Pisgah Legal Services & Buncombe County Partner to Provide Aid After Helene

WNC -- October 25, 2024: In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, communities across Western North Carolina faced extensive damage, leaving many residents struggling to recover. To address these needs, Pisgah Legal Services has partnered with Buncombe County to offer comprehensive assistance to those affected by the storm, focusing on legal aid and connecting residents with essential recovery resources.

 

 

Jim Barrett, Executive Director of Pisgah Legal Services, stated, "We are committed to ensuring that all residents, especially those most vulnerable, have access to the support they need during this challenging time." With this mission, Pisgah Legal is coordinating efforts to streamline the recovery process for residents, offering free in-person assistance through walk-in clinics. These clinics aim to help individuals apply for federal disaster relief funds from FEMA, guiding them through the necessary paperwork and ensuring applications are properly completed to avoid delays​

 

The partnership also extends beyond FEMA applications. Pisgah Legal has been active in addressing other legal issues exacerbated by the hurricane, such as housing stability, unemployment benefits, and consumer scams. Their attorneys are providing critical support to residents who may face eviction or need assistance repairing storm-damaged homes. Additionally, they are offering guidance on avoiding fraudulent schemes that often emerge in the wake of natural disasters​

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Buncombe County officials emphasized the importance of this collaboration, noting that it ensures timely access to resources for those in need. The county is working alongside Pisgah Legal to provide logistical support and distribute essential supplies like food, water, and baby formula to affected areas. They have also coordinated with local organizations to set up distribution points throughout Asheville, where residents can access these resources and receive immediate assistance​

 

President Biden's approval of federal disaster assistance has facilitated the availability of funds for essential items such as temporary housing, food, and repairs to personal property. Pisgah Legal is helping residents navigate these options, offering advice on how to qualify and apply. Individuals can submit their applications online through disasterassistance.gov, by phone, or via the FEMA app. For those who need in-person help, Pisgah Legal's clinics provide guidance on everything from required documentation to tips on avoiding common application errors​

 

 

Pisgah Legal Services continues to work tirelessly to assist residents in Western North Carolina. Individuals in need of help can visit their website to apply for services, call their toll-free number, or attend one of the upcoming walk-in clinics scheduled in Cashiers, Burnsville, Morganton, and Spruce Pine. For those willing to support these efforts, Pisgah Legal has established a Hurricane Recovery Fund to help sustain their services​ https://www.pisgahlegal.org/updates-post-hurricane-helene/