(ATLANTA) – All Communities and counties are eligible and encouraged to apply for grants through the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) as a result of damages from Hurricane Michael. The deadline for HMGP pre-applications has been extended statewide to July 31.

Following a major disaster declaration, HMGP provides grants to states and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures. GEMA/HS is responsible for the review, prioritization and funding recommendation of eligible projects to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“Georgia is receiving these funds to pump right back into communities to help them be better prepared for the next natural disaster,” said GEMA/HS Director Homer Bryson. “We encourage all local governments to apply for these grants.”

All applications start with the completion of a pre-application, which is available on the GEMA/HS website. Upon submission of the pre-application, applicants will be contacted by a member of the GEMA/HS Hazard Mitigation team with additional information, including eligibility and next steps.

For additional information and the pre-application, visit gema.georgia.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program. Additional questions should be directed to the Hazard Mitigation specialist assigned to the community’s area, which can be found on the attached Download this pdf file. map .

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As part of the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency collaborates with local, state and federal governments in partnership with private sector and non-governmental organizations to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia preparedness campaign provides Georgians with the knowledge needed to effectively prepare for disasters, including developing custom emergency plans and Ready kits.