The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the allocation of over $12 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants to aid North Carolina’s recovery from Tropical Storm Helene. The funds are designated for critical infrastructure repairs and community restoration projects across the state.
According to DHS, these grants are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to prioritize disaster response and streamline federal assistance. Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “The American people deserve a government that fights for their survival and prosperity, not one that kneels to bureaucratic elites. With the leadership of President Trump, Senator Budd, and Chairman Whatley, DHS and FEMA are delivering for North Carolina. Under President Trump’s leadership, DHS is restoring our nation’s strength, securing our communities, and ensuring no American is left behind.”
The disbursements form part of a $322 million FEMA commitment to North Carolina since July 14. In total, over $161 million has been distributed recently. Specific allocations include $65.2 million for road repairs in Buncombe, McDowell, Mitchell, Wilkes, and Yancey counties; $5.9 million to restore Chimney Rock State Park’s infrastructure; $5.8 million for repairs in Beech Mountain; $2.4 million for electrical system protection by EnergyUnited Electric Membership Corporation; $1.5 million to Asheville Christian Academy for school remediation after flooding; $1.4 million to Old Fort for public facility repairs; and $1 million to Haywood County for debris removal.
These efforts aim not only at immediate recovery but also at strengthening resilience against future disasters.
Secretary Noem emphasized the administration's approach: “This funding is a testament to President Trump’s vision of a streamlined, America First FEMA that cuts through red tape and delivers results for American citizens, and we’re just getting started.”
