Virtual Applicant Briefings Scheduled for Local Governments, Nonprofits and Houses of Worship to Apply for Federal Public Assistance Funding

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is working with county emergency managers throughout the state to ensure local governments impacted by COVID-19 have all documents and paperwork necessary to qualify for federal public assistance funding. In addition to local governments, the disaster declaration also provides reimbursement availability for qualifying private non-profit organizations and houses of worship.

“The state is working closely with our local partners to ensure our communities have the information they need to apply for federal funding,” said Alicia Tate-Nadeau, Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. “Local taxing bodies, non-profits and houses of worship can receive reimbursement for emergency protective measures that are in direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE). If you have questions about eligibility, we urge you to contact your county emergency management office today.” 

This week (June 1-6), applicant briefings are being conducted virtually for potential applicants. These applicant briefings provide an overview of the program requirements and instructions for completing the required application forms. 

To apply for assistance, each organization must complete and submit FEMA Form 90-49, Request for Public Assistance to IEMA. Applicants will also be required to complete and submit a Public Assistance Grant Agreement, a Public Assistance Risk Assessment, and a FFATA Certification form to IEMA before grant payments can be made. Qualifying private non-profit organizations should contact the IEMA Public Assistance office to initiate their Request for Public Assistance. 

Public Assistance (PA) is available in all 102 counties in Illinois. Under the guidelines of the PA program, local jurisdictions can be reimbursed up to 75 percent of eligible costs for emergency protective measures associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a reminder, public assistance funding is not for individuals or business owners affected by the pandemic. The State of Illinois filed for federal Individual Assistance; however, that request is still pending with the federal government.