url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-chuck-edwards-leads-hurricane-relief-aid-historic-disaster,Congressman Chuck Edwards Leads Hurricane Relief Aid in Historic Disaster Supplemental Bill,2024-12-31,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 20, the House passed H.R. 10545, the American Relief Act of 2024, which included $110 billion in disaster supplemental funding to help states rebuild from Hurricanes Helene and Milton and other disasters that have occurred since the end of 2022. Congressman Chuck Edwards was the only co-sponsor of this legislation and crafted the bill as a member of the House Appropriations Committee. Given that supplemental disaster funding falls under that committee’s jurisdiction, it is customary that the chairman of the committee be the lead sponsor. The committee only rarely names a co-sponsor for such bills. Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04) said, “From the moment Hurricane Helene made landfall, Representative Chuck Edwards has been hard at work ensuring that Western North Carolinians are not forgotten. When Chuck invited me to tour the site of the devastation with him in October, we made a promise that the federal government would do its part to help the families and businesses devastated by the storm, and with the passage of the American Relief Act, we have delivered on that promise. Rep. Edwards was key to getting that critical disaster relief aid across the finish line, and few Members of Congress have ever championed the cause of their constituents as effectively as he has.” “Congressman Chuck Edwards set a precedent of being the singular cosponsor on a disaster relief package that aids multiple states. He used his role as a member of the House Appropriations Committee and experience he gained from nine weeks on the front line of the disaster response to take a lead role in drafting the disaster supplemental package for the American Relief Act,” said House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (OK-04). “I walked alongside Congressman Edwards in North Carolina and saw the wreckage that decimated communities and left families overwhelmed by loss. His leadership and steadfast advocacy secured critical disaster aid for his constituents and Americans across this nation.” As a lifelong resident of Western North Carolina, Edwards brought a unique understanding of the challenges residents there are facing in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. “While the legislative process was one with many twists and turns, I am proud that in the end, members from both parties were able to come together and keep the funding package fully intact,”stated Congressman Edwards. The American Relief Act of 2024 will bring several billions of dollars of funding from various federal agencies to Western North Carolina. This includes the resumption of Small Business Administration disaster loans, repair funds for damaged federal highways, Economic Adjustment Assistance funding for economic recovery, and funding for agriculture assistance and the U.S. Forest Service.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-remembers-president-jimmy-carter,Rep. Adams Remembers President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"### Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-foushee-announces-nominees-to-us-military-service-academies,Congresswoman Foushee Announces Nominees to U.S. Military Service Academies,2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"DURHAM, NC (December 27, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), announced eight students from the Fourth District received nominations for admission into our nation's four service academies: the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. “It is an honor each year to nominate students in my district to our nation’s prestigious service academies,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “These next generation of military leaders have demonstrated academic excellence, service to our community, strong leadership, and success in their extracurriculars. I have been impressed by the many accomplishments of these exceptional students, and I wish them the best as they move forward in the military academy appointment process.” Congresswoman Valerie Foushee named the following nominees to the nation’s four service academies: Luke Eward — U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy (Ocen Cove Academy) Evan Gerringer — U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy (Southern Alamance High School) Benjamin Hornstein — U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy (Durham Academy) Wright Kross — U.S. Air Force Academy (Chapel Hill High School) Yikuan Sun — U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy (Chapel Hill High School) Jacob Sullivan Robins — U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Jones Senior High School) K'Naya Williams — U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy (Vance County High School) Tyler Wilson — U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy (Camden Military Academy) Receiving a nomination does not guarantee admission to an academy. However, a nomination from an approved nomination source is a requirement to receive an appointment. An academy appointment acceptance comes with a 5-year service obligation after the completion of 4 years at an academy. For further information on eligibility requirements and how to pursue an appointment to a military service academy please visit the website of the academy of choice.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-helps-billions-disaster-supplemental-funding-pass-us-house,Edwards helps billions of disaster supplemental funding pass U.S. House,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) today issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed supplemental disaster funding, which was included in the continuing resolution funding the federal government until March 14, 2025. The supplemental disaster funding contains $110 billion, billions of which will directly help Western North Carolina communities devastated by Hurricane Helene recover and rebuild. Edwards said, “As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, my priority upon returning to Washington following Hurricane Helene was to draft a framework for disaster funding to help Western North Carolinians recover from the worst natural disaster to hit our mountains. “The citizens of Western North Carolina pulled together in such monumental ways to help one another, and now these additional funds will help folks across North Carolina’s 11th District rebuild communities and put our lives back together. “Just as I have helped funding for disaster relief pass the U.S. House to aid folks in our mountains, I will continue to advocate for the needs of our district in the long road to recovery ahead.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-foushee-votes-to-keep-government-open-deliver-critical-disaster-relief-and-extend-farm-bill,"Congresswoman Foushee Votes to Keep Government Open, Deliver Critical Disaster Relief, and Extend Farm Bill",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC (December 20, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) released the following statement after voting to pass the updated version of H.R. 10545, the American Relief Act, 2025. This legislation provides a stopgap measure to fund the federal government at current discretionary spending levels through March 14, 2025, averting a federal government shutdown. “Despite attempts by Elon Musk, Donald Trump, and the Republican conference to push us to the brink of a government shutdown, I’m glad that House Democrats prevailed and prevented a reckless shutdown that would harm hardworking families across the country,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “Although this stopgap funding bill is not perfect, I was proud to join my colleagues in standing firm on our commitment to the American people and pass critical legislation that will keep our government open, provide urgent relief to our neighbors in Western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene, extend key agricultural programs, and provide economic assistance to farmers dealing with crop loss. Moving forward, Congress must work to promptly pass full-year appropriations bills that supports the needs of our government and the people we represent.” Specifically, H.R. 10545, the American Relief Act, 2025, would include:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/congressman-richard-hudson-named-chair-of-energy-and-commerce-subcommittee-on,Congressman Richard Hudson Named Chair of Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Richard Hudson (R-NC) was named Chairman of the Energy and Commerce (E&C) Subcommittee on Communications and Technology for the 119th Congress by E&C Committee Chairman-Elect, Congressman Brett Guthrie (R-KY). ""I am honored to lead the Communications and Technology Subcommittee,"" said Congressman Hudson. ""As chairman, I look forward to working with President Donald Trump, Chairman-Elect Brett Guthrie, and members of the committee to advance strong, commonsense policies that promote innovation, streamline federal regulations, and bridge the digital divide. Together, we will deliver real results for the American people."" ""I look forward to working with Congressman Hudson in his role as Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology. Richard's expertise will help propel our country into the next generation economy. Under Congressman Hudson's leadership, the Communications and Technology Subcommittee will close the digital divide for rural America, affirm U.S. leadership in next generation telecommunication networks, and protect our critical communications infrastructure from adversarial attacks,"" said Chairman-Elect Guthrie. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-statement-passage-government-funding-package,Murphy Statement on Passage of Government Funding Package,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 10545, the American Relief Act to fund the federal government through March 14th, 2025. ""As I have made clear, I generally do not support continuing resolutions to keep our country running,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""However, the House is unable to pass funding for our federal government through regular order. Under the present circumstances we face, perfect cannot be the enemy of good. I voted in favor because this package includes critical aid for hurricane recovery efforts in Western North Carolina and our farmers, unnecessary spending has been removed, and there is broad consensus that spending cuts are in order. Further, I have been assured that physicians who see Medicare patients and have had their reimbursements cut by nearly 30% in the last 23 years will be taken care of in March. President Trump deserves to start in a strong position when he takes office, and I look forward to passing a conservative budget under his leadership.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/congresswoman-ross-votes-to-pass-the-continuing-resolution-to-support-hurricane-recovery-in-nc,Congresswoman Ross Votes to Pass the Continuing Resolution to Support Hurricane Recovery in NC,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) voted to pass a continuing resolution to keep the federal government open until March 14, 2025. This package includes $100 billion in critical disaster relief funding for the Southeast, including North Carolina. Congresswoman Ross has been pushing for this funding since Western North Carolina was devastated by Hurricane Helene. Click here to download Congresswoman Ross’ floor speech from November calling for disaster relief funding “It’s shameful that House Republicans pushed us to the brink of a government shutdown and played politics with desperately needed disaster aid,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This legislation is far from perfect, and many crucial, bipartisan provisions that I support were removed from the final bill. However, Western North Carolina has been waiting for federal assistance to rebuild after the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, and this package will deliver the aid that families, small businesses, childcare centers, seniors, and so many more need. The road to recovery will be long, but this package is a crucial first step. I urge my Senate colleagues to pass this legislation immediately – Western North Carolina cannot afford to wait.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-statement-consequences-failure-pass-continuing-resolution,Rep. Adams’ Statement on Consequences of Failure to Pass Continuing Resolution,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"""Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for being here on short notice. I wanted to share with you what we’re facing here in Washington as Congress closes out this year and this session and acts on the bipartisan spending bill. The Congress has an opportunity to vote on a “continuing resolution” bill (CR) that would keep the government funded for another three months and prevent a shutdown that would have dire consequences for the economy, federal employees, veterans, and families, and anyone who would like to travel safely as we go into the holidays. This is an extension of the common sense, bipartisan budget bills we passed earlier this year in March. The CR would also include disaster relief funding and extend the most recent Farm Bill which has expired. Our state is recovering from the most devastating natural disaster in modern history- Hurricane Helene. Almost $9 billion – that's billion, with a “B” – in disaster relief funding for North Carolina is in this bill, which we need desperately for rebuilding in the wake of Helene. A few of the items that we stand to lose out on if we don’t pass this bill are: Over $1.6 billion for disaster recovery through Housing and Urban Development to assist with long-term housing, infrastructure, and economic recovery needs for hardest-hit communities $674 million in disaster payments and economic assistance for the farmers who feed us from across the state Over $1 billion for the National Park Service to rebuild and preserve the Blue Ridge Parkway, and $429 million more for other NC parks projects $2.2 billion dollars for the Small Business Administration to help fund the $172 million in requested loans from over 2,000 North Carolina small businesses Millions of dollars in defense repairs to North Carolina military installations affected by Helene Millions of dollars for rebuilding destroyed and damaged child care facilities and services affected by Helene – because child care is infrastructure That’s just a fraction of what is at stake for North Carolina with this bill. This CR includes an extension of the Farm Bill, which supports our farmers and keeps folks fed – including more than 1.5 million people in North Carolina who utilize SNAP benefits. This bill would keep families fed. If we don’t pass it, we lose out on these investments and the government will shut down at 12:01 am on Saturday morning. We all remember the horrific scenes of entire towns wiped out. Aid organizations and the U.S. government have been working around the clock to assess and address the damage. Since then – for over two months – Congressional leadership in both parties have worked in good faith on how to keep our government running while caring for those who have suffered worst from Helene and other disasters. As we head into the holiday travel season, our TSA agents should not be working without pay as a result of the shutdown. North Carolina deserves better, and that is why I am ready to vote for this Continuing Resolution and disaster relief funding today.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-foushee-rejects-inadequate-gop-continuing-resolution-urges-passage-of-bipartisan-agreement,"Congresswoman Foushee Rejects Inadequate GOP Continuing Resolution, Urges Passage of Bipartisan Agreement",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC (December 19, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 10515, the American Relief Act, 2025. “House Republicans made the reckless decision to abandon the previously agreed-upon bipartisan funding bill and are following President-Elect Trump and Elon Musk’s orders to shut down the federal government. Instead of standing up for the American people, my Republican colleagues are intent on aiding billionaires, creating instability, undermining communities in need, and putting partisan agendas over the well-being of everyday Americans. This is an unsettling glimpse of how Trump and the Republican majority plan on governing in the next term, with irresponsible policies and political games that will further fracture our country and leave vulnerable communities behind. “Today, I chose to stand with families, farmers, veterans, seniors, children and communities across the country in voting against this inadequate funding bill. I cannot support a last-minute funding measure that puts the priorities of unelected billionaires ahead of childcare for working families, funding for child cancer research, or economic assistance for farmers dealing with crop loss. Our communities deserve better – Congress must pass a comprehensive funding bill that includes both critical disaster relief and provisions that fully serve the needs of the American people. Should this legislation come up again under rule, I will vote against it once again.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-statement-government-funding-package,Murphy Statement on Government Funding Package,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement after voting in favor of the American Relief Act to fund the federal government through March 14th, 2025. ""As a matter of principle, I generally do not support continuing resolutions to keep our country running,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""Unfortunately, despite great efforts to fund the federal government through regular order in a narrowly divided Congress, we cannot do so. I am terribly disappointed physicians who see Medicare patients will receive yet another ridiculous pay cut, jeopardizing access to high-quality, affordable care for millions, especially those in rural areas. However, I have been assured that the incoming Trump Administration will address this issue in March as well as retroactively rectify it. This package delivers critical aid to fund hurricane recovery efforts in Western North Carolina, keeps our farmers solvent and it ensures President Trump can sign into law a conservative budget that reflects his agenda after he takes office.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/congresswoman-ross-slams-house-republicans-for-abandoning-western-north-carolina,Congresswoman Ross Slams House Republicans for Abandoning Western North Carolina,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. ­­— Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement on House Republicans abandoning a bipartisan agreement to keep the federal government open and deliver desperately needed disaster aid for North Carolina: “At the last minute request of Donald Trump and Elon Musk, House Republicans have gone back on their word to keep the government open – putting in jeopardy the paychecks of millions of hardworking Americans right before the holidays. “Most tragically of all, they are abandoning communities in Western North Carolina who are counting on the federal government to deliver support for families, seniors, small businesses, childcare centers, community health centers, and so many more. Nearly $9 billion for North Carolina is in jeopardy because House Republicans care more about politics and appeasing billionaires than the people they serve. “An agreement is an agreement. If the government shuts down, Republicans will only have themselves to blame.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-applauds-proposed-new-jacksonville-va-outpatient-clinic,Murphy Applauds Proposed New Jacksonville VA Outpatient Clinic,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement in response to the Department of Veterans Affairs' proposal for a new state-of-the-art outpatient clinic in Jacksonville, NC. ""I am proud to announce that the Department of Veterans Affairs has selected a location for a new outpatient clinic in Jacksonville, NC,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""I am grateful to have worked alongside Senator Tillis last Congress to establish the necessary funding for this facility and thank him for his leadership on this issue. As the representative of over 76,000 veterans, it is my honor to fight on their behalf in Washington to ensure they receive the care they earned. I look forward to following the progress of this project!"" Background Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., and Senator Thom Tillis fought to include over $61 million in the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 to establish a new outpatient clinic in Jacksonville, NC. The bill was signed into law on August 10, 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-leads-fourth-quarterly-adams-hunger-initiative,Rep. Adams Leads Fourth Quarterly Adams Hunger Initiative,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Image WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, hosted partner organizations in the fight against hunger for her Congressional district during her quarterly Adams Hunger Initiative yesterday, held virtually while she works in Washington. The Membership discussed the ongoing efforts in Washington to extend the Farm Bill by one year, the 118th Congress in review, opportunities in the next Congress, and community needs and resources in Greater Charlotte. “I’m so grateful for the individuals and organizations who’ve joined the Adams Hunger Initiative for the essential work they do in keeping people fed,” said Rep. Adams. “They reassure us that we are not alone in the fight to end hunger.” “For such a time as this, the District looks to Congresswoman Adams for leadership,” said Jason Blanton, North Carolina State Organizer at Bread for the World. “The Adams Hunger Initiative demonstrates her commitment to fight on behalf of those who are most in need. Bread for the World looks forward to partnering with her on defending and expanding WIC, fighting campus hunger, and other critical issues.” ""As a national organization serving justice-impacted people as they navigate reentry, we often hear from our participants about challenges to finding quality employment that puts food on the table for themselves and their family,"" said Center for Employment Opportunities North Carolina Site Director, Tiffany Miller. ""The Training and Nutrition Stability Act (TNSA) fixes a critical oversight that excludes people in workforce development programs, such as CEO's, from enrolling in SNAP benefits. We are grateful to Congresswoman Alma S. Adams (NC-12) for being a co-sponsor and champion of TNSA and for prioritizing anti-hunger initiatives that address the needs of diverse communities."" “Through my work with The Charlotte Mecklenburg Food Policy Council, where we innovate to increase local food access and Hearts and Hands Food Pantry, where we directly serve families experiencing food insecurity, I’ve seen both the systemic challenges and the immediate needs our communities face,” said Kenya Joseph, Board Chair of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Food Policy Council. “The Adams Hunger Initiative, led by Congresswoman Alma Adams, is a vital platform to elevate solutions that combine policy, resources, and collaboration. I’m proud to bring these perspectives to the table as we push for sustainable, equitable change for those most impacted by hunger.” ""The West Boulevard Neighborhood Coalition is excited to be part of the Adams Hunger Initiative, which aligns perfectly with our mission to address food insecurity in Charlotte's West Boulevard corridor,” said Elliott Royal, Executive Director of the West Boulevard Neighborhood Coalition. “Our upcoming Three Sisters Market represents a critical step in providing fresh, quality food to over 19,000 residents who have been underserved by traditional grocery options. We are grateful for Congresswoman Adams' leadership and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities like the Adams Hunger Initiative for us to connect and learn from peer organizations that are transforming our community's access to nutritious food.” At tonight’s meeting, Rep. Adams provided an update on her work on the House Committee on Agriculture to protect and expand funding for programs that reduce and eliminate food insecurity in the district, amid debates over extending the usually five-year Farm Bill. Rep. Adams’ next Adams Hunger Initiative meeting will take place in March. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-foushee-and-members-of-the-bipartisan-house-task-force-on-artificial-intelligence-release-policy-recommendation-report,Rep. Foushee and Members of the Bipartisan House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence Release Policy Recommendation Report,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC (December 17, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), a member of the Bipartisan House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, issued the following statement after the release of the Task Force’s report on guiding principles, forward-looking recommendations, and policy proposals to ensure America continues to lead the world in responsible AI innovation. “This report is a critical first step towards ensuring that Congress can properly address advances in emerging AI technologies and maintain a thoughtful long-term vision for AI that betters our society. During my time with the Task Force, I have been proud to champion several key priorities outlined in this report, including broadening participation in AI research, development, and education, protecting civil rights and liberties, and assessing and understanding AI’s rising environmental and energy impacts,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “I would like to thank our task force Co-Chairs Obernolte and Lieu for their leadership over the last year as we discussed a variety of issues across the AI ecosystem, and I look forward to continuing our efforts as we work to implement these recommendations and adapt to new challenges to come.” The Bipartisan House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence was created by House Speaker Mike Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on February 20, 2024. The Task Force is led by Co-Chairs Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Ted Lieu (D-CA), and comprises twenty-four House Members, twelve Republicans and twelve Democrats. The AI Task Force Members are drawn from twenty committees to ensure comprehensive jurisdictional responsibilities over the numerous AI issues, and to benefit from a range of different insights and perspectives. Throughout 2024, the Bipartisan House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence convened a plethora of hearings, numerous roundtables, and engaged with over one hundred experts, including business leaders, government officials, technical experts, academics, civil society, legal scholars, and other domain specialists to investigate dozens of issues at the heart of how AI intersects with numerous policy areas. The Task Force’s report articulates guiding principles, 66 key findings, and 89 recommendations organized into 15 chapters. The report is intended to serve as a blueprint for future actions that Congress can take to address advances in AI technologies. Priorities championed by Congresswoman Foushee in the report include: An entire chapter on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties which includes key findings that “improper use of AI can violate laws and deprive Americans of their civil rights” and a core consideration for Congress must be “mitigating harmful outcomes that impact Americans’ civil rights and civil liberties.” The chapter’s recommendations include having humans in the loop to identify and remedy potential flaws in AI, ensuring agencies protect against the use of AI in discriminatory decision-making, and empowering sectoral regulators to address AI-related risks. Key recommendations on promoting equity of access to research and capital, noting “institutions that serve rural areas and minority-serving institutions face even deeper challenges in accessing [AI] resources,” and “invest in K-12 STEM and AI Education and Broaden Participation” as the top Education and Workforce recommendation, which includes initiatives to ensure a diverse and robust AI workforce such as “improve STEM education in rural and underserved communities.” Calls for codifying the National AI Research Resource, or NAIRR, to connect capable but under-resourced researchers and educators to the computational data, software, and training models needed to advance AI research. The report also points to NAIRR as a potential solution to bolster U.S. AI skills by providing needed AI resources. Emphasis on the energy and environmental impacts of AI, noting “the carbon emissions of technology companies are soaring,” and recommending the U.S. plan now to achieve “climate and emissions goals,” including through “strengthen[ing] efforts to track and project AI data center power usage.” 15 Chapters relating to Government Use, Federal Preemption of State Law, Data Privacy, National Security, Research & Development and Standards, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, Education and Workforce, Intellectual Property, Content Authenticity, Open and Closed Systems, Energy Usage and Data Centers, Small Business, Agriculture, Healthcare, and Financial Services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richard-hudson-secures-house-passage-of-bill-to-formally-recognize-lumbee-tribe,Rep. Richard Hudson Secures House Passage of Bill to Formally Recognize Lumbee Tribe,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed his Lumbee Fairness Act, which will provide long-overdue federal recognition and protections for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina: “House passage of this critical legislation brings us one step closer to securing full federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe,"" said Rep. Hudson. ""I am proud to have led this effort and will continue to fight until the Lumbee people get the recognition they rightfully deserve."" Background In 1885, North Carolina formally recognized the Lumbee Tribe, and the Tribe began to seek full federal recognition in 1888. The Lumbees have deep cultural roots in North Carolina and have contributed to the state through their traditions and ambition for decades. Since 1988, legislation to federally recognize the Lumbee Tribe has been introduced in Congress over 30 separate times, including introduction by Rep. Hudson. Bipartisan legislation has passed the House of Representatives six times, most recently in November 2020 during the 116th Congress and November 2021 during the 117th Congress. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-introduces-legislation-eliminate-burdensome-regulations-first,Murphy Introduces Legislation to Eliminate Burdensome Regulations for First Responders,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement after introducing the Emergency Vehicles Responsiveness Act, to eliminate burdensome and costly EPA regulations impacting first responders. ""First responders should be solely focused on saving lives and responding to emergencies, not onerous and expensive tailpipe regulations,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""The U.S. military is exempt from such requirements in the interest of operational efficiency and first responders should be treated the same. This legislation is a commonsense action that will ensure funding for our first responders, often barely enough to keep the lights on, can be preserved for more critical needs.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-sens-markey-and-hirono-introduce-legislation-promote,"Rep. Adams, Sens. Markey and Hirono Introduce Legislation to Promote Preservation of Government and Historical Records",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Image WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), a member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Health, Labor, Education, and Pensions Committee and Environment and Public Works Committee, and Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) today introduced the Public Archives Resiliency Act (H.R. 10383), which would authorize grants to promote preservation, climate resilience, adaption, and continuity of vital government records and protect other records of historical or cultural significance. The legislation would provide funding for public archives, libraries, museums, institutions of higher education, or non-profits that protect these valuable records. As the climate crisis worsens, the need to protect vital government records from damage and destruction is more urgent than ever. Government records are generated through birth, death, marriage, taxes, military service, education, immigration, property ownership and much more. Far too many institutions that manage these records are at risk of environmental damage and lack resources to protect themselves and their communities. When records are destroyed or become inaccessible, it can delay an individual’s ability to access key government benefits and services, as well as result in the loss of irreplaceable cultural artifacts. “Especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which reminded us of the vulnerability of vital records of many North Carolinians to storm damage, we have a duty to ensure that archival records are protected from the elements,” said Congresswoman Adams. “I’m grateful to partner with Senator Markey in introducing legislation that would make new investments in public archives and the records of Tribes, museums, and libraries to bolster their resiliency. From preserving cultural memory to protecting legal and financial rights, the Public Archives Resiliency Act is a modest piece of legislation with wide-ranging, consequential benefits.” “Archival records impact everyone’s lives, from birth and death certificates, to military service records, to personal property records, to the history of a community. Organized and preserved archives hold our government accountable and provide access to the knowledge and records necessary to secure our rights and benefits.” said Senator Markey. “The climate crisis demands that we protect public archives from environmental damage and preserve these invaluable glimpses into our past and present.” “In the wake of last year’s Lahaina wildfires, eight of the Lahaina Restoration Foundation’s historic sites were burned down or critically damaged, leading to the loss of thousands of artifacts and records,” said Senator Hirono. “Public archives are essential to the preservation of our history and culture. The Public Archives Resiliency Act will help to better protect them from the effects of climate change, including natural disasters like wildfires or floods.” “America's archives have a unique role in underpinning legal and civic life and preserving cultural memory. Archives are part of the foundational infrastructure of our democracy. The growing frequency and severity of climate change-related disasters is having serious consequences on America's archives and the archivists who steward these vital records. This legislation is critically important for providing support to address this increasingly urgent issue,” said Eira Tansey, internationally recognized expert on climate change and archives, and author of A Green New Deal for Archives. “The importance of creating resilient archival institutions cannot be understated. Especially related to government archives and records, individuals often rely on the creation and preservation of records - censuses, taxes, military service, education, legal proceedings, property ownership, among others - to protect their rights and property, to secure benefits, and to recover from disaster. We must do the work now to preserve these records and make sure they are accessible for the future,” said Joy Banks, Executive Director, Council of State Archivists (CoSA). “SAA is excited to see the Senator’s office taking action to support archives impacted by climate change. Providing such support to the profession will ensure that archivists have the resources they need to maintain their collections under changing conditions. We are grateful to Senator Markey’s office for their commitment to the archives and records profession,” said Tomaro Taylor, President of the Society of American Archivists. “Our historical records are essential to our understanding of America's past. They provide facts for decision-makers and fuel for our imaginations, whether in the hands of scholars, educators, or family members. Our archival institutions deserve the necessary resources to continue to serve as cornerstones of our democracy. This bill protects these priceless documents as we continue to adapt to the challenges of climate change,” said Brian Boyles, Executive Director of Mass Humanities. “This opportunity is vital in protecting our nation’s shared cultural heritage from the impacts of climate change. The Museum of Science is grateful to contribute to this critical effort, which holds significant meaning for the public and future generations. It is essential that museums, archives, and libraries have access to these funding opportunities to improve access to both physical and digital archival records. These records play a crucial role in informing the decisions we make today, which will impact and shape our future,” saidTim Ritchie, President of the Museum of Science, Boston. “As a historic site in a seaside location, The House of the Seven Gables has already started to see impacts of climate change on our archival collections. Increased humidity promotes mold growth and decomposition, larger and more dangerous storms threaten our storage facilities, and the growing risk of flooding from sea level rise could cause catastrophic damage. Our organization has been entrusted with documents and records that tell the story of early Massachusetts and America. Support such as this bill would be transformational not just for us, but for many other archives, libraries, and museums across the nation” said Dakota Russell, Executive Director of the House of the Seven Gables. “The importance of this bill cannot be overstated. This bill provides crucial support to libraries, archives and museums that care for historic and cultural materials endangered by the impacts of climate change. Infrastructure support would allow for critical improvements to aging HVAC systems, especially in Hawai‘i and other tropical climates where high temperature and humidity pose major challenges to maintaining a safe long term preservation environment for archival films. Digitization support would allow for the preservation, access and sharing of our cultural heritage documented on films and videos that are increasingly susceptible to loss from climate disasters,” said Janel Quirante, Head Archivist, at ‘Ulu‘ulu: The Henry Ku‘ualoha Giugni Moving Image Archive of Hawai‘i. “Historic records and artifacts left by our kūpuna (ancestors) serve as foundational blueprints, offering invaluable guidance for addressing present-day challenges and shaping our future. The Public Archives Resiliency Act, which allocates additional funding to repositories, greatly strengthens the capacity of Hawai‘i’s archives to preserve and access essential historical records. This support is particularly critical as we confront the challenges of climate change, as recently underscored by the devastating wildfires on Maui in 2023,” said Kai Kahele, Chairman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees. “The Public Archives Resiliency Act will provide essential support to Hawai‘i’s repositories dedicated to the preservation and accessibility of historic documents and artifacts. These institutions serve as vital stewards, empowering and educating the communities they support. OHA’s partnership with the Lahaina Restoration Foundation serves as a timely example of the importance of digitizing historic documents for the purpose of preserving Hawaiʻi’s history and provides a foundational framework upon which we build our future,” said Kale Hannahs, Research Systems Administrator at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. “Archival records, by their very nature, deteriorate over time. An archivist’s job is to slow this process and preserve the vital information documenting our society. The changing climate adds undue stress, expense, and pressure to this role—national, state, and local governments must prioritize supporting the strengthening of archival resiliency as a preventative measure, or recovery of destroyed records will come at a much higher fiscal and social burden,” said Edward Benoit III, Associate Director and Associate Professor, School of Information Studies, at Louisiana State University. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-applauds-passage-fy25-national-defense-authorization-act-0,Murphy Applauds Passage of FY25 National Defense Authorization Act,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 12, 2024 Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. applauds the passage of the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. This legislation authorizes $883.7 billion for fiscal year 2025, including $849.9 billion for Department of Defense programs. It will save taxpayers $31 billion by cutting out inefficient programs and government agency bureaucracy by 4%. ""I am pleased that Congress has passed a National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 that empowers our military to safeguard the United States and takes care of our troops,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""This package robustly funds and modernizes our armed forces to prepare us against threats abroad, improves the quality of life for service members and their families and refocuses the Pentagon’s mission on our national security and away from political distractions. It is an honor to represent some of our nation’s greatest warfighters at Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Stations Cherry Point and New River. North Carolina’s 3rd District will benefit greatly from the $208 million in funding secured for military construction projects on our bases and $50 million in Impact Aid that will help our military community."" Victories | By the Numbers: $53.52 million for the aircraft maintenance hangar at Cherry Point $20.02 million for the composite repair facility at Cherry Point $50 million for the F-35 Sustainment Center at Cherry Point $27.5 million for the SOF Armory at Camp Lejeune $57 million for the SOF Information Maneuver Facility at Camp Lejeune Total for NC-03 Military Construction Initiatives in FY2025: $208.04 MILLION $50 million in Impact Aid and $20 million to local schools teaching children with severe disabilities $41 million for the SJAFB Combat Arms Training and Maintenance Complex $13 million for the SOF Arms Room Addition at Fort Liberty $34 million for the SOF Cam MacKall Company Operations Facilities at Fort Liberty Background Improves quality of life for service members and families Includes a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members and supports a 4.5% pay raise for all other service members. Requires the Department of Defense and Department of Education to streamline the process for educational assistance so America’s service members do not have to worry about student debt after service. Supports the Army’s Future Soldier Preparatory Course and encourages the other Services to establish a similar course to improve recruitment. Offers competitive pay for Child Development Center staff. Provides service members with direct access to specialty medical providers by waiving the TRICARE referral requirement. Authorizes $176 million for the design and construction of new childcare centers. Establishes a pilot program to prevent and treat maternal mental health conditions for service members and their spouses. Requires the Defense Health Agency to report on provider shortages at maternal health clinics in rural areas. Eliminates woke ideology and restores focus on lethality Permanently bans DoD from funding transgender medical treatments for children. Prohibits funding for the teaching, training, or promotion of Critical Race Theory in the military, including at service academies and DoD schools. Guts DEI bureaucracy by extending the DEI hiring freeze, prohibiting DoD from contracting with advertising firms like NewsGuard that blacklist conservative news sources, and banning funding for DoD’s politically biased Countering Extremism Working Group. Deters Chinese Communist Party (CCP) aggression Prevents Chinese espionage by prohibiting contracting with the subsidiaries of any Chinese civil-military companies to include any subsidiaries, the sharing of sensitive missile defense information with China, and Chinese nationals from being admitted to nuclear facilities. Mandates the DoD do a full teardown of Communist Chinese drones to ensure no U.S. technology is advancing their capabilities. Prohibits the DoD from utilizing a Communist Chinese-owned tutoring service for service members and their families. Requires the DoD to report on the proliferation and risks of Communist Chinese routers and modems in their systems. Prohibits the DoD from operating or procuring light detection and ranging technology manufactured in Communist China. Requires CCP-drone manufacturers DJI, Autel Robotics, and their subsidiaries and affiliates to be placed on FCC's Covered List within a year of the passage of the act unless a national security agency determines they do not pose an unacceptable national security risk. Improves military readiness and strengthens our industrial base Requires the DoD to establish a strategy to build out the domestic drone industry and to work with industry to lower the cost of secure unmanned aircraft systems. Ensures the DoD is examining the threat of artificial intelligence voice replication to trusted military communications and is identifying efforts to protect against these threats. Requires the DoD to define “attritable unmanned aircraft system” to enable the DoD to acquire attritable systems at scale. Requires the Chief Digital and AI Officer to develop a plan to scale Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control Mission Applications to enable global integration for early warning and detection. Supports the Air Force’s Acquisition Instructor Course and examines how this program can be expanded across the DoD. Ensures that the Army is considering soldier feedback when making a production decision on IVAS 1.2. Provides support for Israel and resources necessary to counter our adversaries Authorizes robust funding for U.S-Israel anti-tunnel cooperation. Authorizes $47.5 million for U.S.-Israel collaboration on emerging technologies like AI, c-UAS, and electronic warfare. Authorizes full funding for U.S.-Israel missile defense cooperation. Prohibits DoD from using or citing casualty data from Hamas and other terrorist organizations. Prohibits the sale of goods at DoD commissaries and exchanges from any entities that have or are engaged in antisemitic BDS efforts. Strengthens our nuclear posture, improves missile defense, and accelerates delivery of space capabilities. Requires the establishment of a third continental missile defense site by 2030 to bolster defense of the homeland from long-range missile threats. Requires the Department to designate a senior official responsible for establishing a national integrated air and missile defense architecture for the United States. Continues support for investments in innovative commercial space solutions that would increase our capacity and resilience in space. Establishes a pilot program to demonstrate the ability to connect commercial and government systems in a hybrid space architecture. Establishes the Commerical Augmentation Space Reserve (CASR) to allow the Space Force to contract with private sector to rapidly acquire space capabilities on an as-needed basis. Continues DoD support of law enforcement operations along our borders. Fully funds deployment of National Guard troops at the southwest border. Authorizes $90 million for construction of a new Joint Inter-Agency Task Force South (JIATF-S) Command and Control Facility to detect and interdict illegal migrants and narcotics. Increases funding by $10 million for DoD counternarcotics activities. Expands DoD’s authority to assist law enforcement in the interdiction of narcotics traffickers. Requires DoD to brief an independent review of ways to improve DoD’s ability to carry out its counternarcotics and counter-transitional organized crime mission.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/ross-kean-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-fully-fund-noaa-hurricane-hunter-fleet-in-disaster-funding-legislation,"Ross, Kean Lead Bipartisan Effort to Fully Fund NOAA Hurricane Hunter Fleet in Disaster Funding Legislation",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. — Today, Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) led 14 bipartisan colleagues in urging House Leadership to include President Biden’s full funding request for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) three next-generation Hurricane Hunter aircraft in upcoming disaster funding legislation. The lawmakers wrote, “NOAA currently has two WP-3D aircraft capable of flying directly into hurricanes to collect critical data necessary for National Weather Service meteorologists to better measure and understand tropical systems. The data collected from these aircraft are essential to improving the accuracy of a hurricane’s track forecast and intensity. When hurricane hunter aircraft are deployed in a storm system in the Atlantic basin, the critical data that is obtained leads to improvements in forecasts of storm intensity by 15 - 20% and of storm track by 10 - 15%, which is on the order of 20 - 25 miles. This refined information can make a substantial difference for coastal cities regarding evacuation orders and other emergency measures. These improved forecasts allow emergency managers to make well-informed, actionable decisions that protect lives and livelihoods and mitigate economic losses.” They continued, “The need for new aircraft is more urgent than ever as the rapid intensification of tropical storms and hurricanes becomes more common, and hurricane activity impacts a greater area of the U.S. coast.3 Atlantic storm activity in 2024 has been above normal, with 19 named storms and 5 major hurricanes leading to what is likely to be the second-costliest U.S. hurricane season on record (following the 2017 season). This fall, Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the U.S. southeast region. Notably, both storms underwent dramatic rapid intensification as they approached landfall, and the forecasts for both storms were aided by NOAA hurricane hunter missions.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-don-davis-votes-ndaa-stop-job-cuts-seymour-johnson-air-force-base,Congressman Don Davis Votes for NDAA to Stop Job Cuts at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and Pay Our Troops,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Donald G. Davis,D000230,dondavis.house.gov,dondavis,https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) issued the following statement after voting for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which the U.S. House of Representatives passed by a margin of 281 to 140. H.R. 5009, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Authorization Act of 2025 includes a provision prohibiting the Air Force from divesting F-15E Strike Eagles. The legislation would prevent the eliminating of 520 jobs at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Wayne County, one of North Carolina’s most economically distressed areas. “The NDAA saves Seymour Johnson Air Force Base from hundreds of job cuts and puts more money into the hands of our junior enlisted, helping many who are experiencing food insecurity and relying on food stamps while safeguarding the American people,” said Congressman Don Davis. “The fight isn’t over. By pushing off the retirement of F-15E aircraft until 2027, we have more time to achieve a long-term solution and continue prioritizing economic stability for Wayne County and eastern North Carolina.” The NDAA also contains an authorizing provision supporting $41 million to construct a Combat Arms Training & Maintenance Complex that Congressman Davis requested after visiting the base. “To the 4th Fighter Wing and Wayne County: I see you, hear you, and will stay in this fight with you,” Davis added. “As a member of the House Armed Services Quality of Life Panel, I am glad to see that we are taking care of our junior enlisted and their families by passing a 14.5% pay raise. Moving forward, Congress must take every step necessary to address the cost of living challenges our troops face every day,” Davis concluded. Other Key Provisions of the NDAA for FY 2025 include: $1.8 billion for procurement of an additional 18 F-15EX aircraft $500 million for the Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Programs, including Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow missile defense systems, and $200 million for international security cooperation with Taiwan A 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members (E-4 and below) and a 4.5% basic pay increase for all other servicemembers Requires reevaluation of the current calculation methods for Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) to a realistic allowance for service members’ meals Raises the Basic Needs Allowance (BNA) threshold to 200% of federal poverty guidelines Congressman Don Davis secured 16 amendments to the NDAA for FY 2025: Prohibits F-15E divestment through at least FY 2027, with minimal exceptions for the retirement of aircraft that are no longer operable Authorizes funding for a Combat Arms Training & Maintenance (CATM) Complex at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Allows up to nine Service Academy graduates per year to fulfill their Active-Duty Service Obligation (ADSO) in the selected reserves as a recruiting officer if they are drafted as a professional athlete Authorizes additional funding for Longshot Munitions Technology Development Authorizes a pilot program for studying AI in Marine Corps supply chain logistics operations Authorizes a pilot program for combat training centers Requires a report on Implications of Continuing Resolutions and Government Shutdowns on Shipbuilding Efforts Requires a report on human performance policies to optimize the readiness of military personnel Requires a study of the utility of new army-load-carrying technology for U.S. Army personnel Requires a report on National Influenza Vaccine Modernization Strategy Implementation Requires a report on the effectiveness of emerging weapons systems like the conventional extensible warhead Requires a report on strategies to identify, develop, and procure ground robotic autonomous systems, including at Camp Lejeune Requires regular reporting on the Postsecondary Education Complaint System (PECS) Requires a report on innovative treatments for acute and chronic vascular trauma Requires a report on Military Base Flood Mapping to mitigate flood damage at military installations Authorizes an additional $5 million for advanced military base security to guard against cyber and perimeter security breaches Timeline of Action on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base: On November 20, 2023, Congressman Davis toured Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (SJAFB) during an official Congressional Delegation visit to deepen his understanding of the operations and challenges of SJAFB and to express unwavering support for the brave men and women in uniform. On March 13, 2024, Congressman Davis delivered remarks on the House Floor regarding plans by the Air Force to divest a combat squadron and strip away 520 jobs at SJAFB. A Full Video of Congressman Davis’ speech on the House Floor is here. On April 2, 2024, Congressman Davis sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging the Administration not to divest an F-15E aircraft fighter squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (SJAFB) in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Read the full letter here. On April 17, 2024, Congressman Davis questioned the Secretary of the Air Force on what communication he or his team had had with the local community, what the economic impact of divestment would be, and whether the Air Force planned to deliver the late report on force structure decisions. On May 13, 2024, Congressman Davis announced a provision prohibiting the retirement of F-15E aircraft, including the combat squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, targeted for divestment. Military installations in eastern North Carolina include Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, the United States Coast Guard—Elizabeth City, Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, and Fort Liberty. Congressman Don Davis is a 1994 U.S. Air Force Academy graduate and a U.S. Air Force Veteran. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee and is the Vice Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Readiness.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-foushee-votes-against-national-defense-authorization-act-for-fiscal-year-2025,Congresswoman Foushee Votes Against National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC (December 11, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), released the following statement after voting against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. “The federal government has the solemn responsibility to support our servicemembers who make immense sacrifices to defend our nation. Still, House Republicans have decided to prioritize political interests and agendas ahead of the millions in our military who protect us every day,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “This bill attacks diversity, limits equity and inclusion, undermines essential climate measures, and restricts servicemember’s families from making their own health care decisions. Although this was a difficult decision, I cannot in good conscience support legislation that takes a step back in promoting inclusivity within our military and may force servicemembers to choose between continuing their service or ensuring proper health care for their families.” Specifically, the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act would: Ban gender-affirming care to military dependents under the age of 18. Impose a hiring freeze on personnel to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the military. Prohibit funding for the working group which investigates and screens for white nationalist and other discriminatory ideologies in the military. Defund Pentagon efforts to minimize the risk of climate-change impacts from major federal procurements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-celebrates-ndaa-passage-big-wins-for-troops-military-families,"Hudson Celebrates NDAA Passage, Big Wins for Troops, Military Families",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (FY 25 NDAA) with bipartisan support: “As the representative of the largest military base in the world, I fought hard for a pay increase for our troops and more money for housing and quality of life investments for our servicemembers and their families,"" said Rep. Hudson. ""I am proud of the big wins we secured to give our military community the support they deserve."" Rep. Hudson fought for and secured several measures in the FY 2025 NDAA, including: $47 million in military construction projects at Fort Bragg, including a SOF Arms Room Addition and SOF Operations Facilities; Prevents the U.S. Army's proposed cuts to its SOF troops; A 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers and a 4.5% raise for all other servicemembers; $1.2 billion to renovate and build new barracks; $569 million to build new family housing units; $954 million for additional housing and facility maintenance accounts; Provides servicemembers with direct access to specialty medial providers by waiving the TRICARE referral requirement; Enables the Department of Defense to recruit and employ additional mental health providers; Codifies the Military Spouses Career Accelerator which provides employment support for military spouses; and Expands access to childcare for military spouses when they are seeking employment. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-hosts-4th-annual-campus-free-speech-roundtable,Murphy Hosts 4th Annual Campus Free Speech Roundtable,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This morning, Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. hosted his 4th Annual Campus Free Speech Roundtable, alongside Education & the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx and Congressman Burgess Owens, to convene lawmakers, stakeholders, and students to discuss challenges to free expression on college campuses and solutions to support First Amendment protections. Representatives from the Young America's Foundation (YAF), Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), Alumni Free Speech Alliance (AFSA), American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA), Speech First, Davidsonians for Freedom of Thought and Discourse, Princetonians for Free Speech and The Jefferson Council for the University of Virginia were in attendance. The live stream for the event can be viewed here. ""Free speech on campuses across the country has been under attack for decades,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""Progressive political ideologues have infiltrated and overtaken college administrations and faculties. Rampant anti-Semitism and egregious DEI programs have replaced the principles of civility, freedom of expression, and equality on which institutions of higher education were founded. Students, in record numbers, self-censor in classrooms. Faculty force their own political ideologies on students. Administrators abuse their position of authority to push a political agenda. Congress plays a role in oversight of public universities and must protect students' First Amendment rights. I appreciate the ongoing commitment of groups who fight for free speech so that we ensure our nation's colleges remain robust learning environments that cultivate tolerant, well-rounded individuals capable of contributing to our dynamic society.