Months after Hurricane Helene ravaged North Carolina on September 27, 2024, some residents are still grappling with displacement, living in temporary shelters as they await assistance. The impending end of FEMA's temporary housing program has sparked confusion and fear among those affected.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) plan to discontinue housing assistance for approximately 2,000 North Carolinians coincides with a winter storm bringing frigid temperatures to the Appalachian Mountain region. While the deadline was extended from Friday to Saturday, the 24-hour reprieve offers little solace to those facing homelessness amidst freezing conditions.

Ryan McClymonds, founder of the volunteer organization Operation Boots on the Ground, expressed concern for the families he's been assisting, noting their terror at the prospect of losing their FEMA vouchers and having nowhere to go.

FEMA's Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, which has provided hotel rooms to hurricane survivors, is being reevaluated. Ineligibility stems from factors such as homes deemed habitable after inspection, refusal of inspection, or FEMA's inability to contact residents. While approximately 3,600 households will remain eligible for TSA assistance, around 2,000 families are still expected to vacate their hotel rooms.

The impending storm and closure of disaster recovery centers until Monday have further complicated the situation. Incoming White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized the Biden administration's handling of FEMA resources, alleging that funds were diverted to house illegal immigrants, leaving insufficient support for hurricane victims.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein and state officials have appealed to FEMA for an extension to ensure safe shelter for residents during the storm. FEMA reports having provided shelter to 13,000 displaced families since Helene's landfall, with 5,600 households currently in hotels.

Swannanoa resident Asha Wild, who lost her home in the flood, expressed anxiety about potential power and water outages during the storm. The fragility of infrastructure remains a concern for many residents, who fear a repeat of post-hurricane shortages of power, water, gas, and food. Volunteer efforts and donations have provided some relief, including campers for housing and propane distribution drives.

Retired Asheville police officer Steve Antle, who has been actively involved in relief efforts, observed that recovery progress varies across the region. He noted that even affluent areas still show signs of damage, with debris and downed trees remaining. Antle continues to procure and distribute essential supplies to affected communities.

McClymonds emphasized the ongoing need for support, urging the public not to forget those still struggling. He highlighted the exhaustion and desperation of families who have lost homes and loved ones, stressing the importance of continued assistance.

FEMA advises hurricane survivors to maintain contact and provide regular updates on their situation. Those with eligibility questions are encouraged to contact the FEMA helpline.