit. Please view the Regional Staff Map
  • Step 2: Submit a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) in the FEMA Grants Portal at grantee.gema.gov by the official deadline of COB June 9th
  • Step 3: Attend Applicant Briefing

Contact Information

PA Grant Administrators Map as of May 2021

Pre-Award Contact Information

For questions related to the 4602 Severe Winter Storms Pre-Award process, please reach out to recovery@vdem.virginia.gov

Stay Informed

Please register for grant updates to stay current on recovery guidance, timelines, and requirements. Register for Grant Updates

Downloads