NC Governor Requests FEMA 6-Month Extension for Temporary Shelters

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein (D), asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency for an extension of funding on Thursday for temporary shelters to help residents who have lost their homes because of damage caused by Hurricane Helene.

 

Stein stated in a press release, “The people of Western North Carolina are experiencing chaos, uncertainty, and a level of frustration that is unacceptable.”

 

“That’s why I urge FEMA to extend their Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program for six months so that people can get through the winter with a safe, secure home while they rebuild their houses.”

 

The Governor suggested that the Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program would allow North Carolinians to continue being eligible for short-term accommodations up until September 30. In a letter to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, he outlined his demands.

 

 

People in the mountains of North Carolina have been experiencing temperatures below freezing. Our state is likely to experience another cold front next week that could bring even more winter weather. I know you agree with me that people have a right to pass winter in safety and security while they rebuild their damaged or demolished homes,” he said in the statement.

 

The damage caused by Hurricane Helene is still fresh in the minds of people living in western North Carolina. They need to know that they can find shelter as long as their house is uninhabitable. “We owe support to them, not confusion or fear.”

 

Criswell did not respond to the letter publicly, but she supported the state during the entire disaster. She is currently leading response efforts to Hurricanes Helene, Milton, and the Los Angeles Wildfires.