The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced Monday evening that its Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program will extend hotel stays for over 3,000 eligible residents in western North Carolina until January 25. The decision comes amid ongoing recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which struck in late September.
FEMA’s announcement, shared via social media, reassured families previously facing an impending move-out deadline of January 14. According to the agency, those leaving the program are returning to habitable homes or have voluntarily withdrawn from FEMA assistance.
The extension follows significant criticism directed at FEMA for its response to recovery needs. Administrator Deanne Criswell faced backlash for earlier plans to scale back assistance, particularly as winter storms recently impacted parts of North Carolina’s mountain regions.
North Carolina’s Republican congressional delegation sent a letter to President Joe Biden and Administrator Criswell on Monday, urging FEMA to maintain its personnel in the state. The bipartisan appeal, led by Rep. Chuck Edwards of the 11th District, emphasized the continued need for federal support due to the lasting damage caused by Hurricane Helene. The letter expressed sympathy for Californians affected by wildfires but highlighted the critical recovery needs still unmet in North Carolina.
Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm at landfall, caused widespread destruction, killing 104 people in North Carolina and 233 across seven states. The storm brought torrential rainfall, with some areas experiencing over 30 inches, leading to catastrophic flooding. Damage estimates exceed $53 billion, with North Carolina receiving approximately $9 billion in federal relief thus far, supplemented by over $1.1 billion in state appropriations.
Gov. Josh Stein, who expressed gratitude for FEMA’s decision, has called for continued attention to North Carolina’s recovery efforts. Federal aid remains essential as the state works to rebuild infrastructure, restore homes, and provide support to affected communities.
For those seeking assistance, FEMA encourages residents to call 800-621-3362 for information on eligibility and resources.
