Buncombe County Mobilizes Resources for Recovery from Hurricane Helene

Community Update: Buncombe County’s Ongoing Recovery Efforts

As residents of Buncombe County continue recovering from the recent storm, many are turning to available local resources for assistance. With various programs and services underway, it’s a busy time for the community as we rally together to overcome the impacts of Hurricane Helene.

One Buncombe Call Center is Here to Help

If you have questions or need assistance related to the storm, the One Buncombe Call Center is your go-to resource. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can reach them at 828-250-6100. They can help with everything from debris removal to providing info about the Emergency Watershed Protection program. Additionally, if you have concerns about the FCC Environmental Services transition, this is the place to get your answers.

Safety Inspections for Damaged Bridges

The Buncombe County Fire Marshal’s Office is on the scene, conducting safety inspections of storm-damaged bridges that residents have reported through the Damage Assessment Form. If you need to report property damage, don’t hesitate! You can fill out the form online at buncombecounty.org or call the One Buncombe Call Center for assistance.

Moreover, the Fire Marshals will also visit households directly to share vital information about FEMA bridge repair resources available through Public Assistance or Individual Assistance programs.

Progress on Trash and Recycling Services

With many residents concerned about the ongoing transition to FCC Environmental Services, the county is actively addressing these issues. They’ve ramped up staffing at their call center to over 20 personnel to reduce wait times. If you’re having trouble reaching FCC or Waste Pro, just call 828-250-6100 for help.

This month, new trash and recycling carts are being delivered across the county. Have you not received your new cart yet? No worries! You can still place bagged trash at the curb on your collection day. The FCC is currently working hard to catch up after falling one day behind with cart replacements. So far, more than 22,000 carts have been taken away by Waste Pro, and over 19,000 new carts have been delivered by FCC.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Extended

The North Carolina Department of Commerce has extended the application period for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) until January 7, 2025. If you’ve been impacted by Hurricane Helene and need financial help, don’t miss this opportunity! You can find more information or apply by visiting des.nc.gov/dua or by calling 919-629-3857 (English) or 919-276-5698 (Spanish).

Lead Testing Kit Distribution

Starting December 12, the city of Asheville will distribute lead test kits to water customers who have requested them. An alert will be sent out a day before pickup, so customers know when and where to go. If you haven’t yet requested a kit and want to, you can still do so by calling 828-259-5962 or emailing leadprevention@ashevillenc.gov.

Helene Recovery Housing Assistance

Another crucial resource is the Helene Recovery Housing Assistance Grant, which offers up to three months of support for rent, mortgage, or utility payments. Applications are open until December 18 at 5 p.m. To be eligible, you must have lived in Buncombe County before September 26, 2024, and have been financially affected by the storm. You can find the application on buncombecounty.org.

USDA Assistance and Debris Removal Programs

The USDA Emergency Watershed Protection Program is also available for residents facing property safety issues caused by storm damage. This program provides assistance such as debris removal and streambank stabilization. If you want to report damage, please go to buncombeready.org or call the One Buncombe Call Center.

There are two free options for debris removal: the Right-of-Way Pickup, where residents can move debris to the public right-of-way for pickup, and the Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) for debris that can’t be moved. Crews are making multiple passes, with over 465,121 cubic yards of debris already collected!

Community Care Stations and Library Updates

Community care stations are available daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at four locations, including Morgan Hill Baptist Church and Bethel United Methodist Church. As for our beloved libraries, all public libraries are back to regular hours except the Swannanoa Library, which is preparing to reopen.

Park Safety Assessments

Lastly, Buncombe County Parks and Recreation is coordinating with the Army Corps of Engineers to facilitate debris removal from park areas, ensuring our public spaces are safe once more. Staff are collaborating with an arborist to identify and assess any hazardous trees.

It’s clear that the spirit of community is alive and strong in Buncombe County as everyone works together during this challenging time. Stay informed, stay safe, and remember, help is just a call away!