Two Neighborhood Families Approach to Disaster Relief

It's been heartening to see communities across the city rise up to help those in need. Here's just one little example, copied from a post on Next Door.

"Hey neighbors! The Craigs and the McConns are having a lemonade and brownie stand this afternoon starting at 2:30. We'll be in front of the Craigs' house at 943 Omar. All proceeds will go to benefit victims of Hurricane Harvey. Please stop by, say hi and get some treats. See you soon!"

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Pictured above (left-to-right) are; Mila Craig, Arianna Espana, Hollis McConn & Kellen McConn.

According to neighbor Beth Allen-Brock,"The brownies were delicious!"

Everyone helps in their own way, and every little bit helps.

Post-Harvey: FEMA Guidance on Rumors & Scams

It was bound to happen. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey there have come to be some rumors and even outright scams with respect to various issues facing people impacted by the storm. Fortunately, FEMA has assembled a web page with some great guidance on these issues.

Here are a couple of key takeaways from this guidance:

Flood Insurance - September 1 Deadline

Rumor: There are reports individuals must file a flood insurance claim before Friday, September 1 because a new Texas law goes into effect that day and all claims filed after Sept. 1 would be negatively impacted.

This rumor is FALSE. (August 30)

Texas State “House Bill 1774,” passed by the 85th Texas Legislature, does not affect flood insurance policies or claims. Flood insurance is provided through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which was created by Congress through the passage of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. The NFIP is a federal program subject to federal law, so this new Texas state law will have no impact on NFIP policyholders.

Flood Insurance Premiums - Robo-Calls

Rumor: There are reports Texas residents are being told (via robo-call) their flood premiums are past due and in order to have coverage for Hurricane Harvey they need to submit a payment immediately to a website.

This rumor is FALSE. (August 30)

Insurance companies and agents selling flood insurance policies do not use this process to communicate with customers about their flood insurance policies.  In fact, if your payment is past due, your insurance company will send you several pieces of mail 90, 60, and 30 days before the policy expires.

If you receive a call regarding your flood insurance policy:

Hang up the phone. Don't press 1 to speak to a live operator or any other key to take your number off the list. Just hang up.

Then contact your insurance agent or insurance company immediately to verify the information. Or call 1-800-638-6620 if you have a policy with NFIP Direct