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/congresswoman-ross-votes-against-ndaa-calls-for-passage-of-camp-lejeune-justice-corrections-act,"Congresswoman Ross Votes Against NDAA, Calls for Passage of Camp Lejeune Justice Corrections Act",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) voted against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. Congresswoman Ross has been fighting for the inclusion of her bipartisan legislation, The Camp Lejeune Justice Corrections Act, in the NDAA. However, the final text passed by the House did not incorporate her bill. “The annual defense authorization presents an important opportunity to invest in our national security and in North Carolina service members, veterans, and their families,” said Congresswoman Ross. “While I strongly support much of the bill, including pay increases for our men and women in uniform, I’m extremely disappointed that the final version of the NDAA did not include the bipartisan Camp Lejeune Justice Corrections Act. This critical legislation will remove legal barriers that are preventing veterans who were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune from accessing the remedies they deserve. Our North Carolina veterans and their families deserve justice. We must pass this urgently needed legislation without delay.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-bills-fund-water-systems-improve-dam-safety-wnc-headed-presidents-desk,"Edwards’ bills to fund water systems, improve dam safety in WNC headed to president’s desk",2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate passed S. 4367, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, which secures wins for Western North Carolina - including the following funding authorizations - and is headed to the president’s desk to be signed into law: More than $41 million for flood mitigation along the Pigeon River in Canton, N.C. $1.5 million for downtown water system rehabilitation in Murphy, N.C. $4 million for water plant expansion in Weaverville, N.C. More than $3.4 million for water infrastructure upgrades in Robbinsville, N.C. In addition to the funding, the following three bills that Edwards introduced were passed as part of WRDA 2024: the National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act of 2023, the National Dam Safety Program Amendment Act, and the Low-Head Dam Inventory Act. Edwards said, ""WNC, with its many lakes and rivers, must remain at the forefront of dam safety and I’m pleased that the House passed three of my bills to provide federal support for the nearly 92,000 dams that serve critical functions across our nation. ""The significant flooding following Hurricane Helene underscored the importance of improving dam safety efforts to prevent catastrophic dam failures, protect lives and downstream communities, and make sure that dams continue to provide the services that Western North Carolinians depend on."" North Carolina’s 11th district is home to more than 750 dams, many of which are in poor or unsatisfactory condition. The American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure gave America’s dams a “D” grade in safety, and the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) estimates that more than 2,300 high-hazard dams are at risk due to a lack of investment in dam safety. ASDSO estimates that it would cost $157.5 billion to place these high-hazard dams into a state of good repair. The bipartisan National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act of 2023 reauthorizes the National Dam Safety Program through fiscal year 2028. The bipartisan National Dam Safety Program Amendment Act increases the amount a state can receive for its dam safety program through already-available funding under the Federal Emergency Management Agency by 800 percent, and improves the program to strengthen dam safety across the nation. The bipartisan Low-Head Dam Inventory Act would require that low-head dams be added to the National Inventory of Dams to keep track of the location and condition of low-head dams, specifically high-hazard low-head dams, and make sure that they are appropriately maintained to prevent low-head dam failures. Background",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/house-passes-congresswoman-ross-request-to-increase-north-carolina-environmental-infrastructure-program-funding-in-the-water-resources-development-act,House Passes Congresswoman Ross’ Request to Increase North Carolina Environmental Infrastructure Program Funding in the Water Resources Development Act,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) announced that $50 million in authorized federal funding for the North Carolina Environmental Infrastructure Program passed the U.S. House of Representatives in the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act. This funding provides a significant $37 million increase from the current $13 million allocation and will support environmental assistance projects across North Carolina. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Congresswoman Ross submitted a request for this funding in January 2024. Administered in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, these funds will assist non-federal entities in addressing critical assistance needs, including water infrastructure development and resource protection. This investment comes as water quality concerns grow nationwide. In November, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that over 11 million more Americans are exposed to PFAS in their drinking water, bringing the total number at risk to more than 143 million. Additionally, in March 2024, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality added 70 bodies of water to the proposed list of impaired waters. “I’m extremely excited to see an historic $50 million authorized for North Carolina through the North Carolina Environmental Infrastructure Program,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This funding marks a critical step in ensuring cleaner, safer water for communities across North Carolina. I am committed to working across party lines to safeguard public health and protect North Carolina’s precious environment for future generations.” Program funds will go to:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-announces-2024-congressional-app-challenge-winners,Hudson Announces 2024 Congressional App Challenge Winners,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In recognition of Computer Science Education Week, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) today announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for North Carolina's 9th District. “The Congressional App Challenge is a great opportunity for our region's middle and high school students to showcase their creativity and computer skills on the national level,"" said Rep. Hudson.""Congratulations to this year's winners from Jack Britt High School and North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics for their innovative app design, and thank you to all of our region's students who participated in this year's competition."" Below is the winning selection for North Carolina's 9th District: App: Guide Dog, an app designed with the primary goal of helping blind or visually impaired people navigate their surroundings. Team: Gabrielle Humphrey from Jack Britt High School and Sophie Zhu from North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. Both students are from Fayetteville. The Congressional App Challenge was launched by the U.S. House of Representatives to encourage student innovation and engagement in computer science and STEM. This national effort seeks to inspire students from every corner of the country to explore coding and computer science through hands-on practice by creating an app. The winner was chosen by Rep. Hudson's selection committee, a panel of technology professionals that evaluated submissions earlier this fall. The winning app will be featured on the House.gov website and the CongressionalAppChallenge.us website. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-don-davis-delivers-thanksgiving-pies-first-responders-and-911,Congressman Don Davis Delivers Thanksgiving Pies to First Responders and 911 Telecommunicators,2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Donald G. Davis,D000230,dondavis.house.gov,dondavis,https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) delivered pies to first responders and 911 telecommunicators working over Thanksgiving and extended Thanksgiving greetings across all 19 counties in North Carolina’s First Congressional District during his second annual “Pies of Thanks” Thanksgiving Tour. “Pies of Thanks is about showing appreciation for the unsung heroes of our communities — our first responders and 911 telecommunicators. Law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency services personnel stand unwaveringly on the front lines of our security and healthcare systems, especially during the holidays, ensuring safety for all,” said Congressman Davis. The second annual ""Pies of Thanks"" Thanksgiving tour is a gesture of appreciation on behalf of eastern North Carolinians for the unwavering dedication and service exhibited by those on the front lines. Congressman Davis personally delivered pies as tokens of appreciation, symbolizing the community's gratitude towards these essential personnel. The Tour kicked off at 7:45 AM at the Greene County Operations Center in Snow Hill, NC. From there, it continued through Wilson, Pitt, Martin, Bertie, Washington, Tyrrell, Chowan, Perquimans, Pasquotank, Gates, Hertford, Northampton, Halifax, Warren, Vance, Franklin, Nash, and Edgecombe counties. The journey's final stop was at the Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office in Tarboro, NC, concluding the second annual ""Pies of Thanks"" Thanksgiving Tour. The tour became a symbol of recognition for those who tirelessly safeguard our communities 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-don-davis-marks-one-year-medicaid-expansion-north-carolina,Congressman Don Davis Marks One Year of Medicaid Expansion In North Carolina,2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Donald G. Davis,D000230,dondavis.house.gov,dondavis,https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Don Davis (NC-01), Co-Chair of the State Medicaid Expansion Caucus, marked the first anniversary of Medicaid expansion in North Carolina on the U.S. House of Representatives floor. The milestone comes after more than a decade of advocacy from patients, providers, and elected officials. “After a decade of waiting, in some cases, dying, we must now celebrate that over 95,000 eastern North Carolinians once trapped in the Medicaid coverage gap now have access to healthcare,” said Congressman Don Davis. “Medicaid expansion and the new Center for Medical Education at East Carolina University will address health disparities and help to create thousands of jobs in our most economically distressed communities. As Co-Chair of the State Medicaid Expansion Caucus, I am glad to have been part of the effort in the NC General Assembly and US Congress to ensure a brighter future for families across eastern North Carolina.” After Governor Roy Cooper signed House Bill 76, Access to Healthcare Options, into law, more than 95,000 residents of eastern North Carolina and nearly 600,000 North Carolinians statewide gained access to healthcare through Medicaid. Governor Cooper marked this milestone at ECU Health in Greenville. During his 12 years in the NC General Assembly, Congressman Davis worked to ensure approval of both the new Center for Medical Education building and Medicaid expansion, which work hand in hand to create more than 3,000 jobs across eastern North Carolina and save countless lives. As hospitals and other healthcare facilities face financial obstacles because their payer mix skews towards Medicare and Medicaid, the expansion will and already is providing an economic lifeline. Since the closure of Martin General Hospital and the efforts by Washington Regional Medical Center to fill some of the void, Congressman Davis has fought to ensure critical infrastructure funding and continued support for Rural Emergency Hospitals at the federal level. January 12, 2023 - Congressman Davis delivers his first floor remarksadvocating for Medicaid expansion at the federal level. February 9, 2023 - Congressman Davis introduces H.Res. 122, a resolution expressing support for a federal alternative to statewide Medicaid expansion. February 10, 2023 - Congressmen Davis (NC-01), Cohen (TN-09), and Johnson (GA-04), then representing three non-expansion states, re-launched the State Medicaid Expansion Caucus to voice support at the federal level for Medicaid expansion across all fifty states. December 1, 2023 - The State Medicaid Expansion Caucus applauds North Carolina expanding Medicaid after more than a decade of negotiations in the North Carolina General Assembly.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/reps-ross-joyce-castor-bacon-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-end-abuse-and-sexual-violence-in-sports,"Reps. Ross, Joyce, Castor, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help End Abuse and Sexual Violence in Sports",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. — Today, Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Kathy Castor (FL-14), and Don Bacon (NE-02) hosted a virtual press conference to announce the introduction of their Safer Sports for Athletes Act. Alongside survivors and advocates, the lawmakers introduced their bipartisan legislation to strengthen the U.S. Center for SafeSport (SafeSport) and help end sexual, physical, and emotional abuse in sports. VIDEO: Click here to download a recording of the press conference Congress established SafeSport in 2017 to conduct investigations into cases of abuse in sports, control a centralized disciplinary database, and provide training designed to prevent abuse in sports to coaches, athletes, and sports organizations. SafeSport receives thousands of reports of abuse and misconduct per year, but it needs stronger guidelines and greater resources to fulfill the intent of Congress and better prevent and address sexual, physical, and emotional abuse of athletes. Congresswoman Ross represents the Carolina Courage, whose players experienced sexual abuse and coercion while Paul Riley was the head coach. Since news broke of his abuse, Congresswoman Ross has led efforts in Congress to help reform the culture of abuse and harassment that has permeated women’s soccer and other sports for too long. “For too long, athletes in different sports and across all levels of athletics have endured devastating abuse and have not felt served by the institutions charged with protecting them,” said Congresswoman Ross. “No athlete – whether they play sports for fun or for a living – should be forced to experience the level of abuse, harassment, and violence that has become unacceptably common in sports today. The time for change is now, and I am proud to lead a bipartisan group of colleagues in introducing the Safer Sports for Athletes Act. This comprehensive legislation will help SafeSport live up to its promise of protecting athletes and preventing abuse and sexual violence in sports.” “Our nation’s athletes at all ages go through extensive training and work overtime to achieve their athletic goals. Unfortunately, the prevalence of sexual abuse by some of their most trusted mentors and coaches is all too common,” said Congressman Joyce. “After extensive conversations with athletes who have used the effective SafeSport program since 2018, my colleagues and I put together the Safer Sports for Athletes Act to make necessary improvements. These revisions will ensure athlete survivors get the care they deserve and the criminals are apprehended.” ""Every athlete at every level deserves to participate in sports in a safe, harm-free environment,” said Rep. Kathy Castor. “Congress created the U.S. Center for SafeSport to protect athletes and hold abusers accountable, but it’s clear that gaps in transparency and accountability must be addressed to serve athletes better. That’s why I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with my colleagues to restore trust, strengthen safeguards and ensure every athlete can thrive in a supportive environment.” ""Athletes who have been sexually abused should be taken seriously, and abusers must be swiftly brought to justice,"" said Rep. Bacon, co-chair of the Congressional Soccer Caucus. “When I became Commander of Ramstein Air Force Base, I inherited a base with the highest sexual assault allegations in the U.S. Air Force and established a three-point program to address it. The program was later ranked by the Air Force as the number one sexual assault response program. I am honored to cosponsor the Safer Sports for Athletes Act of 2024, which will increase transparency in investigations and ensure more resources are invested in training individuals to address sexual abuse.” Congresswoman Ross’ Safer Sports for Athletes Act would strengthen SafeSport through key revisions that would improve the investigative process for athlete survivors, promote communication with national governing bodies, and revise training guidelines, all while providing SafeSport with enhanced funding. Specifically, the legislation would: Improve SafeSport’s investigative process by: Providing fair notice and opportunity to be heard to complainants; Protecting complainant privacy and safety and allowing for complainants to have a confidential victim advocate present in any proceedings; Setting a timeline for SafeSport to conclude cases or notify parties of necessary extensions; and Establishing preponderance of evidence as the burden of proof for SafeSport proceedings. Ensure the investigation process is trauma-informed by: Replacing SafeSport’s arbitration process with an expert panel, which would consist of experts with training in trauma-informed care and an understanding of the sport dynamics relevant to the case; and Allowing SafeSport to pursue investigations and sanctions without testimony from victims of sexual misconduct in extraordinary circumstances. Ensure national governing bodies (NGBs) have information to keep predators out of sports by: Enhancing the information that SafeSport provides to NGBs about reports of abuse while ensuring confidentiality of survivors; and Ensuring that NGBs can prevent individuals accused of sexual misconduct from participating in a sport prior to the conclusion of a SafeSport investigation without that action being considered interference in such investigation. Change sports culture and prioritize prevention by: Improving training materials by requiring them to be regularly updated, developed with experts in sexual abuse prevention and athlete survivors, and be trauma-informed using best practices; and Requiring for the first time an investment in prevention by creating a floor of no less than 20% of SafeSport’s funding to be used for prevention efforts and strategies in amateur athletics, including training, oversight practices, and policies to help create a lasting culture change. The Safer Sports for Athletes Act has been endorsed by 47 organizations and individuals dedicated to preventing and addressing abuse in sports, along with the 54 Member State Associations of U.S. Youth Soccer. It has also been endorsed by U.S. Soccer and CHILDUSA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-statement-passing-yvonne-johnson,Rep. Adams’ Statement on the Passing of Yvonne Johnson,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“Like me, Yvonne Johnson lived by the old Shirley Chisholm quote, “Service is the rent we pay for living on God’s Earth.” She was more than the first Black Mayor of Greensboro. My friend led a life of change and justice-making, from the March on Washington to the Greensboro Sit-ins while she was a student at Bennet College, where I taught for forty years. She took my seat on the Greensboro City Council and led our city with grace and conviction. Her rent is fully paid and then some. Rest in peace, my friend.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-launches-223-fix-fema-dedicated-fema-help-line,Edwards launches 223-FIX-FEMA as dedicated FEMA help line,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced that his office launched a dedicated phone number, 223-FIX-FEMA, to help Western North Carolinians with issues regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following Hurricane Helene. Edwards said, “Western North Carolinians who need help with or are having issues with FEMA should call 223-FIX-FEMA, and my office can engage with the agency directly on behalf of your application. Likewise, if you know of anyone living in a tent, needing shelter, or are otherwise unhoused from Hurricane Helene, please call 223-FIX-FEMA and let us know where they are so we can help.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/video-congresswoman-ross-bill-to-name-raleigh-post-office-after-wwii-veteran-and-civil-rights-leader-millie-dunn-veasey-passes-house,VIDEO: Congresswoman Ross Bill to Name Raleigh Post Office After WWII Veteran and Civil Rights Leader Millie Dunn Veasey Passes House,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"ICYMI — Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives about her bipartisan bill to rename the post office located at 2777 Brentwood Road in Raleigh, North Carolina as the “Millie Dunn Veasey Post Office.” Honoring a WWII veteran and civil rights leader, the legislation has now passed the House and moves to the Senate for final approval before being signed into law. To access the full floor speech, click here. A full transcript can be found below: -- Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It's an honor to speak in support of my bill naming the United States Postal Service facility at 2777 Brentwood Road in Raleigh after Staff Sergeant Millie Dunn Veasey. This legislation pays tribute to the life and legacy of Millie Dunn Veasey, a remarkable woman whose contributions profoundly shape not only our local community, but our nation. Ms. Dunn Veasey's legacy began when the U.S. Army assigned her to the 6888 Central Postal Directory Battalion as a typist. The 6888 was the only African American Women's Army Corps Unit to operate overseas during the war. This group of pioneering women sorted and delivered mail to soldiers, ensuring that they received vital letters from home. The unit adopted the phrase, ""No mail, low morale."" These courageous women knew the power that these letters held for the soldiers who received them. The women worked tirelessly to develop a new mailing system and began successfully processing up to 195,000 pieces of mail each day. Ms. Dunn Veasey's courage and determination during this time was instrumental in the success of this mission, and the story of her service is one of trailblazing leadership in the face of adversity. After the war, Ms. Dunn Veasey returned to Raleigh and took advantage of the GI Bill, enrolling in Saint Augustine’s University. She became active in the Civil Rights Movement, working as an organizer in Raleigh to push for integrated public spaces. After serving our country honorably overseas, she came home and recommitted herself to the pursuit of justice and equality for all. In 2018, Millie Dunn Veasey passed away at the age of 100 in her hometown of Raleigh and was buried with distinct honor at the Raleigh VA National Cemetery. Today, we can ensure that her legacy to the Postal Service lives on and celebrate her place in history as a figure who changed our community and country for the better.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-urges-congress-take-action-against-pharmacy-benefit-managers,Murphy Urges Congress to Take Action Against Pharmacy Benefit Managers,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. participated in a bipartisan, bicameral press conference urging Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to take action on the abuses of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) by passing the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act: ""For years, we have heard testimony from small business owners, physicians, and patients about unaffordable health care, opaque pricing practices, and an overly complex and burdensome system that creates barriers to care for Americans,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""At the center of these challenges are the middlemen in our health care industry who steer patients to their own vertically consolidated entities, siphon money from our independent pharmacies, and completely obscure the flow of the health care dollar in America. As the only practicing physician in Congress, I continue to witness the impact of these challenges firsthand."" ""The Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, which has received bipartisan, bicameral support, directly addresses these concerns by making health care more affordable for patients and employers through increased transparency and competition. Unfortunately, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer held it up for almost a year. This is unacceptable, and I will keep fighting until we get it signed into law."" Background Pharmacy Benefit Managers operate as middlemen between drug manufacturers, insurance companies, and pharmacies, negotiating drug prices and determining which medications are covered by insurance plans. PBMs prioritize profits over patients by encouraging higher-cost drugs, limiting consumer access to medications, monopolizing market control, and reimbursing independent pharmacies with unsustainable rates. H.R. 5478, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act would increase price transparency throughout the health care system, lower prescription drug costs, and support patients, health care workers, community health centers, and hospitals.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-highlights-work-to-strengthen-grid-resiliency-on-anniversary-of-moore-0,Hudson Highlights Work to Strengthen Grid Resiliency on Anniversary of Moore County Attack,2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 3, 2024 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) released the following statement in recognition of the two-year anniversary of the Moore County grid attack: “Two years ago, our community suffered a reprehensible attack, leaving 45,000 of Moore County residents without power for days. An attack like this could have devastated our community, and we didn’t go without our struggles, but I am so proud of the strength our community showed. “Since the attack, I have led an ongoing effort to advance legislation and secure funding at the federal level to bolster our grid resilience and strengthen our energy supply chain. While we have been making great progress, this is a complicated problem set that requires our continued focus and attention.” Timeline of Rep. Hudson's Actions to Secure the Energy Grid: December 2022: Rep. Hudson toured Duke Energy power substation which was attacked and received a briefing on the recent power outages in Moore County. January 2023: Rep. Hudson organized a classified briefing from the FBI for Members of Congress on attacks targeting US electrical infrastructure. February 2023: Rep. Hudson urged the Department of Energy to provide fair and prompt consideration of the North Carolina's Electric Cooperatives application to the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Topic Area 2 Grant Competition. March 2023: Rep. Hudson cosponsored and voted in favor of H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, legislation to lower energy costs for Americans, remove the bureaucratic red tape holding our energy industry back, and unleash America’s energy independence. May 2023: Rep. Hudson reintroduced the Widening Opportunities to Recapture Key Energy Roles (WORKER) Act, bipartisan legislation that will supercharge America’s energy workforce by urging the Department of Energy to award grants to stakeholders prioritizing education and training for energy and manufacturing jobs. The bill would also prioritize educating and training workers from underrepresented groups, including minorities, women, and veterans. June 2023: Rep. Hudson introduced the Protecting America’s Distribution Transformer Supply Chain Act, legislation to repeal the Department of Energy’s authority to propose, finalize, implement, administer, or enforce any energy efficiency standard for distribution transformers for the next five years. June 2023: Rep. Hudson and members of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security held a field hearing in Moore County. At the hearing, the members discussed physical and cybersecurity issues facing the electricity sector, power outage incident response and recovery, and emergency coordination among State and local governments and the electric industry. Watch the field hearing. June 2023: Prior to the Moore County field hearing, Rep. Hudson and committee members toured the Duke Energy West End substation, one of two substations in Moore County that was intentionally attacked on the evening of December 3, 2022. July 2023: Rep. Hudson joined the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations hearing that addressed the security challenges that currently threaten the electricity sector, and discussed emerging and existing threats to America’s electric energy infrastructure. September 2023: Hudson’s energy grid security legislation H.R. 4167, Protecting America’s Distribution Transformer Supply Chain Act, was included in the House Energy and Commerce Committee Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee legislative hearing. October 2023: Hudson’s Protecting America’s Distribution Transformer Supply Chain Act, passed out of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security. October 2023: Hudson secured $1.6 billion in funding to bolster grid security that was included in the final version of H.R. 4394, the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2024. For an outline of this funding, clickhere. March 2024: Hudson's Protecting America's Distribution Transformer Supply Chain Act passed out of the full Energy and Commerce Committee. May 2024: Hudson's energy grid security amendment was included in H.R. 6192, the Hands Off Our Home Appliances Act, and was passed by the House. For more details of this amendment, click here. -###- Issues:Energy",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/congresswoman-ross-announces-winner-of-2024-congressional-app-challenge,Congresswoman Ross Announces Winner of 2024 Congressional App Challenge,2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Raleigh, N.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) announced Kenna Zhang, a junior at Cary Academy, as the winner of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District. Kenna created the app AIPowered-Hope, which stood out among a record number of submissions in this year's competition, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of students across Wake County. “Every year, I am inspired by the talent, ingenuity, and passion for creating positive change that I see from Wake County’s students during the Congressional App Challenge,” said Congresswoman Ross. “I am amazed by how these young minds use technology to tackle real-world issues and imagine bold solutions to some of our most pressing challenges – from climate change to devastating diseases. I especially want to congratulate Kenna Zhang, this year’s winner, for her innovative app designed to improve early detection of Parkinson’s Disease. Kenna’s app and the submissions of every student exemplify the kind of forward-thinking ideas that will propel our state and country to new heights.” Kenna developed AIPowered-Hope, an app that uses AI and machine learning to assist with the early diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease. She personally coded the app’s machine learning algorithms, enabling it to analyze drawing samples and voice recordings to identify early signs of the disease. Inspired by the potential to improve early diagnosis and enable timely interventions, Kenna created AIPowered-Hope to enhance the quality of life for individuals at risk of Parkinson’s. She also embraced the challenge as an opportunity to deepen her skills and knowledge in app development. The competition was judged by a panel of three leading STEM educators and employers from North Carolina’s 2nd District: Dr. Nehemiah Mabry, PE, Founder and CEO, STEMedia Incorporated Angela Martin, Software User Experience Designer, Lenovo Mallory Schultz, Advisory Software User Experience Designer, Lenovo Established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013, the Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition for middle school and high school students designed to expose students to the world of app development without requiring prior coding experience. Each participating congressional district selects a local winner who then competes with winners from other participating districts for further awards.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/house-passes-congresswoman-ross-legislation-to-provide-technical-corrections-to-national-and-commercial-space-programs-in-united-states-code,House Passes Congresswoman Ross Legislation to Provide Technical Corrections to National and Commercial Space Programs in United States Code,2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Raleigh, NC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation introduced by Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) to revise title 51 of United States Code on National and Commercial Space Programs as necessary to keep the title current, and to make technical amendments to improve the code. Specifically, this legislation, H.R. 7339, fixes cross references and heading names, removes obsolete language, and clarifies some phrases. Congresswoman Ross spoke in support of the legislation on the House floor earlier today. “Updating the US Code periodically to make these technical and conforming changes helps ensure the law is accessible to everyday Americans,” Congresswoman Ross said in her floor speech. “The American people deserve a code that is comprehensible without specialized knowledge, and making the updates in this bill will help make that goal a reality.” As a member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Congresswoman Ross has been a champion of legislation to bolster the nation’s space programs. The bill was referred to the House Judiciary Committee, on which Congresswoman Ross also serves, and was passed unanimously out of committee by voice vote.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/12/ross-carter-krishnamoorthi-bentz-lead-letter-calling-on-doj-to-investigate-pbms-role-in-opioid-crisis,"Ross, Carter, Krishnamoorthi, Bentz Lead Letter Calling on DOJ to Investigate PBMs’ Role in Opioid Crisis",2024-12-02,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (D-NC) joined Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), and Cliff Bentz (R-OR) in sending a bipartisan letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, calling on the Department of Justice to investigate the role pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) may have played in the opioid crisis. “Recent reports, including confidential files and information from CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx, suggests the three largest PBMs colluded and conspired to steer patients towards Oxycontin in exchange for $400 million… [and] at the expense of innocent American lives.” wrote the lawmakers. They continued, “The lack of transparency surrounding PBM’s rebate agreements and formulary decisions has allowed them to operate with little to no oversight, posing a significant threat to America’s public health. That is why we strongly urge the Department of Justice to investigate the role PBMs may have played in the opioid crisis and hold them accountable.” The letter was prompted by the findings of recent investigations: CVS Caremark’s agreement with Purdue Pharma: Internal documents revealed that CVS Caremark agreed to double rebates for health plans that authorized four or more OxyContin pills per day, incentivizing higher doses. Express Script’s 2017 practices: Confidential files showed that Express Scripts awarded Purdue Pharma favorable placement on formularies in exchange for a 40% rebate on OxyContin prescriptions. The impact of these practices: These systems fostered a culture of excessive prescribing and dispensing of OxyContin, further fueling the devastating opioid epidemic. Full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-statement-us-presidential-election,Rep. Adams’ Statement on the U.S. Presidential Election,2024-11-12,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Image CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) released the following statement on last week’s election results in North Carolina and nationwide. ""I would like to thank the people of North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District for entrusting me to another term in Congress, as well as the volunteers who worked so hard on our campaign, knocking on doors, making phone calls, and talking to their neighbors. Like many of you, I am heartbroken by last week’s election results. However, the American people have spoken. Former President Trump will be the next President of the United States and I intend to hold him to his word in supporting funding initiatives for our HBCUs, as well as to supporting policies that benefit the working people of America. Service is indeed the rent we pay for living on God’s earth. Vice President Kamala Harris ran a brilliant campaign in a difficult environment. She has been a dedicated public servant and a shining beacon for our daughters and granddaughters to aspire to. The campaign is over, and our job now is to get back to the work of serving the American people. I intend to continue doing so with the grace, determination, and goodness they expect from me.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-recovery-update-31,Hurricane recovery update #31,2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"November 11, 2024 Dear Friend, Happy Veterans Day! I cannot put into words the gratitude that I have for our nation’s heroes, but on a day like today, it’s my duty to try. We live in a country where we have the freedom to speak our minds and stand up for what we believe in, where we don’t have to live in fear, and where we wake up every day with the ability to build the life we dream for our families. Without the sacrifice that has been made by the brave men and women who serve these United States of America, none of that would be possible; and without their defense of our liberties, we would not be the country or the Americans that we are today. I can’t help but think that this year's Veterans Day hits even closer to home for the people of Western North Carolina. At its peak, nearly 4,000 active-duty military and National Guardsmen were in our mountains protecting the life and liberties of every single one of us following Hurricane Helene. They were searching for missing loved ones, helping to clear debris, and making sure every man, woman, and child was fed and had water every single day. Our service members and veterans have always been my heroes but witnessing the sacrifices these individuals made to stand beside our community took my gratitude and appreciation to another level. We will never be able to adequately repay the service members who were in our mountains over the past month and a half for what they have helped us to reclaim, nor will we ever be able to adequately repay our veterans for the sacrifices they made to give us the life we have. The least we can do is remind them of our appreciation every single day, especially today. Please make sure you thank a veteran today. This week’s update includes more information on the FEMA assistance deadlines (November 27 for Serious Needs Assistance, the initial $750 direct payment for food, water, baby formula etc. and January 7 for Individual Assistance), reopening of the Yancey County DMV, Blue Ridge Health locations and hours, where you can pick up mail from your post office box in Barnardsville, a new Disaster Recovery Center in Macon County, and a change in location for the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center. If you need help navigating FEMA, the SBA, or another federal agency, please call my office’s helpline: 865-EDWARDS; (865) 339-2737. My team would be happy to help you get a case started. This is update number 31, with more information to come next Monday. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County - TEMPORARY LOCATIONS Swannanoa Fire Rescue - Bee Tree Fire Sub Station 510 Bee Tree Rd., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Open November 11-14, 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park (Parking Lot) 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Open November 15-18, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Buncombe County - PERMANENT LOCATION Asheville Mall (former Gap store) 3 S. Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Macon County Macon County Public Health Center 1830 Lakeside Dr., Franklin, NC 28734 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Madison County Madison County Public Library - Marshall Branch 1335 N. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Polk County Polk County Recreation Complex (Parking Lot) 235 Wolverine Trl., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rutherford County Mountains Branch Library 150 Bills Creek Rd., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Swain County Swain County Technology & Training Center 45 East Ridge Dr., Bryson City, NC 28713 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Yancey County County Annex Facility 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed a second round of disaster relief on October 24, known as the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 Part II. State legislators have stated that this package is still preliminary support, and more will be on the way in another session on November 19, 2024. This bill adds another $604 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund to the Hurricane Helene Fund. Below lays out where the funds are going and shares a summary of what some of the funds will be used for. $16.7 million for the North Carolina Community College System $5 million for a grant program to cover tuition and fees for eligible students at impacted community colleges in WNC for the spring semester. $10.5 million for an emergency grant program to support students who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and schools must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $65 million for the Department of Public Instruction $5 million to increase mental health services to students, families, and school personnel in WNC. Expands school flexibility by excusing an additional 20 days of missed instruction time due to school closures from Hurricane Helene. $20 million for the University of North Carolina $5.5 million to establish a grant program to cover tuition for eligible in-state students at UNC Asheville in the spring semester. $5 million for an emergency grant program to support students in the UNC system who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and schools must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $1 million for the same emergency grant program for students at private universities in WNC who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and the UNC system must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $71.4 million to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services $1 million to local social services offices for rental assistance. $56 million to the Department of Commerce $50 million to Golden LEAF to administer a bridge loan program to qualifying businesses suffering economic distress due to Helene. $139 million to the Department of Environmental Quality $100 million to establish an emergency bridge loan program for water infrastructure. $22 million to establish an emergency infrastructure bridge loan program for commercial underground storage tanks. $130 million to the Department of Public Safety $106 million to general government, including the Office of State Budget and Management and the Treasurer. $100 million to the Local Government Commission to provide cash flow loans to local governments in affected areas. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates More than 254,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to more than 9,500 individuals FEMA has distributed more than $225 million in housing assistance to more than 123,000 Western North Carolina households. How to avoid scams during the assistance application process: Homeowners and renters who applied for FEMA disaster assistance in WNC should be aware that FEMA representatives may call from unfamiliar area codes and phone numbers that could show as SPAM or no caller ID. It is important to answer the call, but always be alert to these illegitimate practices: A FEMA inspector calls, and you did not submit a FEMA application. A FEMA inspector asks for your banking information. FEMA inspectors are NEVER authorized to collect your personal financial information. A payment is requested from someone who says they are from FEMA. FEMA will never request payment. A FEMA inspector calls and asks for your personally identifiable information such as your social security number. If any of these things happen to you, or you receive a call from someone saying they are a FEMA representative and you aren’t sure, call the FEMA Helpline to report the incident. FEMA Helpline: (800) 621-3362 If you believe you are the victim of a scam related to the Helene response, you should file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice by: Visiting ncdoj.gov/complaint; or, Calling toll-free at 877-566-7226. Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing and disinfection kit. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sky Lanes Bowling Alley 1477 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Swannanoa Ingles 2299 US-70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Fairview Ingles 225 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. Trash pickup has resumed on the regular schedule for customers in Black Mountain. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. The County has partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to support residents with storm-related debris removal. Cleanup crews are actively collecting debris across the county and transporting it to an approved temporary site on Wolverine Trial in Mill Spring, on Polk County-owned property. To ensure smooth and efficient removal: Debris should be placed within 10 feet of the road. Vegetative debris must be in manageable piles. Logs can have a maximum length of 15 feet. Debris should be separated into five categories: Vegetative - Tree branches, leaves, log, branches. Construction - Building materials, drywall, lumber, carpet, furniture, plumbing. Large Appliances - Refrigerators, washer/dryers, air conditioners, stoves, water heaters, and dishwashers. Please DO NOT leave doors unsealed or unsecured. Electronics - Television, computer, stereo, phones, DVD players, etc. Hazardous Waste - Oil, batteries, pesticides, paint, cleaning supplies, compressed gas. Document the clean-up process with photos before and after debris removal. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. United States Postal Service/Mail Services My office has heard concerns related to the Barnardsville Post Office being closed. The facility has been deemed unsafe for occupancy until all necessary repairs are completed and the facility has passed the required inspections. USPS is dedicated to reopening the facility as soon as possible and I am working with them to make sure there are no unnecessary delays. Retail services are still being provided via a Mobile Retail Unit that is located on-site. Delivery operations remain temporarily transferred to the Weaverville Post Office and reliable mail delivery is continuing as it would if delivery were taking place through the Barnardsville location. All Post Office Box mail and packages can be picked up from the mobile retail unit located in Barnardsville until further notice. Social Security and FEMA checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Locations open between 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m (closed one hour for lunch, check this link for exact lunch hours at your nearest location): Blue Ridge Health - 7th Ave Health Center Clinic 628 7th Ave. E., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Clinic hours: Mon/Tues/Thurs, 1:00-5:00 p.m. Blue Ridge Health - Buncombe 303 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Blue Ridge Health - Chimney Rock Rd. 2579 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Open until 8:00 p.m., Monday-Thursdays Blue Ridge Health - Haywood 490 Hospital Dr., Clyde, NC 28721 Blue Ridge Health - Highlands Cashiers 209 Hospital Dr. #301, Highlands, NC 28741 Blue Ridge Health - Jackson 293 Hospital Rd., Ste. C, Sylva, NC 28779 Blue Ridge Health - Justice Street 709 North Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Blue Ridge Health - Lake Lure 146 Nesbitt Ridge, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Blue Ridge Health - Polk 161 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Blue Ridge Health - Rutherford 187 W. Main St., Spindale, NC 28160 Closed on Wednesdays Blue Ridge Health - Swain 264 Hwy. 19 S., Ste. 4, Bryson City, NC 28713 Blue Ridge Health - Transylvania 29 W. French Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Open until 8:00 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power Almost 100 percent of all power outages have been restored in impacted areas. Less than 900 customers remain without power across Western NC. 150 Duke Energy customers. 700 electric cooperative customers. If your insurance provider is requesting “proof of outage,” you can contact Duke Energy’s Contact Center to request the letter. (800) 777-9898 My office has heard multiple complaints of Duke Energy customers being charged for power on days where there was an outage. Duke Energy provided the following information for how billing was calculated, and what will take place to provide a credit if you were over billed due to being a non-AMI account: AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) Bills for customers with an AMI/Smart Meter will reflect actual usage for the billing cycle if the meter is communicating. (For awareness: Duke is monitoring usage daily) Non-AMI Customers without an AMI/Smart Meter may see estimated usage if Duke was unable to obtain a reading prior to invoicing. Once Duke Energy can obtain a reading from the meter, your next bill will be adjusted to reflect actual usage and a credit will be applied for anyone who’s usage was overestimated. Duke Energy also provided the following information for auto-pay and budget billing customers: Auto-Pay Payments will automatically draft on the due date for customers signed up for auto-pay. Customers have the option to temporarily pause their automatic payment by contacting Duke at 800-777-9898 (DEC) | 800-452-2777 (DEP) or by logging into their account to unenroll from Auto Pay. If a customer chooses to unenroll via logging into their online account, they are encouraged to re-enroll when their situation allows to avoid any future missed payments. Budget Billing Customers enrolled in Budget Billing will still be invoiced their set monthly amount. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! NCDOT has now reopened 1,042 roads that were previously closed due to Hurricane Helene. Only 293 roads remain fully closed. 95 other roads are open with partial access. 37 roads are open to all traffic except truck traffic. Temporary one-lane vehicle access, including a temporary bridge, has been restored along U.S. 64/U.S. 74A/NC 9 in Chimney Rock. The contractor continues to improve the access road as NCDOT works to procure the permanent repair contract. Ames Construction has been awarded a contract for the permanent repair of I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge. NCDOT is targeting New Year’s Day for restoring traffic to one lane in each direction with a reduced speed limit on I-40 in the Gorge. Emergency roadway repair work continues with the installation of temporary bridges, numerous slide repairs, roadway reconstruction work, and repair of dangerous shoulder washouts. The focus continues to be on major corridors and communities with limited access. Only ONE community throughout Western NC has limited access. NCDOT crews are working to restore access to this community by installing a low-water bridge. In light of interruptions in service caused by NC DMV closures due to Hurricane Helene, the following DMV fees have been waived from Sept. 26 through Dec. 31, 2024: Duplicate or corrected vehicle titles. Duplicate registration cards. Salvage certificate of title. Replacement license plates and/or stickers. Duplicate driver licenses (including CDLs). Duplicate state ID cards (note: state ID cards are already free for anyone age 17 and up) The following late fees have also been waived from Sept. 26 through Dec. 31, 2024: Late vehicle registration fees for vehicles that expired on or after Aug. 31, 2024. Late interest payments on vehicle registrations and property taxes that expired on or after Aug. 31, 2024. Title fees on or after Aug. 31, 2024. Late fees and interest on limited registration plates and vehicle registration renewals for limited registrations that expired on or after Sept. 30, 2024. Late fees for dealer plates that expired on or after Aug. 31, 2024. If you paid any of the above listed fees or late fees prior to notice of the fee waivers, you will be automatically refunded. Citizens do not have to take any action to receive refunds. Please allow four to six weeks (until Dec. 6, 2024) for refunds to be processed. Refunds will NOT be given in-person at NC DMV offices. NCDOT has established a Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County 116 N. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Frontier Communications has been diligently working to restore service to customers in Western NC. Service is expected to be restored by November 11 for customers in Marshall. Reconstruction and restoration work begins TODAY, November 4, for customers in the Micaville area. My office has also heard from numerous customers frustrated that they were billed for a full month of internet through AT&T despite extended outages, and in many cases, service still not being restored: AT&T Customer Support is providing billing credits and working with customers impacted by Hurricane Helene when they call AT&T customer service, (800) 288-2020. Spectrum is proactively issuing credit to customers for the time they were without Spectrum service due to the hurricane. If you believe your time without service was not correctly identified, please contact Spectrum customer support to identify the correct credit. These automatic credits are applied after Spectrum service has been restored. Waiting until service restoration has taken place to determine the number of days service was out enables Spectrum to calculate an accurate and appropriate credit. Internet providers are still working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 1,500 National Guard soldiers and airmen are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. All active-duty forces have returned to their duty stations, including Ft. Campbell and Ft. Liberty. The National Guard has distributed more than 21,000 tons of commodities to Western North Carolina. Highlights include: Completed a culvert project on Locust Cove Road in McDowell County Completed road repair missions in Yancey County Mucked out 15 cubic yards and 50 tons of debris in Madison County Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Serious Needs Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Serious Needs Assistance refers to the initial $750 direct payment provided to eligible households to address necessary expenses like food, water, baby formula, etc. The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Jan. 7, 2025. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelter is currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-statement-passing-quincy-jones,Rep. Adams’ Statement on the Passing of Quincy Jones,2024-11-04,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“The world has lost an iconic, creative genius whose music was the soundtrack of our lives for multiple generations. Quincy Jones was a legend who reminded us that we are all one. He brought us hits like 'We are the World' and Thriller, the musical score for The Color Purple, and the opening theme for Sanford and Son. His contribution to our society will long be remembered. Thank you for your service Quincy Jones. Your rent is fully paid.” Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-recovery-update-30,Hurricane recovery update #30,2024-11-04,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"November 4, 2024 Dear Friend, Hurricane Helene has interrupted many things in our communities over the past few weeks: water service, internet access and the ability to work from home, and the school calendar, to name a few; but one thing that is continuing without delay is the 2024 general election. Tomorrow is Election Day and voting is the fundamental basis that makes our country a democracy. Casting your vote gives you an opportunity to make sure your views and concerns are reflected in the representation that you elect. It is often referred to as your civic duty, but in the wake of Hurricane Helene, it is much more than that. Your vote will directly impact the support our mountains receive in the coming months and years as we recover from Helene’s destruction. I encourage each and every one of you to make sure your voice is heard in this year’s election. Due to hurricane damage, some voting sites have changed. If you’re unsure where your Election Day polling place is located, you can visit this link and input your address to find where to vote. Please note that voting on Election Day is not the same as early voting. You cannot go to any voting site in your county. You must go to your assigned polling place. For the love of democracy, get out and vote. This week’s update includes a new Disaster Recovery Center in Polk County, waived NC DMV fees and late fees, the new contract issued for permanent repairs to I-40, information related to the status of the Barnardsville Post Office, how to request proof of power outage for insurance companies, account credits for Spectrum customers, Frontier Communications restoration timelines for customers in Marshall and Micaville, and additional open dates for two temporary Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Centers. Today is update number 30, with more information to follow in the coming weeks. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County - TEMPORARY LOCATIONS Swannanoa Fire Rescue - Bee Tree Fire Sub Station 510 Bee Tree Rd., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Open November 2-5 and 11-14, 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park (Parking Lot) 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Open November 6-9 and 15-18, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Buncombe County - PERMANENT LOCATION Cane Creek Pool 590 Lower Brush Creek Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Madison County Madison County Public Library - Marshall Branch 1335 N. