The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has allocated over $210 million in immediate assistance to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, described as the beginning of a multi-billion-dollar, multi-year recovery effort by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The hurricane, which left over 230 dead and many still missing, is the second deadliest in the contiguous United States in the last five decades. Despite FEMA’s efforts, social media posts have spread false claims that storm victims are only receiving $750 in aid and have compared this to foreign aid spending.
The claims made by individuals like former President Donald Trump and conservative commentator Benny Johnson are misleading, as the $750 is just one form of immediate assistance provided by FEMA to hurricane survivors. The agency has clarified that it has enough funding from a dedicated disaster relief fund to support recovery efforts.
Additionally, rumors that FEMA is running out of funds to address future hurricanes and that money is being diverted to foreign countries are false. FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund is filled through appropriations from Congress specifically for disaster relief efforts and does not take funding away from other areas. The agency provides various forms of assistance beyond the initial $750 payment to help survivors with essential needs like food, water, and shelter.
Despite the misinformation circulating on social media, FEMA continues to work with state and local partners to aid communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Survivors in need are encouraged to apply for assistance through various channels provided by FEMA to receive the help they require for both immediate relief and long-term recovery.
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