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In a recent statement, the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced an extension of the deadline for North Carolinians in 39 counties to apply for Individual Assistance following the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene. Residents now have until January 7, 2025, to seek financial help for various needs resulting from the disaster.

Disaster survivors in Polk County who have yet to apply for assistance are encouraged to do so via the online portal at DisasterAssistance.gov. This platform offers the fastest application process. Alternatively, survivors can utilize the FEMA App on their mobile devices or contact the FEMA Helpline toll-free at 1-800-621-3362. The Helpline is accessible every day and provides support in most languages. Those employing a relay service or captioned telephone should ensure they provide their number to the FEMA representative.

For additional guidance on how to apply, individuals can view an accessible instructional video titled “Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance,” available on YouTube. 

Homeowners and renters in Polk County, along with the following counties, may qualify for FEMA assistance: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Forsyth, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lee, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Nash, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Surry, Swain, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, Yadkin, and Yancey. This eligibility also extends to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians of North Carolina.

Residents are urged to act quickly to ensure they receive the necessary support to recover from Tropical Storm Helene’s devastating effects.