Helene-Milton: Nature's one-two punch

The combined effects of Helene-Milton have been devastating, emotionally, physically, and financially for a sizable number of citizens in the southeast. But recovery is underway. FEMA is there, doing its job. But it’s apparent that few people know what that job is.

Actually, it’s very simple: to oversee and coordinate the recovery. The physical recovery efforts are performed by the appropriate state or city organizations such as utility companies, road and building construction companies, and so on. But there’s an order in which these functions must be done, and that’s why FEMA’s coordination is so important.

FEMA has facilitated disaster relief funding of $408 million (so far) for Helene survivors and $441 million for Milton survivors. Note that the funding comes from the Federal Disaster Relief Fund, not directly from FEMA.

When I first heard that the Republican Party leaders had politicized FEMA’s efforts, I couldn’t believe it. But there it was, at levels that FEMA felt compelled to respond to. FEMA has been updating its response as new lies are reported, but I have seen “Myth or Fact? Misinformation about FEMA Disaster Assistance can Hinder Recovery” FEMA 10/09/2024.

It lists a dozen rumors and the FEMA responses. The list is probably still growing, but here are two examples:

Rumor: FEMA is running out of money.

Fact: FEMA has adequate funding to support all current operations.

Rumor: FEMA will only provide $750 to disaster survivors to support their recovery.

Fact: This is a type of assistance that survivors may be approved for soon after they apply, called Serious Needs Assistance. It is an upfront, flexible payment to help cover essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies, medication and other emergency supplies. It is not a loan. Also, the current amount is $770…

There is absolutely nothing to support those rumors. It’s bad enough just putting that excrement on social media, but to put those doubts into survivors’ minds is beyond pathetic. It is sick.

John H. Terrell