Helene assistance deadline extended
The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance has now been set for Feb. 6. Cory Vaillancourt photo
At the request of Gov. Josh Stein, FEMA has granted North Carolina an extension for local governments and certain types of non-profits to apply for public assistance until Feb. 6, 2025.
Public Assistance provides supplemental grants to units of government, as well as certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so that communities can recover from Tropical Storm Helene.
Government agencies, eligible private non-profits and houses of worship may apply for Public Assistance grants at grantee.fema.gov. After the request is submitted, FEMA and North Carolina Emergency Management officials will review the documentation and contact the organization.
For Tropical Storm Helene, 39 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are eligible for debris removal and emergency protective measures. This work is funded at 100% by FEMA through March 27, 2025, 180 days after the Sept. 28, 2024, disaster declaration.
To learn if your county has been designated for FEMA Public Assistance grants, visit fema.gov/disaster/4827/designated-areas-public-assistance.
All counties are eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. See application forms here: Hazard Mitigation.
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Additionally, 28 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are eligible for permanent work that can repair or place roads and bridges; water and waste treatment facilities; public buildings like fire stations and city buildings; as well as utilities, parks and other community facilities. These projects must be completed within 18 months after the emergency declaration. Learn more about the PA program at fema.gov/assistance/public/library.
In addition, Haywood County, Town of Clyde and Town of Canton citizens who received a Substantial Damage letter should take note of several important deadlines.
First, residents now have a total of 270 days from the date of the original letter to appeal the determination of substantial damage to a structure. This is a 90-day extension from the initial timeframe. This extension has been granted to accommodate delays in insurance claims and property appraisals caused by the widespread damage from Hurricane Helene.
T o appeal, the first step is to obtain an estimate from a North Carolina licensed contractor for the cost of repairs. The estimate must include labor and materials needed to restore the structure to its pre-flood condition. Insurance company estimates are not acceptable for permitting or appeal. To appeal the value of the home or structure, residents must provide an appraisal from a North Carolina licensed appraiser.
For questions or further assistance regarding the extension or the appeal process, contact Haywood County’s Development Services Office.
