FEMA has just approved a significant and much needed extension of the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program for North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.
The program’s eligibility period under DR-4827-NC will now extend an additional 60 days, allowing eligible families to remain in TSA through May 25, 2025, with hotel check-outs on May 26, 2025.
FEMA had previously approved TSA for 180 days, originally set to end with hotel check-outs on March 27, 2025. As of today, 2,763 individuals and families are utilizing TSA, and FEMA caseworkers are actively helping them find interim housing solutions.
FEMA’s decision considered the severity of the disaster and challenges such as winter weather and road closures. However, the extension does not guarantee all current participants will remain eligible until May 26, 2025. Eligibility is reviewed on a rolling basis, and participants will be notified at least 21 days in advance if they are no longer eligible.
Eligibility reviews determine continued participation based on factors such as:
- Inspections confirming a home is habitable and safe.
- Survivors’ refusal to allow FEMA inspections.
- Inability to contact survivors despite multiple attempts.
“Today’s decision will help eligible disaster survivors stay safe and sheltered as we continue the hard work of rebuilding in western North Carolina,” said Governor Stein in a press release. “FEMA’s decision to extend the Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program for two months is a positive step forward and frees eligible disaster survivors from worrying about being kicked out of the program in March. I pledge to work with the new administration to find solutions and resources that will best serve disaster survivors in North Carolina.”
Any North Carolinian who needs safe housing or post-disaster resources due to the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene can seek assistance from North Carolina Disaster Case Management (NC-DCM). Please visit ncdps.gov/Helene/DCM for more information and to fill out a contact form online, or contact the NC Disaster Case Management Program at 844-746-2326.
