Stein seeks six-month extension to shelter program from FEMA | Eastern NC Now

    Publisher's Note: This post appears here courtesy of the Carolina Journal. The author of this post is Nick Craig.

    North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has called on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell to extend the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program for residents of western North Carolina.

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, many families in the region remain displaced, with their homes uninhabitable due to extensive damage. FEMA has been under growing pressure over the past few weeks due to shifting expiration dates for the TSA program.

    In his letter, Governor Stein says that people in western North Carolina are "experiencing chaos and uncertainty regarding temporary housing that is untenable." Stein has requested a six-month extension of the program, through September 30, 2025, to provide these families with a safe place to stay while they work toward long-term recovery.

    The letter highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents as the region experiences freezing temperatures and the threat of additional winter weather next week. He emphasized the importance of ensuring these individuals can rebuild their lives without the added burden of housing insecurity during the harsh winter months.

    Earlier this week US Sens. Ted Budd and Thom Tillis reported that their offices have been in touch with dozens of residents who continue to face uncertainty with the TSA program.


    Stein concluded his letter by emphasizing the urgency of the request, stating that swift action is essential. Referring to the residents of western North Carolina, he told Criswell, "We owe them support, not fear or confusion."

    Helene victims have until Feb. 6 to apply for assistance with FEMA by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.