COLUMBIA – Richland County is now among those counties that are eligible to receive expedited federal individual disaster assistance following Hurricane Helene, Governor Henry McMaster and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) announced Friday, Oct. 4.
The Richland County Emergency Management Division (RCEMD) began county-wide hurricane-related damage assessment yesterday throughout Richland County. The damage assessment phase helps determine whether the County meets eligibility for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Expedited Major Presidential Disaster Declaration.
“We appreciate the collaboration between our local, state and federal partners to support the residents of Richland County and the communities we serve,” said Richland County Administrator Leonardo Brown. “Our teams have been and will continue to work diligently to assist our residents who have suffered damage and loss because of Hurricane Helene. We appreciate everyone’s efforts and the collaboration throughout this process.”
FEMA relief can assist with individual disaster-related needs such as displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, and personal property loss. Residents may apply online by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, via the FEMA app, or by calling 800-621-3362.
When applying, residents will need the following information:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your Social Security number
- A general list of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name