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Polk County Polk County Recreation Complex (Parking Lot) 235 Wolverine Trl., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rutherford County Mountains Branch Library 150 Bills Creek Rd., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Swain County Swain County Technology & Training Center 45 East Ridge Dr., Bryson City, NC 28713 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Yancey County County Annex Facility 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed a second round of disaster relief on October 24, known as the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 Part II. State legislators have stated that this package is still preliminary support, and more will be on the way in another session on November 19, 2024. This bill adds another $604 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund to the Hurricane Helene Fund. Below lays out where the funds are going and shares a summary of what some of the funds will be used for. $16.7 million for the North Carolina Community College System $5 million for a grant program to cover tuition and fees for eligible students at impacted community colleges in WNC for the spring semester. $10.5 million for an emergency grant program to support students who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and schools must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $65 million for the Department of Public Instruction $5 million to increase mental health services to students, families, and school personnel in WNC. Expands school flexibility by excusing an additional 20 days of missed instruction time due to school closures from Hurricane Helene. $20 million for the University of North Carolina $5.5 million to establish a grant program to cover tuition for eligible in-state students at UNC Asheville in the spring semester. $5 million for an emergency grant program to support students in the UNC system who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and schools must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $1 million for the same emergency grant program for students at private universities in WNC who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and the UNC system must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $71.4 million to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services $1 million to local social services offices for rental assistance. $56 million to the Department of Commerce $50 million to Golden LEAF to administer a bridge loan program to qualifying businesses suffering economic distress due to Helene. $139 million to the Department of Environmental Quality $100 million to establish an emergency bridge loan program for water infrastructure. $22 million to establish an emergency infrastructure bridge loan program for commercial underground storage tanks. $130 million to the Department of Public Safety $106 million to general government, including the Office of State Budget and Management and the Treasurer. $100 million to the Local Government Commission to provide cash flow loans to local governments in affected areas. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates More than 243,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to more than 8,931 individuals FEMA has distributed more than $203 million in housing assistance to more than 122,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC How to avoid scams during the assistance application process: Homeowners and renters who applied for FEMA disaster assistance in WNC should be aware that FEMA representatives may call from unfamiliar area codes and phone numbers that could show as SPAM or no caller ID. It is important to answer the call, but always be alert to these illegitimate practices: A FEMA inspector calls, and you did not submit a FEMA application. A FEMA inspector asks for your banking information. FEMA inspectors are NEVER authorized to collect your personal financial information. A payment is requested from someone who says they are from FEMA. FEMA will never request payment. A FEMA inspector calls and asks for your personally identifiable information such as your social security number. If any of these things happen to you, or you receive a call from someone saying they are a FEMA representative and you aren’t sure, call the FEMA Helpline to report the incident. FEMA Helpline: (800) 621-3362 If you believe you are the victim of a scam related to the Helene response, you should file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice by: Visiting ncdoj.gov/complaint; or, Calling toll-free at 877-566-7226. Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing and disinfection kit. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sky Lanes Bowling Alley 1477 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Swannanoa Ingles 2299 US-70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Fairview Ingles 225 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen at Ben's Tune Up 195 Hilliard Ave, Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. Trash pickup has resumed on the regular schedule for customers in Black Mountain. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. The County has partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to support residents with storm-related debris removal. Cleanup crews are actively collecting debris across the county and transporting it to an approved temporary site on Wolverine Trial in Mill Spring, on Polk County-owned property. To ensure smooth and efficient removal: Debris should be placed within 10 feet of the road. Vegetative debris must be in manageable piles. Logs can have a maximum length of 15 feet. Debris should be separated into five categories: Vegetative - Tree branches, leaves, log, branches. Construction - Building materials, drywall, lumber, carpet, furniture, plumbing. Large Appliances - Refrigerators, washer/dryers, air conditioners, stoves, water heaters, and dishwashers. Please DO NOT leave doors unsealed or unsecured. Electronics - Television, computer, stereo, phones, DVD players, etc. Hazardous Waste - Oil, batteries, pesticides, paint, cleaning supplies, compressed gas. Document the clean-up process with photos before and after debris removal. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. Voter Information The Justice Department has launched a website with information to help Western North Carolinians and other communities impacted by recent hurricanes to vote. The site identifies and provides links to various state changes made to accommodate displaced voters and information for folks who have lost their ID cards, had polling sites moved or who are unsure where or how they can vote. You can access the website via this link. Tomorrow is Election Day. You can use this link to find your polling place. Please note: You must vote at your assigned polling place on Election Day. United States Postal Service/Mail Services My office has heard concerns related to the Barnardsville Post Office being closed. The facility has been deemed unsafe for occupancy until all necessary repairs are completed and the facility has passed the required inspections. USPS is dedicated to reopening the facility as soon as possible and I am working with them to make sure there are no unnecessary delays. Retail services are still being provided via a Mobile Retail Unit that is located on-site. Delivery operations remain temporarily transferred to the Weaverville Post Office and reliable mail delivery is continuing as it would if delivery were taking place through the Barnardsville location. Social Security and FEMA checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power Almost 100 percent of all power outages have been restored in impacted areas. Less than 1,500 customers remain without power across Western NC. 200 Duke Energy customers. Just over 1,200 electric cooperative customers. French Broad EMC has teams throughout Yancey and Rutherford counties to restore remaining customers. Crews are working down the Cane River in Rutherford County to get the three-phase line re-routed so French Broad can energize homes down to Elk Shoals Road. Yancey County crews have completed the three-phase build in Pensacola and energized most of the homes in that area. A portion of NC197S and Ewart Wilson Road is back on as well. French Broad EMC is still trying to find a route into little creek and rebuild their circuits in Huntdale. The greatest difficulty is finding space to place energy poles. Collapsing of roadways has eliminated the area where poles were placed before the storm. If your insurance provider is requesting “proof of outage,” you can contact Duke Energy’s Contact Center to request the letter. (800) 777-9898 My office has heard multiple complaints of Duke Energy customers being charged for power on days where there was an outage. Duke Energy provided the following information for how billing was calculated, and what will take place to provide a credit if you were over billed due to being a non-AMI account: AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) Bills for customers with an AMI/Smart Meter will reflect actual usage for the billing cycle if the meter is communicating. (For awareness: Duke is monitoring usage daily) Non-AMI Customers without an AMI/Smart Meter may see estimated usage if Duke was unable to obtain a reading prior to invoicing. Once Duke Energy can obtain a reading from the meter, your next bill will be adjusted to reflect actual usage and a credit will be applied for anyone who’s usage was overestimated. Duke Energy also provided the following information for auto-pay and budget billing customers: Auto-Pay Payments will automatically draft on the due date for customers signed up for auto-pay. Customers have the option to temporarily pause their automatic payment by contacting Duke at 800-777-9898 (DEC) | 800-452-2777 (DEP) or by logging into their account to unenroll from Auto Pay. If a customer chooses to unenroll via logging into their online account, they are encouraged to re-enroll when their situation allows to avoid any future missed payments. Budget Billing Customers enrolled in Budget Billing will still be invoiced their set monthly amount. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! NCDOT has now reopened 1,010 roads that were previously closed due to Hurricane Helene. Only 298 roads remain fully closed. 102 other roads are open with partial access. 26 roads are open to all traffic except truck traffic. Ames Construction has been awarded a contract for the permanent repair of I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge. The Federal Highway Administration and NCDOT are working on a two-lane-traffic temporary repairs timeline and reopening date for I-40. I will share the information as I receive it. New sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway have officially reopened: Milepost 411.8 to 421, from US 276 to Black Balsam Milepost 423.2 to 469, from NC 215 to US 441 in Cherokee, N.C. Milepost 405.5 to 411.8, near NC 151 to NC 276 Emergency roadway repair work continues with the installation of temporary bridges, numerous slide repairs, roadway reconstruction work, and repair of dangerous shoulder washouts. The focus continues to be on major corridors and communities with limited access. Nine communities throughout Western NC continue to have limited access. NCDOT crews are working to restore access in these locations by rebuilding roadways and constructing bridges. In light of interruptions in service caused by NC DMV closures due to Hurricane Helene, the following DMV fees have been waived from Sept. 26 through Dec. 31, 2024: Duplicate or corrected vehicle titles. Duplicate registration cards. Salvage certificate of title. Replacement license plates and/or stickers. Duplicate driver licenses (including CDLs). Duplicate state ID cards (note: state ID cards are already free for anyone age 17 and up) The following late fees have also been waived from Sept. 26 through Dec. 31, 2024: Late vehicle registration fees for vehicles that expired on or after Aug. 31, 2024. Late interest payments on vehicle registrations and property taxes that expired on or after Aug. 31, 2024. Title fees on or after Aug. 31, 2024. Late fees and interest on limited registration plates and vehicle registration renewals for limited registrations that expired on or after Sept. 30, 2024. Late fees for dealer plates that expired on or after Aug. 31, 2024. If you paid any of the above listed fees or late fees prior to notice of the fee waivers, you will be automatically refunded. Citizens do not have to take any action to receive refunds. Please allow four to six weeks (until Dec. 6, 2024) for refunds to be processed. Refunds will NOT be given in-person at NC DMV offices. NCDOT has established a Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 14 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Frontier Communications has been diligently working to restore service to customers in Western NC. Service is expected to be restored by November 11 for customers in Marshall. Reconstruction and restoration work begins TODAY, November 4, for customers in the Micaville area. My office has also heard from numerous customers frustrated that they were billed for a full month of internet through AT&T despite extended outages, and in many cases, service still not being restored: AT&T Customer Support is providing billing credits and working with customers impacted by Hurricane Helene when they call AT&T customer service, (800) 288-2020. Spectrum is proactively issuing credit to customers for the time they were without Spectrum service due to the hurricane. If you believe your time without service was not correctly identified, please contact Spectrum customer support to identify the correct credit. These automatic credits are applied after Spectrum service has been restored. Waiting until service restoration has taken place to determine the number of days service was out enables Spectrum to calculate an accurate and appropriate credit. Internet providers are still working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Nearly 100 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 1,600 National Guard soldiers and airmen are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. All active-duty forces have returned to their duty stations, including Ft. Campbell and Ft. Liberty. The National Guard has distributed more than 20,000 tons of commodities to Western North Carolina. Highlights from the last week: Chainsaw crews helped to clear critical areas in Hot Springs, and cleared and hauled 40 tons of concrete and rubble in Marshall Town Park. Soldiers completed 1,022 humanitarian aid deliveries in Haywood County and are over 82 percent complete with their overall mission. Crews cleared 200 tons of debris and silt from Rollins Creek, and hauled and spread 52 tons of ABC stone on Duckett Top Tower Road. Delivered material to support building a bridge on Catawba River Road in McDowell County. Completed multiple bulldozer operations in Rutherford County in support of NCDOT. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/11/after-years-of-pushing-usps-for-action-congresswoman-ross-announces-mail-delivery-service-has-begun-in-rtp,"After Years of Pushing USPS for Action, Congresswoman Ross Announces Mail Delivery Service has begun in RTP",2024-11-04,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) announced that the United States Postal Service (USPS) began centralized mail delivery service in Research Triangle Park (RTP), North Carolina, on November 2. This breakthrough follows years of advocacy by Congresswoman Ross with support from Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC), Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) and the RTP business community. The Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina and USPS leaders successfully worked together to implement changes necessary to establish centralized mail delivery for the first time since RTP was established 65 years ago. Home to more than 375 companies and 55,000 employees across 7,000 acres, RTP previously relied on a single U.S. Post Office that did not adequately serve this growing area. “Centralized mail delivery service is a crucial milestone for Research Triangle Park, a hub of innovation and progress that continues to propel our state and country to new heights,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Ensuring RTP has the support it needs is essential for the growth and success of hundreds of companies. It’s unacceptable that businesses in RTP were forced to function without centralized mail delivery. After years of work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, I'm grateful that we have finally implemented centralized mail delivery in RTP. Thank you to our partners at the Research Triangle Foundation and USPS for their cooperation and commitment to resolving this issue.” “I’m pleased that the United States Postal Service has officially dispatched mail delivery services within Research Triangle Park, addressing a longstanding and urgent need in this rapidly growing region,” said Congresswoman Foushee. “This vital infrastructure improvement will deliver the reliable postal services businesses and residents in RTP need to succeed and thrive. I am grateful for the ongoing collaboration between congressional offices, USPS officials, and RTP foundation representatives, which has made this essential service possible for our constituents and will support RTP’s continued growth for years to come.” “We are grateful to our Congressional delegation, USPS and RTP companies for coalescing as a team to get this done. Collaborative problem-solving is a regional differentiator for the Triangle,"" said Scott Levitan, President and CEO of the Research Triangle Foundation. ""Direct mail delivery marks an important step forward in enhancing operational efficiency and supporting the growth of the hundreds of companies based here in RTP. Reliable mail service is essential as we build out Hub RTP, our mixed-use downtown development, to welcome new residents and meet the evolving needs of our businesses.” Over the past year, Research Triangle Foundation Vice President of Planning and Public Policy Travis Crayton and his team have worked closely with USPS officials to prepare for phased mail delivery service in RTP. On November 2, 2024, USPS confirmed the start of street delivery to select addresses within RTP. Delivery routes will continue to expand as additional RTP companies and organizations opt for street address mail service. Congresswoman Ross began working to bring mail delivery to RTP more than two years ago. In August 2022, Congresswoman Ross and former Congressman David Price initially requested that USPS expand services and establish mail delivery for the RTP campus. Following a lack of action by USPS to address the issue adequately, the members then joined the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform in demanding action. In September 2023, Congresswoman Ross led Senator Thom Tillis, Senator Ted Budd, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee, and 110 RTP businesses in a letter urging USPS to implement centralized mail delivery service to the entire RTP campus. In November 2023, USPS responded to that letter, announcing that USPS leaders and the Research Triangle Foundation had begun working together to implement the necessary changes to begin the process to institute centralized mail delivery. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-joined-house-leaders-and-members-wnc-ahead-presenting-helene-funding,Edwards joined by House leaders and Members in WNC ahead of presenting Helene funding bill,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Edwards and congressional delegation hear from volunteers on rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Helene U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) today was joined by House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (LA-01), Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08), Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) and Congressman Mike Collins (GA-10) in Western North Carolina to see firsthand the impact of Hurricane Helene. The delegation received an on-the-ground tour of the hurricane damage at the Veterans Restoration Quarters and River Arts District. Congressman Edwards said, “Majority Leader Scalise, Chairman Smith and other Members of Congress’ visit to our mountains was an opportunity for them to see the damage caused by Hurricane Helene for themselves so that they can truly understand the devastation Western North Carolinians are experiencing. I wanted to make sure that House leaders and Members have firsthand knowledge of the hurricane destruction in preparation for when I go to present a supplemental funding bill on the House Floor in November.” Majority Leader Scalise said, “Hurricane Helene had a devastating impact across western North Carolina. But I saw today in Asheville what I saw in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina: resilient people coming together in the face of destruction and tragedy to lend helping hands to their neighbors and rebuild their vibrant community. I’m thankful to have been here to see the challenges firsthand and to meet many of the incredible volunteers, restaurateurs, and business owners already working to restore what was lost. My friend Congressman Chuck Edwards is working tirelessly in the wake of this storm to help these hard-hit areas and aid them on their road to recovery. North Carolina is not alone in this fight.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/11/on-first-day-of-open-enrollment-ross-castor-introduce-legislation-to-protect-families-from-rogue-health-insurance-brokers,"On First Day of Open Enrollment, Ross, Castor Introduce Legislation to Protect Families from Rogue Health Insurance Brokers",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswomen Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Kathy Castor (FL-14) introduced the bicameral Insurance Fraud Accountability Act, legislation aimed at establishing criminal penalties and enhancing consumer protections against rogue health insurance brokers who are changing Americans’ Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans and disenrolling them from Medicaid without their knowledge or consent. This bill addresses alarming tactics that jeopardize the financial and health security of American families. In June, Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tammy Duckworth, (D-IL), Patty Murray (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced the Insurance Fraud Accountability Act in the Senate. “North Carolina families deserve to feel secure in their health care choices, but for far too long, rogue brokers have exploited their trust,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This bill is a necessary reform to protect our communities from deceptive practices that leave families with unexpected medical bills and significant financial strain. By holding these bad actors responsible, we are taking concrete steps to protect consumers and their access to reliable health care.” ""The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been a godsend to families in Florida and across America. The ACA has lowered the cost for high quality health care and banned discrimination for preexisting conditions. Unfortunately, a few bad actors are exploiting people and signing them up for health insurance plans without their consent,” said Rep. Castor. ""On the first day of Open Enrollment, I’m proud to introduce the Insurance Fraud Accountability Act with Rep. Ross to bring greater transparency and accountability to the health insurance marketplace by cracking down on predatory health insurance sales, ensuring consumers are notified of plan changes, establishing stronger penalties for fraudulent enrollments and requiring brokers to act in the best interest of the customer. Together, these measures will protect hardworking Americans from predatory practices and keep money in their wallets where it rightfully belongs.” This legislation will impose criminal penalties for agents and brokers who engage in fraudulent practices, including enrolling individuals in plans without their consent and using deceptive marketing to target vulnerable groups. To further protect consumers, the legislation will create a consent verification process, ensuring that individuals will be kept informed of any new enrollments or changes to their insurance coverage. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen accountability and transparency in the health insurance industry. The bill is endorsed by AHIP, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Kidney Fund, American Lung Association, Arthritis Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Cambia Health Solutions (Regence BCBS), CancerCare, Centene Corporation (Ambetter), Child Neurology Foundation, Chronic Disease Coalition, Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, eHealth, Epilepsy Foundation, Families USA, Hemophilia Fed of America, Immune Deficiency Foundation, Lupus Foundation of America, Muscular Dystrophy Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Health Council, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, National Patient Advocate Foundation, QuoteVelocity, Susan G. Komen, The AIDS Institute, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, The Mended Hearts, Inc., UnidosUS, and WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease. Bill text is available here and a one pager is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/11/ross-murphy-publish-op-ed-in-roll-call-justice-for-veterans-sickened-at-camp-lejeune-can-t-wait-any-longer-congress-must-act-now,"Ross, Manning, Adams, & Nickel Call on USPS to Take Extraordinary Measures to Process Absentee Ballots",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"ICYMI: Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Kathy Manning (NC-06), Alma Adams (NC-12), and Wiley Nickel (NC-13) sent a letter to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy calling on the United States Postal Service (USPS) to take extraordinary measures to ensure North Carolinians’ absentee ballots reach county boards of elections without delay. The lawmakers wrote, “Although North Carolina previously counted all ballots postmarked by Election Day, this year, officials only will count the ballots county boards of elections have received by 7:30 PM on Election Day. Given the record number of voters who will vote by mail in the 2024 election and the Postal Service’s critical role in defending election integrity, we request that USPS make public on a daily basis certain key factors regarding election mail processing, as outlined in the September Extraordinary Measures Memo, beginning this week and continuing through November 5th.” The lawmakers expressed concerns and requested detailed information on USPS operations to process election mail efficiently, ensuring timely and complete delivery of all absentee ballots. Full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-visits-charlotte-bilingual-preschool,Rep. Adams Visits Charlotte Bilingual Preschool,2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“I have enjoyed myself immensely this morning,"" said Rep. Adams. “I can’t think of a better environment where children have people who care and work with their families.” As quality childcare has become harder to find and increasingly expensive in North Carolina, Charlotte Bilingual Preschool helps to ensure that Spanish-speaking families in the Charlotte area have an accessible resource that builds critical language skills and Kindergarten-readiness. Charlotte Bilingual Preschool’s 5-star licensed program has been serving Mecklenburg County Spanish-speaking families since 1999. In addition to preschool, they offer family programs and workforce development programs to focus on removing systemic barriers for those who are learning English.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-calls-white-house-help-provide-temporary-housing-post-helene,Edwards calls on White House to help provide temporary housing post-Helene,2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced today that his office is calling on the White House to help provide temporary housing in Western North Carolina in a timely manner following reports that it took the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) five months to provide temporary housing in Louisiana and a year in Maui, Hawaii. There are currently 2,581 families displaced by Hurricane Helene, and counties in Western North Carolina requested 1,180 FEMA trailers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/foushee-ross-call-for-greater-accountability-in-housing-amid-concerns-over-wall-street-influence,"Foushee, Ross Call for Greater Accountability in Housing Amid Concerns Over Wall Street Influence",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"As first-time homeownership rates drop, lawmakers request an investigation into the effects of institutional investors on housing affordability DURHAM, NC (October 29, 2024) — Today, Congresswomen Valerie Foushee (NC-04) and Deborah Ross (NC-02) sent a letter urging the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to examine the impact of institutional investment on the housing sector, and whether investors are taking advantage of federal affordable housing programs at the expense of homeowners and renters. The surge of institutional investments has led to rising housing prices and increased rental costs, significantly impacting working families, first-time home buyers, and renters across North Carolina. In the Research Triangle area, median home prices surged over 25% from 2020 to 2023. Reports indicate that institutional investors purchased nearly 18% of all homes in Wake County in 2022, outbidding local families and exacerbating the housing crisis. The lawmakers wrote, “Federal housing policy should prioritize the housing needs of everyday Americans, not speculative profits. We urge you to act swiftly in probing these programs and practices so that Congress and housing agencies can better understand the role of institutional investors in housing affordability and provide solutions.” Specifically, the lawmakers are requesting that the investigation focuses on: Evaluating federal programs that provide incentives to large real estate investors, with suggestions to make these programs serve their intended purpose of helping families. How the rise of large investors owning homes is affecting prices and rent, regardless of what federal housing programs are in place. Whether practices like raising rents are pushing out middle-and low-income families. How the business practices of these investors are harming tenants’ rights, living conditions, and financial well-being.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-protect-medicare-physicians-and,Murphy Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Medicare for Physicians and Patients,2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement after introducing the bipartisan Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act, to support physicians and protect access to care for Medicare beneficiaries. ""America's physicians are at a breaking point and access to high-quality, affordable care is at risk for millions of Medicare patients,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""When a physician sees a Medicare patient, they do so out of the goodness of their heart, not because it makes financial sense. Medical inflation is much higher and the cost of seeing patients continues to rise. Unfortunately, reimbursements continue to decline, putting immense pressure on doctors to retire, close their practices, forgo seeing new Medicare patients, or seek a less efficient employment position. This bipartisan legislation would stop yet another year of reimbursement cuts, give them a slight inflationary adjustment, and protect Medicare for physicians and patients alike."" ""Medicare payments to physicians are just not keeping pace with our economic realities and the cost of care,"" said Congressman Jimmy Panetta. ""Our bipartisan legislation would not only prevent harmful cuts but also would adjust provider reimbursements for inflation. Such a law would expand seniors' access to quality healthcare by helping medical providers continue their care for Medicare beneficiaries."" ""Access to quality healthcare is a something every senior deserves, but declining Medicare reimbursement is putting that access at risk,"" said Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks. ""The bipartisan Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act is crucial to reversing the damaging trend of cuts that threaten our healthcare providers, especially in underserved communities. We must act now to prevent further burnout and consolidation in our system, ensuring that every Medicare beneficiary receives the care they need and deserve."" ""Having an outdated Medicare reimbursement rate for physicians makes it harder for healthcare professionals to provide high-quality care, putting patients at risk,"" said Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. ""Physicians, unlike the rest of the players in health care, have never received an inflationary update and consistently received cuts. This bill ensures a more stable Medicare payment system, allowing providers to focus on delivering care rather than worrying about losing their practice. With this bipartisan effort, we are working toward a system that supports both patients and doctors."" ""All patients deserve timely access to healthcare from quality physicians in their communities,"" said Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. ""Inadequate Medicare reimbursement threatens that access. I have long fought to correct the current trend of cutting reimbursement levels year after year, and I am proud to join my bipartisan colleagues to introduce the Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act. The current path toward further consolidation, physician burnout, and closure of medical practices must be corrected."" ""Over the past 22 years, adjusting for inflation, physicians have essentially taken a 26% pay cut from Medicare,"" said Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. ""Their reimbursement has been flat or declining, while overhead costs have increased by about 47%: rent, labor, equipment, and insurance. I cannot think of another profession whose compensation has dropped by 26% over 2 decades. Physicians have been holding their breath, year after year, hoping that Congress will act to avert these devastating decreases in reimbursement. Without adequate reimbursement, solo and small practice physicians—most often in rural or underserved areas—are already closing their doors. It’s up to Congress to ensure that physicians are fairly compensated and can continue to practice, so that all Medicare patients have access to high-quality, affordable care, and I am proud to co-sponsor legislation that will achieve just that."" ""As a physician, I recognize that year after year cuts to Medicare reimbursement jeopardizes access to care for our nation’s seniors,"" said Congressman John Joyce, M.D. ""We must work in Congress to create a more sustainable long-term solution to ensure that Medicare patients continue to receive the high-quality affordable care that they deserve. While we continue this important work, I am proud to co-lead the Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act, in order to protect access for Medicare beneficiaries and support Medicare physicians in the face of these proposed cuts."" ""As an emergency medicine physician, I know how important it is for families and individuals I serve to have access to the necessary health care services they rely on,"" said Congressman Raul Ruiz M.D. ""I am deeply concerned about the impact the outdated Medicare reimbursement rate has on health care access for my constituents. That is why I am co-leading the 'Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act' that will move us away from a system where every year seniors’ access to essential care is threatened due to potential cuts."" Background In July 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a rule that would decrease Medicare reimbursement for physician services by 2.8% beginning on January 1, 2025. Compounded with CMS’ own estimates of a projected 3.6% increase in practice cost expenses for next year, physicians will be faced with an 6.4% cut unless Congress acts. According to the American Medical Association, when adjusted for inflation, Medicare reimbursement for physician services has declined 29% from 2001 to 2024. Medicare reimbursement cuts for physicians have significant ripple effects across our health care system, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The decline in reimbursement rates, while wages and operational costs continue to rise, is forcing many physician practices to consider layoffs, reduced services, or office closure. At a time when we’re facing a physician shortage and a historic number of doctors are nearing retirement age, these cuts risk accelerating physician burnout and reducing access to care for Medicare patients. Supporting Organizations Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy, ADVION (formerly National Association for the Support of Long Term Care), Alabama Society for the Rheumatic Diseases, Alliance for Headache Disorders Advocacy, Alliance for Physical Therapy Quality and Innovation, Alliance of Specialty Medicine, Alliance of Wound Care Stakeholders, Ambulatory Surgery Center Association, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, American Academy of Audiology, American Academy of Dermatology Association, American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, American Academy of Neurology, American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, American Academy of Pain Medicine, American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Chiropractic Association, American Clinical Neurophysiology Society, American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, American College of Cardiology, American College of Chest Physicians, American College of Emergency Physicians, American College of Gastroenterology, American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics, American College of Mohs Surgery, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, American College of Osteopathic Internists, American College of Physicians, American College of Radiation Oncology, American College of Radiology, American College of Rheumatology, American College of Surgeons, American Gastroenterological Association, American Geriatrics Society, American Glaucoma Society, American Health Care Association, American Medical Association, American Medical Group Association, American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association, American Medical Women's Association, American Occupational Therapy Association, American Optometric Association, American Osteopathic Association, American Physical Therapy Association, American Physical Therapy Association – Private Practice Section, American Podiatric Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association Services, American Society for Clinical Pathology, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, American Society for Radiation Oncology, American Society for Surgery of the Hand, American Society of Breast Surgeons, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons, American Society of Dermatopathology, American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology, American Society of Echocardiography, American Society of Hand Therapists, American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, American Society of Pediatric Nephrology, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Retina Specialists, American Society of Transplant Surgeons, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, American Urogynecologic Society, American Urological Association, Arkansas Rheumatology Association, Association for Clinical Oncology , Association of American Medical Colleges, Association of Clinicians for the Underserved, Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, Association of Women in Rheumatology, Brain Injury Association of America, California Medical Association, California Rheumatology Alliance, CardioVascular Coalition, Chicago Rheumatism Society, Clinical Social Work Association, Coalition of State Rheumatology Organizations, College of American Pathologists, Community Oncology Alliance (COA), Congress of Neurological Surgeons, Connecticut Rheumatology Association, Dialysis Vascular Access Coalition, Digestive Health Physicians Association, Digestive Health Physicians Association, Emergency Department Practice Management Association, Endocrine Society, Federation of American Hospitals, Florida Society of Rheumatology, Free2care, Georgia Society of Rheumatology, Healthcare Business Management Association, Heart Failure Society of America, Heart Rhythm Society, Indiana Associations Pathologists, Infectious Diseases Society of America, Infusion Providers Alliance, LUGPA, Maryland Society for the Rheumatic Diseases, Massachusetts Medical Society, Medical Group Management Association, MidWest Rheumatology Association, National Association of ACOs, National Association of Rehabilitation Providers and Agencies, National Association of Spine Specialists, National Infusion Center Association, National Rural Health Association, Nebraska Rheumatology Society, New York State Rheumatology Society, North Carolina Rheumatology Association, Office-Based Facility Organization, Outpatient Endovascular and Interventional Society, Pediatrix Medical Group, Inc., Physician-Led Healthcare for America, Physicians Advocacy Institute, Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical Association, Practicing Physicians of America, Renal Physicians Association, Rheumatology Alliance of Louisiana, Rheumatology Association of Minnesota and the Dakotas, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, Society for Vascular Surgery, Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, Society of General Internal Medicine, Society of Gynecologic Oncology, Society of Hospital Medicine, Society of Interventional Radiology, Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery, Society of Thoracic Surgeons, Tennessee Rheumatology Society, Texas Medical Association, US Oncology Network, Virginia Society of Rheumatology, West Virginia Rheumatology Society, and the Wisconsin Rheumatology Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/10/ross-foushee-call-for-greater-accountability-in-housing-amid-concerns-over-wall-street-influence,"Ross, Foushee Call for Investigation of Effects of Wall Street Speculation on Housing Market",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswomen Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Valerie Foushee (NC-04) sent a letter urging the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to examine the impact of institutional investment on the housing sector, and whether investors are taking advantage of federal affordable housing programs at the expense of homeowners and renters. The surge of institutional investments has led to rising housing prices and increased rental costs, significantly impacting working families, first-time home buyers, and renters across North Carolina. In the Research Triangle area, median home pricessurged over 25% from 2020 to 2023. Reports indicate that institutional investors purchasednearly 18% of all homes in Wake County in 2022, outbidding local families and exacerbating the housing crisis. The lawmakers wrote, “Federal housing policy should prioritize the housing needs of everyday Americans, not speculative profits. We urge you to act swiftly in probing these programs and practices so that Congress and housing agencies can better understand the role of institutional investors in housing affordability and provide solutions.” Specifically, the lawmakers are requesting that the investigation focuses on: Evaluating federal programs that provide incentives to large real estate investors, with suggestions to make these programs serve their intended purpose of helping families. How the rise of large investors owning homes is affecting prices and rent, regardless of what federal housing programs are in place. Whether practices like raising rents are pushing out middle-and low-income families. How the business practices of these investors are harming tenants’ rights, living conditions, and financial well-being. Full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-recovery-update-29,Hurricane recovery update #29,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 28, 2024 Dear Friend, You may have noticed that it’s been a few days since I last sent out a daily update. That’s because I’m officially moving to weekly updates. I hope you view this change in frequency as positively as I do. I have been honored to be able to serve as a resource for folks across our mountains over the last month. Please trust that I will continue to do so, but it is becoming apparent that our recovery path is transitioning, and for that reason, so must the frequency of my updates. Western North Carolina is progressing. Immediate needs have largely been met, so now we must turn toward our community’s long-term needs like housing through the winter and rebuilding the homes and businesses that were destroyed. Just like I know many of you are, I’m working to help address these needs. Most prominently, I’m working to expedite the delivery of FEMA housing trailers. In past disasters, these trailers have taken months to be delivered. With winter approaching, that’s not going to cut it for WNC. Our people need warm places to stay NOW, not in six months, and I’m reiterating that to FEMA daily until the necessary trailers get delivered. I would also like to emphasize that this transition in frequency has only been made possible by the community of our mountains and the hard work put in by Western North Carolinians over the past month. It symbolizes a new era of recovery. The urgency that immediately followed Hurricane Helene for most folks has been transformed into a drive to rebuild WNC. We are making progress. We are getting through this. We are recovering. All as a community. Every Monday, be on the lookout for more information on our community’s recovery and where to find resources, and if you ever have any questions in between updates, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. I lastly want to remind folks who were denied for FEMA assistance, whether it be for the $750 serious needs assistance, temporary sheltering assistance, etc., and need help filing an appeal, please reach out to my office so we can assist you. Today’s update includes information on billing concerns for folks with Duke Energy or AT&T internet, a new Disaster Recovery Center in Swain and Buncombe counties, how to avoid scams during the FEMA process, and a new $604 million disaster relief package form the North Carolina General Assembly. This is update number 29, with more information to follow in the coming weeks. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County - TEMPORARY LOCATIONS Buncombe County Sports Park (Parking Lot) 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Open October 28-31, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Buncombe County - PERMANENT LOCATION Cane Creek Pool 590 Lower Brush Creek Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Madison County Madison County Public Library - Marshall Branch 1335 N. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rutherford County Mountains Branch Library 150 Bills Creek Rd., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Swain County Swain County Technology & Training Center 45 East Ridge Dr., Bryson City, NC 28713 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Yancey County County Annex Facility 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed a second round of disaster relief on October 24, known as the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 Part II. State legislators have stated that this package is still preliminary support, and more will be on the way in another session on November 19, 2024. This bill adds another $604 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund to the Hurricane Helene Fund. Below lays out where the funds are going and shares a summary of what some of the funds will be used for. $16.7 million for the North Carolina Community College System $5 million for a grant program to cover tuition and fees for eligible students at impacted community colleges in WNC for the spring semester. $10.5 million for an emergency grant program to support students who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and schools must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $65 million for the Department of Public Instruction $5 million to increase mental health services to students, families, and school personnel in WNC. Expands school flexibility by excusing an additional 20 days of missed instruction time due to school closures from Hurricane Helene. $20 million for the University of North Carolina $5.5 million to establish a grant program to cover tuition for eligible in-state students at UNC Asheville in the spring semester. $5 million for an emergency grant program to support students in the UNC system who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and schools must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $1 million for the same emergency grant program for students at private universities in WNC who have suffered financial hardship due to damage and destruction by Helene. Students will be eligible for up to $2,500 and the UNC system must start taking applications by November 15. The funds must be used on expenses that support a student’s continued enrollment. $71.4 million to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services $1 million to local social services offices for rental assistance. $56 million to the Department of Commerce $50 million to Golden LEAF to administer a bridge loan program to qualifying businesses suffering economic distress due to Helene. $139 million to the Department of Environmental Quality $100 million to establish an emergency bridge loan program for water infrastructure. $22 million to establish an emergency infrastructure bridge loan program for commercial underground storage tanks. $130 million to the Department of Public Safety $106 million to general government, including the Office of State Budget and Management and the Treasurer. $100 million to the Local Government Commission to provide cash flow loans to local governments in affected areas. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Nearly 223,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to more than 3,400 households. FEMA has distributed more than $178 million in housing assistance to more than 112,000 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 29,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC How to avoid scams during the assistance application process: Homeowners and renters who applied for FEMA disaster assistance in WNC should be aware that FEMA representatives may call from unfamiliar area codes and phone numbers that could show as SPAM or no caller ID. It is important to answer the call, but always be alert to these illegitimate practices: A FEMA inspector calls, and you did not submit a FEMA application. A FEMA inspector asks for your banking information. FEMA inspectors are NEVER authorized to collect your personal financial information. A payment is requested from someone who says they are from FEMA. FEMA will never request payment. A FEMA inspector calls and asks for your personally identifiable information such as your social security number. If any of these things happen to you, or you receive a call from someone saying they are a FEMA representative and you aren’t sure, call the FEMA Helpline to report the incident. FEMA Helpline: (800) 621-3362 If you believe you are the victim of a scam related to the Helene response, you should file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice by: Visiting ncdoj.gov/complaint; or, Calling toll-free at 877-566-7226. Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing and disinfection kit. Well disinfection and well water collection kits can be picked up from the following locations from October 28-31, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Buncombe County Health Department - Environmental Health Building 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801 Cherokee County Health Department 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906 Haywood County Environmental Health 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 200, Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County Health Department 1200 Spartanburg Hwy., Ste. 100, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison - Environmental Health Building 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753 Yancey County Health Department 202 Medical Campus Dr., Burnsville, NC 28714 NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sky Lanes Bowling Alley 1477 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen at Ben's Tune Up 195 Hilliard Ave, Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. Voter Information The Justice Department has launched a website with information to help Western North Carolinians and other communities impacted by recent hurricanes to vote. The site identifies and provides links to various state changes made to accommodate displaced voters and information for folks who have lost their ID cards, had polling sites moved or who are unsure where or how they can vote. You can access the website via this link. Reminder: Early voting has started! Voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county. Only four early voting sites were closed due to Hurricane Helene across NC-11, all in Buncombe County. The following four sites are NO LONGER eligible early voting sites, as was originally planned prior to Hurricane Helene: Bee Tree Fire Station Friendship Center North Asheville Library Upper Hominy Fire & Rescue Department All other regular early voting sites are OPEN across NC-11. Coordination is ongoing to develop messaging in multiple languages to inform shelter residents and guests of how and where to vote. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power My office has heard multiple complaints of Duke Energy customers being charged for power on days where there was an outage. Duke Energy provided the following information for how billing was calculated, and what will take place to provide a credit if you were over billed due to being a non-AMI account: AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) Bills for customers with an AMI/Smart Meter will reflect actual usage for the billing cycle if the meter is communicating. (For awareness: Duke is monitoring usage daily) Non-AMI Customers without an AMI/Smart Meter may see estimated usage if Duke was unable to obtain a reading prior to invoicing. Once Duke Energy can obtain a reading from the meter, your next bill will be adjusted to reflect actual usage and a credit will be applied for anyone who’s usage was overestimated. Duke Energy also provided the following information for auto-pay and budget billing customers: Auto-Pay Payments will automatically draft on the due date for customers signed up for auto-pay. Customers have the option to temporarily pause their automatic payment by contacting Duke at 800-777-9898 (DEC) | 800-452-2777 (DEP) or by logging into their account to unenroll from Auto Pay. If a customer chooses to unenroll via logging into their online account, they are encouraged to re-enroll when their situation allows to avoid any future missed payments. Budget Billing Customers enrolled in Budget Billing will still be invoiced their set monthly amount. Almost 100 percent of all power outages have been restored in impacted areas. French Broad Electric is still focusing restoration efforts in their hardest hit areas in Yancey County, including Crabtree, Little Switzerland, along McKinney Mine Rd., Bakers Creek, Pensacola, and the western side of the county. One of the most challenging areas to restore power is along the Cane River from Langford Branch to Huntdale. Several miles of power lines were destroyed and the bank where the lines were once located is no longer an option. FBE is having to reroute lines and build them from scratch. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! Emergency roadway repair work continues with the installation of temporary bridges, numerous slide repairs, roadway reconstruction work, and repair of dangerous shoulder washouts. The focus continues to be on major corridors and communities with limited access. NCDOT still has 2,134 employees responding in WNC, including: 375 from Central NC 284 in crew transfers from both Central and Eastern NC 128 Kentucky DOT personnel who came to WNC to assist in the recovery. Nearly 900 roads have been reopened. Just over 400 roads remain closed, many of which will require extensive repairs to be reopened. NCDOT has established a Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 14 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access My office has also heard from numerous customers frustrated that they were billed for a full month of internet through AT&T despite extended outages, and in many cases, service still not being restored: AT&T Customer Support is providing billing credits and working with customers impacted by Hurricane Helene when they call AT&T customer service, (800) 288-2020. The fiber line has been restored from Lake Lure to Chimney Rock, restoring communication capabilities to the area for the first time since Hurricane Helene hit our mountains. Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Nearly 100 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 2,000 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and emergency assistance compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. 1,100 of the 1,500 active duty soldiers from Ft. Liberty and Ft. Campbell are returning to their bases by the end of the week. Currently, only 400 active duty soldiers remain in Western North Carolina. Any remaining tasks have been transitioned over to the N.C. National Guard. The National Guard has distributed more than 16,000 tons of commodities to Western North Carolina. Highlights from the last 24 hours: Lake Lure debris clearance mission completed. Distributed 445 tons of fill and rock and 400 pallets of material to Yancey County. Completed 670 humanitarian aid deliveries in Haywood County. Completed culvert debris clean out in Marshall, NC, located in Madison County. Water is actively flowing through the culvert now. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-honored-stratford-richardson-ymca-after-securing-funds-new,Rep. Adams Honored at Stratford Richardson YMCA After Securing Funds for New Clinic,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLOTTE – Yesterday, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) was honored by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte for her years of service to the community and the role she played in securing $2 million for the construction of their new Atrium Health Community Care Primary Care West Boulevard Family Medicine Clinic. This on-campus clinic will help provide quality, affordable care to those in need. “By providing minor surgical procedures, women’s care, pediatric care, and other preventive services, the Atrium Health Community Care Primary Care West Boulevard Family Medicine Clinic will be the difference between a family having to pay exorbitant emergency room fees and getting immediate treatment,” said Rep. Adams. “I am deeply honored to be chosen for the YMCA of Greater Charlotte’s inaugural ‘Champion of Change’ award. This work is personal for me and this clinic is an important step in closing the healthcare gaps that exist in our community. Healthcare is one of my four H’s, so I am proud to have helped support this clinic and the YMCA of Greater Charlotte by securing funding towards its development.” “We owe a debt of gratitude not only to Congresswoman Adams but also to our incredible partners—Atrium Health, our YMCA team, the congresswoman’s team, our elected officials, and our community partners,"" said Sue Glass, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Charlotte. “Together, through advocacy, commitment, and collaboration, we are transforming the Stratford Richardson YMCA campus into a catalyst for positive impact in Charlotte’s West Boulevard Corridor. Other appropriations information and community project funding awards are available on Rep. Adams’ website. ### Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-statement-freedom-caucus-proposal-disenfranchise-nc-voters,Rep. Adams' Statement on Freedom Caucus Proposal to Disenfranchise NC Voters,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), released the following statement after Congressman Andy Harris (R-MD-01), Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, suggested the North Carolina State Legislature award their state’s Electoral College votes to former president Donald Trump irrespective of the votes of the people of North Carolina: “The election is barely underway and the House Freedom Caucus already wants to throw the ballots out. It would be disgraceful to overturn the votes of a free and fair election. Rep. Andy Harris (MD-01) should retract and apologize for his statement that North Carolina's state legislature should unilaterally hand the state's Electoral College votes to his preferred candidate. For my part, I joined my colleagues in signing onto letters to both the USPS and the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure our elections remain safe and accessible in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Our constituents are experiencing a disaster. Exploiting them for ill political gain, instead of helping, is shameful. Let’s turn the page on this insanity once and for all.” ### Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-recovery-update-28,Hurricane recovery update #28,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 25, 2024 Dear Friend, Four weeks. Western North Carolina’s world was rocked by Hurricane Helene four whole weeks ago. I have always been proud to be from these mountains, but I’ve never been prouder than I am right now. We’ve come so far over the past 28 days, in a way that only salt-of-the-earth mountain folk can. I could list endless reasons why you should be proud of yourselves, but I don’t think I need to because you see it every day. When chaos struck in the first few days after the storm, you buckled down and powered through. Folks immediately began to muck and gut flooded buildings regardless of whether it was your building or not. Dozens of churches and non-profits staffed by local community members began distributing food and water, and I have yet to see a single person turn down a neighbor in need. After being knocked down, I’ve watched our mountain communities build back up, brick by brick. We still have a long road ahead of us, but I think being four weeks post-disaster only warrants taking a step back and appreciating how we’ve shown up for each other and how far we’ve come. Take a moment to be proud of yourself today, because I’m proud of you too. This update includes a one-day extension to apply in-person for D-SNAP benefits if you live in Buncombe, Haywood, Macon, or McDowell counties, the standing down of active duty military who were deployed to Western NC (N.C. National Guard still remains stationed throughout NC-11), and once again highlights a change in location for the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center. Today is update number 28, with more information to follow in the coming weeks. