Q: How can I apply for FEMA assistance?

A. The deadline for FEMA Individual Assistance has passed. The last day to apply was April 7.

Q: What donations are needed?

A:  At this time monetary donations are the most helpful. Donate at: United Way of Haywood or your preferred charitable organization.

Q: How can I support local businesses as recovery progresses?

A. For Haywood County residents, consider shopping local whenever you can. For folks outside the county, plan to visit our unique small towns and enjoy our recreation and attractions.

Q: Where can I get FREE disaster legal assistance?

A: For legal assistance, call 1-866-219-5262 and dial 2657. The toll-free hotline is available 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Q: I need help navigating Helene recovery questions or complicated problems. Where can I go for help?

A. The North Carolina Disaster Case Management program is available to help.

Phone: 1-800-621-3362

Online: www.disasterassistance.gov

Learn about the WNC Disaster Declaration: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4827

Learn more about the FEMA application process: www.readyhaywood.com/fema

Helene Recovery Center
112 Industrial Drive, Waynesville

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Through April 30, 2025

On May 1, 2025, the center will transition to a new location at the Haywood County Development Services Office (157 Paragon Pkwy, Ste 202, Clyde) right next to Tractor Supply, until further notice.

Renters:

When property is damaged by a storm, the tenant should notify the landlord in writing of everything that is damaged. The tenant should keep a dated copy of all notices to the landlord (N.C. Gen. Stat. 42-42).

• When you discover that something needs to be fixed, ask to have it repaired.
• If your landlord doesn’t respond in a reasonable amount of time, you may decide to pay to repair an emergency problem yourself. Be sure to keep copies of all receipts for part/repairs to address damage from the storm so that you can seek reimbursement from the landlord.
• Don’t withhold rent to convince your landlord to make repairs.  Instead, try to work out a cut in your rent in writing  with your landlord.
• If the landlord fails to fix something that puts your safety at risk or violates local codes report it to local authorities. Local building, health, fire, and safety inspectors, and code enforcement can take action to ensure compliance with the codes.
• If you and your landlord aren’t able to settle your disputes,  you may want to call the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.

Home Repair:

FEMA has begun taking applications for the Individual Assistance Program, which includes money for emergency housing at hotels, immediate recovery needs and more. Call 1-800-621-3362 or visit www.disasterassistance.gov for more information or to get started on an application.

• The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is January 7, 2025.

When doing home repairs or hiring a contractor:

• Be Safe. Do not attempt to move downed power lines. Call your utility company immediately for assistance.
• Contact your insurance company. Some insurance companies require an adjuster’s approval before work can be done.
• Do not pay for work up front. Inspect the work and make sure you are satisfied before you pay. A reasonable down payment may be required for some projects, but don’t pay anything without getting a written contract. Avoid paying with cash; use a check or a credit card instead.
• Beware of any contractor who tries to rush you or who comes to you home offering assistance.  If an offer is only good “now or never,” find someone else to do the work. Avoid contractors who go door-to-door offering services, and remember that, if you sign a contract at your home following a door-to-door solicitation, you have the right to cancel the contract within three business days. Try to get recommendations from friends, neighbors, co-workers and others who have had work performed on their homes recently.
• Get three written estimates for the work, if possible, and compare bids.  Check credentials and contact the Attorney General’s Office and the Better Business Bureau to learn about any complaints against the contractor. Depending on the price of the contract, the contractor may need to be licensed to do the work. Before work begins make sure you get a written contract that lists all the work to be performed, its costs, and a completion date. Make sure the contractor is insured. Read the contract and make sure it includes any verbal promises you may have received from the contractor. Services like cleaning or storage of your belongings often come with extra charges, which can really add up depending on the length of storage.
• Watch out for price gouging.  Under North Carolina law. businesses cannot charge too much for goods or services when a disaster, an emergency, or an abnormal market disruption has been declared or proclaimed by the Governor. Under the law, the Attorney General’s Office can put a stop to price gouging and seek refunds for consumers who paid too much. File a consumer complaint at 1-877-NO-SCAM or www.ncdoj.gov/complaint
• Report suspected scammers to local police and the NCDOJ.

This guidance was previously published by NC Attorney General Josh Stein.

December 13, 2024
Joint Statement: New Temporary Housing Emergency Rule

The North Carolina Building Code Council (NCBCC) has adopted an emergency rule developed to streamline the construction process for temporary housing for North Carolinians displaced by Hurricane Helene.

Excerpt from 11 NCAC 08 .0211:

“Temporary housing buildings provided to those in need for use as a temporary shelter during the recovery from Hurricane Helene that do not contain electrical systems requiring the supply of electric current are exempt from permits and inspections from the local inspection department having jurisdiction for the duration of the state of emergency declared by the Governor, pursuant to G.S. 166A-19.20, on September 25, 2024.”

Important to Know:

🏠 Property owners who choose to locate temporary shelters on their property will assume all liability associated with their construction and use.

