North Carolina’s Long Term Recovery Committees Aim to Fill Survivors’ Unmet Needs
December 12, 2016
Raleigh, NC - - (December 7, 2016) - - From providing volunteer carpenters to rebuild a house to replacing storm-damaged appliances, North Carolina’s Long Term Recovery Committees (LTRCs) strive to assist with the estimated $6.5 million unmet needs of those affected by Hurricane Matthew.
LTRCs help in connecting resource providers with unmet needs in local communities. They collaborate with state Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and other groups to attain what is needed, whether it is financial support, workers or donated materials.
LTRCs work with national as well as local groups and individuals to accomplish work, such as:
- Rebuilding homes from foundation to roofing.
- Removing debris and mucking out.
- Setting up and running relief centers where survivors can find free clothes, food, personal hygiene items, cleaning supplies and pet and baby items.
- Providing functional appliances and furniture to clients.
Of the 45 North Carolina counties designated for FEMA assistance to individuals and households, 35 either have established LTRCs or are re-establishing committees. Additionally, four counties are working with FEMA’s volunteer agency liaisons for North Carolina to create new groups.
FEMA staff help coordinate committee efforts in affected counties, provide advice and troubleshoot. They also review requests for assistance to make sure there is no duplication of benefits.
“While FEMA and the state provide much to help survivors to get back on their feet, unmet needs persist,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer for North Carolina Libby Turner, “LTRCs are a vital part in ensuring the full recovery of communities after a disaster.”
LTRCs are eager for volunteer workers and donations to support local relief efforts. To help, visit the North Carolina VOAD website (www.ncvoad.org).
“North Carolinians have a strong sense of community,” said North Carolina Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry. “They look after one another and they certainly have demonstrated that instinct after Hurricane Matthew.”
“However, much remains to be done; in some ways we are just getting started,” he added. “Voluntary organizations are providing vital assistance to those affected by the flooding, meeting needs that are beyond what government agencies can provide, but those organizations really need more help.”
For more information on North Carolina’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4285 and readync.org. Follow FEMA on Twitter at @femaregion4 and North Carolina Emergency Management @NCEmergency.
Information source: Federal Emergency Management Agency