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County - TEMPORARY LOCATIONS Swannanoa Fire Rescue - Bee Tree Fire Substation 510 Bee Tree Rd., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Open October 24-27, 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park (Parking Lot) 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Open October 28-31, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Madison County Madison County Public Library - Marshall Branch 1335 N. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rutherford County Mountains Branch Library 150 Bills Creek Rd., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Yancey County County Annex Facility 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Nearly 223,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to roughly 6,300 individuals. FEMA has distributed more than $138 million in housing assistance to more than 96,000 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 29,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing and disinfection kit. Well disinfection and well water collection kits can be picked up from the following locations from October 22-24 and October 28-31, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Buncombe County Health Department - Environmental Health Building 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801 Cherokee County Health Department 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906 Haywood County Environmental Health 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 200, Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County Health Department 1200 Spartanburg Hwy., Ste. 100, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison - Environmental Health Building 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753 Yancey County Health Department 202 Medical Campus Dr., Burnsville, NC 28714 Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 22 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power, but this system does not serve any residential customers, and two systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 234 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 13 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sky Lanes Bowling Alley 1477 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen at Ben's Tune Up 195 Hilliard Ave, Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Reopening October 22-24 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. daily for a special event to distribute critical baby items. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. Voter Information The Justice Department has launched a website with information to help Western North Carolinians and other communities impacted by recent hurricanes to vote. The site identifies and provides links to various state changes made to accommodate displaced voters and information for folks who have lost their ID cards, had polling sites moved or who are unsure where or how they can vote. You can access the website via this link. Reminder: Early voting has started! Voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county. Only four early voting sites were closed due to Hurricane Helene across NC-11, all in Buncombe County. The following four sites are NO LONGER eligible early voting sites, as was originally planned prior to Hurricane Helene: Bee Tree Fire Station Friendship Center North Asheville Library Upper Hominy Fire & Rescue Department All other regular early voting sites are OPEN across NC-11. Coordination is ongoing to develop messaging in multiple languages to inform shelter residents and guests of how and where to vote. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group The first of a series of free support groups occurred on Monday, October 14, to help the community manage the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 21 and 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power Less than 3,700 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Most remaining power outages are concentrated in Yancey County. Around 950 Duke Energy customers are without power. Roughly 2,700 co-op customers remain without power. Local co-ops are utilizing their full teams to restore energy and have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives across 11 states. French Broad Electric is focusing restoration efforts in their hardest hit areas in Yancey County, including Crabtree, Little Switzerland, along McKinney Mine Rd., Bakers Creek, Pensacola, and the western side of the county. One of the most challenging areas to restore power is along the Cane River from Langford Branch to Huntdale. Several miles of power lines were destroyed and the bank where the lines were once located is no longer an option. FBE is having to reroute lines and build them from scratch. NCDOT crews are still coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! Emergency roadway repair work continues with the installation of temporary bridges, numerous slide repairs, roadway reconstruction work, and repair of dangerous shoulder washouts. The focus continues to be on major corridors and communities with limited access. Crews continue to refine estimates, determine what work can be done in-house and work to draw up contracts for site-specific repairs. NCDOT has established a Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 14 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access The fiber line has been restored from Lake Lure to Chimney Rock, restoring communication capabilities to the area for the first time since Hurricane Helene hit our mountains. Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Roughly 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. The remaining areas require significant infrastructure reconstruction. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 2,000 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and emergency assistance compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. 1,100 of the 1,500 active duty soldiers from Ft. Liberty and Ft. Campbell are returning to their bases by the end of the week. Currently, only 400 active duty soldiers remain in Western North Carolina. Any remaining tasks have been transitioned over to the N.C. National Guard. The National Guard has distributed more than 16,000 tons of commodities to Western North Carolina. Highlights from the last 24 hours: Lake Lure debris clearance mission completed. Distributed 445 tons of fill and rock and 400 pallets of material to Yancey County. Completed 670 humanitarian aid deliveries in Haywood County. Completed culvert debris clean out in Marshall, NC, located in Madison County. Water is actively flowing through the culvert now. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Yesterday, October 24, was the deadline to apply for D-SNAP benefits for most counties. USDA has granted a one-day extension for residents living in Buncombe, Haywood, Macon, and McDowell counties to apply for D-SNAP in person at the listed location in their county: Buncombe County Buncombe County Health & Human Services 40 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Haywood County Haywood County Health and Human Services 157 Paragon Pkwy. #300, Clyde, NC 28721 Macon County Macon County Department of Social Services 183 Holly Springs Plz., Franklin, NC 28734 McDowell County McDowell County YMCA Gym: Bottom Level 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/10/congresswoman-ross-announces-over-105-million-in-federal-funding-for-the-north-carolina-railroad-company,Congresswoman Ross Announces Over $105 Million in Federal Funding for the North Carolina Railroad Company,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) announced $105,595,000 in federal funding awarded to the North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR) from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The grant will be used by NCRR in conjunction with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and Norfolk Southern to help complete key components of the freight and passenger rail networks between Greensboro and Raleigh. Already this year, the number of NC By Train passengers has increased by 20% in comparison to 2023. This funding will also significantly increase on-time performance for existing Amtrak routes, allow for additional passenger trains along the growing corridor, and help meet growing transportation needs in North Carolina. In June 2024, Congresswomen Ross was joined by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC), along with other members of the North Carolina delegation, in supporting NCRR’s application for this grant. “I am thrilled to see this important investment coming to North Carolina that will help connect critical rail lines across our state,” said Congresswoman Ross. “From the Triangle to the Triad, North Carolina’s rapid growth demands robust transportation solutions that can meet the needs of our communities. I will continue fighting for federal support that will invest in modern transportation options and strengthen our economy.” This grant will fund a majority of the Carolinian and Piedmont Passenger and Freight improvements project to upgrade the capacity of the NC-Line, owned by the NCRR, to meet the growing demands of both freight and passenger traffic in the state. This project will support various improvements, including reconstructing up to 69 miles of rail and adding over five miles of sidings. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-recovery-update-27,Hurricane recovery update #27,2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 24, 2024 Dear Friend, Yesterday, I shared that the U.S. House of Representatives was trying to prohibit me from continuing to share this vital information with you. The House Communications Standards Commission told me I have had “ample time” to communicate with you. Despite folks still being without critical needs like water, power, and housing, the Commission felt three weeks was long enough. According to them, nobody was in danger anymore, so there was no need to continue my communication. I wholeheartedly disagreed. Disaster Recovery Centers are still being stood up, food and water distribution sites are changing, shelter locations are changing, and more. These resources all support the life and safety of Western North Carolinians, and folks running these places are relying on my communication with you to get the word out. So, I told the Commission that I wasn’t going to comply. In my opinion, the health and safety of every single person in NC-11 is more important than some arbitrary communications rule. I actively fought against the Commission’s decision that prohibits me from communicating with you and yesterday evening, I was told that we have received an extension to the blackout exemption. The Commission has finally realized the dire need for this communication and that Western NC is not healed. We are still very much responding and in the early stages of recovery from one of the worst natural disasters in North Carolina, and arguably American, history. I will continue to keep you posted on where to find vital resources for the foreseeable future. Today’s update includes three new Disaster Recovery Centers in Madison, Rutherford, and Yancey counties, a change in location for the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center to accommodate back to school, new information on French Broad Electric power restoration efforts in Yancey County, and announces that today is the deadline for D-SNAP applications. This is update number 27, with more information to follow in the coming days. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School - CLOSING TODAY AT 7:00 P.M. 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. NEW TEMPORARY LOCATIONS: Buncombe County Swannanoa Fire Rescue - Bee Tree Fire Substation 510 Bee Tree Rd., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Open October 24-27, 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park (Parking Lot) 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Open October 28-31, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Madison County Madison County Public Library - Marshall Branch 1335 N. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rutherford County Mountains Branch Library 150 Bills Creek Rd., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Yancey County County Annex Facility 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Nearly 217,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to almost 6,600 individuals. FEMA has distributed more than $134 million in housing assistance to more than 94,000 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 27,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing and disinfection kit. Well disinfection and well water collection kits can be picked up from the following locations from October 22-24 and October 28-31, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Buncombe County Health Department - Environmental Health Building 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801 Cherokee County Health Department 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906 Haywood County Environmental Health 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 200, Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County Health Department 1200 Spartanburg Hwy., Ste. 100, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison - Environmental Health Building 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753 Yancey County Health Department 202 Medical Campus Dr., Burnsville, NC 28714 Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 22 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power, but this system does not serve any residential customers, and two systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 233 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 13 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sky Lanes Bowling Alley 1477 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Reopening October 22-24 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. daily for a special event to distribute critical baby items. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. Voter Information The Justice Department has launched a website with information to help Western North Carolinians and other communities impacted by recent hurricanes to vote. The site identifies and provides links to various state changes made to accommodate displaced voters and information for folks who have lost their ID cards, had polling sites moved or who are unsure where or how they can vote. You can access the website via this link. Reminder: Early voting has started! Voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county. Only four early voting sites were closed due to Hurricane Helene across NC-11, all in Buncombe County. The following four sites are NO LONGER eligible early voting sites, as was originally planned prior to Hurricane Helene: Bee Tree Fire Station Friendship Center North Asheville Library Upper Hominy Fire & Rescue Department All other regular early voting sites are OPEN across NC-11. Coordination is ongoing to develop messaging in multiple languages to inform shelter residents and guests of how and where to vote. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group The first of a series of free support groups occurred on Monday, October 14, to help the community manage the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 21 and 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power Less than 4,800 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. The majority of remaining power outages are concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Around 750 Duke Energy customers are without power. Roughly 4,000 co-op customers remain without power. Local co-ops are utilizing their full teams to restore energy and have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives across 11 states. French Broad Electric is focusing restoration efforts in their hardest hit areas in Yancey County, including Crabtree, Little Switzerland, along McKinney Mine Rd., Bakers Creek, Pensacola, and the western side of the county. One of the most challenging areas to restore power is along the Cane River from Langford Branch to Huntdale. Several miles of power lines were destroyed and the bank where the lines were once located is no longer an option. FBE is having to reroute lines and build them from scratch. More co-op crews arrived yesterday, October 21, to provide additional support, including to help replace broken poles and wires. NCDOT crews are still coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! NCDOT staff have transitioned to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 870 roads and are only reporting 417 road closures. More than 2,000 DOT employees are working in Western NC, including 375 units from Central NC and 70 from Kentucky. More than 900 pieces of heavy equipment, including dump trucks, backhoes, loaders, and graders in the affected areas to assist with recovery and repairs. Crews continue to refine estimates, determine what work can be done in-house and work to draw up contracts for site-specific repairs. NCDOT has established a Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 14 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access The fiber line has been restored from Lake Lure to Chimney Rock, restoring communication capabilities to the area for the first time since Hurricane Helene hit our mountains. Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Roughly 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. The remaining areas require significant infrastructure reconstruction. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 3,100 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles 10 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. The National Guard has distributed more than 12,200 tons of commodities to Western North Carolina. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Applications are being accepted through TODAY, October 24. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswomen-foushee-ross-announce-12-million-in-federal-funding-for-raleigh-durham-international-airport,"Congresswomen Foushee, Ross Announce $12 Million in Federal Funding for Raleigh-Durham International Airport",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Funding will support the Terminal 2 Landside Expansion project DURHAM, NC (October 24, 2024) — Today, Congresswomen Valerie Foushee (NC-04) and Deborah Ross (NC-02) announced $12 million in federal funding awarded to the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority (RDU) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the FY 2025 Airport Terminal Program. This award will fund a portion of the Terminal 2 ticketing check-in, baggage claim areas, security checkpoint, and international arrival processing area. This funding will also significantly enhance accessibility with new and modernized restroom facilities and reconstructed arrival and departure curbs to comply with current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. In September 2024, Congresswomen Foushee and Ross were joined by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC) in supporting RDU’s application for this grant. In 2023, RDU led the nation in growth with a record 14.5 million passengers and this year, the number of travelers is already 10.5% higher. Last month alone, more than 967,600 travelers flew through the airport. “I am very pleased Raleigh-Durham International Airport will receive $12 million in federal funding to support its continued growth and expansion efforts,” said Congresswoman Foushee. “As one of the fastest growing airports in the country, this significant federal grant will expand capacity, modernize infrastructure, and enhance efficiency for the millions of passengers RDU serves. I am proud to help secure this funding alongside my North Carolina Congressional colleagues, and I am grateful for the Biden-Harris Administration’s continued commitment to improving and investing in our nation’s transportation infrastructure.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/10/congresswomen-ross-foushee-announce-12-million-in-federal-funding-for-raleigh-durham-international-airport,"Congresswomen Ross, Foushee Announce $12 Million in Federal Funding for Raleigh-Durham International Airport",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswomen Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Valerie Foushee (NC-04) announced $12 million in federal funding awarded to the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority (RDU) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the FY 2025 Airport Terminal Program. This award will fund a portion of the Terminal 2 ticketing check-in, baggage claim areas, security checkpoint, and international arrival processing area. This funding will also significantly enhance accessibility with new and modernized restroom facilities and reconstructed arrival and departure curbs to comply with current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. In September 2024, Congresswomen Ross and Foushee were joined by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC) in supporting RDU’s application for this grant. In 2023, RDU led the nation in growth with a record 14.5 million passengers and this year, the number of travelers is already 10.5% higher. Last month alone, more than 967,600 travelers flew through the airport. “I am excited to see another historic investment coming to RDU,” said Congresswoman Ross. “As North Carolina continues to grow and attract visitors from all over the country and around the world, this funding will provide residents and travelers with a modern, efficient experience and help boost our local economy. I was proud to support RDU’s application for this critical funding and will continue working across the aisle to bring needed investments like this one back to the Triangle.” “I am very pleased Raleigh-Durham International Airport will receive $12 million in federal funding to support its continued growth and expansion efforts,” said Congresswoman Foushee. “As one of the fastest growing airports in the country, this significant federal grant will expand capacity, modernize infrastructure, and enhance efficiency for the millions of passengers RDU serves. I am proud to help secure this funding alongside my North Carolina Congressional colleagues, and I am grateful for the Biden-Harris Administration’s continued commitment to improving and investing in our nation’s transportation infrastructure.” Full text of the letter is available here ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-recovery-update-26-must-subscribe-continue-receiving-updates,Hurricane recovery update #26 - must SUBSCRIBE to continue receiving updates,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 23, 2024 Dear Friend, I have thoroughly enjoyed writing these updates to you every day. I truly believe the information I am sharing has been helpful to the folks of Western North Carolina and could otherwise not be located if I weren’t sending it out. That said, I have some alarming news. Bureaucracy in the House of Representatives is trying to prevent me from sending any more of these updates to you if you are not a subscriber of my newsletter. Over the past 26 days, I have only shared critical information on where to find resources, how to apply for federal assistance, updates on restoration efforts in our mountains, and the likes. I have not politicized the tragedy of Hurricane Helene, and I never intend to. As you know, we are less than two weeks away from Election Day. Usually, Members of Congress have certain prohibitions about communicating with their constituency for 60 days before the election. In the case of the 2024 general election, the communication restrictions began on September 6, 2024. This is known as the “blackout rule”. I abided by that requirement until Hurricane Helene hit and it became very clear that the health and safety of my community was more important than an arbitrary communications rule. I immediately began to send out communication with vital information and ended up receiving an exemption to the blackout rule that has been allowing me to send out information. Now, despite our community still being in a State of Emergency and in critical need of the information I am sharing, the House of Representatives is trying to stop me from sending any new updates beginning at 11:59 p.m. tonight, Wednesday, October 23, 2024. I am pushing back on this ruling as much as I can, but on the chance that I’m unable to continue communicating with you and you would like to still receive this vital information, I recommend you sign up for my newsletter. You can sign up for my e-newsletter using this link. If you sign up, I will still be sending daily information until one-month post hurricane, and then transition to sending the information once a week. This update includes where and when you can pick up well water testing and disinfection kits, reopening of a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a new voter assistance resource from the Department of Justice. Today is update number 26, and I will hopefully be able to share more information in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County: A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates More than 207,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to almost 6,300 individuals. FEMA has distributed more than $130 million in housing assistance to more than 90,000 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 24,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing and disinfection kit. Well disinfection and well water collection kits can be picked up from the following locations from October 22-24 and October 28-31, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Buncombe County Health Department - Environmental Health Building 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801 Cherokee County Health Department 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906 Haywood County Environmental Health 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 200, Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County Health Department 1200 Spartanburg Hwy., Ste. 100, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison - Environmental Health Building 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753 Yancey County Health Department 202 Medical Campus Dr., Burnsville, NC 28714 Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 22 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power, but this system does not serve any residential customers, and two systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 229 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 13 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sky Lanes Bowling Alley 1477 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Reopening October 22-24 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. daily for a special event to distribute critical baby items. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. Voter Information The Justice Department has launched a website with information to help Western North Carolinians and other communities impacted by recent hurricanes to vote. The site identifies and provides links to various state changes made to accommodate displaced voters and information for folks who have lost their ID cards, had polling sites moved or who are unsure where or how they can vote. You can access the website via this link. Reminder: Early voting has started! Voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county. Only four early voting sites were closed due to Hurricane Helene across NC-11, all in Buncombe County. The following four sites are NO LONGER eligible early voting sites, as was originally planned prior to Hurricane Helene: Bee Tree Fire Station Friendship Center North Asheville Library Upper Hominy Fire & Rescue Department All other regular early voting sites are OPEN across NC-11. Coordination is ongoing to develop messaging in multiple languages to inform shelter residents and guests of how and where to vote. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group The first of a series of free support groups occurred on Monday, October 14, to help the community manage the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 21 and 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power Roughly 6,200 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Up from less than 5,500 customers yesterday. The majority of remaining power outages are concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Around 2,500 Duke Energy customers are without power. This is up from around 900 yesterday. Roughly 3,600 co-op customers remain without power. Local co-ops are utilizing their full teams to restore energy and have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives across 11 states. French Broad Electric is averaging over 100 pole replacements per day. Prior to Helene, the most replaced poles in any given time were the replacement of 120 poles over a seven-day period in 2009. To date, FBE has replaced more than 1,200 poles, and they still have hundreds left to do. More co-op crews arrived yesterday, October 21, to provide additional support, including to help replace broken poles and wires. NCDOT crews are still coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! A portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway is reopening TODAY! The National Park Service will has opened from milepost 285.5 at Bamboo Gap to milepost 305 at Beacon Heights (near Grandfather Mountain). NCDOT staff have transitioned to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 818 roads and are only reporting 468 road closures. More than 2,000 DOT employees are working in Western NC, including 375 units from Central NC and 70 from Kentucky. NCDOT has established a new Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 14 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access The fiber line has been restored from Lake Lure to Chimney Rock, restoring communication capabilities to the area for the first time since Hurricane Helene hit our mountains. Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Roughly 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. The remaining areas require significant infrastructure reconstruction. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 3,100 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles 10 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. The National Guard has distributed more than 12,200 tons of commodities to Western North Carolina. Highlights from the last 24 hours: Completed relocation of palletized goods from Asheville airport. Completed culvert cleanout and cleared more than 74 cubic yards of debris by hand in Madison County. Continued large scale consolidation of palletized goods and continued assembly and delivery of 450 generators in support of Samaritan's Purse in Yancey County. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-statement-41st-anniversary-beirut-bombing,Murphy Statement on 41st Anniversary of Beirut Bombing,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenville, NC — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement on the 41st anniversary of the Marine Barracks Bombing in Beirut, Lebanon which occurred on October 23rd, 1983. ""Today is a solemn day as we remember the 241 service members, the majority deployed from Camp Lejeune, who lost their lives in the Beirut Bombing of 1983,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""This tragedy is the deadliest single-day attack on the U.S. Marines since the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. While nothing will replace the incredible lives that were taken from us, justice has been served to the mastermind of this heinous attack, Fuad Shukr, who was eliminated by Israeli forces on July 30th this summer. As we remember the selfless heroes who sacrificed their lives in service to our nation, I ask you to join me in praying for the continued peace and healing of their families.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/10/congresswoman-ross-leads-members-in-urging-congressional-investigation-of-hurricane-misinformation-on-social-media,Congresswoman Ross Leads Members in Urging Congressional Investigation of Hurricane Misinformation on Social Media,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) led members of the North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida delegations in urging the House Judiciary, Oversight, and Energy & Commerce Committees to investigate and hold hearings on the role of social media platforms in the spread of misinformation following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Representatives Kathy Castor (FL-14), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Kathy Manning (NC-06), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), and Wiley Nickel (NC-13) joined the letter. In North Carolina, misinformation has seriously impeded Hurricane Helene disaster relief. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Director Deanne Criswell called the level of misinformation: “the worst [she’s] ever seen.” Former President Donald Trump himself has spread harmful lies and outrageous rumors. “A series of widely circulated posts on Facebook and X falsely claimed that FEMA was offering a new grant for immediate cash assistance to all residents, regardless of impact, resulting in a flood of applications to non-existent programs. These scams took advantage of families who were already in distress, further delaying their ability to access legitimate aid,” the lawmakers wrote. “Similarly, on Instagram, TikTok, and Discord, conspiracy theories have spread claiming that both storms are the result of government actions. It is gravely concerning to witness these behaviors now escalating into harassment, death threats, and calls for violence against government officials, meteorologists, and aid workers. One post on TikTok stated that FEMA employees should be ‘arrested or shot or hung on sight.’” The lawmakers continued, “Misinformation not only delays the recovery process but also erodes public trust in institutions that are essential to helping our states to rebuild. It is critical that the American people know where to turn for reliable information during these emergencies, and social media platforms play a significant role in shaping those sources of information.” Specifically, the lawmakers are urging the committees to investigate: The failure of social media companies to adequately address misinformation; The role of algorithms in amplifying misinformation and scams; The impact of misinformation on public trust and disaster recovery; and Failures to protect against scams and frauds. Full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/helene-recovery-update-25-congressman-edwards,Helene recovery update #25 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 22, 2024 Dear Friend, It’s been almost a month since Hurricane Helene hit, and top of mind for many of our community’s residents and business owners is whether to rebuild in the wake of Helene’s destruction. The realities of your business being closed for weeks, having your home washed away or damaged beyond repair by flood waters, and not knowing what to do next is frightening; but if I can insert my two cents, here’s what I would say: This is home. It would probably be easier for many of you to relocate elsewhere and forget about the rubble left behind, but anywhere else in the country isn’t the same as the mountains of Western North Carolina. Our communities are special. So, as you make the difficult decision to stay or go, to close shop or rebuild, I encourage you to lean on your neighbors and remember that this place, these mountains, are home. We want you to stay, and we want to see you succeed. Rebuilding our mountains isn’t just about repairing our infrastructure and buildings. It’s about building back up the businesses and families that were hit hardest by the storm. It’s about letting folks know that their community is backing them, and that we will support them every step of the way through their recovery. The mountains are special because of the tight-knit, neighbor-help-neighbor communities that we have built. As folks make lifelong decisions to stay in Western NC or go, let’s remind them why they chose to come to the mountains in the first place. Because we are a community, and we are home. This edition includes an update on French Broad Electric’s repair efforts and restoration of communication in Chimney Rock for the first time since Helene hit. Today is update number 25, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County: A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates More than 207,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to almost 6,300 individuals. FEMA has distributed more than $130 million in housing assistance to more than 90,000 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 22,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing kit. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 22 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power, but this system does not serve any residential customers, and two systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 229 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 13 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Reopening October 22-24 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. daily for a special event to distribute critical baby items. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. Voter Information Reminder: Early voting has started! Voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county. Only four early voting sites were closed due to Hurricane Helene across NC-11, all in Buncombe County. The following four sites are NO LONGER eligible early voting sites, as was originally planned prior to Hurricane Helene: Bee Tree Fire Station Friendship Center North Asheville Library Upper Hominy Fire & Rescue Department All other regular early voting sites are OPEN across NC-11. Coordination is ongoing to develop messaging in multiple languages to inform shelter residents and guests of how and where to vote. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group The first of a series of free support groups occurred on Monday, October 14, to help the community manage the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 21 and 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power Roughly 6,200 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Up from less than 5,500 customers yesterday. The majority of remaining power outages are concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Around 2,500 Duke Energy customers are without power. This is up from around 900 yesterday. Roughly 3,600 co-op customers remain without power. Local co-ops are utilizing their full teams to restore energy and have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives across 11 states. French Broad Electric is averaging over 100 pole replacements per day. Prior to Helene, the most replaced poles in any given time were the replacement of 120 poles over a seven-day period in 2009. To date, FBE has replaced more than 1,200 poles, and they still have hundreds left to do. More co-op crews arrived yesterday, October 21, to provide additional support, including to help replace broken poles and wires. NCDOT crews are still coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! NCDOT staff have transitioned to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 818 roads and are only reporting 468 road closures. More than 2,000 DOT employees are working in Western NC, including 375 units from Central NC and 70 from Kentucky. NCDOT has established a new Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 14 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access The fiber line has been restored from Lake Lure to Chimney Rock, restoring communication capabilities to the area for the first time since Hurricane Helene hit our mountains. Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Roughly 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. The remaining areas require significant infrastructure reconstruction. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 3,100 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles 10 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. The National Guard has distributed more than 12,200 tons of commodities to Western North Carolina. Highlights from the last 24 hours: Completed relocation of palletized goods from Asheville airport. Completed culvert cleanout and cleared more than 74 cubic yards of debris by hand in Madison County. Continued large scale consolidation of palletized goods and continued assembly and delivery of 450 generators in support of Samaritan's Purse in Yancey County. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-raise-awareness-aadc-deficiency,Murphy Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Raise Awareness for AADC Deficiency,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement after introducing a bipartisan resolution alongside Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-MA) to designate October 23rd, 2024, as AADC Deficiency Awareness Day. ""I am proud to introduce this resolution to bring greater awareness about AADC Deficiency,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""Increasing recognition of this disease will support patients experiencing symptoms of this disease and guide them toward appropriate care. As a physician of over 30 years, I am honored to amplify awareness of AADC Deficiency in Congress and help inform the public about this rare disease."" ""I am proud to continue my work with Rep. Greg Murphy and reintroduce this bipartisan resolution designating October 23, 2024 as 'AADC Deficiency Awareness Day,'"" said Congressman Stephen F. Lynch. ""Raising awareness of this rare, yet devastating, disease will help patients and families recognize their symptoms and pursue treatment. I thank the AADC Family Network for their continued advocacy, research, and services they offer those who are affected by this disease, and I am hopeful this resolution will promote medical research and progress to find better treatment for those suffering from AADC Deficiency."" ""Building awareness is crucial - not only within the AADC community but also among healthcare providers - enabling them to identify symptoms early and deliver prompt, accurate diagnoses,"" said Kelly Heger, Director of the AADC Family Network. Background AADC Deficiency is a genetic neurologic rare disease that affects approximately 1 in 100,000 people in the United States. Aromatic L-Amino Acid Decarboxylase (AADC) Deficiency is a genetic neurologic rare disease that severely debilitates a patient's development, motor skills, growth, and cognitive and language skills and limits a patient's life. AADC Deficiency results from an inherited genetic disease where patients lack the AADC enzyme required to create dopamine and, without dopamine, patients will never achieve motor milestones, such as holding their heads up, sitting, and standing, or develop the ability to communicate or perform basic life functions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/helene-recovery-update-24-congressman-edwards,Helene recovery update #24 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 21, 2024 Dear Friend, Yesterday I shared how my office is here for you and today, I wanted to take a moment to share how FEMA is showing up for the people of Western North Carolina. After a rocky start to hurricane response, and amidst continued hiccups here and there, FEMA has more than 1,500 responders deployed across Western North Carolina dedicated to supporting our communities. Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists have been out and about across our district and helped register more than 6,900 survivors for Individual Assistance. FEMA has also set up 14 Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs), including seven centers across six counties in NC-11. The counties with DRCs are Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, McDowell, and Transylvania, with more centers being established as local officials work with FEMA to find the right location. These centers provide guidance regarding disaster recovery, including by helping individuals apply for FEMA and SBA assistance, clarifying written correspondence received from FEMA, and writing referrals to local assistance in the area. Recovery Center staff have served more than 5,700 visitors and as a whole, FEMA has accepted more than 206,000 applications for assistance so far. FEMA’s response has been far from perfect, but the Disaster Survivor Assistance teams and Disaster Recovery Centers are showing up for the people of Western North Carolina. They are staffed by folk who want to help and are providing much-needed assistance to our mountains. This update includes where to find agriculture supplies, updates on storm debris removal for multiple counties and the reopening of the Patton Ave DMV in Buncombe County. Today is update number 24, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Haywood County Regional High Technical Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County: A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates More than 206,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to more than 6,100 individuals. FEMA has distributed more than $124 million in housing assistance to more than 87,600 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 21,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing kit. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 25 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. This is up from 19 water systems yesterday. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and two systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 224 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 13 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Reopening October 22-24 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. daily for a special event to distribute critical baby items. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. Storm debris collection has begun in Buncombe County. Separate storm-related debris at the curb in the right of way according to material type: Appliances, construction debris, household hazardous waste such as pesticides and automotive fluid, vegetative debris, and electronics. Debris collection will require multiple passes and will be a long process. Residents do not have to set out all debris at one time or worry if there is debris left; another pass can collect additional debris. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. McDowell McDowell County has hired private contractors to facilitate storm debris pickup from public right of ways in the Town of Old Fort, City of Marion, and along state secondary roads in the county. Residents are asked to separate debris into the following categories: Large appliances Construction debris Vegetative debris Hazardous waste Electronics Household waste Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Rutherford The county has begun storm debris removal along state-maintained and municipally-controlled roads. Residents are asked to place storm-related vegetative debris, including trees and limbs, within the road’s right-of-way. Cut large debris into four to six ft. sections. The Rutherford County Landfill and all convenience centers have reopened with normal hours. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. The county landfill accepts natural vegetative storm debris, including spoiled hay, trees, brush, etc. for free. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday The Yancey-Mitchell Landfill is now open, following repairs from Hurricane Helene. 555 Landfill Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Residents should sort storm debris from regular household waste. Hazardous materials will not be accepted and construction debris should be separated from household waste. Voter Information Reminder: Early voting has started! Voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county. Only four early voting sites were closed due to Hurricane Helene across NC-11, all in Buncombe County. The following four sites are NO LONGER eligible early voting sites, as was originally planned prior to Hurricane Helene: Bee Tree Fire Station Friendship Center North Asheville Library Upper Hominy Fire & Rescue Department All other regular early voting sites are OPEN across NC-11. Coordination is ongoing to develop messaging in multiple languages to inform shelter residents and guests of how and where to vote. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group The first of a series of free support groups occurred on Monday, October 14, to help the community manage the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 21 and 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Ag supplies can be picked up by farmers in need from any of the following distribution centers (including non-NC-11 locations for farmers who may be closer to an out-of-district distribution center): Avery County Mitchell-Avery County Center 6880 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Saturday) Buncombe County Mills River Station 74 Research Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Caldwell County Caldwell County Fairgrounds 2461 Fairground Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Wednesday and Saturday only), or by appointment McDowell County Marion - McDowell County 188 Ag Services Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) Haywood County Smokey Mountain Event Center 758 Crabtree Dr., Waynesville, NC 28785 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Watauga County Watauga County Extension 5715 U.S. Highway 421 N., Vilas, NC 28692 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) - NO HAY 1:00-6:00 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday) - HAY ONLY Power Less than 5,500 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Around 900 Duke Energy customers remain without power. This is up from less than 800 yesterday Local co-ops faced a hiccup over the past 24 hours, as a little over 400 customers lost power. Currently, more than 5,600 co-op customers remain without power. Less than 4,500 co-op customers remain without power. Local co-ops are utilizing their full teams to restore energy and have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives across 11 states. NCDOT crews are still coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! Traffic between Western NC and Tennessee is limited, especially for trucks greater than 30 feet long. NCDOT staff are now transitioning to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 782 roads and are only reporting 483 remaining road closures. NCDOT has established a new Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 14 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Buncombe County 1624 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Roughly 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. The remaining areas require significant infrastructure reconstruction. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. Almost 3,700 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles 10 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/helene-recovery-update-23-congressman-edwards,Helene recovery update #23 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-20,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 20, 2024 Dear Friend, I’ve said it before, but I’ve never really explained what I meant when I shared that I am here for you. Today, I wanted to give you an example and remind you that me and my team are a resource for you. My team has worked on numerous cases over the past few weeks, but here is one I am especially proud of: My office received a message from a concerned daughter about her mother’s living conditions at a local retirement community. The mother’s apartment flooded, as many others did, during Hurricane Helene; and she was living in a unit with soaking wet carpets and wet wall board for days. Eventually the carpet was removed, but the mother was continuing to live in the unit that was wet with contamination. The daughter requested the mother be moved units without any luck. That’s when she reached out to my office. My team was able to work with local law enforcement and first responders to conduct a wellness check of the mother. Her unit was obviously not ideal, and within 24 hours the mother was moved to a new unit, free of mold and contamination. Whether you’re experiencing a similar situation, or you need help navigating hurricane relief through FEMA and the SBA, or even if you have an issue with another federal agency not related to the hurricane, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at (828) 435-7310; (202) 225-6401; or edwards.house.gov/contact. We are here and happy to help. As a final note, I wanted to correct update #21, where I shared which counties in Western North Carolina are open for tourism. My original list included Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon, McDowell, Transylvania, and parts of Henderson, Polk, and Rutherford counties, but as of today, all of Western North Carolina is open for business. This includes Buncombe, Madison, Swain, and Yancey counties, as well as all of Henderson, Polk, and Rutherford counties. Per my previous message, if you have the means to make a trip, please come visit Western North Carolina. Our folks are waiting for you. This update includes a list of the four early voting sites that were closed due to Hurricane Helene, the end of a “DO NOT TRAVEL” advisory in Western NC, and a milestone of more than 200 wastewater treatment centers operating normally across NC-11. Today is update number 23, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County: A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates More than 202,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to more than 5,800 individuals. FEMA has distributed almost $121 million in housing assistance to more than 87,00 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 18,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing kit. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 19 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and two systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 219 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 13 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Reopening October 22-24 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. daily for a special event to distribute critical baby items. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information Reminder: Early voting has started! Voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county. Only four early voting sites were closed due to Hurricane Helene across NC-11, all in Buncombe County. The following four sites are NO LONGER eligible early voting sites, as was originally planned prior to Hurricane Helene: Bee Tree Fire Station Friendship Center North Asheville Library Upper Hominy Fire & Rescue Department All other regular early voting sites are OPEN across NC-11. Coordination is ongoing to develop messaging in multiple languages to inform shelter residents and guests of how and where to vote. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group The first of a series of free support groups occurred on Monday, October 14, to help the community manage the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 21 and 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Less than 6,500 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Under 800 Duke Energy customers remain without power. Local co-ops faced a hiccup over the past 24 hours, as a little over 400 customers lost power. Currently, more than 5,600 co-op customers remain without power. Local co-ops are utilizing their full teams to restore energy and have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives in 11 states. NCDOT crews are still coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads Western North Carolina is FULLY OPEN to visitors! Please come visit! NCDOT staff are now transitioning to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 782 roads and are only reporting 483 remaining road closures. NCDOT has established a new Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 13 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The Asheville Driver’s License Office on Patton Avenue is expected to reopen on Monday, October 21. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Roughly 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. The remaining areas require significant infrastructure reconstruction. Due to a drop in service caused by damage to telecommunications equipment during debris clearance efforts, calls for two emergency services departments are being routed to an alternate location. All 911 calls are being answered. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. Almost 3,700 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles 10 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-update-22-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene recovery update #22 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-19,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 19, 2024 Dear Friend, As North Carolina’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner nears its final count of community members we lost due to Hurricane Helene, I’m solemnly reporting that NC DHHS has confirmed 95 deaths as of 9:00 a.m., yesterday, October 18. NC-11 tragically makes up for the largest share of lost lives, with 76 of the 95 total losses being our community’s mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, friends, neighbors and colleagues. Three of the 76 losses were also local first responders who passed away in the line of duty, putting the lives of Western North Carolina ahead of their own. As we enter week four of hurricane response, I’m requesting you take a moment of silence for those folks who lost their lives to this devastating storm. This update includes a second McDowell County Disaster Recovery Center, an update on open USPS operations and a new NCDOT Road Reopening Dashboard. Today is update number 22, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing/Individual Assistance Updates Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County: A.C. “Bud” Hogan Community Center 909 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing/Individual Assistance Updates More than196,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance with FEMA. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to more than 5,300 households. FEMA has distributed almost $116 million in housing assistance to more than 84,00 Western North Carolina households. Inspectors have performed more than 17,800 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing kit. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 24 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and three systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 192 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. North Carolina Emergency Management has delivered more than 6,400 pallets of water and 8,000 pallets of meals to date. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 13 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Coca-Cola Consolidated has donated $3 million to Hurricane Helene relief. $1 million of this donation was in the form of an emergency grant to the American Red Cross which was used for the support of nearly 1,400 disaster workers, the deployment of 45 emergency response vehicles, and 70 shelters for more than 2,000 displaced people. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Last day of regular operations is today, October 19, from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Reopening October 22-24 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. daily for a special event to distribute critical baby items. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The Community Kitchen 288 Crabtree Mountain Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Haywood Christian Ministry 150 Branner St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. Little Ivy Baptist Church 1053 Crossroads Pkwy., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal All counties are actively working with NCDEQ to determine where mud, silt and sediment can be safely dropped off without risk of contamination. More information to come. Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. Most USPS offices have reopened under normal operations. Sunday delivery is being made in some of the affected communities to ensure delayed mail is delivered as soon as possible. Only 21 offices, or 10 percent of all USPS offices in Western NC remain closed. Only one facility was fully destroyed, the Micaville PO box office in ZIP code 28755. USPS is utilizing Mobile Operations Units where residents can send or receive mail and packages in many of the areas with closed offices. The mobile units are located in the following communities: Alexander - 28701 Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Edneyville - 28727 Hot Springs - 28743 Marshall - 28753 Micaville - 28755 Montreat - 28757 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group The first of a series of free support groups occurred on Monday, October 14, to help the community manage the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Regular group sessions will be occurring through the end of December at the following locations: 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 21 and 28 45 Oak Park Dr., Brevard, NC 28712 Blue Ridge Community College, Brevard Campus, Room 140 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 4, 18, 25; December 2, 9 ,16 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Less than 6,500 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Power for more than 2,000 households was restored in the past 24 hours. