Recovery Efforts in Newberry County After Hurricane Helene
Newberry County, S.C. – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, many residents in South Carolina are grappling with the aftermath and damage that the storm left in its wake. Newberry County, in particular, felt the brunt of the hurricane, with many individuals being out of power for more than a week. The community has rallied together as recovery efforts are underway, but there is still a long way to go.
Disaster Recovery Center Open Now
To support residents in their recovery, a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) has been set up at the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office and will be operational until this Thursday from 8 AM to 7 PM. This center is designed to help individuals navigate the sometimes tricky disaster relief process.
Tiana Suber, a representative from FEMA, emphasizes the importance of this support. “We’re out here trying to help people make sure that they know that they’re not alone in that process,” she says, highlighting the empathetic approach taken by the recovery teams.
Personalized Assistance Available
The strength of the DRC lies in its personalized approach. Tommy Long, the Emergency Management Director for Newberry County, explains, “If they’re not tech savvy or don’t have internet access or whatever it may be, they just want that personal touch, they can come to the DRC and they’ll give them what they need.” This means that anyone who may be feeling overwhelmed can get the guidance they need, right there in person.
The DRC is incredibly helpful for residents who need assistance with paperwork related to their claims. For individuals who experienced damage to their homes, whether due to fallen trees or other issues, the DRC can provide essential guidance on what steps to take next. “They can help give guidance for what to do from that point,” Long explains, referring to the available resources at the center.
Understanding FEMA and Financial Assistance
There is often confusion surrounding the financial assistance provided by FEMA, and it’s important for residents to understand their options. A common misconception is that the relief provided must be paid back. However, Suber clarifies that “The SBA gives out loans, FEMA gives out grants, grants do not have to be paid back.” This reassurance is crucial for many individuals seeking help to recover.
Moreover, Suber highlights that receiving these FEMA grants will not negatively affect any current benefits that those individuals may be receiving, such as social security. This information can be a game changer for families who are already struggling to make ends meet.
Community Spirit and Support
The people of Newberry County are displaying tremendous resilience and spirit during this challenging time. While the road to recovery may seem daunting, efforts like the DRC and the support from organizations like FEMA offer a glimmer of hope. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the resources available to them, ensuring that no one has to face this situation alone.
If you find yourself in need of assistance, remember that the DRC is here to help. Visit the center at the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office before Thursday and get the support you need to move forward. Together, the community will unite to overcome the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene.
