South Carolina Residents Affected by Hurricane Helene: Federal Assistance Now Available
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage across various areas in South Carolina, good news is on the horizon for those impacted. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced that federal recovery assistance is available for individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations affected by the hurricane.
As we reflect on the destruction left by Helene, it’s important to know that help is at hand. President Joseph Biden has given the green light for disaster assistance following a request from Governor Henry McMaster. This means that many communities in South Carolina can finally look forward to rebuilding and recovery.
Who Can Get Help?
Assistance eligibility depends on where you are located and the kind of assistance needed. The Individual Assistance program is available for residents and business owners who have suffered uninsured property damage in the following counties:
- Aiken County
- Anderson County
- Bamberg County
- Barnwell County
- Cherokee County
- Greenville County
- Greenwood County
- Lexington County
- Newberry County
- Oconee County
- Pickens County
- Saluda County
- Spartanburg County
Residents of these areas who have experienced losses can apply for assistance through several easy avenues. You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, reach out by phone at 1-800-621-3362, or even utilize the FEMA App for your convenience.
What to Expect After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your application, it will be reviewed to determine eligibility based on your reported losses and needs compared to available assistance programs. It’s good news if you’re approved! There are professionals from FEMA who will schedule an inspection at your home to assess the damage. While you don’t necessarily need to have pictures or repairs receipts on hand for the inspectors, it’s still wise to keep a record. Document your losses with photographs and lists, and save any receipts related to disaster expenses, especially if you need to start clean-up right away.
Public Assistance Program for Local Governments
In addition to individual assistance, federal funding for emergency work is available through the Public Assistance program. This program extends help to the state government, tribal and eligible local governments, along with select private nonprofits in all the listed counties, except Lexington. This program allows these entities to apply for federal funding that covers 75% of approved costs, with the remaining 25% being sorted out later.
Remembering the Impact of Helene
It’s hard to overlook the heavy toll Hurricane Helene has taken, with even reports indicating that the storm has claimed up to 31 lives. This makes Helene one of South Carolina’s deadliest storms in recent history. As communities come together and support each other during this difficult time, it’s crucial to keep in mind the avenues of assistance that are now available.
So, if you or someone you know was affected by the storm, don’t hesitate! Take advantage of the support offered by FEMA to help you get back on your feet. Recovery may be tough, but every step counts, and together, South Carolinians can work toward rebuilding their homes and lives.
Stay safe, everyone, and remember – help is just a call or click away!
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
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