As Boone begins to rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Helene, many residents are still displaced, dealing with damaged homes or utilities that make their properties uninhabitable.
FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program is now available to help those impacted, providing temporary hotel stays until more permanent arrangements can be made. Here’s what Boone residents need to know to access this assistance and secure safe shelter.
What is Transitional Sheltering Assistance?
This FEMA program offers short-term hotel stays to survivors who qualify. For those who applied for FEMA assistance and cannot return home due to damage or safety concerns, Transitional Sheltering Assistance could be the bridge needed to find stability. The program covers room costs, taxes, and non-refundable pet fees at participating hotels.
Who is Eligible?
Boone residents may qualify if they:
• Have sustained damage to their home that makes it unsafe to return
• Lack access to essential utilities
• Can’t meet housing needs through insurance, shelters, or other FEMA assistance
To access this program, residents must first apply for FEMA assistance. Once approved, they’ll receive a FEMA registration number, which is required for locating and booking a room.
How to Apply and Secure a Room:
1. Apply for FEMA Assistance: Submit an application through FEMA to determine eligibility.
2. Find a Participating Hotel: Use the Transitional Sheltering Assistance Hotel Locator at femaemergencyhotels.com. Enter the FEMA registration number to see a list of available hotels.
3. Book Your Stay: Contact the hotel to confirm availability and let them know when you’ll be checking in. Make sure to bring a valid photo ID to check in.
How Long Can You Stay?
FEMA reviews eligibility regularly, so assistance is not indefinite. If your home becomes accessible or deemed safe to return to, your Transitional Sheltering Assistance may be discontinued. Additionally, if the program goes unused for 30 consecutive days, eligibility will end.
Find More Information:
Boone residents can visit townofboone.net/hurricanehelenerecovery and click on “FEMA Fact Sheets and Important Guidance for Recovery” to learn more about this program and other available resources to aid in recovery.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, programs like Transitional Sheltering Assistance are crucial for providing stability and security to those affected. Boone residents who need temporary housing are encouraged to apply as soon as possible – a safe place to stay is just a call away. #BooneStrong #HeleneRecovery
