SEMA News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 02, 2020

SEMA adapts Applicant Briefing to online presentation in support of local governments, nonprofits statewide involved in COVID-19 response

Normal in-person presentation about FEMA program rules and application process shift to online video format for local governments and eligible agencies included in federal Public Assistance disaster declaration

Following the federal disaster declaration for COVID-19 on March 26, the State Emergency Management Agency has made an online applicant briefing available for local government and nonprofit agencies statewide that are eligible for federal assistance for emergency protective measures taken as part of the COVID-19 response. This online presentation was developed to align with SEMA’s social distancing measures. 

SEMA strongly encourages all eligible agencies in Missouri’s 114 counties and the City of St. Louis that plan to apply for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to review the video on SEMA’s website, in order to better understand program changes, eligibility information, the federal reimbursement process, documentation requirements and other essential program information. All Requests for Public Assistance must be submitted to FEMA within 30 days of the March 26 disaster declaration date, or April 25. Applicants should note that the Requests for Public Assistance (RPAs) must first be received by SEMA, processed, and then submitted to FEMA by the April 25 deadline, and to plan accordingly.

Governmental agencies, public health agencies, public hospitals, urgent care facilities, etc., and private non-profits that incurred COVID-19 related expenses should review the Applicant Briefing video, including those that are unsure of their eligibility status to ensure proper steps are being taken now to receive reimbursements.

SEMA encourages public officials and community leaders in all 114 Missouri counties to share information about the Applicant Briefing video with all potential applicants to ensure they have an opportunity to watch the video online and submit a request for FEMA Public Assistance.

View the Applicant Briefing video and other necessary information about the FEMA Public Assistance program: http://sema.dps.mo.gov/programs/state_public_assistance.php.

For questions about the Applicant Briefings or the Public Assistance program, please call (573) 526-9234.






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For more information, call 573-751-6294 or e-mail caty.luebbert@sema.dps.mo.gov