Following Hurricane Helene and the devastating California wildfires, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell provided updates on federal relief efforts. In Western North Carolina, some families displaced by Helene received notifications regarding the potential end of their Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program (TSA). Reasons cited included homes being deemed habitable after inspection, declined inspections, or FEMA's inability to contact families. The deadline, initially set for January 14th, has been extended. Criswell emphasized that affected families still needing housing should immediately contact FEMA to maintain eligibility. She stressed the importance of regular communication with the agency, explaining that FEMA typically calls families bi-weekly to assess their situation and housing needs. If FEMA can't reach a family, they must assume the home is habitable again. Criswell assured that unique circumstances will be considered and resources provided to ensure safe housing until homes are rebuilt or accessible. Affected North Carolina residents can contact FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA or visit a disaster recovery center.

Simultaneously, FEMA is addressing the needs of families displaced by the California wildfires. Criswell advised affected residents to register at disasterassistance.gov and contact their insurance companies to determine coverage and identify any gaps that FEMA programs might address.