Western North Carolina homeowners have until Dec. 31 to apply for housing recovery assistance following Hurricane Helene. The Single-Family Housing Program (SFHP), run by Renew NC, is working to raise awareness of the deadline. Governor Josh Stein stated in a press release, “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,” encouraging the community to share the information.
Since June, the program has received over 6,000 applications, highlighting the ongoing need in the region. So far, five homes have been completed, with additional projects underway in Black Mountain, Hendersonville, and Gastonia, according to the Governor’s Office.
Renew NC, part of the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Division of Community Revitalization, is hiring local residents for canvassing teams. The program serves low- to moderate-income families, including those with seniors, children, or disabled household members, across 28 counties and one ZIP code. Residents who have already received FEMA or insurance assistance are still eligible to apply for additional housing recovery suppor.
With the application period ending soon, Renew NC will move into a review phase to assess applications and budgets to support the construction process. As of yesterday, the program includes 68 grant agreements, 63 projects assigned, and 13 Notices to Proceed, with eight projects currently under construction. Five projects have been completed, and three more are expected to finish by mid-December.
In a press release, DCR Deputy Secretary Stephanie McGarrah said, “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 visit Renew NC intake centers in Asheville, Boone, Marion, or other locations across the region, with support available in English and Spanish. Additional information and application assistance are available through Renew NC’s website, hotline, and a downloadable app. Funded by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Renew NC provides resources for hurricane recovery in the state.
