the bridge Disaster Recovery Team
Being active in disaster relief, assistance, and recovery is both a mission and a ministry at the bridge.
The goal of the Disaster Recovery Team is to provide and oversee the delivery of church spiritual, emotional, physical, and financial resources to those affected by disasters regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, educational level, or religious preference.
To that end, the bridge is a member of the Brunswick County VOAD, participating in its coordinated relief efforts, supporting its rebuilding and recovery initiatives, and providing assistance whenever possible to survivors who do not have adequate personal resources for basic needs.
Updates
Flood Insurance Rate Increase
On Oct. 1, FEMA announced key changes for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), to begin on Apr. 1, 2021. These changes include updated rate increases to comply with the premium rate caps established by the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 and the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014 (HFIAA).
Beginning on April 1, 2021, policy renewal premiums will increase an average of 10.2%. These amounts do not include the HFIAA Surcharge, or any additional policy fees. Nearly 80% of NFIP policyholders pay a full-risk rate and will not experience this rate increase.
In addition to the rate increases, revisions to the NFIP “Flood Insurance Manual,” which is updated twice a year, went into effect on Oct. 1. FEMA incorporated the NFIP program changes published in April 2020 into this edition. Visit FEMA.gov to review the NFIP Flood Insurance Manual.
HOPE Program
Governor Roy Cooper announced that applications are now being accepted for the N.C. Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions (HOPE) Program. This new housing stability program will provide $117 million to assist renters whose finances have been impacted by the pandemic. North Carolinians who need rent or utility assistance can apply online for this program or call 2-1-1 to speak with a program representative. Callers can reach 2-1-1 Monday-Friday between 7 am and 6 pm. For more information about the HOPE Program, read the press re lease from the Governor’s office or visit nc211.org/hope.
Flu Shots
The drive thru flu shot clinic at the County complex in Bolivia is administering the high dose vaccine as long as it’s available. There’s a form that needs to be filled out prior to getting a flu shot (included in link below). The number to the Health Department is 253-2250 for an update on the current availa bility of the high dose vaccine.