Hurricane Recovery Efforts Ramp Up for North Carolina Homeowners
As the end-of-year deadline approaches, North Carolina’s disaster recovery initiative, Renew NC, intensifies its outreach to homeowners in western regions affected by Hurricane Helene. The program aims to connect as many eligible individuals as possible with the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Renew NC has set December 31, 2025, as the final date for homeowners to apply for the Single-Family Housing Program (SFHP). This initiative, managed by the N.C. Department of Commerce’s Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), offers various forms of assistance, including home repairs, reconstruction, and replacement.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the urgency, stating, “Renew NC wants to help as many western North Carolina homeowners recover from Hurricane Helene as possible – but folks need to raise their hand so we can get it done.” The program has already garnered over 6,000 applications since its launch in June, with several projects underway in areas such as Black Mountain and Gastonia.
The program’s focus is on low- to moderate-income families, especially those with seniors over 62, children under 18, or disabled members. It covers 28 counties and a specific ZIP code, facilitating assistance for communities severely impacted by the hurricane.
Despite having received aid from sources like FEMA or insurance, homeowners can still apply to the SFHP to address ongoing recovery needs. The program aims to ensure no eligible homeowner is left behind, as emphasized by North Carolina Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, who stated, “Every completed home represents a family who can rebuild their lives and a community that can heal.”
Renew NC has expanded its efforts, utilizing local residents to conduct neighborhood canvassing and supporting the program’s hotline. These community-driven initiatives are designed to increase awareness and reach potential beneficiaries more effectively.
Current statistics show that the program has signed 68 grant agreements and started construction on several projects, with five completions reported. Stephanie McGarrah, DCR Deputy Secretary, reiterated the commitment to making the application process simple and accessible, saying, “Our priority is to make sure every eligible homeowner knows help is available – and that applying is simple, accessible, and supported every step of the way.”
Homeowners can receive guidance either online or at various in-person assistance centers located in Asheville, Boone, and Marion. These centers offer support in English and Spanish, ensuring a wider reach within affected communities.
The Renew NC initiative is funded by a Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), with $807 million of the $1.4 billion allocated to the Single-Family Housing Program.
For more detailed information, homeowners are encouraged to visit CommerceRecovery.nc.gov, call (888) 791-0207, or use the Renew NC app available on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
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