What is the Public Assistance Program?

The Public Assistance Program provides supplemental financial assistance to State, local governments and certain private, non-profit organizations for response and recovery activities as a result of a Presidentially-declared disaster.

The Public Assistance Program provides Federal grant assistance for the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged, publicly owned and uninsured facilities. This grant funding is provided at a 75% Federal/25% applicant grant share formula.

Public Notice

DR-4583 T​ropical Storm Isaias Public Notice​​

Documents

Public Assistance State Administrative Plan

Resources

Public Assistance Tri-fold

FEMA Public Assistance Thresholds and Indicators - FFY2019

FEMA Public Assistance - Damage Thresholds - FFY2018

FEMA PA Thresholds & Indicators - FFY2020

FEMA PA Thresholds & Indicators - FFY2021

​What is Damage Assessment?

Damage assessment is a mechanism used to determine the impact and magnitude of damage and the resulting unmet needs of individuals, businesses, the public sector, and the community as a whole. Information collected is used by the State as a basis for the Governor's request, and by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to document the recommendation made to the President in response to the Governor's request. The accuracy, consistency, and completeness of the damage assessment process is critical as it is the primary tool used to determine whether Federal assistance will be made available.

Documents

 MDEM PA Damage Assessment Guidelines
 MDEM Public Assistance Damage Assessment Guidelines
 MDEM Public Assistance Eligible Costs & Documentation Guide
 MDEM ​PA for Nonprofit Houses of Worship
PA Joint PDA Cost Collection​
​ Public Assistance - Initial Damage Assessment Form (Excel)
Public Assistance - Impact Statement Form (Word)