Secretary of the United States Department of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin visited Western North Carolina on Apr. 7 to provide updates on disaster relief efforts in cooperation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and local leaders.
The visit comes as recovery continues following Tropical Storm Helene and Hurricane Florence, events that caused significant damage in the region. The update is important for residents who have been awaiting assistance and rebuilding support.
During his trip, Mullin received an emergency management briefing in Lake Lure, met with Chimney Rock residents and Mayor Peter O’Leary to discuss ongoing relief work, and hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Senator Ted Budd, Representatives Chuck Edwards and Tim Moore, FEMA Administrator Karen Evans, first responders, and other local officials.
Last week, President Donald J. Trump, Secretary Mullin, and FEMA announced an additional $103 million for North Carolina’s recovery efforts. On Monday prior to the visit, FEMA awarded more than $26 million through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to buy out 75 severely damaged residential properties in Henderson, Polk, and Yancey counties.
Overall funding from FEMA for North Carolina’s recovery now exceeds $5.4 billion. Nearly $564.2 million has been paid directly to survivors as grants to help families recover from storm impacts.
“Today, I had the opportunity to meet the fearless State and Local leaders of western North Carolina who are rebuilding their communities after the devastation of Hurricane Helene,” said Secretary Mullin. “I saw first hand hurricane damage still present and will be making sure FEMA relief continues to help Americans rebuild their homes and communities. I am humbled and honored to serve the citizens of our great Homeland. Thanks for having me.”
The department released several photos documenting Secretary Mullin’s meetings with local officials during his visit.
