Public Assistance for Houses of Worship
Submit Insurance Claims as Soon as Possible
Public Assistance may cover insurance deductibles, uninsured or underinsured losses.
Application Process
- Attend the State, Tribal, or Territory Applicant Briefing.
- Submit a FEMA Request for Public Assistance online through Grants Portal within 30 days of a presidential declaration.
- If eligible, FEMA and the state will then coordinate a Recovery Scoping Meeting to determine reimbursable damages.
What You will Need to Provide
- Evidence of federal or state tax-exempt status or other documents indicating nonprofit status, such as bylaws or articles of incorporation. Pre-disaster evidence of incorporation/charter/bylaws.
- A Data Universal Number Systems number established with the government.
- Supporting documentation establishing lease or ownership of the building, proof of use, and proof of insurance.
If eligibility is granted, the following will need to be submitted: A list of sites damaged; “before and after” pictures; and information about any historic structures.