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FEMA Aid Shortage: Carolina Hurricane Victims Left Behind
- Lady Janice
- Jan 2
- 10 min read
Hurricane Helene has left the Carolinas in shambles. FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is facing a crisis. They are running out of money to help those affected by the storm.
Despite sending over 7,000 workers and distributing millions of meals and water, they're struggling. Thousands of people in the Carolinas are in urgent need of help.
Key Takeaways
FEMA has provided over $137 million in assistance to six southeastern states, but resources are running low
The agency has deployed 7,000 federal personnel and distributed millions of meals, liters of water, and tarps
North Carolina has received $100 million in federal transportation funds for road and bridge reconstruction
Over 3,000 North Carolina residents have been rescued or supported by urban search and rescue teams
President Biden warns of an impending shortage of funds needed for disaster loan programs
Current State of FEMA's Hurricane Response in Carolina
After Hurricane Helene hit the Carolinas, FEMA quickly stepped in. They are providing aid and support to those affected. Over 500 FEMA staff are in North Carolina, working hard to help the community recover.
Deployment of Federal Personnel and Resources
FEMA has sent many teams to help. These teams have rescued over 2,100 people. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is leading the efforts in North Carolina.
Emergency Response Statistics
Hurricane Helene caused a lot of damage. FEMA says over 40,000 people have applied for help. They have given out over $6.2 million to survivors. Also, 26 shelters are housing over 1,000 people.
Immediate Aid Distribution
FEMA is also providing food in the worst-hit areas. They have set up three feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell, and Watauga counties. This food is helping the victims as they recover.
FEMA is working hard to help the Carolinas recover from Hurricane Helene. They are committed to supporting the community. FEMA will keep helping until the region is back on its feet.
Why Does FEMA Have No Money to Give Hurricane Victims in Carolina Give Large Sums
FEMA has given over $30 million to more than 27,000 households in North Carolina. But, the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is running low. This is because Congress hasn't given enough money.
FEMA's SERIOUS Needs Assistance program gives $750 upfront after disasters. This is just the start of the aid people can get. To qualify, you must be a US citizen or certain non-citizens living in a disaster area with damage.
More help can cover things like temporary housing and medical bills. The $750 is a direct payment for immediate needs after a disaster.
FEMA's DRF had only $4.5 billion as of August 7th. FEMA needs $11.5 billion for the rest of the year. This shortage means FEMA can't start new projects like Public Assistance grants.
The Biden administration wants to add $20 billion to the DRF. But, FEMA budget constraints and disaster relief funding issues keep FEMA from helping hurricane victims fully.
Impact Assessment of Hurricane Helene Across Affected Regions
After Hurricane Helene, the damage and its impact on North Carolina communities are clear. Reports show that efforts to help those affected are underway. This includes Carolina storm victims compensation and hurricane ian aid.
Damage Extent in North Carolina
In North Carolina, Hurricane Helene's impact was big. Over 70% of power outages have been fixed. Yet, nearly 8,000 workers are still working to restore power.
Less than 38% of cell sites are down. Ten counties have 50% or more cell sites out. But, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has kept mobile service going.
Infrastructure Disruption
The storm hit infrastructure hard. In western North Carolina, efforts to distribute food and water are underway. The North Carolina National Guard has delivered a lot of food and water to Asheville.
Community Impact Analysis
The storm's impact on local communities is big. FEMA is helping six states, including North Carolina, with disaster aid. Those affected might get help with shelter, housing, and replacing vehicles.
The storm's effects are wide and the recovery is ongoing. FEMA and others are key in helping communities rebuild. Their support is vital for overcoming the storm's challenges.
"The disinformation issue following Hurricane Helene is the worst I have ever seen," stated the FEMA Administrator.
Federal Disaster Declaration Process and Aid Eligibility
President Biden has approved Major Disaster declarations for several states, including eight counties in Tennessee. This move opens the door to government disaster assistance and FEMA hurricane funds for those affected.
People in the declared areas can now get federal help through FEMA. This aid can cover essential items, home repairs, and temporary housing. You can apply by calling the FEMA Helpline, visiting disasterassistance.gov online, or using the FEMA App.
