Hurricane Helene Resources

Over a foot of rain fell across the western part of the state, as Hurricane Helene moved across North Carolina as a tropical storm. Wind damage and flooding of rivers and waterways has been catastrophic, stranding residents and destroying homes.

The list of resources below will be regularly updated as we learn new information and ways to assist. If you have information you would like to include, please e-mail us at kat@aanconline.org.

HELENE RESOURCES

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance:

"North Carolina homeowners and renters in 25 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance."
Find more information here.

• Notably, FEMA approved two new programs for use in North Carolina: Displacement Assistance (immediate housing up to 14 days) and Serious Needs Assistance (immediate financial assistance to replace and recover financial needs).  FEMA may also be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.
• FEMA has also approved the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program for certain portions of NC – under the TSA, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels.  To locate participating hotels, visit femaemergencyhotels.com and enter your FEMA registration number, obtained when you applied for FEMA Individual Assistance.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for Business Assistance

The SBA encourages applicants to apply online for needed disaster loan. Residents can also call SBA at 800‐659‐2955 or schedule an in-person appointment if they have any questions.

Available disaster loans for NC constituents in effected counties:

• • Home Disaster Loans: Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles
  • Business Physical Disaster Loans: Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible

The SBA’s Hurricane Helene North Carolina specific page also has several documents linked at the bottom that provide additional insight into loan details/specifics

North Carolina Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)

North Carolina Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) benefits are now available in 25 counties as well as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. North Carolinians have 60 days from October 1 to file an application, the deadline to apply is December 2. The How to File a Disaster-Related Claim brochure provides step-by-step instructions to file a claim online (recommended). Call the Disaster Unemployment Assistance hotline (919)-629-3857 for help