February 10, 2021

Dear Local Presidents,

Earlier this week, the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) issued a new opinion opening up disaster funeral assistance for victims of COVID-19. Families who have lost loved ones to this deadly virus are now eligible for federal assistance to cover or defray funeral costs. As a national union whose members have seen far too much suffering and loss because of the virus, we encourage you to share the following resources with your membership to help ensure TWU members are aware of this change.

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https://www.fema.gov/pdf/media/factsheets/2011/dad_funeral.pdf

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FEMA will be releasing a separate application process specifically for COVID victims in the near future. We will follow up with that information as soon as it is available. Please note that this aid is available to all TWU members and their families regardless of location or income. Applicants will initially be able to apply for expenses incurred for funerals between January 20 and December 31, 2020, but we expect that period will be extended into 2021 soon.

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While FEMA has had the authority to support American families in this way since the national emergency was first declared in March of last year, the previous Administration blocked this request. This change is emblematic of President Biden’s focus on ending this pandemic and supporting the working people who have suffered from COVID-19. Special thanks also go to Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) who have led the fight to get these benefits out to working families for nearly a year.

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Please see attachment for signatures.

FEMA to Local Presidents 02102021.pdf