DHS Releases $12 million in reimbursement for projects related to Helene
Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released over $12 million in reimbursements for vital infrastructure and community restoration projects.
DHS said this highlighted President Trump’s commitment to put America first, one community at a time. DHS continued saying that, unlike the previous administration that left these projects drowned in red tape, DHS, FEMA, and allies like Sen. Budd and Chairman Michael Whatley are working hard to deliver swift, decisive action to help communities recover.
“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," said Secretary Kristi Noem. “Under President Trump’s leadership, DHS is restoring our nation’s strength, securing our communities, and ensuring no American is left behind.”
These grants provide support for North Carolina state and local governments, schools, and organizations to repair critical infrastructure and protect our citizens. These grants focus on reimbursements for critical infrastructure repairs that restore essential services and fortify North Carolina against future disasters, including millions in infrastructure and network upgrades, in addition to resources to replace and rebuild community projects.
Senate Candidate Michael Whatley said, “Thank you, President Trump and Secretary Noem, for continuing to deliver much-needed aid to North Carolina. You’ve shown true leadership, and it is an honor to serve on your FEMA Review Council to deliver these needed resources to North Carolina. This is in stark contrast to the deadly and disastrous response during the failed tenures of Joe Biden and Roy Cooper.”
These $12 million in disbursements is part of the broader $322 million commitment from FEMA. Since July 14th, recovery reimbursements have totaled over $161 million. Here are some of the things the funding has supported so far:
$65.2 million to the North Carolina Department of Transportation for vital road repairs in Buncombe, McDowell, Mitchell, Wilkes, and Yancey County.
$5.9 million to the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources to restore Chimney Rock State Park.
$5.8 million to the town of Beech Mountain for road repairs.
$2.4 million to the Energy United Electric Member Corporation for emergency measures to protect and repair electrical power distribution systems.
$1.5 million to Asheville Christian Academy for remediation of three school buildings flooded by the Swannanoa River overflow.
$1.4 million to the Town of Old Fort for permanent repairs to public facilities.
$1 million for Haywood County for removing storm debris.
DHS noted that the department is still working on providing additional funding to support Helene's recovery. In addition to administering the current program, the Department is working diligently to reform the slow system it inherited from the Biden administration.