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Roughly 1,300 Duke Energy customers remain without power. Just under 5,200 local co-op customers remain without power. Duke Energy has 4,734 total crews in Western NC. Local co-ops are utilizing their full teams to restore energy and have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives in 11 states. NCDOT crews are still coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. NCDOT continues to work with counties and municipalities to assist with roadside debris removal. To date, 10 counties and 19 cities and towns in Western NC have signed agreements to collect roadside debris. NCDOT “cut-and-shove” operations are 100 percent complete on impacted interstates, 98 percent complete on primary routes and 94 percent complete on secondary roads. Debris removal is 42 percent complete on impacted interstates, 34 percent complete on primary routes and 33 percent complete on secondary routes. NCDOT staff are now transitioning to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 762 roads and are only reporting 503 remaining road closures. NCDOT central and eastern divisions have been asked to send any available patching/paving machinery and crew transfers to Western NC to help expedite repairs. NCDOT has established a new Road Reopening Dashboard for folks to keep track of progress made by the department. You can use this link to access the dashboard. The dashboard is also linked on DriveNC.gov. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 13 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The Asheville Driver’s License Office on Patton Avenue is expected to reopen on Monday, October 21. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Vine Anglican Church - and free coffee 1055 Lee Rd, Clyde, NC 28721 Available daily from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Cell Service Roughly 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. The remaining areas require significant infrastructure reconstruction. Due to a drop in service caused by damage to telecommunications equipment during debris clearance efforts, calls for two emergency services departments are being routed to an alternate location. All 911 calls are being answered. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 3,600 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles Nine helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Snapshot: Delivered more than 9,000 tons of commodities to affected areas. Conducted debris clearance of critical areas in Marshall. Assisted FEMA in delivery of generators and pallets of critical commodities in Asheville, Swannanoa and Black Mountain. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-update-21-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene recovery update #21 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 18, 2024 Dear Friend, Today marks three full weeks since Hurricane Helene devastated our beautiful mountains. Over the past 21 days, I’ve sent out daily updates focused on what Western North Carolinians need to survive, but today, I want to focus on something Western North Carolina as a community needs to keep going. Visitors. I don’t have to tell you this, but fall is peak season for visitors in Western North Carolina. It’s where most of our revenue comes from that holds folks over until next fall. From October 1 - December 31 last year, visitors spent more than $2 billion in our mountains. That’s nearly $23 million per day. Almost 47,000 Western North Carolinians directly rely on tourism for their jobs, and local governments, which are facing steep rebuilding costs, rely on fall tourism for millions in local tax revenues. So, this message might be less applicable for the folks of Western North Carolina, but I encourage you to share it with everyone you know in the surrounding states. PLEASE visit Western North Carolina this fall and winter. Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Transylvania, and parts of Henderson, Polk, and Rutherford counties are all open and WANT, no NEED, to see visitors return. While our communities were shaken by Hurricane Helene, the beauty of our mountains was not. We need your support now more than ever. So, I encourage you to please, come see for yourself. If you’re unable to visit in person, you can also visit ShopWNC.com, where you can virtually shop NC-11’s Main Streets and small businesses to support our community from afar. This update includes the expansion of Disaster Unemployment Assistance for Cherokee and Graham counties, updates on FEMA housing efforts and the 100 percent completion of cut-and-shove operations on WNC interstates. Today is update number 21, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Housing Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Housing The Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program through FEMA is currently providing temporary hotel stays to nearly 2,100 households. Inspectors have performed more than 16,000 home inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance evaluations. More than $108 million has been paid out in assistance to nearly 82,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is seeking residential properties to lease for Helene survivors. Interested WNC property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA on or before 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-direct_lease_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI# 70FBR425-DL-DR4827NC FEMA is also seeking multifamily properties to house disaster survivors Interested property owner or management companies should reach out to FEMA no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, Nov. 6, 2024, via email to fema-mlr_dr4827nc@fema.dhs.gov. The email subject line should read: RFI #70FBR425-MLR-DR4827NC Response: MLR-DR-4827-NC Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing kit. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 26 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and five systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 186 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. North Carolina Emergency Management has delivered more than 6,400 pallets of water and nearly 8,000 pallets of meals to date. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 12.6 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Coca-Cola Consolidated has donated $3 million to Hurricane Helene relief. $1 million of this donation was in the form of an emergency grant to the American Red Cross which was used for the support of nearly 1,400 disaster workers, the deployment of 45 emergency response vehicles, and 70 shelters for more than 2,000 displaced people. Coke has also donated more than 35,000 cases of water and other hydration beverages to impacted areas, with more donations being delivered daily. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Outpatient clinics have rescheduled 66 percent of the appointments that were cancelled due to Hurricane Helene, with more being rescheduled every day. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Roughly 8,500 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. This is down from more than 1.4 million customers without power directly after the storm hit. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Less than 2,000 Duke Energy customers remain without power. The remaining 6,500 customers are with local co-operative energy providers. Duke Energy has 4,734 total crews in Western NC and the co-ops have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives in 11 states. Duke has established an Asheville-based Western NC command center to serve as the company’s base of operations for the region while line workers continue to rebuild the infrastructure needed to restore the remaining customers impacted by Helene. Approximately 98 percent of all originally reported power outages have been restored. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. The Pisgah National Forest will partially reopen beginning today, October 18. NCDOT “cut-and-shove” operations are 100 percent complete on impacted interstates, 98 percent complete on primary routes and 94 percent complete on secondary roads. Debris removal is 42 percent complete on impacted interstates, 34 percent complete on primary routes and 33 percent complete on secondary routes. NCDOT staff are now transitioning to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 750 roads and are only reporting 516 remaining road closures. NCDOT central and eastern divisions have been asked to send any available patching/paving machinery and crew transfers to Western NC to help expedite repairs. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 13 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Approximately 92 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. Due to a drop in service caused by damage to telecommunications equipment during debris clearance efforts, calls for two emergency services departments are being routed to an alternate location. All 911 calls are being answered. Currently, 58 out of 901 wireless sites remain offline. The highest concentration of these outages are in Buncombe and Henderson counties. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. For example: The NC National Guard has two crews in Chimney Rock with DOT equipment assisting with debris clearance and other DOT-related efforts. More than 3,400 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles 12 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Snapshot: 765 rescues to date (546 by helicopter, 219 ground) Delivered more than 7,000 tons of commodities to affected areas. Transitioning from food and water to cold weather items such as fuel, generators, heaters, and blankets. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain, Graham and Cherokee counties. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-introduces-legislation-crack-down-unlawful-campus-protests,Murphy Introduces Legislation to Crack Down on Unlawful Campus Protests,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenville, NC — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement after introducing the Education Not Agitation Act, legislation to eliminate tax benefits for individuals who commit criminal offenses while protesting at institutions of higher education. ""Institutions of higher education are entrusted to cultivate robust world views,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""Unfortunately, many prestigious universities in America have become bastions of hateful ideology and criminal behavior. The First Amendment is sacred, and I encourage students to exercise their right to freedom of speech and assembly. However, protests on college campuses should remain peaceful and lawful. Those who abuse their privilege and disregard the law should not benefit from the tax benefits we have in place to financially help folks further their education."" Background This legislation disqualifies individuals who are convicted of certain criminal offenses from receiving education related tax benefits including the American Opportunity Tax Credit, the Lifetime Learning Tax Credit, and the deduction on student loan interest.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/10/ross-manning-nickel-request-briefing-on-possible-foreign-involvement-in-rampant-disinformation-following-hurricanes-helene-milton,"Ross, Manning, Nickel Request Briefing on Possible Foreign Involvement in Rampant Disinformation Following Hurricanes Helene, Milton",2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Deborah Ross (NC-02) joined Representative Kathy Manning (NC-06) and Representative Wiley Nickel (NC-13) in sending a letter to the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Avril Haines, requesting a briefing on potential foreign involvement in the rampant spread of disinformation following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In North Carolina, widespread disinformation online has seriously impeded Hurricane Helene disaster relief. Some Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) workers have been forced to pause relief efforts due to threats. After the 2023 Maui wildfires, researchers found that foreign adversaries, including China and Russia, used social media to spread disinformation, hindering recovery efforts. “Specifically, we are concerned about potential involvement in propagating or amplifying this disinformation from foreign governments or malign influences, with the intent of undermining public trust in our institutions and hampering emergency response efforts. Given the significant impact that such disinformation can have on public safety, morale, and the overall effectiveness of recovery initiatives, it is critical to address these threats in a timely and transparent manner,” wrote the lawmakers. They continued, “In light of these concerns, we respectfully request a briefing from your office on any intelligence assessments or findings related to these disinformation campaigns. Understanding the scope of these challenges and any foreign involvement would be invaluable as we work to ensure that accurate information reaches affected communities and that we can counter harmful narratives with effective measures.” Full text of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-update-20-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene recovery update #20 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 17, 2024 Dear Friend, After a natural disaster, FEMA estimates that 40 percent of small businesses never reopen their doors. That’s a scary statistic that we cannot let become reality for the business owners of Western North Carolina. As a district that relies heavily on tourism, our local businesses are the very threads that hold us together and our economy relies on them. Unfortunately, they were some of the hardest hit during Hurricane Helene, and the economic damage may only be amplified by a shortage of Small Business Administration (SBA) emergency disaster funds. Right now, our business community needs our help. As of Oct. 15, 2024, the SBA has exhausted all funding for new disaster loans. I want to assure you that we know this is a problem, and we are working quickly to fix it - but please, whatever you do, continue to file your application for assistance. The funding will be coming, and we want to make sure that you are in line for when it does. In the meantime, the Disaster Unemployment Assistance weekly maximum has been increased to $600/week. It may not make employees whole again, but it is a drastic improvement from the previous $350 maximum in place over the last few weeks. I want to reassure you that help is on the way. I hear your requests for relief, even beyond the available loan programs, and I am working on it. Please just be patient with me. This update includes the expansion of FEMA Individual Assistance eligibility to Cherokee and Graham counties, continued National Guard activity and a new Disaster Recovery Center in Transylvania County. Today is update number 20, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. Buncombe County: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Daily hours beginning today, October 17: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Transylvania County: Community Services Building 106 E. Morgan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. If you have a private well that flooded, the well should be disinfected and tested to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. The Division of Public Health is providing free, well-testing kits through local health departments. Contact your local health department (find your local department via this link) to obtain a free well testing kit. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 30 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and five systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 169 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. North Carolina Emergency Management has delivered over 6,000 pallets of water and nearly 8,000 pallets of meals to date. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 12.6 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Coca-Cola Consolidated has donated $3 million to Hurricane Helene relief. $1 million of this donation was in the form of an emergency grant to the American Red Cross which was used for the support of nearly 1,400 disaster workers, the deployment of 45 emergency response vehicles, and 70 shelters for more than 2,000 displaced people. Coke has also donated more than 35,000 cases of water and other hydration beverages to impacted areas, with more donations being delivered daily. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Less than 11,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. This is down from more than 1.4 million customers without power directly after the storm hit. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Roughly 3,000 Duke Energy customers remain without power. Duke Energy has 4,734 total crews in Western NC and the co-ops have more than 500 reinforcements from more than 30 electric cooperatives in 11 states. Duke has established an Asheville-based Western NC command center to serve as the company’s base of operations for the region while line workers continue to rebuild the infrastructure needed to restore the remaining customers impacted by Helene.Less than 11,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. The remaining 7,600 customers are with local co-operative energy providers. Approximately 98 percent of all originally reported power outages have been restored. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. The Pisgah National Forest will start to reopen beginning with the Pisgah Ranger District on Friday, October 18. NCDOT “cut-and-shove” operations are 97 percent complete and damage assessments are 92 percent complete. NCDOT staff are not transitioning to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 741 roads and are only reporting 517 remaining road closures. NCDOT central and eastern divisions have been asked to send any available patching/paving machinery and crew transfers to Western NC to help expedite repairs. The media and public are eager to know whether I-40 westbound lanes can be utilized before repair of the eastbound lanes are complete. No timeline is available for the reopening of I-40 westbound lanes at this time. NCDOT’s top priority continues to be safety for the traveling public and contract crews, so rest assured when a decision is finally made about I-40 westbound lanes, it will have the public’s interest at heart. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 13 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County 3975 NC 226 S., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Fiber repair crews are also pairing with electric utility crews in the field to assist with any accidental fiber cuts. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Approximately 92 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. Due to a drop in service caused by damage to telecommunications equipment during debris clearance efforts, calls for two emergency services departments are being routed to an alternate location. All 911 calls are being answered. Currently, 58 out of 901 wireless sites remain offline. The highest concentration of these outages are in Buncombe and Henderson counties. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense As requests from some counties are decreasing, NC National Guard assets are NOT standing down, they are instead being reallocated to other areas. More than 3,400 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Almost 1,300 vehicles 12 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Snapshot: 765 rescues to date (546 by helicopter, 219 ground) Delivered more than 7,000 tons of commodities to affected areas. Transitioning from food and water to cold weather items such as fuel, generators, heaters, and blankets. Highlights from the last 24 hours: Conducted route reconnaissance for school buses to make sure routes are structurally sound and clear of debris so students can return to school. 181 soldiers distributed critical resources in Chimney Rock. Supported AT&T to enable the beginning of restoring fiber cables. Prepared for school opening in Yancey County by moving goods from the high school. The NC National Guard continues to utilize ground transport and air drops to provide food, water, and basic necessities to residents in affected communities. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain County. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. This is because Swain County was added to the list of eligible DUA counties one week after all other counties were designated as eligible. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $102 million in assistance for more than 79,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is also directly paying hotels for emergency sheltering for more than 1,800 households through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-foushee-ross-nickel-announce-750-million-in-federal-funding-for-wolfspeed-to-boost-semiconductor-manufacturing-in-north-carolina,"Reps. Foushee, Ross, Nickel Announce $750 Million in Federal Funding for Wolfspeed to Boost Semiconductor Manufacturing in North Carolina",2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"DURHAM, NC (October 17, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02), and Congressman Wiley Nickel (NC-13) announced that Durham-based Wolfspeed, Inc. has been approved to receive up to $750 million in federal funding through the CHIPS and Science Act. This investment, part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America program, will support the construction of a new silicon carbide wafer manufacturing facility in Siler City, reinforcing North Carolina as a critical hub for semiconductor manufacturing. “I’m glad to see the Biden-Harris Administration committed to securing America’s technological future through strategic investments in semiconductor manufacturing, and I’m particularly pleased this $750 million dollar federal investment is directed to Durham’s own, Wolfspeed,” said Congresswoman Foushee. “This partnership, made possible by the historic CHIPS and Science Act, will not only create thousands of good-paying jobs here in North Carolina, but will help foster innovation and growth, ensure a reliable domestic supply chain, and solidify America’s place as a leader in silicon carbide manufacturing.” “I am very excited to see the Biden-Harris Administration invest $750 million in American manufacturing right here in North Carolina. This proposed major investment in Wolfspeed, Inc. will create thousands of new jobs, drive economic growth, and maintain America’s technological global competitiveness,” said Congresswoman Ross. “I fought to pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act to bring needed investments like this back to North Carolina. I will continue fighting in Congress to ensure North Carolina is at the forefront of America’s manufacturing renaissance.” “North Carolina is leading the way in semiconductor manufacturing, and I’m proud to have worked alongside Reps. Ross and Foushee to support Wolfspeed’s defense appropriations requests over the past two years,” said Congressman Nickel. “This funding will not only strengthen our national security by reducing reliance on foreign supply chains, but it will also bring thousands of good-paying jobs to our state and help support working families.” Federal funding for Wolfspeed’s expansion will help create over 5,000 jobs, including 2,000 in manufacturing and 3,000 in construction. The new manufacturing facility will play a crucial role in securing a reliable domestic supply of semiconductors, a key component for a range of industries from clean energy to artificial intelligence. The CHIPS and Science Act has already allocated over $35 billion in proposed funding across 17 states, with Wolfspeed’s Siler City facility and expansion in Marcy, New York as flagship projects in this nationwide effort.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-update-19-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene recovery update #19 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 16, 2024 Dear Friend, One of the hardest challenges many of our neighbors are facing right now is not being able to go home to their own house and lay their head on their own pillow after another long day. I’m sure many of us don’t realize how blessed we are when we get to do that very thing, but there are more than 550 Western North Carolinians who cannot return home due to hurricane damage. These folks have been staying in local shelters for the past 19 days with no clear path forward for repairing their home or finding a new place to live. Many of these folks’ homes were destroyed beyond repair or completely decimated. To help get our neighbors back into a place of their own, the first Multi-Agency Shelter Transition Team meeting is happening today. This team will be focusing exclusively on the transition of survivors from shelters to available longer-term housing programs; and will be critical to making sure all 550+ Western North Carolinians are able to transition to more permanent housing solutions, regardless of any barriers they may currently be facing. Everybody deserves to have a private place that feels like home, even if it’s only for a little while until their real home gets repaired. This update includes a new Henderson County Disaster Recovery Center, significant progress on energy restoration efforts, and new Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) benefits for individuals in need of food assistance. Today is update number 19, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Henderson County 2111 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Hours for Wednesday, October 16: 1:00-7:00 p.m. Daily hours beginning Thursday, October 17: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 36 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and 10 systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 120 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. An additional 41 wastewater treatment plants are partially operational or operating on back-up power. There are 70 potable water trucks and 13 non-potable water trucks supporting Western North Carolina, with a total of 161,000 gallons of water delivered. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. North Carolina Emergency Management has delivered over 6,000 pallets of water and nearly 8,000 pallets of meals to date. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 12.6 million meals and more than 12.8 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Coca-Cola Consolidated has donated $3 million to Hurricane Helene relief. $1 million of this donation was in the form of an emergency grant to the American Red Cross which was used for the support of nearly 1,400 disaster workers, the deployment of 45 emergency response vehicles, and 70 shelters for more than 2,000 displaced people. Coke has also donated more than 35,000 cases of water and other hydration beverages to impacted areas, with more donations being delivered daily. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following resources sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Saint Mary Margaret Catholic Church 102 Andrews Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Saturday hours: 3:00-4:30 p.m. Please note: This location is not open during mass. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours starting Wednesday, October 16: Only M/W/F/Sat, Supplies 12:00-4:00 p.m., meals 12:00-2:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following two centralized distribution center locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: The Green Space 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Warehouse #7 214 Vance St., Warehouse 7, Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following location is providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Other locations available: Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Roughly 13,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. This is down from more than 1.4 million customers without power directly after the storm hit. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Less than 5,000 Duke Energy customers remain without power. Duke has established an Asheville-based Western NC command center to serve as the company’s base of operations for the region while line workers continue to rebuild the infrastructure needed to restore the remaining customers impacted by Helene. The remaining 8,000 customers are with local co-operative energy providers. Approximately 98 percent of all originally reported power outages have been restored. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. NCDOT “cut-and-shove” operations are 97 percent complete and damage assessments are 92 percent complete. NCDOT staff are not transitioning to temporary repairs and reconstruction of damaged roadways. The state has reopened 686 roads and are only reporting 572 road closures. NCDOT central and eastern divisions have been asked to send any available patching/paving machinery and crew transfers to Western NC to help expedite repairs. The media and public are eager to know whether I-40 westbound lanes can be utilized before repair of the eastbound lanes are complete. No timeline is available for the reopening of I-40 westbound lanes at this time. NCDOT’s top priority continues to be safety for the traveling public and contract crews, so rest assured when a decision is finally made about I-40 westbound lanes, it will have the public’s interest at heart. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 12 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The Marion, NC location is set to reopen on Wednesday, October 16. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Approximately 91 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. This is down from 94 percent due to damage sustained by telecommunications equipment during debris clearance efforts. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Almost 3,500 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and 200 Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: More than 1,200 vehicles 11 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. More than 1,500 responders from 38 state and local agencies have performed 138 missions supporting response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). These folk include public health nurses, emergency management teams to support local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs, and more. The NC National Guard continues to utilize ground transport and air drops to provide food, water, and basic necessities to residents in affected communities. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. D-SNAP People living in the 25 major disaster declared Western NC counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply to receive a one-time benefit to help buy food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Pre-registration is available by using ePASS pre-registration tool. For the tool and more information, visit epass.nc.gov/. To be eligible, applicants must: Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income. Have proof of identity and proof of residency. Not currently receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). People receiving FNS can also get extra help to buy food but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. Certain income and resource limits may apply. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain County. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. This is because Swain County was added to the list of eligible DUA counties one week after all other counties were designated as eligible. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $99 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 78,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is also directly paying hotels for emergency sheltering for more than 1,800 households through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-update-18-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene recovery update #18 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-15,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 15, 2024 Dear Friend, Western North Carolina is turning yet another leaf in our recovery from Hurricane Helene. Yesterday, Transylvania County public school students went back to school and today, Henderson and Haywood County students are returning to the classroom, with other counties returning to school in the coming days. I’m sure most parents can agree when I say that traditionally, high school students aren’t very eager to return to school after any given break, but I’m going to go out on a limb to say that this time is different. This time, returning to school symbolizes a return to normalcy, something our mountain communities have been without for the last two weeks. The formative years of K-12 education is a time in life when your biggest concern should be whether your team is going to win the high school sports game you have coming up, whether your crush likes you back, or how you can shortcut the hours worth of homework you were assigned (which I don’t recommend doing). It is not a time where children should have to worry about hurricanes destroying their community. Going back to school marks a significant step forward in the recovery of our mountains. I hope you share in my excitement, and I look forward to achieving many more recovery milestones like this one in the coming months. This update includes new distribution sites for resources in McDowell and Transylvania counties, how to contact the Disaster Distress Helpline, and an update on debris clearance efforts by NCDOT which is roughly 96 percent complete. Today is update number 18, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. In addition to designated locations, DSA teams are going door to door to provide assistance, but please note, FEMA staff will carry an official photo ID and will never ask for bank information. They will also never ask for money and never require payment in any form. FEMA is going door to door in the following counties: Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Macon County Madison County Polk County Swain County Yancey County As new stationary locations are established, I will keep you posted. The following locations are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted: Buncombe County Ingles Market 550 Hwy. 9, Black Mountain, NC 28803 Walmart 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Riceville Community Church 2342 Riceville Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Title 10 Mission - Asheville 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC28778 Montford North Star Academy 90 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Beech Community Center 15 State Rd. 2117, Weaverville, NC 28787 Haywood County Regional High Tech Center 112 Industrial Park Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Jackson County Jackson County EOC 401 Grindstaff Cove Rd., Ste. A-145, Sylva, NC 28779 Madison County Senior Center in Hot Springs 356 Northwest U.S. 25 70 Highway, Hot Springs, NC 28743 Marshall Library 1335 N. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 McDowell County Corpening Memorial YMCA 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County EOC 129 Barnes Rd., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Polk County Polk County Library 1289 W. Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Rutherford County Ingles Market 276 N. 9 Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Yancey County Yancey County Public Library 321 School Cir., Burnsville, NC 28174 Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 36 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and 10 systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 120 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. An additional 41 wastewater treatment plants are partially operational or operating on back-up power. There are 70 potable water trucks and 13 non-potable water trucks supporting Western North Carolina, with a total of 161,000 gallons of water delivered. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. North Carolina Emergency Management has delivered over 6,000 pallets of water and nearly 8,000 pallets of meals to date. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has delivered more than 12.6 million meals and more than 12.8 million liters of water to Western North Carolina utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following feeding sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Covenant Church 767 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. IP Sportsplex 305 Silkwood Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up one Resource Hub location for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. 118 McAbee Ct., Flat Rock, NC 28731 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Tom Johnson’s Camping Center 348 Resistoflex Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Weekend hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cherry Springs 6 Bull Walker Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sundays 2:00-6:00 p.m. Camp Grier 985 Camp Grier Rd., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Restoration Church 2344 Ashworth Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Centro Unido Latino Americano 79 Academy St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. First Baptist Church of Old Fort 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762 Daily hours: 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday-Friday First Baptist Church Marion 99 N Main St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church 8066 Linville Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 2:00-4:00 p.m. New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop 50 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Zion Baptist Church 423 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 No daily hours posted Grace Brevard 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 12:00-2;00 p.m. Mary C. Jenkins Community Center 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1 (800) 985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Just under 16,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. This is down from more than 1 million customers without power directly after the storm hit. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Yancey County. Just over 8,500 Duke Energy customers remain without power. The remaining 7,300 customers are with local co-operative energy providers. Roughly 96 percent of all originally reported power outages have been restored in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is providing restoration updates via text to all customers that remain without power. All schools and early voting sites served by Duke Energy have been restored. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. NCDOT is coordinating closely with utility companies to run new lines along the US 74A corridor, from Gerton to Lake Lure. This operation involves kayakers pulling lines by hand. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. NCDOT “cut-and-shove” crews have created more than 4,100 debris sites on roadsides. They have reopened 677 roads, including: Interstate 40 near Old Fort and in downtown Asheville I-26 in Henderson and Polk counties U.S. 70 U.S. 25 NCDOT successfully reopened more than 100 roads over the last four days. Cut-and-shove operations are 96 percent complete and damage assessments are more than 86 percent complete. Roughly 420 roads remain closed. This includes: Three interstates 30 U.S. roads 47 N.C. roads 347 secondary roads To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NC DMV has reopened 12 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The Marion, NC location is set to reopen on Wednesday, October 16. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Madison County 1685 NC Highway 213, Marshall, NC 28753 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service More than 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Almost 3,500 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and 200 Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from 12 different states) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: More than 1,200 vehicles 11 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. More than 1,500 responders from 38 state and local agencies have performed 138 missions supporting response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). These folk include public health nurses, emergency management teams to support local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs, and more. The NC National Guard continues to utilize ground transport and air drops to provide food, water, and basic necessities to residents in affected communities. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain County. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. This is because Swain County was added to the list of eligible DUA counties one week after all other counties were designated as eligible. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $96 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 75,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is also directly paying hotels for emergency sheltering for more than 1,800 households through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of today: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-update-17-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene recovery update #17 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-14,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 14, 2024 Dear Friend, I hear you. North Carolina hears you. The U.S. House of Representatives hear you. We understand that FEMA's response has not been what you expected it to be, but as I stated in my Friday update, we must stop focusing on expectations that were formed by response to other disasters in other communities under other circumstances. Western North Carolina is charting our own path for recovery. The mountains are not like the coast of North Carolina, Florida, or Louisiana. We’re not like central North Carolina, and the level of devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Helene does not even mirror the damage of other storms in the Appalachia region. The hills and valleys of our mountains make recovery tenfold times more difficult and unique than recovery in any community hit by a similar category storm. We must be patient. In update number 12 and another communication sent last week, I addressed the conspiracy theories circulating in Western North Carolina about FEMA. I warned of the harm caused by those theories and want to take today to reiterate that Western North Carolina does not have the time or resources to spend falsifying information or making threats toward FEMA. This unhelpful, unnecessary use of time is only hurting our neighbors, friends, and family. It must stop. I have and will continue to express my gratitude for the folks working to unite Western North Carolina after the tragic devastation of Helene. That is what every single one of us should be doing right now. So once again, thank you to the people on the ground spending every day trying to rebuild Western North Carolina. But to the folks spreading misinformation and getting in the way of that recovery, cut it out. This update includes where to find Carolina Cruiser hours, information on updated water distribution sites and a correction to the water testing process for Buncombe County, a new Yancey County centralized distribution location, and the addition of a Polk County Disaster Survivor Assistance site. Today is update number 17, with more information to come in the following days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. In addition to designated locations, DSA teams are going door to door to provide assistance, but please note, FEMA staff will carry an official photo ID and will never ask for bank information. They will also never ask for money and never require payment in any form. FEMA is going door to door in the following counties: Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Macon County Madison County Polk County Swain County Yancey County As new stationary locations are established, I will keep you posted. The following locations are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted: Buncombe County Ingles Market 550 Hwy. 9, Black Mountain, NC 28803 Walmart 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Riceville Community Church 2342 Riceville Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Title 10 Mission - Asheville 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC28778 Montford North Star Academy 90 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Beech Community Center 15 State Rd. 2117, Weaverville, NC 28787 Jackson County Jackson County EOC 401 Grindstaff Cove Rd., Ste. A-145, Sylva, NC 28779 McDowell County Corpening Memorial YMCA 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County EOC 129 Barnes Rd., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Polk County Columbus Library 1289 W. Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Rutherford County Ingles Market 276 N. 9 Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Yancey County Yancey County Public Library 321 School Cir., Burnsville, NC 28174 Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water Free drinking water testing is available by request through the Buncombe County Public Health Department. Just contact the Buncombe County Public Health Department to request a test kit. The department will provide you with an empty bottle along with instructions to collect a drinking water sample and where to drop it off for analysis. Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 52 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and 13 systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 120 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. An additional 41 wastewater treatment plants are partially operational or operating on back-up power. There are 70 potable water trucks and 13 non-potable water trucks supporting Western North Carolina, with a total of 161,000 gallons of water delivered. Several major water systems are currently not distributing water, including the City of Asheville, Black Mountain, Woodfin, Spruce Pine, and Burnsville. Work continues on each of these systems to restore functionality. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. North Carolina Emergency Management has delivered over 6,000 pallets of water and nearly 8,000 pallets of meals to date. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 14 million liters of water and more than 17 million meals utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 10 million liters of water and more than 7.8 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 12:00-4:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Please bring your own container. AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Buncombe County Sports Park Complex 58 Apac Dr., Asheville, NC 28806 Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Fairview Elementary School 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Swannanoa Ingles 2299 U.S. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Leicester Elementary School 31 Gilbert Rd., Leicester, NC 28748 Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Lucy Herring Elementary School 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Pack Square Park 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Oakley Elementary 753 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 The following feeding sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday West Asheville Baptist Church 926 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Groce United Methodist Church – also distributing essential supplies 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours: 1:00-4:00 p.m. A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Former Fred’s Store 677 W. U.S. Highway 19E, Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: Mobile Retail Unit Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Just under 17,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. The majority of remaining power outages remain concentrated in Western North Carolina, with the highest percentage of outages being reported in Buncombe and Yancey counties. Roughly 96 percent of all originally reported power outages have been restored in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is providing restoration updates via text to all customers that remain without power. All schools and early voting sites served by Duke Energy have been restored. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. Restoration of service for individuals in the disaster rebuild zones will be a longer process but Duke Energy workers have already made substantial progress on the extremely difficult and targeted work that lies ahead. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. At least 521 roads remain closed. This includes: Three interstates 40 US roads 49 NC roads 429 secondary roads To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. Cut and shove, debris removal, and damage assessment are winding down, and some locations have transitioned to temporary repairs and reconstruction. Transportation infrastructure damage estimates from assessments are up to several billion dollars. Repairs and reconstruction of roadways will be an extremely long road (no pun intended) over the next couple of years to return Western NC’s transportation network to what it was before. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. NCDOT has stated they will be utilizing the $100 million to supplement ongoing efforts in Western North Carolina - this is what I would have hoped the funds are going to be used for, but their public statement is a welcome confirmation of their commitment to restore transportation networks in our mountains. NCDOT has awarded a $10 million contract to Wright Brothers Construction of Charleston, TN, to stabilize the westbound lanes of I-40 by drilling soil nails where the eastbound lanes no longer exist. The contract includes incentives to be complete by January 4, 2025. Around the time this operation concludes, plans for a larger, complex, and complete repair will be in progress. NC DMV has reopened 11 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service More than 94 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Almost 3,500 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and 200 Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from out of state) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: More than 1,200 vehicles 11 helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Highlights from the last 24 hours: Conducted commodity distribution, including medical resupply and route clearance, across 10 counties. Distributed cold weather clothing in Buncombe County. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain County. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. This is because Swain County was added to the list of eligible DUA counties one week after all other counties were designated as eligible. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $96 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 75,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is also directly paying hotels for emergency sheltering for more than 1,800 households through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form, linked here, to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 12: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, my office has resumed Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-update-16-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene recovery update #16 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-13,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 13, 2024 Dear Friend, Today is Sunday, marking the end of yet another very long week for the people of Western North Carolina. While I know this may be a heavy ask for many, I have a request for each of you. Today, I ask that you take a little time to relax and be proud of your accomplishments since Helene hit. Even if it’s just an hour or two, I’ve seen how hard you have worked over the past two weeks to help our mountains recover and nobody has taken a break, but you deserve one. In the spirit of spreading positivity, I would love to know what you decide to do to relax. And tomorrow, we will all wake back up and continue serving our neighbors to rebuild Western North Carolina, one step at a time. This update includes information on a new Jackson County Disaster Recovery Center, the deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance (Nov. 27, 2024), and Disaster Unemployment Assistance for individuals whose jobs were lost or temporarily suspended due to Hurricane Helene. Today is update number 16, with more information to come in the following days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. Jackson County Annex Building 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. In addition to designated locations, DSA teams are going door to door to provide assistance, but please note, FEMA staff will carry an official photo ID and will never ask for bank information. They will also never ask for money and never require payment in any form. FEMA is going door to door in the following counties: Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Macon County Madison County Polk County Swain County Yancey County As new stationary locations are established, I will keep you posted. The following locations are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted: Buncombe County Ingles Market 550 Hwy. 9, Black Mountain, NC 28803 Walmart 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Riceville Community Church 2342 Riceville Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Title 10 Mission - Asheville 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC28778 Montford North Star Academy 90 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Beech Community Center 15 State Rd. 2117, Weaverville, NC 28787 Jackson County Jackson County EOC 401 Grindstaff Cove Rd., Ste. A-145, Sylva, NC 28779 McDowell County Corpening Memorial YMCA 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County EOC 129 Barnes Rd., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Ingles Market 276 N. 9 Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Transylvania County Transylvania County EOC 155 Public Safety Way, Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Yancey County Public Library 321 School Cir., Burnsville, NC 28174 Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. The North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024 on Oct. 9, 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water A mobile lab to test drinking water is available at the following location seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until October 19: A-B Tech Community College 20 Canoe Ln., Woodfin, NC 28804 Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 55 water systems are on a partial or system-wide boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and 13 systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 120 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. An additional 23 wastewater treatment plants are partially operational or operating on back-up power. There are 70 potable water trucks and 13 non-potable water trucks supporting Western North Carolina, with a total of 92,000 gallons of water delivered. Several major water systems are currently not distributing water, including the City of Asheville, Black Mountain, Woodfin, Spruce Pine, and Burnsville. Work continues on each of these systems to restore functionality. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. North Carolina Emergency Management has delivered over 6,000 pallets of water and nearly 8,000 pallets of meals to date. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 14 million liters of water and more than 17 million meals utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 10 million liters of water and more than 7.8 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. Lowe’s has donated an additional $10 million to support hurricane relief in Western North Carolina. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following feeding sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church - in the Parish Hall 234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily. St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 2350 Old Marshall Hwy., Alexander, NC 28701 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: 1664 Barnardsville Hwy., Barnardsville, NC 28709 Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 111 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: 100 S. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: 272 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: 2311 U.S. 70 Highway, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Just under 17,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Roughly 96 percent of all originally reported power outages have been restored in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is providing restoration updates via text to all customers that remain without power. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. Restoration of service for individuals in the disaster rebuild zones will be a longer process but Duke Energy workers have already made substantial progress on the extremely difficult and targeted work that lies ahead. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. Cut and shove, debris removal, and damage assessment are winding down, and some locations have transitioned to temporary repairs and reconstruction. Transportation infrastructure damage estimates from assessments are up to several billion dollars. Repairs and reconstruction of roadways will be an extremely long road (no pun intended) over the next couple of years to return Western NC’s transportation network to what it was before. NCDOT crews and contractors have reopened 575 roads so far. Roughly 653 roads remain closed in Western NC, 108 of which are primary routes. This number is still rapidly changing as communications improve and NCDOT reaches new sites. About 100 of the closed roads are along primary routes. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. NCDOT has stated they will be utilizing the $100 million to supplement ongoing efforts in Western North Carolina - this is what I would have hoped the funds are going to be used for, but their public statement is a welcome confirmation of their commitment to restore transportation networks in our mountains. NCDOT has awarded a $10 million contract to Wright Brothers Construction of Charleston, TN, to stabilize the westbound lanes of I-40 by drilling soil nails where the eastbound lanes no longer exist. The contract includes incentives to be complete by January 4, 2025. Around the time this operation concludes, plans for a larger, complex, and complete repair will be in progress. NC DMV has reopened 11 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service More than 93 percent of all cellular sites in Western North Carolina have been repaired and are now in service. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Almost 3,700 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and 200 Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from out of state) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Nearly 1,300 vehicles 26 Helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Highlights from the last 24 hours: NCNG soldiers conducted commodity distribution, including medical resupply and route clearance, across eight counties. Opened several routes to secluded communities in Haywood County. Conducted aerial video reconnaissance of Lake Logan Dam in Canton, NC. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) The deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits is Dec. 2, 2024 for all counties other than Swain County. Swain County’s deadline is Dec. 9, 2024. This is because Swain County was added to the list of eligible DUA counties one week after all other counties were designated as eligible. Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are now available for Western North Carolinians in counties with a major disaster declaration, including: Buncombe Clay Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison McDowell Polk Rutherford Swain Transylvania Yancey If your employment has been lost or interrupted because of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. File an application for DUA: File at des.nc.gov, or Call over the phone at (919) 629-3857 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions: (866) 219-5262. For Individual Assistance through FEMA The deadline to file for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 27, 2024. Please mark your calendars and ensure all applications are submitted on time. North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $92 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 71,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is also directly paying hotels for emergency sheltering for more than 1,800 households through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 12: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County East Henderson High School 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28728 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison County Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, the latest Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours are available. