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FEMA Call Center Crisis: Response Drops to 16% After Floods

7/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

After devastating floods swept through Texas, FEMA faced a crisis as call center staffing plummeted. On July 5, they answered nearly all calls, but just two days later, response rates plummeted to a mere 16%. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem cited contract renewal problems as the root of this alarming delay, leaving many in desperate need without help.

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Story summary

After devastating floods swept through Texas, FEMA faced a crisis as call center staffing plummeted. On July 5, they answered nearly all calls, but just two days later, response rates plummeted to a mere 16%. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem cited contract renewal problems as the root of this alarming delay, leaving many in desperate need without help.