The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will use some of its funding to reimburse families for coronavirus-related funeral expenses.
The agency made the announcement this week in a news release.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families," officials said. "At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters. We are dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus."
FEMA has been allotted $2 billion to reimburse individuals and households for funeral expenses incurred between January 20, 2020, and December 31, 2020, per the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021.
"We are working with stakeholder groups to get their input on ways we can best provide this assistance, and to enlist their help with outreach to families and communities," the statement continues.
Implementation of the funeral assistance program is expected to start in April.
Directions and guidance on how to apply will be released as soon as the plans are finalized.
People who have incurred COVID-19 funeral expenses are encouraged to gather any related documentation.
Photo: Getty Images