Federal disaster funds approved for Virginia counties impacted by Hurricane Helene’s devastation
Richmond, Virginia – Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin made a major announcement declaring that President Joe Biden has granted the state’s request for an accelerated Major Disaster Declaration in response to Hurricane Helene’s destruction. This quick reaction is a turning point in Virginia’s road toward rehabilitation since it gives the most affected areas much-needed federal assistance.
Emphasizing the unparalleled scope of the disaster—the most catastrophic the Commonwealth has experienced since 2011—Governor Youngkin praised the swift government response.
“This is the most significant disaster in the Commonwealth since 2011, and due to the severity and magnitude of the damages, we are thankful that Virginia was able to get this expedited disaster declaration so that we can continue this long process of recovery,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin in a news release on Wednesday, October 2. “This will allow us to get resources to our impacted communities and Virginians as fast as possible. We will continue to work to add jurisdictions as additional assessments occur in impacted areas.
Approval of the disaster declaration releases federal funds for the independent city of Galax as well as for those living in various Virginia counties including Giles, Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, and Wythe. These places start the long process of rebuilding following the natural disaster, hence this financial help is crucial.
Additionally covering both state and local governments as well as some private charitable groups, the declaration helps federal funding to be cost-shared for disaster operations across several jurisdictions. The impacted areas run from Bedford, Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Wise, and numerous independent communities including Bristol, Covington, Danville, Norton, and Radford.
Apart from quick relief initiatives, government money will also support statewide hazard mitigating projects meant to lower future catastrophe risk and improve readiness.
Underlining continuous national dedication to Virginia’s recovery, this government help is a continuation of the federal emergency designation earlier issued on September 29, 2024.
Along with local leaders and Virginia’s congressional delegation—Senator Mark Warner, Senator Tim Kaine, Congressman Morgan Griffith—Governor Youngkin stays dedicated to negotiating the recovery process and making sure every resource at hand is used to help those affected by Hurricane Helene.
Residents in need of emergency assistance or further information on accessing federal aid can reach out to FEMA’s dedicated support channels.
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The joint cooperation of federal, state, and local agencies emphasizes a consistent approach to disaster response and recovery as the Commonwealth starts to heal, therefore offering a resilient rebuild of the impacted communities.
