FEMA informed Fox News Digital that their Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program is currently offering hotel accommodations to numerous survivors of Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. The program started notifying certain families staying in hotel or motel rooms on January 3 that they are no longer eligible for the program due to reasons such as their home being deemed habitable after an inspection, refusal of an inspection, or failure to update their housing needs. Approximately 3,600 households will continue to qualify to stay in FEMA-sponsored hotel or motel rooms beyond Saturday, an increase from the previously reported 2,100 eligible households. However, around 2,000 households are expected to vacate their hotel rooms by Saturday, with eligibility being assessed on a case-by-case basis. FEMA typically informs survivors about seven days prior to their checkout date when their eligibility is ending. Additionally, FEMA mentioned that they have provided shelter to 13,000 families displaced by Hurricane Helene since late September 2024, with 5,600 households currently checked into hotels. The agency has decided to temporarily close disaster recovery centers in the area due to winter weather conditions. Meanwhile, community members in Western North Carolina have been facing challenges after the hurricane, with concerns about power and water outages, as well as limited access to essential resources. Volunteers and donors have been actively supporting the affected areas by providing housing solutions, necessities, and support services.
Zach Bumgarner, the vice president of Bumgarner Oil, shared with Fox News Digital that his company has distributed 22,000 gallons of product in the aftermath of the recent storm. Conducting six propane drives since late September, the company has offered free refills for empty propane cylinders at specified locations.
Bumgarner highlighted the urgent need for warmth, especially for individuals residing in tents or temporary shelters, exacerbated by harsh cold temperatures following the storm. Expressing the company’s commitment to bridging gaps and providing warmth to those in need, Bumgarner emphasized the importance of their efforts.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene causing substantial damage to farming communities in the Southeast, volunteers and organizations have stepped up to support affected individuals. From delivering supplies to assisting survivors, individuals like retired North Carolina police officer Steve Antle have been actively involved in aiding the recovery process.
Despite progress in certain areas, challenges persist for many residents, including those still living without basic utilities like power and heat. Antle expressed frustration at the slow response from authorities and emphasized the ongoing need for support and assistance for those impacted by the disaster.
The aftermath of the hurricane has raised significant health hazards for affected Americans, with destroyed buildings and widespread damage creating dangerous conditions. As communities continue to grapple with the aftermath, organizations like Operation Boots on the Ground are working tirelessly to provide aid and support to those in need.
FEMA has urged storm survivors to stay connected and provide updates on their status to ensure continued assistance. For inquiries about eligibility and support, individuals are encouraged to contact the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
