NC recovery groups say FEMA is ‘obstacle’ in Helene relief, urge more dollars

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – One year after Hurricane Helene, recovery hasn’t stopped. The toll is physical and emotional.

“The grieving is still heavy in these communities, and the trigger will be this weekend on the anniversary when people will reflect on what’s happening,” Luther Harrison with Samaritan’s Purse said.

There’s also a major financial toll.

“Our biggest obstacle is the lack of clarity and consistent guidance from FEMA; every time we get close to the finish line, they change the goal post,” Dennis Aldridge, the county commissioner in Avery County, said.

The storm caused $60 billion in damage. The General Assembly has funded over $1 billion in recovery dollars so far. The federal government has covered less than 10% of the bill.

Governor Josh Stein recently requested an additi