Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) and Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-NC) sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanna Criswell demanding that the agency grant additional extensions to the Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program for individuals affected by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.
FEMA granted a 24-hour extension on vouchers that were set to expire on January 11th.
The letter states, “FEMA’s decision to extend the program by 24 hours may not provide adequate time for individuals with uninhabitable homes to find shelter to safely ride out the severe weather.”
We are writing to you today regarding the Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program for individuals affected by Hurricane Helene, which is currently set to expire on January 11th. In light of the incoming winter storm, we are concerned that FEMA’s decision to extend the program by 24 hours may not provide adequate time for individuals with uninhabitable homes to find shelter to safely ride out the severe weather.
Forecasts indicate that parts of western North Carolina may receive up to 8 inches of snow, which will exacerbate the already challenging conditions for survivors of Hurricane Helene. As such, we urge FEMA to reassess the situation on the ground and consider additional extensions to ensure that individuals and families have safe and adequate shelter during this critical period.
The well-being and safety of those affected must remain a top priority. We stand ready to support FEMA in addressing this evolving situation and look forward to your response.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter and for FEMA’s continued efforts to support disaster survivors in western North Carolina.
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