The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced an extension of its Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program for North Carolina residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. The program, initially slated to end on Tuesday, will now continue until January 25th, providing crucial support to those displaced by the storm.
The TSA program offers temporary housing in hotels or motels, giving affected families more time to secure permanent housing solutions or repair their damaged homes. This extension is vital for the more than 3,000 families still eligible for the assistance.
Aerial view of damage in Asheville, North Carolina, following Hurricane Helene on September 29th. (Reuters/Marco Bello)
FEMA has indicated that individuals checking out of the temporary housing program on Tuesday are either returning to homes that are now habitable or have opted to withdraw from FEMA assistance programs.
Homes damaged by Hurricane Helene in Chimney Rock Village, North Carolina, on October 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
While over 10,000 households initially utilized the TSA program following the hurricane, the majority have now transitioned to more permanent housing arrangements. For those who do not qualify for FEMA aid, local county shelters and non-profit organizations are also available to provide assistance.
