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John,
Western North Carolina is experiencing historic devastation from the impact of Hurricane Helene. My heart breaks for my fellow North Carolinians who have lost loved ones and even more who have lost their homes and other property.
At this time, we know that many people are still being reported as missing and that thousands are struggling without power, facing limited food and water supplies, and lacking a reliable means of communication.
But as you read this, rescue and relief efforts are underway. Members of the National Guard from across the country are coming to North Carolina to help. Numerous service organizations are distributing clean water, administering first aid, and delivering food. And folks across our state are stepping up to support western North Carolinians during this difficult moment.
Please consider contributing to the ongoing relief efforts through the NC Disaster Relief Fund. Anything you can afford to pitch in makes a major difference for the impacted communities.
While new reports from impacted communities are coming in constantly and there’s a lot we don’t yet know, I wanted to share some resources for those impacted by Hurricane Helene. If you’re able to, I encourage you to share these resources with any friends or family members who may find them useful.
Consumer price gouging laws are in effect. Our consumer protection line is open to report price gouging or other concerns related to Hurricane Helene. You can file complaints online here or by phone at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.
Disaster assistance is available. 25 western NC counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are eligible to apply for individual disaster assistance. You can learn more about how to apply here and apply for aid by heading to DisasterAssistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362, or downloading the FEMA app.
Folks are working to get power back to those impacted. If you’re without power, you can visit Ready NC to contact your service provider.
Road conditions are severe. NCDOT declared that all roads in Western NC should be considered closed. There are still hundreds of Helene-related road issues and travel in western NC should be for emergencies only in order to keep the roads clear for emergency personnel.
To access more resources, visit the North Carolina Attorney General Office’s resource page for Hurricane Helene here. I urge you to stay up-to-date and support one another as we navigate this unprecedented disaster.
If you want to join them, please consider contributing to the ongoing relief efforts through the NC Disaster Relief Fund. Anything you can afford to pitch in makes a major difference for the impacted communities.
If there is one thing I know, it’s that North Carolinians are good people with big hearts. We will continue to come together. And we will get through this.
Thank you for your support,
Josh Stein
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