Governor Pat McCrory’s call for Disaster Food and Nutrition Services benefits for thousands of households impacted by Hurricane Matthew was approved today for 18 North Carolina counties by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“As we move into the recovery phase, I am glad that we are able to help families and individuals by providing disaster food assistance,” Governor McCrory said.“With this approval, we will now be able to better help families get back on their feet again.”
All North Carolina disaster survivors, including people with disabilities, can access resources at State/FEMA disaster recovery centers, or DRCs. DRCs help survivors apply for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates about applications. You can find the closest DRC by going online at www.fema.gov/drc. Hours are Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.
Resources and Services available at DRCs
North Carolina residents who suffered losses and damage as a result of Hurricane Matthew can get information about state and federal assistance at the Disaster Recovery Centers opening in Edgecombe and Greene counties Friday, October 21.
Location: Edgecombe County
North Carolina officials are working closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to transition displaced residents from emergency shelters in flooded areas to more stable temporary housing. At the height of the emergency on Oct. 9, there were 4,071 people housed in 81 shelters. Today that number is down to 972 people in 20 shelters.
Governor Pat McCrory this evening received a federal disaster declaration to help individuals in Onslow County recover from the massive flooding caused by Hurricane Matthew.
“This announcement marks another step forward in providing assistance to hardworking families and businesses in Onslow County," said Governor McCrory."While it will likely take months to fully recover, these funds will help those who are suffering to begin to rebuild their lives."
Governor Pat McCrory is urging people to be aware of dangerous conditions that persist in flooded areas even as relief efforts are making progress in central and eastern North Carolina in response to Hurricane Matthew.
"Although floodwaters are receding and relief efforts are making progress, all residents and visitors need to remain vigilant in areas that were impacted by Hurricane Matthew," said Governor McCrory. "We will continue working together with local and federal partners to help those in need."
North Carolina residents who suffered losses and damage as a result of Hurricane Matthew can get information about federal assistance at a disaster recovery center opening in Johnston and Wayne counties.
Hurricane Matthew’s severe flooding across central and eastern North Carolina has affected water quality and availability in certain eastern North Carolina public water systems. State officials encourage citizens with septic and private well systems to be mindful of water usage after the storm.
The Department of Transportation has reopened a section of U.S. 74 closed by floodwater from Hurricane Matthew last week. A section of the highway at the Robeson-Columbus County line has been put into a two-lane, two-way pattern while repairs to the roadway are continuing.
A second section of U.S. 74 has a right lane closure near N.C. 130 in Robeson County.