South Raleigh News

FEMA has approved a request from Governor Josh Stein to extend the application deadline for its Public Assistance program. The new deadline is set for April 7, 2025, providing additional time for state, tribal, and local governments, as well as certain non-profit organizations, to apply.

Governor Stein expressed his gratitude: “I am grateful to FEMA and the Trump Administration for granting our request to extend the deadline to apply for this critical program.” He emphasized the importance of these grants in aiding communities across North Carolina with debris removal and public facility restoration.

The extension follows a previous 30-day extension granted by FEMA for the Individual Assistance Program. This program offers resources directly to disaster survivors. The Public Assistance program provides cost-share funding reimbursement for government units and some non-profits responding to Tropical Storm Helene's aftermath.

Eligible applicants include government entities and non-profit organizations in multiple counties across North Carolina, along with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. These groups may qualify if they have uninsured losses from Tropical Storm Helene.

Governor Stein recently visited Yancey County to meet with those affected by Hurricane Helene. In February, he requested an additional $19 billion in federal funds aimed at infrastructure restoration and home repair. He also invited public participation in finalizing an Action Plan concerning $1.4 billion awarded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Applications can be submitted via https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public. Disaster survivors seeking assistance should visit www.disasterassistance.gov.