Language Interpretation - English and Central Alaskan Yup’ik

The FEMA-4893-DR declaration addresses a major disaster in the State of Alaska due to severe storms, flooding, and remnants of Typhoon Halong, occurring between October 8-13, 2025. This declaration designates specific areas within Alaska as eligible for various types of assistance, including Individual Assistance and Public Assistance (Categories A-G). Numerous federally recognized tribes and villages, such as the Native Villages of Kivalina, Noatak, Kotzebue, and Hooper Bay, are located within these designated areas. Additionally, all areas across the State of Alaska are eligible for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The document, created on October 23, 2025, details the geographic scope of the disaster and the types of federal aid available to support recovery efforts for affected communities.

FEMA is seeking language interpretation services for English and Central Alaskan Yup’ik in response to the October 2025 severe storms and flooding in Alaska (DR-4893-AK). The Performance Work Statement (PWS) outlines the need for professional, culturally competent interpreters to provide in-person, remote, and over-the-phone services in Anchorage, Bethel, and other affected communities. The goal is to ensure equitable access to FEMA programs and information, foster community participation, and build trust with Alaska Native communities. Key objectives include overcoming language barriers, providing accurate interpretations, and ensuring interpreters are familiar with local dialects and cultural nuances. The contract prioritizes Alaska-based businesses and local hiring. Interpreters must maintain confidentiality, adhere to security requirements, and be available during specified hours, including weekends. The contract has a 90-day base period with one 90-day option period. The contractor will be responsible for program management, quality control, and providing weekly progress reports.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is issuing a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for professional language interpretation services between English and Central Alaskan Yup’ik for disaster response operations following Typhoon Halong (Disaster Declaration 4893-AK). This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for a hybrid firm-fixed-price and cost-reimbursement contract. Services include in-person and remote interpretation, primarily in Anchorage and Bethel, Alaska, within federally designated disaster areas. The contract period is April 27, 2026, to July 26, 2026, with one 90-day option. Evaluation criteria prioritize interpreter qualifications, ability to deploy to disaster areas, price, past performance, and local area preference. Contractors must comply with federal, state, and local laws, including the Service Contract Act Wage Determination 2015-5687. Quotations are due by April 23, 2026.