Homeowners and renters who faced previous disasters can also get help for Hurricane Helene. FEMA is dedicated to helping everyone during this tough time.
Knowing about the federal disaster declaration process and FEMA hurricane funds helps those affected. It guides them on the way to recovery after the storm.
FEMA's Financial Assistance Programs for Storm Victims
After hurricanes Helene and Milton hit, FEMA quickly stepped in to help. They've given over $1.1 billion in aid for Helene, with $655 million for families and $518 million for cleanup. For Milton, FEMA has given more than $671 million, with $67 million for families and $604 million for cleanup.
Individual Assistance Programs
FEMA's help has been a big relief for many families. In western North Carolina, they've given over $108 million to more than 82,000 households. In South Carolina, they've helped over 151,000 households with over $146 million. In Florida, they've given over $253 million for Helene, with more for cleanup.
Housing Assistance Options
FEMA also helps with housing. In Tennessee, they've given over $12.3 million to over 2,600 households. They offer a $750 payment to help with essential items after a disaster.
Additional Aid Categories
FEMA's help goes beyond housing and individual support. They've given over 12.6 million meals and 13.1 million liters of water for Helene. For Milton, they've given over 2.8 million meals and 1.8 million liters of water. These efforts meet basic needs during the response and recovery.
Despite the big help from FEMA, they face disaster relief funding and FEMA budget constraints. But FEMA is still committed to helping communities and individuals affected by these disasters.
"FEMA's disaster assistance grants do not have to be repaid, despite false claims that the $750 payment is a loan that must be repaid. We are committed to providing accurate information and dispelling any misinformation that could deter individuals from seeking the help they need."
Power Restoration and Communication Recovery Efforts
North Carolina is making good progress after Hurricane Ian. Over 86% of power outages have been fixed. About 8,000 workers are still working hard to get power back to everyone.
Cell phone service is getting better too. Only about 20% of cell towers are down. The Federal Communications Commission is checking equipment to fix communication fast.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) gave Starlink units to first responders. This helps them talk and share info easily. It's very helpful where usual ways of talking are broken.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is checking important places. They're looking at debris and water systems in seven Florida counties. This helps figure out where to send help and how to rebuild.
Together, the government, companies, and groups are helping. They're bringing power and communication back. This gives hope to those affected by hurricane ian aid and Carolina storm victims compensation.
"Getting power and communication back is key to recovery. It lets people get the help they need and start fixing things. We're all in this together until everything is back to normal."
Role of Voluntary Organizations in Disaster Response
After Hurricane Helene hit the Carolinas, many groups stepped up to help. They offer important support and aid to those affected. These groups help fill gaps in government disaster relief efforts.
American Red Cross Operations
The American Red Cross sent hundreds of disaster workers to the area. They run shelters and give comfort to those in need. They also have a helpline and a page to help families find missing loved ones.
Their work is key in meeting basic needs and supporting survivors.
Community Support Initiatives
Other groups are also helping out. The Salvation Army has 13 mobile feeding units in Florida and 9 in North Carolina. They serve meals and give out essential supplies.
They also have a hotline (844-965-1386) for free services like cutting trees and fixing roofs. This helps a lot in the recovery.
These groups, working with FEMA, are crucial in giving government disaster assistance and disaster relief funding. Their hard work shows the strength of community and human spirit during disasters.
"When disaster strikes, the compassion and generosity of the American people shine through. These voluntary organizations are the embodiment of that spirit, and their contributions are truly invaluable."
- Senator Thom Tillis, North Carolina
Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program Details
After Tropical Storm Helene, the Carolinas are still recovering. FEMA has started the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program. This helps people find temporary homes in hotels and motels. FEMA pays for the rooms, taxes, and pet fees.
FEMA has set up the TSA program in 24 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. To qualify, you must not be able to go back home. You also can't get help from insurance, shelters, or other FEMA programs.
People can stay in hotels and motels in seven states. These include Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. FEMA checks if you're still eligible 60 days after you start staying. You'll get a notice seven days before you have to leave if you're no longer eligible.
FEMA also has the Direct Temporary Housing Assistance (DTHA) program in North Carolina. It helps because there's not enough housing after the disaster. Homeowners and renters can apply online, through the FEMA App, or by calling 800-621-3362.