🏠 If the Temporary Housing Buildings for use as temporary shelters DO contain electrical systems requiring the supply of electric current, then a licensed electrical contractor must do this work and pull the proper permits from Development Services or municipal permitting office.

💢 Town of Waynesville: 9 South Main Street Suite 110, 828-456-8647
💢Town of Maggie Valley: 3987 Soco Rd, 828-926-0866
💢Town of Canton: 85 Summer St, 828-648-2363
💢Haywood County: 157 Paragon Parkway Suite 200, Clyde 828-452-6638
💢Town of Clyde: 8437 Carolina Blvd, 828-627-2566

🏠 Temporary shelter occupancy is limited to 180 days from first date of occupancy.

🗓️ After 180 days of occupancy, the affidavit may be reissued at the discretion of the local jurisdiction as long as this rule and the NC State of Emergency for Helene are still in place.
🗓️ When occupancy ends, if the temporary shelter building is to be reused, it will need to be inspected as appropriate to its new use or be removed from the property.

🏠 This emergency rule waives and releases local government responsibility or liability for the use and occupancy of these structures.

Basic requirements for temporary shelters

🏠 Location must comply with local zoning laws (for municipalities), comply with county or municipality special flood hazard ordinances. Structures must be placed to avoid areas prone to landslides, steep slopes, or other natural hazards.

🏠 Essential services, such as water and sanitation, shall be provided on the Owner’s property and are the responsibility of the owner.

🏠 Temporary shelters are limited to one story, a maximum of 400 square feet, must have a pitched roof, and must be anchored as described in the Emergency Rule.

🏠 Must have a heating source capable of maintaining 68 degrees.
♨️ Unvented room heaters and portable space heaters are prohibited in temporary housing buildings.

🏠 One battery-powered smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm, or a combination alarm must be installed in each room.

For full guidelines on construction and location requirements of temporary shelters, refer to affidavit/emergency rule:

https://www.ncosfm.gov/6-affidavit-temporary-housing-building-emergency-rule-0/open

Next steps for those interested in installing a temporary shelter:

1. Read and thoroughly understand the emergency rule and temporary shelter building requirements. https://www.ncosfm.gov/6-affidavit-temporary-housing-building-emergency-rule-0/open
2. Have the affidavit completed and signed in the presence of a Notary Public.
3. Register the completed and notarized Owner Affidavit at Haywood County Development Services or the applicable municipal permitting office.

Disaster Energy Assistance funds are available to households with heating systems that require repairs, are currently inoperable, have been disconnected, or are at risk of disconnection. Residents may apply for Low Income Household Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) and Disaster Energy Assistance simultaneously.

Eligible households will receive assistance based on their specific circumstances and needs.

Disaster Energy Assistance is a temporary emergency program designed to assist eligible low-income households with heating services after a natural disaster. The program offers support to restore or maintain heating systems and is available until the allocated funds are exhausted.

To qualify for Disaster Energey Assistance, households must meet the following criteria:

• Have at least one U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
• Have an income at or below 60% of the state median income.
• Have resided in Haywood County during Hurricane Helene and currently reside in one of the disaster-declared counties.
• Have been impacted and suffered a loss due to Hurricane Helene.

Haywood County residents can apply in person or via telephone at:

Haywood Health and Human Services

157 Paragon Parkway, Suite 300, Clyde

828-452-6620

Disaster Energy Assistance was made possible through a $9 million state appropriation by the NC General Assembly to help communities like Haywood County recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene.

• Bethel Rural Community Organization
  MANNA food distributions and internet access from outside the building
• North Hominy Community Development Center
  Manna Food Pantry, 3rd Thursday of each month 9 – 10 a.m.
• Pigeon Community Multicultural Center, 450 Pigeon St. Waynesville
  9 am – 4 pm
  Meals daily at 2:00
  The Center has water, power, charging stations, shovels, trash bags, and pet food
• Fines Creek Community Center, 190 Fine Creek Road, Clyde
• First United Methodist, 566 S Haywood St., Waynesville
  9 am – Noon
  Food, clothing, and shower access available
• Clyde Central Methodist
  Offering Meals: Monday – Saturday, 12 – 6 p.m. NO DONATIONS needed
• Crabtree Baptist Church
  Tuesdays & Thursdays 1 – 4 p.m.

Rebuilding Together: Mountain Projects Supports Displaced Households

HAYWOOD AND JACKSON COUNTIES – Hurricane Helene has brought both life-altering challenges and a wave of generosity to communities in western North Carolina. Three weeks after the disaster, Mountain Project is working to meet unmet basic needs of displaced families.

“We understand the profound impact this crisis has had on WNC communities, and Mountain Projects is here to offer a helping hand,” says Patsy Davis, Executive Director. “Our team is committed to ensuring that disadvantaged households receive the resources they need as we work toward long-term solutions.”

