Georgia has received over $19 million from FEMA to equip power generators in more than 40 counties across the state.
As part of the disaster relief efforts, 157 fixed generators, 30 portable generators, two portable pumps, and one transfer switch will be provided to critical facilities that play a vital role in serving communities, especially during and after a calamity.
FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with Georgia in a project that aims to reinforce the state’s infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of the generators in providing essential power during emergencies, which will help ensure citizens’ safety.
FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) provides funding for states and local governments to support the development of projects that aim to prevent, eliminate, or reduce damage caused by disasters.
According to Chris Stallings, the Director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, the communities are appreciative of the funds received to restore damaged infrastructure caused by natural calamities. He further added that the grant would assist the residents in preparing for any future emergency situations.
In a bid to strengthen President Biden’s pledge to prioritize people’s welfare and support communities, families, and businesses in developing climate resilience, FEMA has designated 2024 as the “Year of Resilience.”
FEMA is set to receive almost $7 billion from the President’s Investing in America initiative, which aims to assist communities in mitigating their susceptibility to disasters.
The life-saving equipment has been distributed to several counties, including Appling, Baker, Bartow, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Calhoun, Camden, Chattooga, Colquitt, DeKalb, Dougherty, Douglas, Early, Echols, Floyd, Franklin, Grady, Hall, Haralson, Houston, Jenkins, Jones, Laurens, Macon-Bibb, Peach, Pulaski, Putnam, Randolph, Screven, Stewart, Terrell, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Turner, Walker, Warren, Washington, Wayne, White, and Wilcox.
After Hurricane Michael hit Georgia in 2018, the state submitted a proposal for mitigation funds.
The state will be responsible for contributing 25% of the total cost, amounting to $15 million, while FEMA will cover the remaining 75%.
Local governments receive their share of federal funding directly from the state government, which then distributes the funds accordingly.