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-15-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #15 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-12,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 12, 2024 Dear Friend, The further away we get from the day Hurricane Helene hit, the more I hear that NC-11’s newest and most prominent need is money. Homeowners need money to repair their homes. Businesses need money to help make their employees’ paychecks whole while they are closed and to finance repairs so they can reopen for business as soon as possible. Local governments need money to make critical repairs to community wastewater treatment plants. Even the state needs money to pay for the billions in damage to our district’s roads. The need is widespread, which is why I am excited to share that additional resources are finally starting to trickle into Western North Carolina’s communities. To start, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development exhausted their Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Sanction Fund (money paid back to HUD by CDBG grantees due to program violations) to award the City of Asheville with more than $1.7 million to begin rebuilding the city. Eligible activities for CDBG funds include rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures, repairs to water and sewer facilities, and job creation/retention. I’m confident that this is just the first of many CDBG awards to communities across NC-11. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Labor has approved $10 million in initial funding to support dislocated workers across the district - similar to the $2.5 million awarded to support dislocated workers caused by the Pactiv Evergreen closure in Canton, NC last year. Even our counties are stepping up to provide financial relief. Transylvania Tomorrow, an initiative of the Transylvania Business Support Task force, in collaboration with key economic development and business-centric organizations from across the county, has announced it is relaunching to support small businesses in Transylvania County. The initiative was originally formed in early 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and raised and distributed more than $250,000 to more than 100 businesses throughout the county. These are all just the first examples of support to come for Western North Carolina. We’ve seen an unprecedented amount of manpower and supplies flood into our district to assist with our community’s initial needs, and as we transition away from response and toward recovery, I expect to see many more investments like those listed above that will support our communities and the businesses and individuals within them. This update includes tips for submitting an appeal for FEMA Individual Assistance, information on disaster-related tax deductions and the types of disaster relief payments that are traditionally tax-free, where to recycle, and a new Veteran Disaster Response Hotline. Today is update number 15, with more information to come in the following days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Carolina Cruiser Mobile Office Hours FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. The Asheville Social Security office remains closed due to a lack of power and water. The Social Security Administration is maintaining staff at the Buncombe County Disaster Recovery Center until the Asheville office reopens. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. In addition to designated locations, DSA teams are going door to door to provide assistance, but please note, FEMA staff will carry an official photo ID and will never ask for bank information. They will also never ask for money and never require payment in any form. FEMA is going door to door in the following counties: Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Macon County Madison County Polk County Swain County Yancey County As new stationary locations are established, I will keep you posted. The following locations are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted: Buncombe County Ingles Market 550 Hwy. 9, Black Mountain, NC 28803 Walmart 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Riceville Community Church 2342 Riceville Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Title 10 Mission - Asheville 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC28778 Montford North Star Academy 90 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Beech Community Center 15 State Rd. 2117, Weaverville, NC 28787 Jackson County Jackson County EOC 401 Grindstaff Cove Rd., Ste. A-145, Sylva, NC 28779 McDowell County Corpening Memorial YMCA 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County EOC 129 Barnes Rd., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Ingles Market 276 N. 9 Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Transylvania County Transylvania County EOC 155 Public Safety Way, Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Yancey County Public Library 321 School Cir., Burnsville, NC 28174 Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. Yesterday, both chambers of the North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water A mobile lab to test drinking water is available at the following location seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until October 19: A-B Tech Community College 20 Canoe Ln., Woodfin, NC 28804 Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 60 water systems are on a boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and 13 systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 120 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. An additional 41 wastewater treatment plants are partially operational or operating on back-up power. Several major water systems are currently not distributing water, including the City of Asheville, Black Mountain, Woodfin, Spruce Pine, and Burnsville. Work continues on each of these systems to restore functionality. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 14 million liters of water and more than 17 million meals utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 10 million liters of water and more than 7.8 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. Lowe’s has donated an additional $10 million to support hurricane relief in Western North Carolina. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following feeding sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Fellowship Asheville 756 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church - in the Parish Hall 234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily. St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal Recycling services are available through Curbside Management for the following counties: Buncombe Clay Graham Haywood Henderson Jackson Macon Madison Polk Rutherford Yancey Some communities have halted recycling services to prioritize trash collection. If that is the case for your community, Curbside Management has a drop-off site available for residents who wish to bring their recycling to the following location: 116 N. Woodfin Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 2350 Old Marshall Hwy., Alexander, NC 28701 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: 1664 Barnardsville Hwy., Barnardsville, NC 28709 Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 111 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: 100 S. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: 272 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: 2311 U.S. 70 Highway, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. The VA has established a Veterans Disaster Response Hotline, which is available 24/7 at 1(800) 507-4571. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory, Forest City and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Just under 32,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is providing restoration updates via text to all customers that remain without power. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. Restoration of service for individuals in the disaster rebuild zones will be a longer process but Duke Energy workers have already made substantial progress on the extremely difficult and targeted work that lies ahead. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Haywood, Transylvania and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to non-essential travel for people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. Henderson, Polk and Rutherford counties are each partially open to non-essential travel. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. Cut and shove, debris removal, and damage assessment are winding down, and some locations have transitioned to temporary repairs and reconstruction. Transportation infrastructure damage estimates from assessments are up to several billion dollars. Repairs and reconstruction of roadways will be an extremely long road (no pun intended) over the next couple of years to return Western NC’s transportation network to what it was before. NCDOT crews and contractors have reopened 575 roads so far. Roughly 653 roads remain closed in Western NC, 108 of which are primary routes. This number is still rapidly changing as communications improve and NCDOT reaches new sites. About 100 of the closed roads are along primary routes. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. NCDOT has stated they will be utilizing the $100 million to supplement ongoing efforts in Western North Carolina - this is what I would have hoped the funds are going to be used for, but their public statement is a welcome confirmation of their commitment to restore transportation networks in our mountains. NCDOT has awarded a $10 million contract to Wright Brothers Construction of Charleston, TN, to stabilize the westbound lanes of I-40 by drilling soil nails where the eastbound lanes no longer exist. The contract includes incentives to be complete by January 4, 2025. Around the time this operation concludes, plans for a larger, complex, and complete repair will be in progress. NC DMV has reopened 11 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Communications in the region are improving rapidly. More than 90 percent of cell sites have been restored in Western North Carolina. Only one county remains with 50 percent or more cell sites down - Yancey County. Service providers are trying to focus efforts in Yancey County to restore service above 50 percent. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has full mobile cell service. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Almost 3,700 National Guard soldiers and airmen, active-duty service members, and 200 Emergency Management Assistance Compact units (National Guard units from out of state) are deployed across Western North Carolina to provide support. This includes: Nearly 1,300 vehicles 26 Helicopters As search and rescue needs diminish and roads are being cleared and restored, the need for aerial support is decreasing and ground vehicles are becoming an increasingly more effective means of support. Highlights from the last 24 hours: NCNG soldiers conducted commodity distribution, including medical resupply and route clearance, across eight counties. Opened several routes to secluded communities in Haywood County. Conducted aerial video reconnaissance of Lake Logan Dam in Canton, NC. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $78 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 62,000 Western North Carolina households. FEMA is also directly paying hotels for emergency sheltering for more than 1,250 households through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Find steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm: www.fema.gov/disaster/4827/news-media If you were initially denied for Individual Assistance, please see below for useful tips to help you file an appeal with FEMA: Understand why FEMA denied your claim before writing the appeal. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you. Make sure you provide evidence for your appeal. Depending on your situation, documentation may include: A copy of your flood insurance declaration page. Proof of occupancy, which could be an employer statement, lease, utility bill, credit card statement, or other recent, formal document that states your address. Proof of ownership, which might include your mortgage or insurance documents, tax receipts, deed, etc. Can’t write the appeal yourself? I recommend having a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer write it for you. Know your deadline. You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation. Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter! Once signed, there are three ways to submit your appeal: Fax it to (800) 827-8112 Send it by mail to: FEMA Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Upload all appeal documents to your disasterassistance.gov account. Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit. Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Disaster payments are usually tax-free: Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income. In general, this means that affected taxpayers can exclude the following payments from a government agency from their gross income. Amounts received for: Reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses. The repair or rehabilitation of your home. The repair or replacement of your home’s contents. You may be eligible for a disaster loss deduction: In some instances, individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can qualify for a casualty loss tax deduction. The deduction is available for damaged or destroyed property not covered by insurance or other reimbursement and can result in a larger refund. Taxpayers can choose to claim the deduction on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year). For individual taxpayers, the deadline for making this election is Oct. 15, 2025. The IRS also has a special hotline specifically dedicated to taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. Disaster victims can call the agency’s disaster hotline at (866) 562-5227. Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 12: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County East Henderson High School 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28728 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison County Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours In keeping with my office's motto of being ""First in Constituent Services"" and to help constituents post-Hurricane Helene, the latest Carolina Cruiser mobile office hours are available. Folks can stop by to share their thoughts on issues that matter to them or ask for assistance with federal agencies. Visit my website for updated Carolina Cruiser hours and locations, linked here. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-urges-wnc-citizens-make-plans-vote,Edwards urges WNC citizens to make plans to vote,2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 11, 2024 U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) today shared information on how citizens affected by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina can make the necessary plans to vote in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Edwards said, ""Although many Western North Carolinians are frantically putting their lives back together, an important election is coming up soon that we should not forget. I urge everyone to now plan how you will exercise our greatest liberty."" The North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE) has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. The NCSBE website provides details on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have moved, county board of elections, office closures and more. Absentee Voting Citizens who are displaced can request that an absentee ballot be delivered to their new location. Citizens who have already requested an absentee ballot and need it sent to a new location can contact their respective county board of elections to re-issue a ballot to the new location. Citizens can request an absentee ballot on the North Carolina Absentee Ballot Portal. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is 5:00 p.m. the Tuesday before Election Day. Early Voting In-person early voting begins Thursday, Oct. 17 and ends 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2. Find early voting sites and schedules in one's county on the NCSBE website. Voter Registration Today, October 11, is the deadline for citizens to register to vote or change their registration to a new location if they have moved or been displaced due to Hurricane Helene. Citizens with an N.C. driver’s license or other N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) ID can register to vote online via the NCDMV website. Citizens can register to vote at an early voting site with an official document that shows their voting address. Voter Photo ID Citizens who have lost a photo ID due to Hurricane Helene can fill out a Photo ID Exception Form at their local voting site or send the completed form back with their absentee ballot. A blank Exception Form will arrive with the absentee packet. Check the box for “Exception 3: Victim of a Natural Disaster.” Make sure to sign the form. Other avenues to obtain a valid photo ID are listed below: Go to one's county board of elections office. Registered voters can get their photos taken and print an acceptable ID on the spot. For details, go to the Get a Free Voter Photo ID page through the NC State Board of Elections. Get a free ID from the closest NCDMV office. For details about North Carolina’s photo ID requirement, including a list of all acceptable IDs, visit BringItNC.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-14-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #14 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 11, 2024 Dear Friend, Two weeks post-Helene and it’s past time I take a moment to thank each and every one of you, the people of Western North Carolina, for your strength, resilience, patience, and amidst everything going on, your steadfast dedication to our community. While we still have a long road ahead, you should be proud of how far we’ve come since September 27, when Hurricane Helene hit our mountains harder than any of us could’ve imagined she would. We are making great progress. NCDOT has cleared most roads and is starting to transition to repairs and reconstruction. Duke Energy has restored energy for hundreds of thousands of people in our mountains, and they are collaborating with NCDOT to gain access to the harder hit areas so power can be restored as quickly as possible. More than 85 percent of cell service has been restored in WNC, and providers are diligently working to repair the remaining cell sites that are still down. FEMA has established 14 locations for you to go to for help applying for FEMA resources, including two Disaster Recovery Centers which serve as a one-stop shop for all recovery assistance needs, and more are in the works. Further, a total of 120 treatment plants are now functioning normally across our mountains. While it’s sometimes hard to see the progress that’s been made when you’re standing on the ground looking at the destruction left in Helene’s wake, I want you to remember where we started. We’ve accomplished a lot in the past two weeks and will accomplish even more in the next two. My last note before I relinquish you to today’s update: I ask you to please let go of the expectations and benchmarks you’ve set for when you expect to see “XYZ” take place. Doing that only discounts the progress we have made. Hurricane Helene has caused unprecedented damage across our mountains, and recovery will not be linear like it may be in areas more used to hurricanes or hit by smaller storms. We are paving our own path for recovery. This update includes where to find open pharmacies in each county, the addition of a new Disaster Recovery Center in McDowell County, and progress on infrastructure repairs. Additionally, this update provides a new hyperlinked index. Just click the title of the topic you’d like to review and you will be automatically taken to that information in the update. Today is update number 14, with more information to come in the following days. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Index Click the title to be taken to the correlating information in the update. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Legislative Support Food and Water Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Jackson County Madison County McDowell County Polk County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County Trash Services and Debris Removal Buncombe Haywood Henderson Madison Polk Transylvania Yancey Voter Information United States Postal Service/Mail Services Pharmacy Access Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services Dialysis Locations Oxygen Locations Resources for Veterans Resources for Farmers Power Roads Internet Access Cell Service North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Asheville Regional Airport Federal Nutrition Programs For NC-11 Medical Providers For Local Government Resource Requests For Individual Assistance through FEMA To Connect with a Loved One Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates Free Legal Assistance IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Shelters Buncombe County Haywood County Henderson County Madison County McDowell County Rutherford County Transylvania County Yancey County FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites The following FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open seven days a week to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are also stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. In addition to designated locations, DSA teams are going door to door in the following counties: Buncombe County Henderson County Madison County Yancey County As new stationary locations are established, I will keep you posted. The following locations are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted: Buncombe County Ingles Market 550 Hwy. 9, Black Mountain, NC 28803 Walmart 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Riceville Community Church 2342 Riceville Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Title 10 Mission - Asheville 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC28778 Montford North Star Academy 90 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Beech Community Center 15 State Rd. 2117, Weaverville, NC 28787 Jackson County Jackson County EOC 401 Grindstaff Cove Rd., Ste. A-145, Sylva, NC 28779 McDowell County Corpening Memorial YMCA 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County EOC 129 Barnes Rd., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Ingles Market 276 N. 9 Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Transylvania County Transylvania County EOC 155 Public Safety Way, Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Yancey County Public Library 321 School Cir., Burnsville, NC 28174 Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. Yesterday, both chambers of the North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water A mobile lab to test drinking water is available at the following location seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until October 19: A-B Tech Community College 20 Canoe Ln., Woodfin, NC 28804 Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 63 water systems are on a boil advisory. Only one treatment plant has reported having no power and 21 systems remain out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. There are 120 wastewater treatment plants operating under normal conditions in the affected areas across Western NC. An additional 41 wastewater treatment plants are partially operational or operating on back-up power. The Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have officially completed the infrastructure assessments that I noted in update number nine on public water supplies in the following counties: Buncombe Henderson McDowell Polk Rutherford Yancey The results of the assessments have been shared with local governments to help guide water system restoration efforts, including what repairs may be needed and how expensive those repairs might be. Several major water systems are currently not distributing water, including the City of Asheville, Black Mountain, Woodfin, Spruce Pine, and Burnsville. Work continues on each of these systems to restore functionality. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 14 million liters of water and more than 17 million meals utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 6 million liters of water and 4 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. Lowe’s has donated an additional $10 million to support hurricane relief in Western North Carolina. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following feeding sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 A Community Care Station is available at the following location: 2319 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Community Care Stations offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, wi-fi, potable and non-potable water, and counseling. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church - in the Parish Hall 234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily. St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Life Church of Waynesville 601 Westwood Cir., Waynesville, NC 28786 Supplies will be distributed Friday, October 11 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. In addition to the resource hubs, the following churches will also be providing supplies: Ebeneezer Baptist Church 2557 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Open today, October 11, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. First Baptist Church - Hendersonville 312 5th Ave. W., Hendersonville, NC 28739 Open 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. today, October 11 Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal If your home has damage and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents can use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk items, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Recycling services are currently suspended while repair work is underway at the recycling process facility. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Drop-off of residential trash is $10. GFL trash services will continue the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. Social Security checks are being routed to all units for delivery and/or are available for customer pick up. For impacted residents who have relocated due to the storm, please be sure to complete a change of address request at moversguide.usps.com. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 2350 Old Marshall Hwy., Alexander, NC 28701 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: 1664 Barnardsville Hwy., Barnardsville, NC 28709 Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 111 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: 100 S. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: 272 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: 2311 U.S. 70 Highway, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Pharmacy Access Pharmacy Locator Hundreds of pharmacies never closed or have reopened across Western North Carolina. Use this link to locate pharmacy locations open to the public by county. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. The Asheville VA Medical Center has successfully contacted over 91 percent of veterans most at risk for injury or poor outcomes due to the storm. Additional outreach to those who have not yet been contacted is ongoing. The Asheville VA Medical Center’s water supply is stable due to a schedule of eight 6,000-gallon tanker trucks bringing in water. To make sure the VA water supply remains stable, an emergency contract for well water and a disinfection service that will be operational as a backup water source in about two to three weeks have both been procured. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture has put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power Less than 36,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Great strides have been taken this week to reconnect the majority of Western North Carolina, and Duke Energy continues to work around the clock to restore power for the 36,000 who remain without power as quickly as possible. Duke Energy is providing restoration updates via text to all customers that remain without power. NCDOT crews are coordinating closely with power companies to ensure service is being restored as quickly as possible, including along private roads, keeping in mind that cold months are approaching fast. Restoration of service for individuals in the disaster rebuild zones will be a longer process but Duke Energy workers have already made substantial progress on the extremely difficult and targeted work that lies ahead. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. Cut and shove, debris removal, and damage assessment are winding down, and some locations have transitioned to temporary repairs and reconstruction. Transportation infrastructure damage estimates from assessments are up to several billion dollars. Repairs and reconstruction of roadways will be an extremely long road (no pun intended) over the next couple of years to return Western NC’s transportation network to what it was before. NCDOT crews and contractors have reopened more than 540 roads so far. Roughly 630 roads remain closed in Western NC. This number is still rapidly changing as communications improve and NCDOT reaches new sites. About 100 of the closed roads are along primary routes. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. NCDOT has stated they will be utilizing the $100 million to supplement ongoing efforts in Western North Carolina - this is what I would have hoped the funds are going to be used for, but their public statement is a welcome confirmation of their commitment to restore transportation networks in our mountains. NCDOT has awarded a $10 million contract to Wright Brothers Construction of Charleston, TN, to stabilize the westbound lanes of I-40 by drilling soil nails where the eastbound lanes no longer exist. The contract includes incentives to be complete by January 4, 2025. Around the time this operation concludes, plans for a larger, complex, and complete repair will be in progress. NC DMV has reopened 11 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Communications in the region are improving rapidly. More than 85 percent of cell sites have been restored in Western North Carolina. Only one county remains with 50 percent or more cell sites down. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has full mobile cell service. AT&T has restored more than 60 percent of their cell sites in impacted areas, and Verizon only has 34 sites out of services across our mountains. Verizon started with hundreds of cell sites out of service, so significant progress has been made. Since the storm first hit, T-Mobile has partnered with Starlink to deploy Direct-to-Cellular service over Western North Carolina. Direct to Cell service connects mobile phones directly to Starlink’s satellites in orbit and eliminates the need for functional ground infrastructure, like cell towers. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 2,100 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen and nearly 1,500 active-duty service members have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. Yesterday, active-duty service members distributed more than 690 cases of water, 140 cases of shelf-stable meals, and three pallets of humanitarian assistance items. So far, the National Guard has: Delivered more than 5,000 tons of commodities to affected areas Cleared 1,066 obstacles Search and rescue operations are still ongoing in Western North Carolina. The Guard’s key tasks continue to be search and rescue of impacted civilian personnel, followed by: Delivery of essential relief supplies to points of need Clearing of routes to gain access to isolated communities Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $60 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 51,000 Western North Carolina households. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 11: Buncombe County A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood County Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson County Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison County Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania County Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richard-hudson-issues-statement-on-the-passing-of-george-little,Rep. Richard Hudson Issues Statement on the Passing of George Little,2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) released the below statement following the passing of George Little. Rep. Richard Hudson said, ""Renee and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend George Little, a beloved leader and a pillar of Moore County. George was not only born and raised in this community, but he dedicated his life to making it better. Along with founding an insurance business, he was a champion of economic development in Moore County and tirelessly devoted to civic service. One institution George dearly loved and dedicated many long hours to is Sandhills Community College. As the longest-serving chair of a community college board in the nation, George's leadership and vision helped transform the institution into what it is today. ""I met George 30 years ago when I was a college intern at the North Carolina Republican Party. Nobody loved the Republican Party more than George Little. He served the Party and Republican Governors for decades. He was a friend and mentor to me and so many others. We join the Moore County community in praying for Wanda and the entire family, and all who knew and loved him. George's incredible legacy of service, his infectious sense of humor, and his positive outlook on life will never be forgotten. George Little was one of the most consequential citizens to ever call Moore County home and his tireless efforts will continue to shape our community for years to come."" -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/reps-richard-hudson-kevin-hern-august-pfluger-move-to-stop-flawed-social-cost-of,"Reps. Richard Hudson, Kevin Hern, August Pfluger Move to Stop Flawed Social Cost of Energy from Driving Burdensome Regulations",2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), Republican Study Committee (RSC) Chairman Kevin Hern (OK-01), and RSC House Energy Action Team (HEAT) Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11) led 10 of their colleagues to introduce the Transparency and Honesty in Energy Regulations Act, which will prohibit the federal government from using the flawed social cost of carbon, methane, nitrous oxide, or any other greenhouse gas metric in the rulemaking process. “The Biden-Harris Administration will use every tool at their disposal to advance their radical green agenda. North Carolinians are struggling to fill up their tanks and pay their electricity bills — the last thing they are worried about is the ‘social cost’ of energy. We need to be unleashing American energy to lower prices, not cripple production with burdensome, costly regulations,” said Rep. Hudson. “The Biden-Harris Administration is proud of their war on traditional energy sources; they began their assault on Day 1. As a result, Americans are feeling the pain at the pump. It’s just a fact that government interference in the energy industry has directly contributed to these rising costs. No more manipulated studies and biased research – the American people deserve transparent and honest information,” said RSC Chairman Hern. “The Biden-Harris White House has proven their willingness to hide behind biased and flawed research to advance their war against American energy producers. I am proud to join forces with Representatives Hudson and Hern and our friend Senator Lankford to prohibit the federal government from using flawed metrics to impose new mandates on the energy industry. The White House should unleash clean, affordable, American energy to bring costs down for the American people,"" said RSC HEAT Chairman Pfluger. Joining Hudson, Hern, and Pfluger are Representatives Mike Carey (R-OH), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), Tim Walberg (R-MI), Jake LaTurner (R-KS), Brian Babin (R-TX), Nick Langworthy (R-NY), Chip Roy (R-TX), Laurel Lee (R-FL), and Jeff Duncan (R-SC). Read more in Fox News HERE. Read the full text of the bill HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ross.house.gov/2024/10/ross-castor-williams-urge-social-media-executives-to-address-rampant-misinformation-following-hurricanes-helene-milton,"Ross, Castor, Williams Urge Social Media Executives to Address Rampant Misinformation Following Hurricanes Helene, Milton",2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Deborah K. Ross,R000305,ross.house.gov,ross,https://ross.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Wiley Nickel (NC-13), who represent states that were hit hard by Hurricanes Helene or Milton, led a letter to the social media executives of Facebook/Meta, Instagram, X, Discord, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat urging them to implement necessary processes to counter harmful misinformation related to disaster relief that has circulated on their platforms. The lawmakers are urging social media companies to increase the monitoring and removal of misinformation; enhance fact-checking with local agencies and organizations; strengthen algorithms to identify conspiracy theories; and implement stronger safeguards against scams. Federal recovery efforts across the Southeast require the dissemination of accurate, reliable information to ensure those who need help can receive it. In North Carolina alone, misinformation has seriously impeded Hurricane Helene disaster relief. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Director Deanne Criswell called the level of misinformation: “the worst [she’s] ever seen.” Elon Musk, owner of X, has even amplified and spread harmful lies and accusations. “In the days following Hurricane Helene, we have seen posts encouraging people to apply for fake Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) relief programs, scams targeting those who have lost their homes, and misleading information about where to find shelter and resources… On Instagram, TikTok, and Discord, conspiracy theories have spread claiming that both storms are the result of government actions. It was particularly disturbing to see that, prior to Hurricane Milton’s landfall, meteorologists experienced harassment and even received death threats from users on X,” wrote the lawmakers. They continued, “You have the power and the responsibility to improve the digital spaces where millions of Americans both seek and promote information during crises, including natural disasters. Again, we strongly encourage you to act quickly and decisively to address the clear dangers posed by the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and scams in the wake of these storms. Lives, livelihoods, and the integrity of our recovery efforts depend on it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-13-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #13 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 10, 2024 Dear Friend, Although we are still in the thick of meeting immediate recovery needs across Western North Carolina, I wanted to take a step back today to request that everyone keep the people of Florida in your thoughts and prayers. We know all too well the devastation and worry that Hurricane Milton is bringing to the people of Florida, and even though we are not in a place to be sending equipment, manpower, and vital resources, we are in a place to sympathize with their circumstances - which are much like our circumstances were two weeks ago - and to pray that Milton does not bring the same level of destruction to central Florida as Helene brought to Western North Carolina. Florida is not new to hurricanes, and because of that, the state has been an ally for NC-11 over the past two weeks. Florida has sent manpower, temporary bridges, and other supplies to our mountains to support us in our recovery. Now it is time that we express our support. No matter how much damage Milton leaves in his wake, the close timing of both storms means one thing will be true: North Carolina and Florida are in this together. This update includes new resources for veterans, information on a $273 million relief package from the North Carolina General Assembly, where to find the Disaster Recovery Center in Buncombe County for FEMA assistance, and where to test your drinking water. Today is update number 13, with more information to come in the following days. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites A Disaster Recovery Center opens today, October 10, in Asheville to assist North Carolina survivors who have experienced losses from Hurricane Helene. The center is located at: A.C. Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (including weekends) A Comfort Care Center will also be available at this location where survivors can shower, do laundry and use other services. A Disaster Recovery Center is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration for disaster loans, etc. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon, and I will keep you posted as I learn about them. Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. In addition to designated locations, DSA teams are going door to door in the following counties: Buncombe County Henderson County Madison County Yancey County As new stationary locations are established, I will keep you posted. The following locations are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted: Buncombe County Ingles Market 550 Hwy. 9, Black Mountain, NC 28803 Walmart 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Riceville Community Church 2342 Riceville Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Title 10 Mission - Asheville 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC28778 Montford North Star Academy 90 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Beech Community Center 15 State Rd. 2117, Weaverville, NC 28787 Jackson County Jackson County EOC 401 Grindstaff Cove Rd., Ste. A-145, Sylva, NC 28779 McDowell County Corpening Memorial YMCA 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County EOC 129 Barnes Rd., Marion, NC 28752 McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford County Ingles Market 276 N. 9 Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Transylvania County Transylvania County EOC 155 Public Safety Way, Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey County Yancey County Public Library 321 School Cir., Burnsville, NC 28174 Legislative Support The U.S. House of Representatives is gearing up to pass a disaster relief package when we return to session in November. I have begun conversations with leadership about how to best meet Western North Carolina’s needs in any supplemental relief package passed by Congress in the coming months. Yesterday, both chambers of the North Carolina General Assembly unanimously passed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024. This bill creates a new Hurricane Helene fund with $273 million from the state’s Savings Reserve Fund. $250 million will go to the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management to provide the state’s match to federal disaster relief funds. Another portion of the funds will be used to establish a revolving loan program to help local government and state agencies with cash flow while they are waiting for reimbursement from the federal government. $16 million will go to the Department of Public Instruction for “lost compensation of school nutrition employees due to school closures resulting from Hurricane Helene” $2 million to provide local governments technical assistance with local recovery funds. $5 million to the State Board of Elections, alongside a variety of temporary election law changes such as changing polling sites that were rendered unusable by the storm and establishing a voter hotline, to make it easier for residents of Western North Carolina to vote. The bill also: Grants school calendar flexibility to public schools by allowing them to make up or mark as completed any number of the days or hours missed. It also allows the schools to use up to 30 days of remote instruction toward required instructional days. Waives DMV fees for things like obtaining a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, etc. Waives certain environmental requirements for state highway repairs. This provision will not reduce the safety of repairs conducted by NCDOT or negatively impact the environment. Food and Water A mobile lab to test drinking water is available at the following location seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until October 19: A-B Tech Community College 20 Canoe Ln., Woodfin, NC 28804 Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 66 water systems are on a boil advisory. Four treatment plants have reported having no power and 27 systems are out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction, with 20 treatment plants rescinding their boil advisories and another nine treatment plants regaining power in the past 24 hours. Several major water systems are currently not distributing water, including the City of Asheville, Black Mountain, Woodfin, Spruce Pine, and Burnsville. Work continues on each of these systems to restore functionality. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. linked here. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance linked here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 14 million liters of water and more than 17 million meals utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 6 million liters of water and 4 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. The GE Aerospace Foundation announced a $500,000 donation to support disaster relief efforts in Western North Carolina. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following feeding sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church - in the Parish Hall 234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily. St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Life Church of Waynesville 601 Westwood Cir., Waynesville, NC 28786 Supplies will be distributed from Wednesday, October 9 to Friday, October 11 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. In addition to the resource hubs, the following churches will also be providing supplies: Ebeneezer Baptist Church 2557 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Open October 9 and October 11, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. First Baptist Church - Hendersonville 312 5th Ave. W., Hendersonville, NC 28739 Open 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. on October 10 and 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on October 11 Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 The following locations are providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 United Christian Ministries 191 Skyland Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Sylva 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cornbread and Roses 1294 Savannah Dr., Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Sunday, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Newfound Artisan 22 W. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Through today, October 6. Hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard of storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents can use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk item, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Recycling services are currently suspending while repair work is underway at the recycling process facility. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Beginning today, October 9, drop off of residential trash will be $10. GFL trash services will continue on the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 2350 Old Marshall Hwy., Alexander, NC 28701 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: 1664 Barnardsville Hwy., Barnardsville, NC 28709 Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 111 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: 100 S. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: 272 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: 2311 U.S. 70 Highway, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles. The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators. Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily. Pharmacy Access The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, the following CVS locations are open: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following orthopedic urgent care locations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, physical therapy appointments are also available at each of these locations: EmergeOrtho Hendersonville 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 EmergeOrtho Arden (South Asheville) 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 EmergeOrtho Waynesville 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 EmergeOrtho Brevard 89 Hospital Dr., Ste. A, Brevard, NC 28712 EmergeOrtho Weaverville 159 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new web page with disaster relief resources, providing a single place for veterans and their caregivers to access VA resources on health care, housing, benefits payments, insurance, and more. You can access the web site via this link. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate housing assistance after Hurricane Helene, please call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. The call center is open 24/7. If you have a VA-backed home loan and are unable to make your mortgage payments, please contact your mortgage servicer. You can also call the VA at (877) 827-3702, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Home loan servicers are allowed to put a 90-day pause on foreclosures and encouraged to waive late charges for VA-guaranteed home loans after a disaster. Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. The Asheville VA Medical Center has successfully contacted over 91 percent of veterans most at risk for injury or poor outcomes due to the storm. Additional outreach to those who have not yet been contacted is ongoing. The Asheville VA Medical Center’s water supply is stable due to a schedule of eight 6,000-gallon tanker trucks bringing in water. To make sure the VA water supply remains stable, an emergency contract for well water and a disinfection service that will be operational as a backup water source in about two to three weeks have both been procured. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power and Gas Fewer than 99,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is providing restoration updates via text to all customers that remain without power. Restoration of service for customers in complex repair zones is anticipated by Sunday, October 13. Crews are working around the clock to restore power as quickly as possible. Restoration of service for individuals in the disaster rebuild zones will be a longer process but Duke Energy workers have already made substantial progress overall on the extremely difficult and targeted work that lies ahead. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. Non-essential traffic in impacted areas hinders NCDOT’s efforts to reopen roads. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. There are still areas in Yancey County that have limited access to the state highway system. This limited access may be by ATV, footbridge, or National Guard vehicles. NCDOT is working to improve access to these limited areas as quickly as possible. A temporary air traffic control tower has been established in Rutherford County Airport to facilitate safe movement of aircraft in the area. Damage estimates from what NCDOT has been able to assess to this point are up to several billion dollars. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. NCDOT has stated they will be utilizing the $100 million to supplement ongoing efforts in Western North Carolina - this is what I would have hoped the funds are going to be used for, but their public statement is a welcome confirmation of their commitment to restore transportation networks in our mountains. NCDOT has awarded a $10 million contract to Wright Brothers Construction of Charleston, TN, to stabilize the westbound lanes of I-40 by drilling soil nails where the eastbound lanes no longer exist. The contract includes incentives to be complete by January 4, 2025. Around the time this operation concludes, plans for a larger, complex, and complete repair will be in progress. NC DMV has reopened 11 of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services in or near NC-11, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. To date, more than 1,000 Starlink terminals have been deployed to assist with internet access for disaster response and relief efforts. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service FirstNet is a nationwide wireless network for first responders deployed through a partnership between the federal government and AT&T. The FirstNet fleet has responded to more than 200 FirstNet emergency support requests from public safety officials and deployed more than 180 temporary cell sites to the most heavily affected areas to provide vital connectivity for first responders. Not only have these assets supported public safety but they have also supported calls to 911 from the public if they lack cellular coverage from their carrier. So far, FirstNet has restored 97 percent of affected cell sites in Western North Carolina. Communications in the region are improving rapidly. More than 85 percent of cell sites have been restored in Western North Carolina. Only one county remains with 50 percent or more cell sites down. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has full mobile cell service. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 2,100 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen and nearly 1,500 active-duty service members have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. Yesterday, active-duty service members distributed more than 690 cases of water, 140 cases of shelf-stable meals, and three pallets of humanitarian assistance items. So far, the National Guard has: Delivered more than 5,000 tons of commodities to affected areas Cleared 1,066 obstacles Search and rescue operations are still ongoing in Western North Carolina. The Guard’s key tasks continue to be search and rescue of impacted civilian personnel, followed by: Delivery of essential relief supplies to points of need Clearing of routes to gain access to isolated communities Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $60 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 51,000 Western North Carolina households. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 9: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Rutherford Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church 252 N. Washington St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-host-military-service-academy-day,Rep. Adams to Host Military Service Academy Day,2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) invites students, families, and teachers to attend the 12th Congressional District Military Service Academy Day. More information can be found below. WHO: Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. Students, families, and teachers in the 12th district with interest in U.S. Service Academies. Representatives from: US Military Academy West Point US Air Force Academy US Merchant Marines Academy US Naval Academy US Coast Guard Academy WHAT: An event providing a comprehensive overview of the Military Academies, the application processes, and nominations. Academy representatives will be present to discuss their respective programs. WHERE: West Charlotte High School; 2219 Senior Drive, Charlotte, NC, 28216 WHEN: Saturday, October 19, 2024, 10am -11:30am RSVPs: Please submit RSVPs here or or email adams.press@mail.house.gov ### Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee. For more information contact the Office of Congresswoman Alma Adams: (202)225-1510.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-talks-healthcare-protect-our-care-bus-tour-event,Rep. Adams Talks Healthcare at Protect Our Care Bus Tour Event,2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) spoke yesterday at Protect Our Care's Annual “Lower Costs, Better Care” Nationwide Bus Tour event in Charlotte, about the state of healthcare in the United States. “The Affordable Care Act and the Inflation Reduction Act have expanded affordable healthcare access, capped the costs of prescription drugs and Insulin, saved the average taxpayer thousands of dollars, and ended discrimination for the tens of millions of us with pre-existing conditions,” said Rep. Adams. “Given the success of this legislation, it's no surprise that some would choose to play politics and repeal them. We have to get up and fight for the IRA and ACA to protect our care.” Rep. Adams spoke to the successes of Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, the need to protect the Affordable Care Act from Republican repeal efforts, her support for abortion rights, and plans to expand access to affordable care. Other speakers included Stacy Staggs, President of North Carolina Chapter of Little Lobbyists, and healthcare advocates DonnaMarie Woodson, Laura Packard, and Meghan Bradshaw. Pictures of the event may be viewed here. ### Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-12-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #12 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 9, 2024 Dear Friend, You may have received my email yesterday dispelling the outlandish rumors being spread online about Hurricane Helene response and recovery. It is disappointing such an email had to be sent in the first place, but I hope I have been able to quell any concerns felt by citizens of Western North Carolina. The reality is: These conspiracy theories, while certainly frustrating, have done more harm than most people may realize. The spreading of falsehoods has diverted state, local, and federal resources from helping NC-11 recover toward refuting hearsay and repeatedly trying to set the record straight. Our priority MUST be unified on the recovery and repair of Western North Carolina’s mountains, businesses, families and homes. Any attempt to impede that goal is a disservice to the people of NC-11. I have been overwhelmed by the vast number of Western North Carolinians who share my top priority, and I can only hope that as recovery efforts continue, others who may have been concerned by the falsehoods they were reading online will also turn their attention first and foremost to how they can help, not hinder, Western NC’s recovery. Today’s update includes best practices for navigating storm debris removal, including what may be needed for FEMA and insurance documentation; how to handle hazardous material; and where to place debris for pickup by municipalities. Additionally, the update includes more information on where to find a hot meal, progress on the I-40 westbound repair process and steps being taken by the Asheville VA to shore up their water source. This is update number 12, with more information to come in the following days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Sites Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are stationed across NC-11 to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. In addition to designated locations, DSA teams are going door to door in the following counties: Buncombe County Henderson County Madison County Yancey County As new stationary locations are established, I will keep you posted. The following locations are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted: Buncombe County Ingles Market 550 Hwy. 9, Black Mountain, NC 28803 Ingles Market 800 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Walmart 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Title 10 Mission - Asheville 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC28778 Montford North Star Academy 90 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 AC Reynolds High School 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, NC 28803 Beech Community Center 15 State Rd. 2117, Weaverville, NC 28787 McDowell County McDowell County Senior Center 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Polk County Polk County Courthouse 40 Courthouse St., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford County Ingles Market 276 N. 9 Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 U.S. Highway 64-74A, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Chimney Rock Fire Department 109 Terrace Dr., Chimney Rock, NC 28720 This location closes at 5:00 p.m. Yancey County Blue Ridge Elementary School Shelter 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Food and Water Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 86 water systems are on a boil advisory. 