Mountain Projects, as part of its ongoing mission in Haywood and Jackson Counties, takes a whole-person approach to addressing needs and focuses on efforts that contribute to community stability. In addition to providing essential services to those experiencing poverty, Mountain Projects is delivering disaster relief to displaced families with unmet emergency needs.

Families and individuals in need of assistance are encouraged to contact Mountain Projects at 828-452-1447 or visit the office in Waynesville at 2177 Asheville Road, or 154-B Medical Park Loop in Sylva. The following is a brief summary of available services:

Mountain Projects Disaster Recovery Services

Affordable Insurance Counseling & FEMA Application Assistance: The GetCoveredWNC Team assists individuals and families with navigating insurance claims and completing FEMA applications, helping to maximize available recovery funds.

Emergency Transportation & Essential Supplies Delivery:

Haywood Transit offers emergency transportation services and delivers essential items to homebound residents.

Housing Rehabilitation & Weatherization:

For families with minor home damage or those who have lost their heating source, Mountain Projects assesses the situation and can take steps to restore safety and warmth.

Resale Store Vouchers for Clothing:

Families in need of replacement clothing or household items can receive vouchers from Mountain Projects’ resale stores to replace what was lost.

Senior Services – Drive-Thru Meals:

The Congregate Nutrition Site in Waynesville continues to serve seniors through drive-thru meal services, ensuring they receive nutritious meals while other resources are disrupted.

Emergency Funds for Unmet Needs:

Mountain Projects offers financial assistance for critical needs such as rehousing deposits and basic necessities.

Referrals to Partner Organizations:

Mountain Projects connects families to a network of partner organizations, ensuring comprehensive support through additional resources.

Heating Assistance & Repairs:

As winter approaches, Mountain Projects provides heating assistance and repairs, ensuring families can stay warm.

Housing Availability Information:

Mountain Projects compiles and shares up-to-date information on housing availability to help displaced families find safe, affordable places to live.

Affordable, Self-Help Housing:

Mountain Projects develops affordable housing infrastructure and supports the USDA Self-Help Housing process. The organization is currently seeking land for replacement housing. Interested households can call 828-452-1447 to apply or visit the SMHP website: https://smokymountainhousing.org to qualify for assistance.

Resources Pickup:

Displaced families can visit Mountain Projects offices in Waynesville or Sylva to access supplies such as diapers, blankets, heaters, dehumidifiers, and food boxes. If we can’t assist, we will connect you with a partner agency. Call 828-452-1447 or drop by for help.

The Gary Sinise Foundation is partnering with Never Alone Widows to provide critical support to first responders (law enforcement, fire, EMS), active military, veterans, and widows of these groups. 

If you or someone you know needs assistance, please visit the Gary Sinise Foundation’s website and fill out the assistance form. These organizations are here to help during this challenging time, ensuring that our community heroes and their families receive the support they deserve. 

https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/contact  

• Duke Energy: 800-419-6356 (to report outages call 800-543-5599 or text “OUT” to 57801
• • https://www.dukeenergyupdates.com/
  • https://www.duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration
• HEMC: 828-452-2281
• Canton Water: 828-648-2376
• Waynesville Water: 828-456-3706

• New Deadline: You now have 270 days from the date of the original letter to appeal the determination of substantial damage to your structure. This is a 90-day extension from the initial timeframe.

• This extension has been granted to accommodate delays in insurance claims and property appraisals caused by the widespread damage from Hurricane Helene.

1. Repair Cost Estimate:
• Obtain an estimate from a North Carolina licensed contractor for the cost of repairs.
• The estimate must include labor and materials needed to restore the structure to its pre-flood condition.
• Note: Insurance company estimates are not acceptable for permitting or appeal.
2. Structure/Appraisal Value:
• To appeal the value of the home or structure, you must provide an appraisal from a North Carolina licensed appraiser.

• For questions or further assistance regarding the extension or the appeal process, contact: Haywood County Development Services Office.

• Haywood County Sheriff Office:  (828) 452-6666
• Canton Police: 828-648-2376
• Waynesville Police: 828-456-5363
• Maggie Valley Police: 828-926-0867
• NC Highway Patrol: 828-298-4252
• Animal Control: 828-456-5338
• Department of Social Services: 828-452-6620
• Road Conditions: DriveNC.gov

Was your private well flooded or damaged during Hurricane Helene? You may need to disinfect and sample your well to ensure safe drinking water.

Haywood County Environmental Health is offering free well disinfecting kits and water collection kits for flood-affected private well users in Haywood County.

📍 Pick Up Location:
Haywood County Development Services
157 Paragon Parkway, Suite 200, Clyde, NC 28721
(Next to Tractor Supply Co.)

For more information, contact Haywood County Environmental Health at (828) 452-6682.

• Ag assistance number: 828 452 2741 ex 3
• NC Department of Agriculture: 1-866-645-9403
• Haywood Cooperative Extension Website
• For assistance related to farm animals, crops, food safety at home, or family activities, visit Haywood County NC Cooperative Extension.