FEMA responds to NC governor request for shelter extension

Gov. Josh Stein requested six months; FEMA authorized a 60-day extension after Stein requested six months

RALEIGH — The Federal Emergency Management Agency has responded to North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein’s request for extending the deadline for Transitional Sheltering Assistance in the state.

On Jan. 16, Stein sent a letter to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell asking for a six-month extension of the program through Sept. 30.

response letter was received on Jan. 19 from FEMA’s Federal Coordinator Brett Howard, who indicated that only a 60-day extension for the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program was being granted, meaning individuals using FEMA hotel vouchers will have to check-out by May 26.

“As of today’s date, there are 2,763 individuals and families using the program. FEMA caseworkers continue to reach out multiple times to these families to identify interim on housing solutions,” wrote Howard. “Based on your request and because of the severity of the event, including winter weather affecting road closures, FEMA approves an additional 60 days to allow individuals and families more time to find alternative housing options. Based on the additional 60 days, FEMA approves the last night of stay on May 25, 2025, and hotel check-out on May 26, 2025, for TSA in NC.”

Not everyone using the TSA program is automatically eligible for the 60-day extension, however; FEMA is required to give individuals in the TSA program a 21-day advance notice to vacate their hotels. Participants may become ineligible if FEMA is unable to reach the participant, the individual has an inspected dwelling to transition into, or if the individual has rejected a FEMA inspection.

Despite asking for six months, Stein applauded the 60-day extension.

“Today’s decision will help eligible disaster survivors stay safe and sheltered as we continue the hard work of rebuilding in western North Carolina,” Stein said 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.”

Stein also pledged to work with the new administration to find solutions and resources for survivors.

“My team and I continue to pursue solutions to cut red tape and get people into housing faster, including our temporary travel trailer program,” said Stein. “I will continue to work with local, state, and federal partners to do right by our neighbors in western North Carolina and keep working until every survivor has returned home.”

Helene survivors using FEMA’s TSA or other programs can find information and resources here.

FEMA can also be reached by phone at 800-621-3362.

Per Stein’s office, any North Carolinian needing assistance due to Hurricane Helene may contact the North Carolina Disaster Case Management for more information or call at 844-746-2326.

While FEMA is extending the TSA program for another 60 days, private charity organization Samaritan’s Purse is poised to deliver at least 50 manufactured homes to hurricane survivors in western North Carolina through its Rebuild and Repair Program.

The Rebuild and Repair Program also offers furniture replacement for homeowners and renters. All services are provided at no cost for qualified applicants. According to the Samaritan’s Purse’s website, to be eligible, applicants must own the home and it had to be their primary residence.

North Carolinians can apply for the program by calling 828-588-4663.

About A.P. Dillon 1537 Articles
A.P. Dillon is a North State Journal reporter located near Raleigh, North Carolina. Find her on Twitter: @APDillon_