FEMA Opens Disaster Recovery Centers in Aiken After Hurricane Helene
AIKEN, S.C. – As recovery efforts ramp up following the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, residents of Aiken and Barnwell counties are starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Federal assistance is now available, and community support is within reach. FEMA has set up Disaster Recovery Centers in key locations to assist those impacted by the storm.
Helping Hands in the Community
FEMA representatives are on the ground and fully committed to aiding South Carolinians during this challenging time. The centers provide in-person assistance and are open in various locations:
- Nancy Carson Library: 135 Edgefield Road, open from October 14 through 17, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Barnwell Regional Airport: 155 State Road S-6-398, open from October 13 through 15, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Anderson County Library: 300 N. McDuffie Street, open from October 14 through 17, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Freetown Community Center: 200 Alice Ave., open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Batesburg-Leesville Fire Station: 537 W. Church Street, open from October 13 through 16, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
And that’s not all! More centers will be opening soon in additional affected areas, so keep an eye out for updates.
Get the Assistance You Need
If you live in any of the counties affected by the hurricane—including Aiken, Allendale, Abbeville, Anderson, Barnwell, and many others—you may be eligible for federal assistance. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or a tribal member of the Catawba Indian Nation, FEMA is ready to lend a helping hand.
There are numerous types of aid available, such as individual assistance for immediate needs, loans for small businesses, and even aid for those working in agriculture. Nonprofit organizations can also benefit from FEMA assistance, and there may be tax extensions available through the IRS for those affected.
Easy Application Process
Applying for assistance couldn’t be simpler! FEMA stresses the importance of not delaying your application. “It is a pretty painless process,” says Nikki Gaskinscambell, a media relations representative for FEMA. If you visit one of the recovery centers, representatives are ready to guide you every step of the way during the application process.
Each application takes about 20 minutes to complete, and FEMA’s goal is to get money into eligible applicants’ pockets as soon as possible. You don’t even need an appointment to visit any of the open centers; simply walk in and get the help you need.
Finding a Recovery Center
To find the nearest disaster recovery center, visit fema.gov/drc or send a text with “DRC” followed by your Zip Code to 43362. This way, every affected resident can conveniently access the vital support that’s available.
In these times, it’s all about community and recovery. So, if you or someone you know has been affected by Hurricane Helene, make sure to reach out and take advantage of the resources offered by FEMA. Together, the community can bounce back even stronger!
