Homeowners and renters, including students, who had damage or losses when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee have until Tuesday, Jan. 7, to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
The application deadline was extended to give more time to residents who were affected by the storm Sept. 26-30 and need help to jumpstart their recovery. You may apply for assistance if you live in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi or Washington counties. Students do not need to be permanent residents of the eight counties to be eligible for FEMA assistance, but the property damage or loss must have occurred in those counties.
FEMA’s Individuals and Households program may be able to help with basic home repair costs, temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home or residence hall, personal property loss, and repair or replacement of a vehicle. Assistance may also include funds to replace or repair tools and other job-related equipment required by those who are self-employed. FEMA may also offer room furnishings, a computer damaged in the disaster, books and other items required for school.