For updates on North Carolina's recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4827 or follow FEMA on X and Facebook. For more information on the storm, check the North Carolina Department of Public Safety's website at ncdps.gov/helene.
Emergency Communication Systems and Starlink Deployment
After Hurricane Helene hit the Carolinas, FEMA quickly stepped in. They worked to keep people connected and safe. They used Starlink, a mobile satellite internet system, to help.
Over 60 Starlink units were sent to several states, with 40 going to North Carolina. Each unit can connect over 100 people. This is very important because the hurricane damaged many communication systems.
FEMA also bought more Starlink units for other areas. This way, they can help everyone affected by the hurricane. They want to make sure everyone can get the help they need.
Starlink has worked well in disasters before. FEMA used it in Guam, Hawaii, and Alaska. They hope it will help now too. It will help emergency teams and people affected by the hurricane to communicate better.
FEMA also sent over 3,500 workers to help. More than 1,000 of them are from FEMA. They are bringing food, water, generators, and tarps to the affected areas.
FEMA, volunteers, and local groups are working together. They are making sure people have what they need. Starlink is a big help in getting everyone connected again.
Conclusion
FEMA is dedicated to helping communities hit by Hurricane Helene in the Southeast. Despite budget limits, the agency can meet the needs of those affected. People in affected areas should apply for federal help, as FEMA offers various aid programs.
FEMA works closely with state and local partners to help. They assess damage, give out essential supplies, and fix important infrastructure. The Serious Needs Assistance program provides immediate help for basic needs. For longer-term needs, like housing and repairs, there are other programs.
Survivors can call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 to find out about resources and start applying. FEMA is committed to helping everyone recover. By using its resources wisely, FEMA aims to support communities in their healing journey.
FAQ
Why does FEMA have no money to give hurricane victims in Carolina?
FEMA is ready to help communities hit by hurricanes in the Carolinas. They have sent over 5,000 workers, including 1,500 from FEMA. Millions of meals, water, generators, and tarps have been shipped to the area.
FEMA has given over 7 million to survivors in the Southeast. This includes over million for more than 11,000 households in Florida and over .7 million for more than 5,500 households in South Carolina.
What is the current state of FEMA's hurricane response in Carolina?
FEMA has sent over 5,000 workers to the Carolinas to help. They have shipped 9.3 million meals, 11.2 million liters of water, 150 generators, and 260,000 tarps.
FEMA has declared Major Disaster for several states. They have also increased the federal cost share to help with recovery costs.
How has Hurricane Helene impacted the Carolinas?
Hurricane Helene has caused a lot of damage in the Carolinas. In North Carolina, over 70% of power outages have been fixed. Almost 8,000 crews are still working to restore power.
Less than 38% of cellular sites are down, with ten counties having 50% or more cell sites down. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has full mobile service. Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations are underway in western North Carolina.
The North Carolina National Guard has delivered over 100,000 lbs of food and 38,000 lbs of water to Asheville.
What federal assistance is available for disaster survivors in the Carolinas?
President Biden has approved Major Disaster declarations for several states, including the Carolinas. Disaster survivors in declared areas can apply for federal assistance through FEMA.
Assistance may include upfront funds for essential items, home repairs, and temporary housing. Survivors can apply through the FEMA Helpline, online at disasterassistance.gov, or through the FEMA App. Homeowners and renters affected by previous disasters are still eligible for Hurricane Helene assistance.
How is FEMA using Starlink for emergency communication in the Carolinas?
FEMA is using Starlink for high-speed internet in remote areas of the Carolinas. Over 60 Starlink units have been sent to multiple states, including 40 to North Carolina. FEMA is buying more units for other affected areas.
Starlink can connect over 100 users per unit. It has been used in Guam, Hawaii, and Alaska before.
What is the role of voluntary organizations in the hurricane response in the Carolinas?
Organizations like the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army are key in the hurricane response. The American Red Cross has deployed hundreds of workers, operating shelters and providing comfort.
The Salvation Army has mobile feeding units serving meals and distributing supplies in Florida and North Carolina. The Crisis Cleanup hotline (844-965-1386) connects people with volunteers for free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs, and mold mitigation.
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