Asheville Residents Affected by Tropical Storm Helene: Assistance Program Now Available
Asheville, North Carolina, is buzzing with news that’s sure to bring a sense of relief to many local homeowners who faced significant challenges after Tropical Storm Helene’s devastating floodwaters. Starting this Tuesday, residents who lost their homes or suffered serious damage will have the opportunity to apply for a federal program aimed at helping them recover.
What You Need to Know About the Program
This initiative is part of the Hazard Mitigation Program, funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and administered by the state of North Carolina. Aimed specifically at helping residents navigate the aftermath of flooding, the program offers several types of assistance, including the potential to buy out damaged homes, or provide funding for elevating or rebuilding homes to safer levels.
“Starting Tuesday, folks can head over to the Asheville Mall at the former Gap store location, right across from Bath & Body Works,” said Steve McGugan, the state’s Hazard Mitigation section chief, at a recent briefing. The program will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, until November 15.
How the Application Process Works
During this time, homeowners can expect to receive assistance from a team well-versed in the application process. “Our staff will be there to answer questions and help you fill out the necessary forms,” McGugan explained. “We’ll verify your property’s information and check your tax card to ensure everything is accurate.”
A recent report indicated that approximately 900 homes in Buncombe experienced significant damage due to the flooding, with around 300 homes completely lost in the storm, highlighting the urgent need for such assistance.
Types of Assistance Available
The program offers three primary options for homeowners:
- Acquisition: This program is available to those whose properties were severely damaged and are situated in flood-prone areas. It allows homeowners to sell their homes to the state, essentially moving away from hazardous zones.
- Elevation: This option involves lifting homes out of the flood zone, often by about two feet. It’s perfect for those whose homes suffered minor flooding. The program also includes provisions for disabled homeowners.
- Mitigation Reconstruction: If your home is determined to be too damaged to safely elevate, this program will tear down the old one and build a new home at a safe elevation.
No Cost for Homeowners
One of the most compelling aspects of this program is that it comes at no cost to homeowners. “FEMA covers 75% of the expenses associated with demolishing and acquiring properties, while the state picks up the remaining 25%,” McGugan emphasized. “This means homeowners won’t have anything to pay for these assistance programs.”
Those interested should not worry about the chances of acceptance either, as the program reportedly has a high acceptance rate. “If you apply and stay engaged with us, we usually can get your home approved,” McGugan noted with assurance. “Issues with property titles are really the only thing that can hold up your application.”
Moving Forward
The Hazard Mitigation Program not only offers immediate relief to homeowners but also serves a greater purpose in the community. Properties that are purchased through the acquisition process will not be available for habitation again; instead, they can be transformed into parks or green spaces, thus preventing future flood-related damages.
As Asheville continues to recover from the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene, this program represents a beacon of hope for many families looking to rebuild and move forward. With the application process starting this week, residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to find safety and peace of mind in their homes.