15 treatment plants have reported having no power and 27 systems are out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction, with nine treatment plants regaining power and six systems restoring water to the system in the past 24 hours. Several major water systems are currently not distributing water, including the City of Asheville, Black Mountain, Woodfin, Spruce Pine, and Burnsville. Work continues on each of these systems to restore functionality. NCDEQ has provided the following resources to help community members track progress on water supply restoration efforts: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking - ArcGIS map with filters for system status, county, etc. DEQ Dashboard - links to additional maps, including mobile view of water system status, and environmental guidance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 14 million liters of water and more than 16 million meals utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 6 million liters of water and 4 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following feeding sites are available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Hot meals are available at the following locations: World Central Kitchen in Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ 135 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Serves 25,000 hot meals a day. Daily hours: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Grovemont Park 251 Stonewall Ave., Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Manna Food Bank - Farmer’s Market 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Wesley Grant Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. West Asheville Ingles 669 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Black Mountain Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Daily Hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Nesbitt Chapel 12 Nesbitt Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily hours: 3:00-5:00 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church - in the Parish Hall 234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily. St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Life Church of Waynesville 601 Westwood Cir., Waynesville, NC 28786 Supplies will be distributed from Wednesday, October 9 to Friday, October 11 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mountain Projects 2177 Asheville Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Heart to Heart International - in Haywood Department of Health Parking Lot 157 Paragon Pkwy., Ste. 800, Clyde, NC 28721 The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Jukebox Junction 3606 Pigeon Rd., Canton, NC 28806 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location is offering supplies for horses and livestock: WNC Regional Livestock Center 474 Stock Dr., Canton, NC 28716 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. In addition to the resource hubs, the following churches will also be providing supplies: Ebeneezer Baptist Church 2557 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Open October 9 and October 11, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. First Baptist Church - Hendersonville 312 5th Ave. W., Hendersonville, NC 28739 Open 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. on October 10 and 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on October 11 Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 Hours of operation to come. The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 Hours of operation to come. The following location is providing resources to displaced families and individuals in need: Mountain Projects 154-B Medical Park Loop, Sylva, NC 28779 Daily hours: Not available at this time. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The following locations are serving hot meals daily: Tryon Equestrian Center 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Roseland Community Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Daily hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Newfound Artisan 22 W. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Through today, October 6. Hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. If Hurricane Helene caused damage to your home or belongings, make sure to document it. This is critically important in getting reimbursed. Take photos before you begin cleaning up. Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. Doing this helps speed up the process with insurance and other assistance programs, and ensures you get properly compensated. Before you start the clean-up process, remember: Wear PPE such as long pants, goggles, gloves and sturdy shoes. Stay off damaged structures. Be aware that snakes or other hazardous animals could be present. Call your local fire department to inspect or removal chemicals, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials. If you suspect debris contains toxic substances, seal them in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, please DO NOT burn your storm debris. Emergency personnel are continuing to work on other storm recovery and response efforts, limiting resources to respond to accidental fires. Please discard of storm debris at a local transfer site or via curbside debris pickup. Debris should be placed curbside and not block the roadway or access to the property. Please place debris away from trees, poles or other structures (e.g., fire hydrants, meters, etc.) to make removal work easier. Contact your local municipality for curbside storm debris removal collection schedules or see below for additional information on debris waste removal by county. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take household trash and debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents can use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk item, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service has resumed for regular Monday route customers. Recycling services are currently suspending while repair work is underway at the recycling process facility. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Beginning today, October 9, drop off of residential trash will be $10. GFL trash services will continue on the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers have resumed operations. Daily hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location if you have a new permanent address, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 Cedar Mountain - 28718 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 2350 Old Marshall Hwy., Alexander, NC 28701 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: 1664 Barnardsville Hwy., Barnardsville, NC 28709 Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 111 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: 100 S. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: 272 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: 2311 U.S. 70 Highway, Swannanoa, NC 28778 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles. The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators. Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily. Pharmacy Access The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, the following CVS locations are open: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 Community Support Group 221 Mills Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Mary C. Jenkins Community & Cultural Center Hosted by the City of Brevard, AARP, and Blue Ridge Community College 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 28, and November 18. All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following emergency orthopedic offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily: 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 Please Note: Emergency orthopedic phone services are down so patients will be seen on a walk-in basis without appointment. Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. The Asheville VA Medical Center has successfully contacted over 91 percent of veterans most at risk for injury or poor outcomes due to the storm. Additional outreach to those who have not yet been contacted is ongoing. The Asheville VA Medical Center’s water supply is stable due to a schedule of eight 6,000-gallon tanker trucks bringing in water. To make sure the VA water supply remains stable, an emergency contract for well water and a disinfection service that will be operational as a backup water source in about two to three weeks have both been procured. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power and Gas Fewer than 99,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is providing restoration updates via text to all customers that remain without power. Restoration of service for all other customers in the heavily impacted areas is anticipated within a week, by Sunday, October 13. Crews are working around the clock to restore power as quickly as possible. As work on substations conclude, Duke Energy is moving personnel to work on the power grid’s thousands of miles of lines and poles that serve individual homes and businesses. This work can feel slower because the same amount of work restores fewer customers. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. To monitor road conditions in and around NC-11, use drivenc.gov. The website tracks NCDOT-managed road conditions in real time. NCDOT has reopened more than 460 roads. Roughly 610 roads remain closed, 98 of which are primary routes. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. NCDOT has stated they will be utilizing the $100 million to supplement ongoing efforts in Western North Carolina - this is what I would have hoped the funds are going to be used for, but their public statement is a welcome confirmation of their commitment to restore transportation networks in our mountains. NCDOT has awarded a $10 million contract to Wright Brothers Construction of Charleston, TN, to stabilize the westbound lanes of I-40 by drilling soil nails where the eastbound lanes no longer exist. The contract includes incentives to be complete by January 4, 2025. Around the time this operation concludes, plans for a larger, complex, and complete repair will be in progress. NC DMV has reopened nine of the 16 driver license offices that were closed due to Hurricane Helene. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 The Department of Motor Vehicles plans to reopen two more driver license offices on Wednesday, October 9. The Asheville driver license office will remain closed until water service can be restored. All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. To date, more than 1,000 Starlink terminals have been deployed to assist with internet access for disaster response and relief efforts. SpaceX is offering free monthly Starlink service for 30 days to any household or entity located in the disaster area. To apply for this free service, residents can go to starlink.com/residential and select the “Helene Relief” service plan at check out. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Communications in the region are improving rapidly. More than 85 percent of cell sites have been restored in Western North Carolina. Only two counties remain with 50 percent or more cell sites down. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has full mobile cell service. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 4,900 federal responders are on the ground in Western North Carolina, including the 1,500 active-duty service members. More than 1,800 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. The National Guard has now mobilized over 1,200 vehicles and 50 helicopters from six states and two active-duty units in Western NC for rescue and recovery, debris clearing, and other missions. So far, the National Guard has: Delivered more than 3,800 tons of commodities to affected areas Cleared 1,060 obstacles The Guard’s key tasks continue to be search and rescue of impacted civilian personnel, followed by: Delivery of essential relief supplies to points of need Clearing of routes to gain access to isolated communities Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $37 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 28,000 Western North Carolina households. . To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 9: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell Glenwood Baptist Church 1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640 YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Polk Polk County High School 1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Cane River Middle School 1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/debunking-helene-response-myths,Debunking Helene Response Myths,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 8, 2024 Dear Friend, Over the past 10 days, I have been proud of how our mountain communities have come together to help one another. We have seen a level of support that is unmatched by most any other disaster nationwide; but amidst all of the support, we have also seen an uptick in untrustworthy sources trying to spark chaos by sharing hoaxes, conspiracy theories, and hearsay about hurricane response efforts across our mountains. While it is true, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s response to Hurricane Helene has had its shortfalls, I’m here to dispel the outrageous rumors that have been circulated online: Hurricane Helene was NOT geoengineered by the government to seize and access lithium deposits in Chimney Rock. Nobody can control the weather. Charles Konrad, director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Southeast Regional Climate Center, has confirmed that no one has the technology or ability to geoengineer a hurricane. Current geoengineering technology can serve as a large-scale intervention to mitigate the negative consequences of naturally occurring weather phenomena, but it cannot be used to create or manipulate hurricanes. Local officials have confirmed the government is NOT seizing Chimney Rock. There was no “special meeting” held in Chimney Rock between federal, state or local governments about seizing the town. Local officials are NOT abandoning search and rescue efforts to bulldoze over Chimney Rock. Chimney Rock is NOT being bulldozed over. Rutherford County emergency services personnel are going to extensive lengths to search for missing people, including in debris by using cadaver dogs to locate any remains of individuals trapped in the debris. Just as every other community in Western North Carolina, Chimney Rock officials are focused first and foremost on recovery efforts, followed by plans to rebuild in the future. FEMA is NOT stopping trucks or vehicles with donations, confiscating or seizing supplies, or otherwise turning away donations. FEMA does not conduct vehicle stops or handle road closures with armed guards - all road closures are managed by local law enforcement who are prioritizing getting resources to their fellow community members. FEMA has NOT diverted disaster response funding to the border or foreign aid. Disaster response efforts and individual assistance are funded through the Disaster Relief Fund, which is a dedicated fund for disaster efforts. FEMA’s non-disaster related presence at the border has always been of major concern to me, even before Hurricane Helene, and I will continue to condemn their deployment of personnel to the southern border, but we must separate the two issues. FEMA is NOT going to run out of money. FEMA officials have repeatedly affirmed that the agency has enough money for immediate response and recovery needs over the next few months. Secretary Mayorkas’ statement indicating otherwise was an irresponsible attempt to politicize a tragedy for personal gain. In the coming months, Western North Carolina is going to need more disaster relief funding than is currently available to assist with recovery efforts. I’m confident that supplemental disaster relief funding, which I am already involved in the process of creating, will be considered in the House once we return to session in mid-November. FEMA cannot seize your property or land. Applying for disaster assistance does not grant FEMA or the federal government authority or ownership of your property or land. The FAA is NOT restricting access to airspace for Helene rescue and recovery operations. Nobody seeking to fly resources into Western North Carolina will be prohibited from doing so by the FAA or North Carolina Emergency Management so long as they coordinate their efforts with NC Aviation. If you are looking to conduct an airdrop of resources but don’t know who to contact for approval, please reach out to my office and we will share that information with you. FEMA is NOT only providing $750 to disaster survivors to support their recovery. The initial $750 provided to disaster survivors is an immediate type of assistance called Serious Needs Assistance that may be made to individuals in need as soon as they apply for FEMA assistance. The $750 is an upfront, flexible payment to help cover essential items like food, water, baby formula and medication while FEMA assesses the applicant’s eligibility for additional funds. This award is just the first step of a longer process to provide financial assistance to disaster survivors in need of federal support. As an application moves through the review process, individuals are eligible to receive additional forms of assistance for other needs such as temporary housing, personal property and home repair costs, etc. I encourage you to remember that everything you see on Facebook, X, or any other social media platform is not always fact. Please make sure you are fact checking what you read online with a reputable source. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-11-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #11 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 8, 2024 Dear Friend, I know everyone is starting to get restless. Many of you have seen your power restored but still don’t have running water to shower, cook, or clean laundry. Others still don’t have power and are likely frustrated with the inability to do something as simple as come home and turn on the lights. I want to let you know that your frustration is valid. It has been a long 11 days for the people of our mountains, and it’s reaching the point where folks are just tired. That is okay. We will still get through this. If you feel you are overwhelmed or need someone to talk to about everything you have endured since Hurricane Helene hit, I encourage you to reach out to a friend, a family member, or maybe one of the mental health resources I’ve listed in today’s update. The closer we get to two weeks post-disaster, the more anxious I’m sure many of you are going to feel to want to return to how mountain life was pre-disaster. I want to assure you that we will get there. It will be a long road, but every passing day is just another 24 hours closer to a better, stronger, more resilient Western North Carolina. Today’s update includes changes to open USPS locations, information on open DMV offices, and an update on Department of Defense assets deployed to assist with response and recovery efforts in Western North Carolina. This is update number 11, with more information to come in the following days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Food and Water Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 86 water systems are on a boil advisory. 15 treatment plants have reported having no power and 27 systems are out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction, with nine treatment plants regaining power and six systems restoring water to the system in the past 24 hours. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 14 million liters of water and more than 15 million meals utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 6 million liters of water and 4 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. Home Depot will be passing out free disaster relief kits every day starting at 9:00 a.m., while supplies last, at the following locations: Home Depot Asheville 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Home Depot West Asheville 127 Acton Cir., Asheville, NC 28806 Home Depot Hendersonville 401 Linda Vista Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church - in the Parish Hall 234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily. St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. Life Church of Waynesville 601 Westwood Cir., Waynesville, NC 28786 Supplies will be distributed from Wednesday, October 9 to Friday, October 11 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6 at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Rugby Middle School: 3345 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726 North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 Hours of operation to come. The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 Hours of operation to come. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Newfound Artisan 22 W. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Through today, October 6. Hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Church at Sapphire 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Through October 10. Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents can use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk item, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service will resume today, October 7, for regular Monday route customers. Recycling services are currently suspending while repair work is underway at the recycling process facility. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The service fee is waived through October 8. Beginning on October 9, drop off of residential trash will be $10. GFL trash services will continue on the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers were expected to resume operations by yesterday, October 5. No update has been published, but I will keep you posted once I have received confirmation that the facilities have been reopened. Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail or delivery: Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Hot Springs - 28743 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 The following site is closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 2350 Old Marshall Hwy., Alexander, NC 28701 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. Open Saturdays: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 3979 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Barnardsville - 28709 Alternate location: 1664 Barnardsville Hwy., Barnardsville, NC 28709 Daily hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; closed from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Cedar Mountain - 28718 Alternate location: 9515 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Daily hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:00-2:00 p.m. for lunch Open Saturdays: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternate location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternate location: 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Gerton – 28735 Alternate location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hot Springs - 28743 111 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternate location: 100 S. Main St., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; closed 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternate location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternate location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Rosman - 28778 Alternate location: 272 Main St., Rosman, NC 28772 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed 12:30-1:30 p.m. for lunch. Open Saturdays: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Swannanoa - 28765 Alternate location: 1141 Tunnel Rd., Ste. C, Asheville, NC 28805 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles. The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators. Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily. Pharmacy Access The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Free mental health services - All available for drop-in Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians is a partnership among more than 200 mental health professionals volunteering to provide free mental health services for Hurricane Helene survivors. Services are provided virtually, and you can follow this link to find a professional that fits your needs and their contact information to schedule a session. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Pearl Institute 55 Academy St., Waynesville, NC Daily hours: 12:00-6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) Free telehealth appointments are also available. To book a telehealth appointment, you can email info@pearlpsychedelicinstitute.org or call/text (828) 400-7091 All University of North Carolina System students have access to free mental health through their university. Please monitor your student email for more information on how to access these services. The following emergency orthopedic offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily: 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 Please Note: Emergency orthopedic phone services are down so patients will be seen on a walk-in basis without appointment. Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power and Gas About 117,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Customers whose properties are inaccessible or not able to receive power may be without electricity for an extended period of time as Duke Energy works to rebuild critical infrastructure. Restoration of service for all other customers in the heavily impacted areas is anticipated within a week, by Sunday, October 13. Crews are working around the clock to restore power as quickly as possible. As work on substations conclude, Duke Energy is moving personnel to work on the power grid’s thousands of miles of lines and poles that serve individual homes and businesses. This work can feel slower because the same amount of work restores fewer customers. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Complex Repair & Disaster Rebuild Zones Map: duke-energy.com/info/carolinas-restoration Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon and Jackson counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm. NCDOT has reopened more than 450 roads. Roughly 630 roads remain closed, 105 of which are primary routes. Cut-and-shove operations continue in areas of Henderson and Polk counties. All other storm impacted areas in Division 14 have transitioned to damage assessment and/or repairs of primary and secondary routes by state or contract forces. Division 14 includes all NC-11 counties, other than: McDowell, Rutherford, Buncombe, Madison, and Yancey counties. Non-Division 14 counties are a part of Division 13, which has seen an influx of transfer crews to increase personnel and equipment support for cut and shove efforts. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. A total of 2,050 DOT employees are working to restore and repair road access in WNC. NCDOT also has: 1,100 pieces of heavy equipment for debris clearance and road repairs in affected areas, including dump trucks, backhoes, loaders, graders, etc. More than 50 personnel from neighboring states on the ground providing assistance. As of October 7, public transportation agencies in areas impacted by Helene have provided 487 evacuation trips and transported 2,018 people out of impacted areas to safety. Yesterday, NC DMV reopened nine of the 16 driver license offices that had been closed since Hurricane Helene hit. The following DMV offices are open for walk-in services Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed between 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a lunch break: Burke County - Closest open location for McDowell and Yancey County residents 115 Government Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 Cherokee County 1440 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901 Haywood County 290 Lee Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Henderson County 125 Baystone Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Jackson County 876 Skyland Dr., Ste. 2, Sylva, NC 28779 Macon County 16 Patton Ave., Franklin, NC 28734 Rutherford County 596 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Swain County 2650 Governors Island Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 Transylvania County 50 Commerce St., Ste. 4, Brevard, NC 28712 The Department of Motor Vehicles plans to reopen two more driver license offices on Wednesday, October 9. The Asheville driver license office will remain closed until water service can be restored. All but five license plate agencies have reopened. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Restoration timelines are not available at this time. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 Newfound Artison through today, October 6 High-speed internet and charging outlets Available 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Communications in the region are improving rapidly. Roughly 80 percent of access to cell service has been restored in Western North Carolina. More than 100 temporary network assets have been deployed across all service providers in NC-11 to assist with service quality. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 4,900 federal responders are on the ground in Western North Carolina, including the 1,500 active-duty service members. More than 1,800 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. The National Guard has more than 700 vehicles and 50 helicopters from six states and two active-duty units in Western NC for rescue and recovery, debris clearing, and other missions. So far, the National Guard has: Delivered more than 2,614 tons of commodities to affected areas Cleared 1,052 obstacles Rescued nearly 1,000 individuals The Department of Defense has also deployed 918 vehicles and 41 aircraft to Western North Carolina. The Guard’s key tasks continue to be search and rescue of impacted civilian personnel, followed by: Delivery of essential relief supplies to points of need Clearing of routes to gain access to isolated communities Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society is reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. For more information on the disaster relief fund, you can visit this link. Details on how medical practices can qualify and apply for funds will be coming soon. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $33 million in housing and other types of assistance and more than 109,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 9: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell Glenwood Baptist Church 1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640 YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Polk Polk County High School 1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Cane River Middle School 1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-10-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #10 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 7, 2024 Dear Friend, Here’s to hope: 6,586 people have been rescued, evacuated or assisted by search and rescue teams since Hurricane Helene hit, including 39 survivors being rescued on Saturday, October 5, over eight full days into rescue efforts. More than 4,000 first responders, national guardsmen, and active-duty military are in Western North Carolina looking for your friends, your family, or if you’re still stranded waiting for help - they’re looking for you. And they won’t stop until every missing person is accounted for. I’m sure many of you have heard that there is a second hurricane brewing on the coast of Florida. It is not expected to hit Western North Carolina, but if it maintains it’s intensity as a Category 4 hurricane, it is expected to be catastrophic. I’m here to tell you that we will support Florida in any way we can, but I am also committed to making sure Western North Carolina does not get left behind in place of the newest natural disaster. The resources and help I have listed over the last nine days are here to stay. Today is update number 10 and includes details on where to find critical health care services including orthopedic care, dialysis treatments, and oxygen tanks, and an updated timeline on power restoration for individuals in the hardest hit areas. More information is to come in the following days. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Food and Water Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 84 water systems are on a boil advisory. 24 treatment plants have reported having no power and 33 systems are out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. FEMA has shipped 13 million meals and 13 million liters of water utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Of the shipped food and water, more than 6 million liters of water and 4 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities. Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Fines Creek Community Center 190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721 Open every day until 6:00 p.m. Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church - in the Parish Hall 234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily. St. Barnabas Catholic Church 109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Reynolds Baptist Church - Family Life Center 520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill. The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6 at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Rugby Middle School: 3345 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726 North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 Hours of operation to come. The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 Hours of operation to come. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Transylvania County The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Cedar Mountain Community Center 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Newfound Artisan 22 W. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Through today, October 6. Hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Church at Sapphire 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Through October 10. Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents can use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk item, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Waste Pro collection service will resume today, October 7, for regular Monday route customers. Recycling services are currently suspending while repair work is underway at the recycling process facility. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The service fee is waived through October 8. Beginning on October 9, drop off of residential trash will be $10. GFL trash services will continue on the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers were expected to resume operations by yesterday, October 5. No update has been published, but I will keep you posted once I have received confirmation that the facilities have been reopened. Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed with no retail or delivery: Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Hot Springs - 28743 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 The following site is closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so: Newland - 28657 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 1800 Four Season Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternative location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternative location: 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Gerton – 28735 Alternative location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternative Location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternative location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so. Due to internet outages and connectivity issues, the following sites are providing retail services with cash only, PO Box only: Dana - 28724 Enka - 28728 Flat Rock - 28731 Hendersonville MPO - 28739 Lake Lure (OIC) - 28746 Little Switzerland - 28749 Mountain Home - 28758 Naples - 28760 Pisgah Forest - 28768 Ridgecrest - 28770 Skyland - 28776 Zirconia - 28790 Bostic - 28018 Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles. The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings in North Carolina are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators. Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily. Pharmacy Access The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Locations open from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room (mental health services only) 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 The following emergency orthopedic offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily: 800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704 9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785 Please Note: Emergency orthopedic phone services are down so patients will be seen on a walk-in basis without appointment. Dialysis Locations The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11: Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 This location can dialyze 30 patients a day. DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available: DaVita Greer South Dialysis 3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650 Contact Number: (864) 801-2065 DaVita Saluda River Dialysis 8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673 Contact Number: (833) 378-2702 DaVita Wofford at Home 8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303 Contact Number: (864) 583-4788 DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis 196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Contact Number: (833) 458-4809 Oxygen Locations Hendersonville High School 1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital. Lincare is only serving established patients. Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations: Asheville Lincare 103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804 Fax number: (866) 234-6698 Greenville Lincare 355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607 Fax Number: (864) 288-0339 The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment - fire departments are available 24/7: Boiling Springs Fire Department 186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316 Reidville Fire Department 7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388 Inman City Fire Department 6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349 First Presbyterian Church 393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center 113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651 Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m. Croft Fire Department 370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302 Arkwright Fire Department 1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306 Roebuck Fire Department 2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376\ North Spartanburg Fire Department 8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316 Resources for Veterans Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. Power and Gas About 117,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Customers whose properties are inaccessible or not able to receive power may be without electricity for an extended period of time as Duke Energy works to rebuild critical infrastructure. Restoration of service for all other customers in the heavily impacted areas is anticipated within a week, by Sunday, October 13. Crews are working around the clock to restore power as quickly as possible. As work on substations conclude, Duke Energy is moving personnel to work on the power grid’s thousands of miles of lines and poles that serve individual homes and businesses. This work can feel slower because the same amount of work restores fewer customers. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay and Swain counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm such as Henderson and Buncombe counties. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. A total of 2,050 DOT employees are working to restore and repair road access in WNC. NCDOT also has: DOT also has: 1,100 pieces of heavy equipment for debris clearance and road repairs in affected areas, including dump trucks, backhoes, loaders, graders, etc. More than 50 personnel from neighboring states on the ground providing assistance. NCDOT is reporting about 650 road closures, 106 of which are to primary routes. Now that communications have been largely restored, NCDOT has a more comprehensive picture of debris blocking roadways, road damage, and necessary repairs in our mountains. At least 100 bridges are irreparable and will require replacement. All roadways in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Caldwell, and Wilkes counties are accessible, although some are requiring four-wheel drive. While none of the above-listed counties are in NC-11, they are a welcome sign of what’s to come. Progress has been made on NCDOT and Tennessee DOT's plans for reconstruction of I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge. Bids for stabilization of the westbound lanes of I-40 where the eastbound lanes no longer exist will be opening today, October 7. A contract will be awarded shortly after the bid closes. NCDOT is working to expedite the necessary repairs to restore mobility to the area as soon as possible. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. Restoration timelines are not available at this time. Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process. As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 Newfound Artison through today, October 6 High-speed internet and charging outlets Available 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Communications in the region are improving rapidly. Cell service providers reported significant gains in service coverage on Sunday, October 6. Roughly 80 percent of access to cell service has been restored in Western North Carolina. More than 100 temporary network assets have been deployed across all service providers in NC-11 to assist with service quality. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense Almost 1,800 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. The total number of deployed guardsmen will continue to increase over the coming days. The National Guard has more than 700 vehicles and 50 helicopters from six states and two active-duty units in Western NC for rescue and recovery, debris clearing, and other missions. So far, the National Guard has: Delivered more than 2,614 tons of commodities to affected areas Cleared 1,052 obstacles Rescued nearly 1,000 individuals The Guard’s key tasks continue to be search and rescue of impacted civilian personnel, followed by: Delivery of essential relief supplies to points of need Clearing of routes to gain access to isolated communities Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. On October 2, the Secretary of Defense authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers, including soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division from Ft. Liberty (formerly Ft. Bragg). Nearly all 1,000 of the authorized active-duty soldiers have been mobilized to support the residents and affect counties devastated by Hurricane Helene in Western NC. These soldiers are providing additional manpower and logistics capabilities to reach the hardest hit areas as quickly as possible. In addition to the 1,000 previously authorized soldiers, another 500 troops with advanced technological assets were approved for deployment to Western NC to provide greater situational awareness on the ground. These troops are not yet in NC-11, but coordination is taking place for rapid deployment over the coming days. The Department of Defense has also committed 22 helicopters to assist with search and rescue operations. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society will be reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. The FRP will be back online to provide much needed assistance soon. More information to follow. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $30 million in housing and other types of assistance and more than 96,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 5: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell Glenwood Baptist Church 1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640 YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Polk Polk County High School 1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Cane River Middle School 1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-tillis-lead-nc-colleagues-in-urging-hhs-fema-to-operationalize-greensboro,"Hudson, Tillis Lead NC Colleagues in Urging HHS & FEMA to Operationalize Greensboro Migrant Facility to Support Western North Carolina's Recovery from Helene",2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) led Republican Members of North Carolina's Congressional Delegation in a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell on the urgent need to operationalize the Greensboro Influx Care Facility (ICF) to assist in Western North Carolina's recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene. In addition to Representative Hudson and Senator Tillis, the letter was signed by Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), and Representatives Chuck Edwards (R-NC), David Rouzer (R-NC), Dan Bishop (R-NC), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Greg Murphy (R-NC), and Patrick McHenry (R-NC). The lawmakers wrote, ""As you may know, Health and Human Services (HHS) currently operates GCC as an Influx Care Facility (ICF) meant to house and support unaccompanied alien children (UAC) in the case of an emergency. However, in June 2024, HHS’s Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) at the Administration for Children & Families (ACF) announced that GCC has “ramped down its operations to facility upkeep.” ""Based on our understanding of this facility, we think that it could be incredibly useful in supporting the people of western North Carolina as the region recovers from Hurricane Helene,"" the lawmakers continued. ""For example, GCC could be used to temporarily house those displaced by the storm or to serve as a staging area for aid workers stationed in the state."" ""Our delegation is grateful for the work that has been done by your agencies so far to assist the people of North Carolina. However, much more can and should be done to expediently aid those whose lives have been upended by this storm. We believe operationalizing GCC for the purposes of aid and recovery is an effective way to do so,"" the lawmakers concluded. Read the full letter HERE. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-issues-statement-one-year-anniversary-october-7th-escalating-threat-war,"Murphy Issues Statement on One-Year Anniversary of October 7th, Escalating Threat of War in the Middle East",2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenville, NC — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the attacks on October 7th and the escalating threat of a full-scale war in the Middle East. ""Today marks the horrific tragedy of October 7th, 2023 when Israel was brutally and savagely attacked by the Hamas terrorist group,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""Since then, Israel has also withstood the attacks of another terrorist group of Hezbollah and, most recently, the terrorist nation of Iran. Regardless of the foe, it has become clear to the world that Israel will not be eliminated. Increasing tensions and regional instability present a threat not just to the Middle East, but to the global community. Tehran's repeated escalation of its war against Israel will be met with great immediate and long term consequences. ""The United States and its allies must remain stalwart in our support of our greatest Middle East ally in this grave time. Peace can only be achieved through strength. Unprovoked aggression must be met with boldness and complete resolve. Until the bloodthirsty terrorists lay down their weapons, they will continue to feel the wrath of the Israel Defense Forces and our supporting coalition will remain ready to defend the innocent."" Timeline of the War October 7, 2023: Hamas launches attack on Israel killing more than 1,200 people and seizing about 250 hostages. October 8, 2023: Hezbollah begins shelling Israel from Lebanon. October 11, 2023: Netanyahu forms emergency government. October 13, 2023: Israel warns people to evacuate northern Gaza an area with a population of around 1 million. October 19, 2023: U.S. Navy warship intercepts missiles and drones launched from Yemen over the Red Sea in the direction of Israel. October 21, 2023: Aid trucks begin to enter Gaza through the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Israel. October 27, 2023: Israel launches ground offensive in Gaza. November 1, 2023: Evacuations from Gaza through the Rafah border crossing for foreign passport-holders, dual nationals and dependents, and individuals needing emergency care begin. November 9, 2023: A drone launched from Syrian territory hits Israel, and the next day, the IDF attacks the militia responsible. November 21, 2023: Israel and Hamas reaches an agreement to pause fighting for four days to exchange hostages and allow more aid. 105 Israeli hostages and about 240 Palestinian detainees are released. December 4, 2023: Israel launches a ground assault in southern Gaza. December 22, 2023: The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an Iranian-backed militia, announces it launched a long-range attack on Israel which reports no impact. January 2, 2024: IDF eliminates Saleh Arouri, second-in-command of Hamas’s political office, in Beirut. February 9, 2024: Netanyahu instructs Israel's military to present plans to the Cabinet for evacuating the civilian population from Rafah and for a military operation that would eliminate Hamas battalions in the city. March 13, 2024: IDF says it has plans to move displaced individuals in Rafah. April 8, 2024: Netanyahu announces there is a date for Israel's military operation in Rafah, but does not specify it. May 6, 2024: Israel orders people in Rafah to evacuate, sending phone messages and dropping leaflets overhead, and launches military offensive. June 9, 2024: IDF special operation rescues four hostages in central Gaza. July 4, 2024: Hezbollah fires 200 rockets at Israel. July 30, 2024: Israel eliminates Ismail Haniyeh, a top political leader of Hamas, in Tehran and Fuad Shukr, a Hezbollah commander responsible for the 1983 Beirut Bombing, in Beirut. August 25, 2024: Israel and Hezbollah engage in their biggest exchange of fire since the 34-day war in 2006. August 31, 2024: Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin found dead. September 17, 2024: Hundreds of pagers carried by Hezbollah members in Lebanon blew up nearly simultaneously killing at least 12 individuals. September 18, 2024: Handheld radios explode in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah, killing at least 20 people and wounding 450. September 27, 2024: Israel eliminates Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut. October 1, 2024: Iran launches at least 180 missiles into Israel.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-9-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #9 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-06,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 6, 2024 Dear Friend, Happy Sunday. If you’ll give me a point of privilege, I’d like to skip the business talk today and share a bit of positivity. Regardless of your beliefs, Sundays are an opportunity to reflect and be grateful for the blessings in our lives. Today, I’m grateful that I get to represent such strong, resilient, salt-of-the-earth people who continue to show up for each other. I’m grateful for the thousands of people from across the country who have come to serve and help our mountains, and I’m grateful for the local leaders who are working day and night to help us recover and achieve a new normal. I’m curious, what are you grateful for today? Today’s update includes the longest list of food and water distribution sites yet. It also includes more information on county trash pickup/debris removal, plans to rebuild and reopen I-40 into Tennessee, and where to find free internet. Today is update number nine, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Food and Water Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 93 water systems are on a boil advisory. 37 treatment plants have reported having no power and 41 systems are out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. Today, October 6, 12 combined teams from the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be conducting infrastructure assessments on public water supplies in the following counties: Buncombe Henderson McDowell Polk Rutherford Yancey The results of these assessments are expected on October 7 and will provide insight into the necessary steps to restore water services in each county. The state of North Carolina is continuing to provide a minimum of 40 trailer loads of water and 20 trailer loads of food daily through at least October 6, per their promise to the people of Western North Carolina. I’m in conversation with NC Emergency Management to negotiate a new commitment for the people of Western North Carolina since the state’s initial promise of 40 trailers of water and 20 trailers of food expires today. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. To date, FEMA has shipped 13 million meals and 13 million liters of water utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church – Weaverville 63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container. Supplies and bottled water. Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m. Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Ingles 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center 121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Lucy Herring Elementary 98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 Oakley Elementary School 753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution will be taking place daily from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6 at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Rugby Middle School: 3345 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726 North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Jackson County In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County: The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location: 558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717 Hours of operation to come. The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location: 149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783 Hours of operation to come. Madison County The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County: Beech Glen Community Center 2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. Center Community Center 1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ebbs Chapel Community Center 281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Enon Baptist Church 174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m. Freedom Christian Church 7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc. Laurel Community Center - also has supplies 4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Revere-Rice Community Center 3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat) Spring Creek Community Center 13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay. Walnut Community Center - also has supplies 46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time. N.C. Cooperative Extension - Madison County Center 258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only. McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Former TJ’s Discounts - North Cove 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church - Dysartsville 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Zion Hill Baptist Church 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices. Current hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 The Church at Sapphire - through October 10 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Daily hours: 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. Little River Baptist Church - through October 11 51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766 Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m. Cedar Mountain Community CenterTransylvania County 10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m.The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents: Balsam Grove Community Center - daily until power is fully restored 8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708 Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at: 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Water filling stations can be found at the following locations: City Sports Complex 824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cedar Mountain Outpost 8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. Territory Brevard 43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. DD Bullwinkles 60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 No posted daily hours. First United Methodist Church 325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pisgah Forest Baptist Church 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Newfound Artisan 22 W. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712 Through today, October 6. Hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m. Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations: Anchor Baptist Church 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Church at Sapphire 620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774 Through October 10. Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m. Yancey County Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address: Altec 150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address: 631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714 Trash Services and Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste. Buncombe Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers. There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents can use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October. The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY: Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 Please Note: Yard waste, bulk item, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened. Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Madison The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY: Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time. Polk The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The service fee is waived through October 8. Beginning on October 9, drop off of residential trash will be $10. GFL trash services will continue on the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene. Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility. Transylvania The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup. Yancey The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers were expected to resume operations by yesterday, October 5. No update has been published, but I will keep you posted once I have received confirmation that the facilities have been reopened. Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed: Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Hot Springs - 28743 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 1800 Four Season Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternative location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternative location: 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Gerton – 28735 Alternative location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternative Location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternative location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The following sites are attempting delivery where safe to do so: Arden - 28704 Asheville London Rd. - 28803 Asheville S&DC - 28810 Black Mountain - 28711 Brevard - 28712 Burnsville - 28714 Candler - 28715 Clyde - 28721 Columbus - 28722 East Flat Rock - 28726 Etowah - 28729 Fairview - 2873 Fletcher - 28732 Hendersonville Annex - 28792 Horse Shoe - 28742 Lake Toxaway (cash only/PO box) - 28747 Marion - 28752 Mars Hill - 28754 Old Fort - 28762 Rutherfordton - 28139 Saluda - 28773 Sapphire - 28774 Spruce Pine - 28777 Tryon - 28782 Weaverville - 28787 Due to internet outages and connectivity issues, the following sites are providing retail services with cash only, PO Box only: Dana - 28724 Enka - 28728 Flat Rock - 28731 Hendersonville MPO - 28739 Lake Lure (OIC) - 28746 Little Switzerland - 28749 Mountain Home - 28758 Naples - 28760 Pisgah Forest - 28768 Ridgecrest - 28770 Skyland - 28776 Zirconia - 28790 Bostic - 28018 Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles. The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings in North Carolina are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators. Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily. Pharmacy Access The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location: 730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares/ Health Care Services There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows: 305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714 The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mobile Urgent Care Clinic 12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Pardee Urgent Care 45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 Locations open from 12:00-5:00 p.m. Hot Springs Elementary School - Art Room (mental health services only) 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 Resources for Veterans Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. On Monday, October 7, at 11:00 a.m., USDA is hosting a virtual briefing to share information on disaster assistance programs. You can join the event on Microsoft Teams using this link. Add the event to your calendar: Google, iCal, or Outlook. Power and Gas 141,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. As work on substations conclude, Duke Energy is moving personnel to work on the power grid’s thousands of miles of lines and poles that serve individual homes and businesses. This work can feel slower because the same amount of work restores fewer customers. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay and Swain counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm such as Henderson and Buncombe counties. USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT. Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start. Since Friday, NCDOT has deployed an additional 450 employees to help respond to storm damage. A total of 2,050 DOT employees are working to restore and repair road access in WNC. NCDOT also has more than 50 personnel from neighboring states on the ground providing assistance. There are currently about 650 road closures, 109 of which are to primary routes. About 300 bridges have been identified for further investigation and at least one-third will need to be replaced. NCDOT and Tennessee DOT are collaborating on a long-term plan for reconstruction of I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge. NCDOT is in the process of contracting a project to stabilize the westbound lanes of I-40 where the eastbound lanes no longer exist to mitigate the risk of further damage. NCDOT is working to expedite these repairs to restore mobility to the area as soon as possible. Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC. NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 The following locations are offering free public wi-fi: First Baptist Church - Weaverville 63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 Downtown Franklin The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown. Transylvania County Library - 24/7 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712 Newfound Artison through today, October 6 High-speed internet and charging outlets Available 12:00-5:00 p.m. The Yard Brevard 284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 Brevard Visitor Center 175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712 Available daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cell Service Verizon was able to restore service in the Waynesville area. They will be moving the portable cell sites and satellite connections that were in Waynesville to Lake Junaluska, Iron Duff, and other areas north of Waynesville to provide service for the residents and first responders there. Engineers have finally been able to clear access for equipment in Rutherford County near Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Providers are currently assessing the extent of the damage and starting repairs. Even though you may have service again, you may notice it is different from your pre-storm service. The temporary connection links put in place as a temporary fix while the fiber is being repaired can accommodate smaller amounts of traffic. Network capacity on temporary connection links may be maxed out more frequently, so service providers are encouraging customers to use the network sparingly to maintain room for first responders and community members who still need to reach help or critical resources. Support and recovery personnel are also encouraged to minimize cell usage. Service providers are working to add additional capacity to cell sites and move mobile assets where needed to accommodate data increases, so I am requesting a little more patience on their behalf as providers work to fully restore our community’s network. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location: 470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Family Justice Center 35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Groce United Methodist Church 954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 First Baptist Church 130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 1,500 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. The total number of deployed guardsmen will continue to increase over the coming days. The National Guard has deployed a military liaison officer to each of the affected counties to aid in communication and coordination with each county EMS. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. On October 2, the Secretary of Defense authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers, including soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division from Ft. Liberty (formerly Ft. Bragg). Many of these soldiers have arrived in Western North Carolina and are supporting the delivery of food, water and other critical aid to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. 400 soldiers have already been stationed in Western North Carolina. Hundreds of others are positioned nearby, prepared to assume tasks and missions as they are requested by counties and assigned by NC Emergency Management. The Department of Defense has also committed 22 helicopters to assist with search and rescue operations. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society will be reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. The FRP will be back online to provide much needed assistance soon. More information to follow. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $26 million in housing and other types of assistance to more than 19,000 North Carolina households. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests. Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 5: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell Glenwood Baptist Church 1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640 YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Polk Polk County High School 1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Blue Ridge Elementary 910 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Cane River Middle School 1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-greets-vice-president-kamala-harris-charlotte,Rep. Adams Greets Vice President Kamala Harris in Charlotte,2024-10-05,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) welcomed Vice President Kamala D. Harris to Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday, as she arrived at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) to survey the damage wrought by Tropical Storm Helene. “I spoke with Vice President Harris, and she is committed to providing whatever resources are required to help the people of North Carolina recover from Helene,” said Rep. Adams. “I am thankful to her and to President Biden for all the work they’re doing behind the scenes to help our state.” Rep. Adams, who represents northern Charlotte and some surrounding towns, joined the Vice President on the tarmac at CLT, to welcome her to the region. CLT has benefited from over $200 million in federal funds supporting its expansion and modernization, thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) passed under the Biden-Harris Administration. ### Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-8-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #8 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-05,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 5, 2024 Dear Friend, We are turning a corner. Resources are here, the community is coming together, and it has been made very clear that victims are not in this recovery effort alone. Let me repeat that: You are not alone, and you will not have to recover from this hurricane alone. I want to start today’s update by applauding every single person who has reached out to offer aid, traveled to Western North Carolina to help, donated their time, money, or supplies, or prayed for the people of these mountains. For every new community I have visited over the past week, I have seen dozens of new volunteers serving North Carolinians in need, and this help isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Volunteers, you depict hope, which is something that has been desperately needed in NC-11 over the past week. Thank you. Today’s update is jam packed. New information or resources have been added in just about every category and I’ve added a few completely new categories as well. These include resources for farmers, prescription access for veterans and the uninsured, new federal nutrition program flexibilities, and arguably most in-demand - resources for how to vote in a post-Hurricane Helene environment. Today is update number eight and I will, of course, be continuing to provide you with more information over the coming days and weeks. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Food and Water Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 96 water systems are on a boil advisory. 37 treatment plants have reported having no power and 41 systems are out of water. Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction. The state of North Carolina is continuing to provide a minimum of 40 trailer loads of water and 20 trailer loads of food daily through at least October 6, per their promise to the people of Western North Carolina. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. To date, FEMA has delivered 5.4 million meals and 6.3 million liters of water utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit. Walmart will also be hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Portable restrooms Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Portable restrooms Laundry Showers Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m. Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution takes place daily, starting at 9:00 a.m., at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Rugby Middle School: 3345 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726 North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Madison County The following locations are offering food and water distribution in Madison County: 5580 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753 225 Carl Eller Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Hicks Chapel Church 6008 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Former TJ’s Discounts 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The Roseland Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church - also has bathroom and shower stations 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened, as of noon on Tuesday, October 1 Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees. Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc. Please be patient. The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible. Voter Information The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election. To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link. The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location, county board of elections, office closures and more. For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections. Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered. I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election. United States Postal Service/Mail Services USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads. There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions. No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below. The following sites are closed: Barnardsville - 28709 Cedar Mountain - 28718 Hot Springs - 28743 Rosman - 28772 Swannanoa - 28778 The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed: Alexander - 28701 Alternative location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Bat Cave - 28710 Alternative location: 1800 Four Season Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Chimney Rock - 28720 Alternative location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. Edneyville - 28727 Alternative location: 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Gerton – 28735 Alternative location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Green Mountain - 28740 Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Marshall - 28753 Alternative Location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787 Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Micaville - 28755 Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Montreat - 28757 Alternative location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Penland - 28765 Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The following sites are attempting delivery where safe to do so: Arden - 28704 Asheville London Rd. - 28803 Asheville S&DC - 28810 Black Mountain - 28711 Brevard - 28712 Burnsville - 28714 Candler - 28715 Clyde - 28721 Columbus - 28722 East Flat Rock - 28726 Etowah - 28729 Fairview - 2873 Fletcher - 28732 Hendersonville Annex - 28792 Horse Shoe - 28742 Lake Toxaway (cash only/PO box) - 28747 Marion - 28752 Mars Hill - 28754 Old Fort - 28762 Rutherfordton - 28139 Saluda - 28773 Sapphire - 28774 Spruce Pine - 28777 Tryon - 28782 Weaverville - 28787 Due to internet outages and connectivity issues, the following sites are providing retail services with cash only, PO Box only: Dana - 28724 Enka - 28728 Flat Rock - 28731 Hendersonville MPO - 28739 Lake Lure (OIC) - 28746 Little Switzerland - 28749 Mountain Home - 28758 Naples - 28760 Pisgah Forest - 28768 Ridgecrest - 28770 Skyland - 28776 Zirconia - 28790 Bostic - 28018 Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles. The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings in North Carolina are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators. Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily. Pharmacy Access The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4. The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene. Through the program, uninsured residents can: Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active. Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics. Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy. For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Resources for Veterans Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services. Veterans can: Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or: Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives. Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply. Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly. Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity. Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce. Resources for Farmers The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members. If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs. On Monday, October 7, at 11:00 a.m., USDA is hosting a virtual briefing to share information on disaster assistance programs. You can join the event on Microsoft Teams using this link. Add the event to your calendar: Google, iCal, or Outlook. Power and Gas 174,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is on track to restore an additional 27,000 customers by Sunday evening, October 6. The remaining outages are in the hardest-hit areas of Western North Carolina. In the areas where catastrophic damage exists, 105,000 customers are without power. Duke Energy is working closely with the state on plans to address these areas as quickly as possible. The number of customers seeing their power turn back on each day is slowing, but that is only because Duke Energy has been conducting significant work to repair and bring back online the 360 substations that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Helene. The substations are the backbone of our energy grid. Once restored, service for private homeowners and businesses will rapidly begin to come back online. So far, 95 percent of substations have been restored and significant substation work is continuing today. Power for the Greenwood Rock Quarry has been restored. Restoration of the quarry’s power will help NCDOT to address gravel needs for road repairs. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages o Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts o Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators o Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay and Swain counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm such as Henderson and Buncombe counties. NCDOT continues to make steady progress reopening roads in response to Hurricane Helene. New road reopenings include: U.S. 19 - Partially open with two-lane two-way traffic into Tennessee U.S. 321 - Cleared to the Tennessee line with a few one-lane stretches. Bee Tree Road Clearing of this road has restored critical access to the reservoir in Buncombe County. NCDOT is partnering with Duke Energy to reopen roads leading to their substations to restore power. In addition to repair and debris removal efforts, NCDOT has provided support and helped coordinate relief efforts for many agencies near or in storm-impacted areas. As of Friday, October 4, there has successfully been: 472 evacuation trips 2,003 people transported to safety 523 trips to shelters 2,076 people transported to the shelters Air traffic has increased 300% in Western North Carolina since Helene recovery began. NCDOT’s aviation division is working to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by: Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents. Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air. Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts. The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management.Air traffic has increased 300 percent in Western North Carolina since Helene recovery began. If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks. The United States Forest Service is now and has been active in the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests for the last few days. USFS’ primary mission is gaining access to remote communities through the forest. This access is being used to: Supplement normal transportation routes Help isolated communities get their water systems back online NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Internet Access Internet providers are diligently working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina. To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Cell Service Even though you may have service again, you may notice it is different from your pre-storm service. The temporary connection links put in place as a temporary fix while the fiber is being repaired can accommodate smaller amounts of traffic. Network capacity on temporary connection links may be maxed out more frequently, so service providers are encouraging customers to use the network sparingly to maintain room for first responders and community members who still need to reach help or critical resources. Support and recovery personnel are also encouraged to minimize cell usage. Service providers are working to add additional capacity to cell sites and move mobile assets where needed to accommodate data increases, so I am requesting a little more patience on their behalf as providers work to fully restore our community’s network. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts. Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use. Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations: A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801 Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations: YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Two charging stations at this location WNC Agricultural Center 761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732 Three charging stations at this location A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 One charging station at this location T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs) in Asheville, providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 1,475 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. The total number of deployed guardsmen will continue to increase over the coming days. Further, more than 525 vehicles, including 90 high-water vehicles, and 50 rotary wing assets have been deployed to Western NC. Georgia, Virginia, Kentucky, South Carolina and Ft. Liberty have all sent helicopters to assist with aerial initiatives in NC-11. As of the afternoon of October 3, the National Guard has: Rescued more than 1,000 Western North Carolinians, including almost 200 by hoist, and 150 animals. Delivered nearly 2 million lbs. of resources to impacted communities by air. The National Guard is continuing C-17 transport of supplies to Asheville. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. On October 2, the Secretary of Defense authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers, including soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division from Ft. Liberty (formerly Ft. Bragg). Many of these soldiers have arrived in Western North Carolina and are supporting the delivery of food, water and other critical aid to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. 400 soldiers have already been stationed in Western North Carolina, with hundreds of others being positioned nearby to await directives while logistics are being finalized. The Department of Defense has also committed 22 helicopters to assist with search and rescue operations. Seven CH-47 Chinook helicopters from Ft. Liberty have already been flying resupply missions for the past two days. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA. FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel. Federal Nutrition Programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Food and Nutrition Services Program People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food. This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to: Have a new eWIC card issued Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society will be reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. The FRP will be back online to provide much needed assistance soon. More information to follow. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, FEMA has paid out more than $17 million in housing and other types of assistance to more than 19,000 North Carolina households. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 5: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison Madison Early College High School 5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755 McDowell Glenwood Baptist Church 1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640 YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Polk Polk County High School 1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Cane River Middle School 1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-adams-celebrates-reopening-cw-williams-community-health-center,Rep. Adams Celebrates Reopening of CW Williams Community Health Center,2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Alma S. Adams,A000370,adams.house.gov,adams,https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) celebrated the reopening of the new CW Williams Community Health Center in her district yesterday. Rep. Adams helped secure a federal grant of over $1.2 million to support the renovations and modernization of the 80-year-old center, a Federally Qualified Community Health Center and safety net primary care provider in an area of Charlotte considered to be a healthcare desert. “Having grown up in a family that sometimes used the emergency room as primary care, I am proud to have helped secure the funds for improving CW Williams Community Health Center, an oasis in one of many medical deserts in Mecklenburg County,” said Rep. Adams. ""Residents will benefit from the new facilities and having state-of-the-art medical equipment right in their own backyard."" The funds Rep. Adams helped secure also helped acquire specialized medical equipment such as a portable, point-of-care ultrasound machine and laboratory processing equipment. Last night’s opening celebration for the center was attended by Rep. Adams, Mecklenburg County Commissioner for District 2 Vilma Leakes, County Sheriff Garry McFadden, Williams Foundation CEO Debra Weeks, other community leaders, and attendees from the general public. ### Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-7-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #7 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 4, 2024 Dear Friend, One whole week. It has been one week, seven days, since Hurricane Helene struck and our communities were turned upside down. This last week has been trying for everyone involved. More than 1,000 Western North Carolinians have been dislocated to an emergency shelter, as of Thursday evening 107 friends and family members have passed away, and hundreds are still missing. Communities like Chimney Rock have been absolutely decimated and many of our Main Streets don’t look the same. To say the post-hurricane environment has been apocalyptic is an understatement. Nonetheless, we must persist. Over the last week, I have focused my efforts on securing critical resources for Western North Carolina. The Ingles distribution center is officially back online following my office’s work to get them a temporary generator, internet connection, and a clean-up crew to make way for tractor trailers delivering and disbursing product. Ingles estimates they are now five to six days ahead of where they otherwise would’ve been without the important resources I listed above. This distribution center is responsible for filling grocery stores across the entire 11th congressional district. Directly after the storm hit, I was hearing from county after county that FEMA and the state were not filling their food and water needs quick enough and there was barely any cell service. After trying to work through FEMA and NC Emergency Management with little luck, I demanded the White House immediately get three pallets of water and two pallets of meals, ready to eat (MREs) delivered to each of our seven, hardest hit counties, and 20 pallets of MREs and 20 pallets of water for Buncombe County to hold them over until state resources were finally delivered. All 75 pallets were delivered same day. I also demanded temporary cell tower assets be deployed to the six counties with the worst-off communication systems. All six locations also received at least one temporary cell service asset same day with some counties, like Haywood County, seeing more than one asset deployed after my request. I’ve delivered seven box trucks to Buncombe County to disburse resources from their central distribution center, secured an FAA operator to help regulate air traffic at Rutherford County Airport, helped the Murphy Fire Department get their assignment number through NC Emergency Management so they could deploy to Henderson County, delivered dozens of truckloads worth of food and water amongst our hardest hit counties, expedited county requests for critical assets, and more. I will continue to support our community in any way that I can. We have made it one week by putting one foot in front of the other and working as a team. That is how we will make it through week two, week three and every week thereafter. Disasters like this are once in a lifetime for most people (or once in 1,000 years for Western NC). We are all operating in unknown territory, but together we will chart a resilient and stronger future for our mountains. Today is update number seven, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Food and Water Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 91 water systems are on a boil advisory, a significant reduction from the 142 systems on an advisory as of yesterday, October 3. 49 treatment plants have reported having no power and 43 systems are out of water. All water restoration trends are moving in a positive direction. The state of North Carolina has promised 40 trailer loads of water and 20 trailer loads of food daily through at least October 6. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. Yesterday, Walmart donated 33 truckloads of food and water to nonprofits across Hendersonville, Arden, Asheville and Weaverville. Walmart will also be hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Hosting hot meal donations at this location. Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 This location will host an associate fuel truck, laundry, feeding station, bathrooms and charging station. The Home Depot has partnered with Operation Blessing to deliver truckloads of relief supplies including meals, hygiene kits, water and more, to the following location: Asheville, NC Store 3625 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Rugby Middle School: 3345 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726 North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Madison County The following locations are offering food and water distribution in Madison County: 5580 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753 225 Carl Eller Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Hicks Chapel Church 6008 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Former TJ’s Discounts 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Marion, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The Roseland Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church - also has bathroom and shower stations 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened, as of noon on Tuesday, October 1 Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station will be open September 30 at 7:00 a.m. accepting storm debris with normal fees. A free storm debris site is in the works and will be available soon. United States Postal Service Mail delivery operations in the following three-digit ZIP code areas (any ZIP code beginning with these numbers) may experience interruptions: 287 USPS is attempting to resume delivery operations in the 287 ZIP code area. 288 289 Additionally, operations at the facility below remain suspended: Rutherfordton: 130 E. Court St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Pharmacy Access CVS currently has 16 pharmacies that remain closed, including two locations - 522 S. Main St., Hendersonville, NC and 2351 US 70 Hwy., Swannanoa, NC - that are total losses and will not reopen. For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Resources for Veterans Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. I will update this section as I become aware of additional resources for veterans. As of Thursday, October 3, power has been restored at the Asheville VA Hospital. Power and Gas 201,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. Duke Energy is on track to restore an additional 27,000 customers by Friday evening, October 4 By Friday evening, 90 percent of all outages will have been restored. The remaining 10 percent of outages are in the hardest-hit areas of Western North Carolina. Another 69,000 are on track to be restored in the hardest-hit areas by Sunday, October 6. In the areas where catastrophic damage exists, 105,000 customers are without power. Duke Energy is working closely with the state on plans to address these areas as quickly as possible. The number of customers seeing their power turn back on each day is slowing, but that is only because Duke Energy has been conducting significant work to repair and bring back online the 360 substations that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Helene. The substations are the backbone of our energy grid. Once restored, service for private homeowners and businesses will rapidly begin to come back online. So far, 95 percent of substations have been restored and significant substation work is continuing today. Power for the Greenwood Rock Quarry has been restored. Restoration of the quarry’s power will help NCDOT to address gravel needs for road repairs. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages o Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts o Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators o Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham, Clay and Swain counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. Please Note: Clay County is a new addition to the list of fully open counties in Western NC. Don’t forget that Western NC’s economy relies on tourism, so another way to assist with hurricane relief is by visiting the North Carolina mountains, where it is safe to do so. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm such as Henderson and Buncombe counties. NCDOT has now reopened more than 130 roads. NCDOT has reopened: NC 16 between Catawba and Alexander counties NC 226 between McDowell and Mitchell counties NC 105 in Watauga and Avery counties I-40 East near Old Fort NCDOT is making progress on: NC 9 between Buncombe and Henderson counties, along with multiple other major routes in NC-11 In addition to repair and debris removal efforts, NCDOT has provided support and helped coordinate relief efforts for many agencies near or in storm-impacted areas. As of Thursday, October 3, there has successfully been: 338 evacuation trips 1,537 people transported to safety 523 trips to shelters 2,076 people transported to the shelters All 14 of NCDOT’s Highway Divisions are now helping respond to Hurricane Helene. About 1,600 employees from across the state are working both day and night to clear debris and repair roadways. The National Park Service has reopened US 441/Newfound Gap Rd. to allow for access between Tennessee and North Carolina communities. Kuwohi Rd. (formerly Clingmans Dome Rd.) has also reopened. Bat Cave and Gerton communities on US 64/74 in Henderson County were isolated with no access out until October 2. Yesterday, NCDOT was able to open access into the Bat Cave/Gerton area. Food drops are currently being conducted on a clothesline across the river in Gerton. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. Cell Service Cell service restoration is continuing to see significant improvements. The total number of deployable assets in NC-11 are continuing to increase, reaching more than 70 assets that are on-air or en route amongst service providers in our hardest hit communities. The total number of cell sites that are down has steadily decreased since October 1. Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location: Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi. The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones. AT&T has also donated $100,000 to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund to support Western North Carolinians impacted by Hurricane Helene. A temporary Verizon satellite trailer is located at the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin St., offering an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs) in Asheville, providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 1,100 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. The total number of deployed guardsmen will continue to increase over the coming days. Further, more than 400 vehicles, including 90 high-water vehicles, and 19 helicopters have been deployed to Western NC. Georgia, Virginia, Kentucky and South Carolina have all sent helicopters to assist with aerial initiatives in NC-11. As of the afternoon of October 3, the National Guard has: Rescued more than 1,000 Western North Carolinians, including almost 200 by hoist, and 150 animals. Delivered nearly 1 million lbs. of resources to impacted communities. The National Guard is continuing C-17 transport of supplies to Asheville. Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities. If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators. On October 2, the Secretary of Defense authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers, including soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division from Ft. Liberty (formerly Ft. Bragg). These soldiers have arrived in Western North Carolina and are supporting the delivery of food, water and other critical aid to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. The Department of Defense has also committed 22 helicopters to assist with search and rescue operations. Seven CH-47 Chinook helicopters from Ft. Liberty have already been flying resupply missions for the past two days. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. SNAP and Child Nutrition Benefits Flexibility The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Child Nutrition (CN) program flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society will be reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. The FRP will be back online to provide much needed assistance soon. More information to follow. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, more than 10,000 survivors have registered with FEMA for Individual Assistance. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status. The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties. Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form. Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 3: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 McDowell Glenwood Baptist Church 1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640 YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Polk Polk County High School 1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Cane River Middle School 1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mountain Heritage High School 333 Mountain Heritage High School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-launches-webpage-how-help-wnc,Edwards launches webpage on how to help WNC,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) launched a page on his website for citizens who are wanting to help residents of Western North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. For a list of opportunities to help, visit edwards.house.gov/helpWNC.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-update-6-congressman-edwards,Hurricane Helene update #6 from Congressman Edwards,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 3, 2024 Dear Friend, Western North Carolina has been the focus of many people over the past week. We’ve seen an outpouring of support and I know there are many more out there who are ready to assist, they just need to know how. That is why I have put together a page on my website, edwards.house.gov/helpWNC, that lists where and how you can help the people of the mountains. I highly recommend sharing the information with anyone you know looking to contribute to NC-11’s recovery. I also want to highlight an additional way you can help Western North Carolina. If you or a loved one wants to help in ways other than donating food or money, the next best way to support our community is to support our economy and visit Western NC. Now obviously there is currently a DO NOT DRIVE message in place for most of the mountains. Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm such as Henderson and Buncombe counties. However, I’m here to remind you that Cherokee, Graham and Swain counties are open, and they are desperately in need of visitors to support their economy. These counties have been going above and beyond for their neighbors to get supplies into the hardest hit counties, but they need your support too. Small business owners in the far western counties rely on tourism to get by each year. With a DO NOT DRIVE message in place for most of the mountains, they have seen an influx of cancellations and are questioning whether they will be able to make it through the season. Even just an overnight or weekend visit will make a difference. If you can safely travel to the western edge of North Carolina, please do so. As for the residents of NC-11, I’m hoping this update will be even more informative than the last. I have added information on new resource hubs to access food and water in multiple counties, open urgent cares, SNAP benefit flexibilities, legal assistance, resources for veterans, IRS guidance for taxpayers impacted by Hurricane Helene, and more. I promised that I would keep you updated, and I hope I am not inundating you with too much information, but this is just the beginning. Today is update number six, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family. Food and Water Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews. 142 water systems are on a boil advisory, 69 plants have reported having no power and 47 systems are out of water. Power was restored to the City of Asheville’s water maintenance building which will aid in repairs to the damaged system. The state of North Carolina has promised 40 trailer loads of water and 20 trailer loads of food daily through at least October 6. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date. Walmart will be donating 33 truckloads of food and water to nonprofits across Hendersonville, Arden, Asheville and Weaverville today, October 2. Walmart will also be hosting activities at the following locations: Hendersonville, NC Store 1242 250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Hosting hot meal donations at this location. Arden, NC Store 1179 60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704 This location will host an associate fuel truck, laundry, feeding station, bathrooms and charging station. The Home Depot has partnered with Operation Blessing to deliver truckloads of relief supplies including meals, hygiene kits, water and more, to the following location: Asheville, NC Store 3625 795 Fairview Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted: Buncombe County Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.: Pack Square Park - you MUST bring your own container for this site 80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801 William W. Estes Elementary School 275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803 Sand Hill-Venable Elementary 154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806 North Windy Ridge Intermediate School 20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Fairview Elementary 1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730 The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities: Biltmore Baptist Church 35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704 Haywood County The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays: Pigeon Community Center 450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cruso Community Center 13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786 Includes shower access. Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Maggie Valley Pavilion 3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Woodland Baptist Church 545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bethel Elementary School 4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Valley Elementary School 410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786 Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday The following location offers hot meals daily: Maggie Valley Fire Department 2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Calvary Baptist Church 2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Henderson County Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729 Rugby Middle School: 3345 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791 East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726 North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759 Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available. Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process. Madison County The following locations are offering food and water distribution in Madison County: 5580 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753 225 Carl Eller Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754 63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743 McDowell County McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels. Distribution takes place daily at the following locations: Hicks Chapel Church 6008 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Former TJ’s Discounts 8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort Town Hall 38 Catawba Ave., Marion, NC 28762 New Manna Baptist Church 225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church 7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761 Hot meals are also being provided at the following location: Grace Community Church 5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752 Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m. Polk County The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need: Mill Spring/Green Creek Community 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 Columbus Community 95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722 Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot 214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773 Tryon Community 301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782 Sunny View 86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756 The Roseland Center 56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782 Rutherford County The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies: Thomas Jefferson High School 2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114 Florence Baptist Church 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043 Rutherford County Health Department 221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Gilkey Church of God 255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office 658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746 Lake Lure Baptist Church - also has bathroom and shower stations 6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Ingles at Lake Lure - meals only 276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746 Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Father’s Vineyard - also has shower and charging stations 724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160 Spencer Baptist Church - water distribution only 187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160 United Way of Rutherford County - water distribution and charging stations only 668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043 SNAP and Child Nutrition Benefits Flexibility The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Child Nutrition (CN) program flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. SNAP North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane. This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits. Child Nutrition The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs. Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may: Serve meals in a non-congregate setting Adjust the time of meal service Allow parent pick-up Allow service of meals at school sites Debris Removal If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386. Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste. Haywood Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110. White Oak Landfill has reopened, as of noon on Tuesday, October 1 Henderson Henderson County Transfer Station will be open September 30 at 7:00 a.m. accepting storm debris with normal fees. A free storm debris site is in the works and will be available soon. United States Postal Service Mail delivery operations in the following three-digit ZIP code areas (any ZIP code beginning with these numbers) may experience interruptions: 287 USPS is attempting to resume delivery operations in the 287 ZIP code area. 288 289 Additionally, operations at the facility below remain suspended: Rutherfordton: 130 E. Court St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Pharmacy Access CVS currently has 16 pharmacies that remain closed, including two locations - 522 S. Main St., Hendersonville, NC and 2351 US 70 Hwy., Swannanoa, NC - that are total losses and will not reopen. For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2: 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county. How to Acquire a Prescription: If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions. Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs. Open Urgent Cares The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries: Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville 61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787 Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville 1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806 Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville 120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786 Locations open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Brevard 22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712 Locations open between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Mercy Urgent Care Columbus 140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722 Resources for Veterans Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion. Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000. Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000. To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024. I will update this section as I become aware of additional resources for veterans. Free Legal Assistance Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving: Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome) Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards Medical and insurance claims Home repair contracts Utility disputes related to restoration of services Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures Bankruptcy Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster) If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline: (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262 The hotline is available from: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays. Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene Extension of certain tax filing deadlines: IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes. Click here for the full list of extensions and respective dates Click here for more information from the IRS on disaster assistance Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses: IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments - like government assistance payments - are generally excluded from gross income. Click here for a general walkthrough of these policies (under header “Additional tax relief”) Click here for more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses Click here for more information on tax treatment of qualified disaster relief payments Power and Gas 217,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina. The number of customers seeing their power turn back on each day is slowing, but that is only because Duke Energy has been conducting significant work to repair and bring back online the 360 substations that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Helene. The substations are the backbone of our energy grid. Once restored, service for private homeowners and businesses will rapidly begin to come back online. So far, 93 percent of substations have been restored and significant substation work is continuing today. Duke Energy is beginning to move in mobile substations to areas with substations that sustained significant damage beyond immediate repair to restore power to that portion of the grid while they work on longer rebuilds. Duke Energy helped to facilitate the installation of a generator with French Broad EMC on a main water pump to support providing the community with water. There are 9,200 total crews from 18 states and Canada assisting power restoration efforts in Western NC. Duke Energy has not changed their anticipated restoration of service date. Most customers in Western North Carolina can expect the power to be back on by TOMORROW, Friday, October 4. WARNING: Customers in areas that are inaccessible, dependent on infrastructure that has been destroyed or are unable to receive service may see additional delays. For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links: Outage Map: duke-energy.com/outages o Outage Alerts: duke-energy.com/outages/alerts o Generator safety: duke-energy.com/outages/generators o Power restoration process: duke-energy.com/outages/restoring-your-power Roads A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina. Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities. Cherokee, Graham and Swain counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes. NCDOT has now reopened more than 100 roads. NCDOT has reopened: NC 16 between Catawba and Alexander counties NC 226 between McDowell and Mitchell counties NCDOT is making progress on: NC 9 between Buncombe and Henderson counties, along with multiple other major routes in NC-11 Crews are working both day and night to clear debris and repair roadways. The National Park Service has reopened US 441/Newfound Gap Rd. to allow for access between Tennessee and North Carolina communities. Kuwohi Rd. (formerly Clingmans Dome Rd.) also reopened today. Bat Cave and Gerton communities on US 64/74 in Henderson County were isolated with no access out until October 2. Yesterday, NCDOT was able to open access into the Bat Cave/Gerton area. Food drops are currently being conducted on a clothesline across the river in Gerton. NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border. You can access the map here. NCDOT is coordinating on temporary bridge needs with Arkansas and Virginia, and Kentucky and Florida already have crews mobilized in North Carolina. Cell Service Significant strides were made towards the restoration of cell service for Western North Carolinians over the past 24 hours. Service providers have been able to confirm that several cell sites sustained damage and engineers are already working through rebuild plans to ensure damaged sites are ready to go back on air once fiber providers have completed their repairs. Verizon has been able to restore at least 50 percent service for almost every county in NC-11 so far, other than in the following counties: Haywood County (49 percent restored) Madison County (31 percent restored) Yancey County (18 percent restored) AT&T has been able to restore at least 50% service for NC-11 so far, other than in the following counties: Henderson County (13 percent restored) Jackson County (20 percent restored) Macon County (0 percent restored) McDowell County (35 percent restored) Swain (16 percent restored) Transylvania (22 percent restored) Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users. Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down. This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out. If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again. A temporary Verizon satellite trailer is located at the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin St., offering an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs) in Asheville, providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations: Asheville Middle School 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center 285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801 Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee. In addition to working to restore service, Verizon has donated $325,000 to several local organizations in Western NC to assist with recovery efforts. North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense More than 900 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far. Further, over 300 vehicles, including 90 high-water vehicles, and 19 helicopters have been deployed to Western NC. Georgia, Virginia, Kentucky and South Carolina have all sent helicopters to assist with aerial initiatives in NC-11. In addition to NC National Guard soldiers, the Secretary of Defense has authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers, including soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division, and other units from Ft. Liberty (formerly Ft. Bragg) over the next 24 hours. These soldiers will support the delivery of food, water and other critical aid to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. The Department of Defense will also be delivering 22 helicopters to assist with search and rescue operations. By end of day today, October 3, all soldiers and equipment will be in Western North Carolina aiding with response efforts. Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG: HOTLINE: 888-892-1162 Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300 Donated goods: 919-825-2474 These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling. Asheville Regional Airport Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding. Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed. If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news - none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine. Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able. PLEASE NOTE: No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel. For NC-11 Medical Providers If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society will be reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again. The FRP will be back online to provide much needed assistance soon. More information to follow. The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available: Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene For Local Government Resource Requests For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered. My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours. For Individual Assistance through FEMA North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST. To date, more than 10,000 survivors have registered with FEMA for Individual Assistance. To Connect with a Loved One Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. Additionally, people in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations. Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated. Drinking Water Systems: Public Water Supply Situation Report Tracking Debris Disposal Sites: Active Temporary Debris Disposal Sites NCDEQ Situation Report Tracking System NCDPS Hurricane Helene - Storm Information NCDPS County Emergency Management Agencies How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene Shelters For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 3: Buncombe A-B Technical Community College 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801 Gold’s Gym 801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 WNC Agricultural Center 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732 Haywood Haywood County Government Armory 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781 Henderson Edneyville Elementary School 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Henderson County Recreation Center 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 Madison Madison County Wellness Center 5734 US 25-70 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28752 McDowell Glenwood Baptist Church 1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640 YMCA of Western North Carolina 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752 Polk Polk County High School 1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722 Rutherford Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Transylvania Transylvania Parks & Rec 1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712 Yancey Cane River Middle School 1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 Mountain Heritage High School 333 Mountain Heritage High School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-us-rep-foushee-durham-tech-announce-620000-in-federal-funds-for-affordable-housing-initiative,"ICYMI: U.S. Rep. Foushee, Durham Tech Announce $620,000 in Federal Funds for Affordable Housing Initiative",2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NC,Valerie P. Foushee,F000477,foushee.house.gov,foushee,https://foushee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"DURHAM, NC (October 3, 2024) — Yesterday, Durham Tech Community College announced that it is moving forward with plans to provide affordable housing for its students and the greater community after securing a key piece of funding from the federal government with the assistance of U.S Representative Valerie Foushee (NC-04). Congresswoman Foushee on Wednesday announced the College would receive $620,000 in federal funds for the project. That news follows significant funding approved by the Durham County Commissioners and Durham City Council in 2023. This clears the way for Durham Tech and its partners to move forward by applying for a low-income housing tax credit and begin construction in 2025. “I am very pleased that I could assist with this initiative,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee. “We need more affordable housing in Durham, and I’m very proud of this unique partnership Durham Tech spearheaded that could be a model for other communities in our nation.” In 2019, Durham Tech began efforts to address the need for affordable housing among its students and the larger Durham community. A 2019 survey found that more than 50 percent of Durham Tech students had experienced housing insecurity in the past year. In 2022, the College announced its intention to develop 124 units of affordable housing on land it owns at 902 S. Briggs Ave. The College is working with Mosaic Development Group and Banc of America Community Development Corporation, selected as partners through a competitive process. “We know that finding affordable housing is a critical issue not just for many of our students, but for the greater community,” Durham Tech President J.B. Buxton said. “Lack of affordable housing can be an obstacle for families struggling to make ends meet and for people who want to get an education to pursue careers where they can increase their earnings. Part of the College’s mission is to remove obstacles that impede people in our community from pursuing education, upward mobility and careers.” Foushee echoed those thoughts. “Without the safe, decent, affordable place to live, it’s nearly impossible to thrive in school, succeed in work, raise a family or even stay healthy,” Foushee said. The College and its partners expect to begin construction in summer 2025 and move tenants in by early summer 2027. Leasing outreach to prospective tenants will start in the summer of 2026. “Mosaic Development Group is extremely proud to be part of this innovative partnership, which will benefit the community,” Mosaic Development Group Executive Director Bill Bolstad said. “Working with the College has presented a unique opportunity to meet a housing need that has rarely been done in other places.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z