FEMA approves $116 million more for Helene recovery in North Carolina as total cost estimates balloon

The Department of Homeland Security announced this week that it will send North Carolina an additional $116 million in federal funding to help the state rebuild areas still devastated by Hurricane Helene. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will send the money to help with reconstruction efforts. The development comes as estimates to rebuild affected areas in western North Carolina have ballooned overall by over $800 million since the disaster hit in the fall of 2024. 

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who oversees FEMA, said the funding will help repair and restore schools, public safety facilities, utilities, and community services.

“North Carolina communities are rebuilding stronger, and today’s approvals show this Administration’s commitment to cutting red tape and getting recovery dollars out the door faster,” she said