News Summary
Applications for the Renew NC homebuilding program are open to help families in western North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene’s damages. Governor Josh Stein emphasizes the program’s importance as families can apply for financial aid starting June 16. The application process includes four phases prioritizing vulnerable households. With multiple submission options and ongoing support, the program aims to assist those whose homes were affected, ensuring a transparent recovery process.
Asheville – Applications are now open for the Renew NC homebuilding program aimed at helping households in western North Carolina recover from the damages caused by Hurricane Helene. Starting June 16, families whose homes were affected by the hurricane can apply for financial assistance through this state-funded initiative.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has announced the opening of applications, emphasizing the importance of this program as a critical step towards the recovery efforts for families impacted by the storm. The Renew NC program is designed to facilitate the rebuilding and repair of homes that were damaged or destroyed due to the hurricane.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligibility for the Renew NC program is determined based on household income, which will be assessed alongside additional factors during the application process. The process is methodically divided into four phases, each with distinct priorities focused on the status of repairs as well as the income levels of applicants.
Phase 1 of the program gives preference to households earning less than 60% of the area’s median income, as well as those whose home repairs are incomplete. This prioritization is aimed at assisting the most vulnerable populations first.
Applicants have several convenient options to submit their applications:
- Online through the designated application portal
- In-person at one of three designated office locations in western North Carolina
- Using the Renew NC mobile app
- By phone at 1-888-791-0207
It is crucial for applicants to include all required documentation when submitting their applications. Additionally, individuals can track the status of their applications through the online portal, ensuring transparency and ongoing communication throughout the process.
Program Duration and Future Developments
The Renew NC program is set to keep applications for single-family housing open through the end of the year. Moreover, separate initiatives targeting multi-family and workforce housing are expected to commence later in the year, broadening the assistance available to those in need.
Funding and Oversight
The homebuilding program is primarily funded through federal dollars allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), specifically utilizing Community Development Block Grants. The state of North Carolina has been granted $1.4 billion from HUD to support this essential initiative.
Asheville, being the largest city affected by Hurricane Helene, will receive a portion of this federal assistance, amounting to $225 million. This funding will facilitate the city’s own housing assistance program, which will cover a range of costs associated with rentals, ownership, and home repairs directly linked to the impacts of the hurricane.
The Renew NC program is managed under the oversight of the Division of Community Revitalization, a part of the North Carolina Department of Commerce. In addition, the operations for the Renew NC program in western North Carolina are being managed by the contractor Horne LLP, ensuring effective administration of the funds and program logistics.
For any inquiries regarding the Renew NC program, interested individuals can reach out via the established phone line at 1-888-791-0207 or through email communications. This open line of contact aims to support applicants throughout the assistance process, allowing them to access vital information and guidance as they navigate their recovery from Hurricane Helene.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC News: FEMA Denies North Carolina’s Request
- Carolina Journal: FEMA Denies NC’s Request for Extended Helene Relief Funding
- Rolling Stone: FEMA Denies NC Request for Hurricane Helene Aid
- NC Newsline: Renew NC Housing Rebuild Program for Helene Survivors
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Helene (2022)
