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Helene Recovery Resources

updated 10.11.24

As reports come in from our Community Health Center organizations and NCCHCA staff, we are devastated by the destruction left by Helene throughout Western NC. Many are left without water, power, cell service, passable roads, or the medications or oxygen you may need. We’re holding you in our thoughts and beginning to coordinate with partners on recovery support for our members.

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

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Emergency Resources

 

FEMA Assistance

Affected individuals residing in counties affected by the disaster can now apply for assistance with FEMA in the following three ways:

 

CHC Resources (see detailed daily updates below):

Ways to Help:

 

NCCHCA’s Helene Recovery Daily Digest Oct. 11, 2024

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

Helene Recovery Resources
NC DHHS has compiled a list of important resources in English and Spanish that can be shared with individuals affected by Helene.

From NC Nonprofits– Paying Employees During Emergencies & Natural Disasters

Guidance around federal laws and regulations for employers when deciding how and when to pay employees during an emergency or natural disaster:

IRS provides relief for those affected by Helene
The IRS announced disaster tax relief for all individuals and businesses affected by Hurricane Helene. Taxpayers in the affected areas have until May 1, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments, including 2024 individual and business returns normally due during March and April 2025, 2023 individual and corporate returns with valid extensions and quarterly estimated tax payments.

Applicant Briefings for FEMA Public Assistance Grants

  1. Below are dates and two links under each date; these links are to register for the applicant briefing of your choice
  2. The first link represents a 10 – 11:00 am EST applicant briefing registration
  3. The second link will be 2 – 3:00 pm EST applicant briefing registration
  4. You may attend more than one of these if you like.

 Monday October 14, 2024

https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/0fdad94a-7d6c-4af3-84ad-38612ae8fbe4@7a7681dc-b9d0-449a-85c3-ecc26cd7ed19

https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/a2cb66cb-fba8-4acd-9f6c-6ac837f20c1a@7a7681dc-b9d0-449a-85c3-ecc26cd7ed19

Wednesday October 16, 2024

https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/48189799-0ebe-46e2-bb56-6feec5a908b9@7a7681dc-b9d0-449a-85c3-ecc26cd7ed19

https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/ec068037-e0f0-4fd3-8b2b-0896c61bc252@7a7681dc-b9d0-449a-85c3-ecc26cd7ed19

Reminder: The deadline to apply for FEMA Public Assistance Grants is October 28, 2024.

 

Replacing Lost Documents

When applying for FEMA assistance, North Carolinians may need to provide proof of identity, residence, and other documentation. Below are some steps to help with replacing important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm:

Tapping Retirement Savings After Tropical Storm Helene
Learn more about employees’ ability to tap into their 401(k) or other qualified retirement plan savings to meet immediate needs in the aftermath of Helene.

 

NCCHCA’s Helene Recovery Daily Digest Oct. 10, 2024

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

Funding Opportunities

Emergency and Disaster Response to Hurricane Helene:  Grants Resource Guide

Innovative Funding Partners (IFP) has assembled this grants resource guide containing funding opportunities to assist local organizations’ disaster relief and recovery efforts. 

Gov. Cooper signs $273 million Helene relief bill in first wave of funding

Governor Roy Cooper announced the signing of the first wave of funding going towards relief efforts. The bill, voted Wednesday by NC lawmakers across the entire state, is worth $273 million.

Here is how the bill breaks down:

The bill expands accommodations created by the North Carolina State Board of Elections from 13 impacted counties to all 25 counties federally declared as impacted by Helene.

FEMA Recovery Teams In Person Oct 11 

FEMA Disaster Assistance Survivor Teams will be at these locations from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on October 11 to meet face-to-fact with survivors. 

What to Expect After Applying with FEMA

Flier about steps to apply for FEMA assistance & what to expect after applying. 

Medicare Beneficiaries DME Replacement 

CMS will permit individuals with Medicare who have lost or realized damage to their durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies as a result of the hurricane to receive replacements of such items and services. This will help to ensure beneficiaries can continue to access the needed medical equipment and supplies they rely on each day. People with Medicare can contact 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for assistance.

Resources from Trillium 

Trillium has created a tool to report and track service and financial disruptions.

Providers can notify Trillium of service disruptions to members via the Stabilization payment request submission form. If funding is being requested, providers will need to fill out the Disaster Expense Reimbursement Request Form and attach it to the Smartsheet. Upon receipt of the form, Trillium will review and process the request as quickly as possible. Please contact TrilliumFinance@TrilliumNC.org with questions about the process, or to receive updates on the progress of a submission.

Providers experiencing service and/or financial disruption due to conditions resulting from Hurricane Helene should complete the Stabilization payment request submission form as well as the Disaster Expense Reimbursement Request Form above. Questions regarding the process and information required should be directed to TrilliumFinance@TrilliumNC.org.

Hurricane Helene Recovery Communications Toolkit

NC DHHS has developed information for communities affected by the storm. Simplified versions and full versions are provided both in English and Spanish.

Topics include: mental health, mold clean up, septic repairs,well disinfection. 

National Health Service Corps- Call if Accommodations Are Needed 

NHSC or Nurse Corps participants or sites affected by Helene or Milton: BHW offers flexibilities to help you meet program requirements. Call 1-800-221-9393.

Cleanup Crisis Hotline

WNC residents can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mitigating mold with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through 10/11/2024. and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist. 

Medicaid Managed Care Back Porch Chat, Hurricane Helene | Response & Recovery Updates

Thursday, October 17 | 4-5 p.m Registration

Please join this informative webinar on Thursday, October 17 where we will share Hurricane Helene response and recovery effort updates from NCDHHS and NC Emergency Management. This includes updates on the current work around flexibilities.  

NCDHHS Urges Well and Septic Safety Following Hurricane Helene

NCDHHS is urging WNC households who rely on a private well for their drinking water and were impacted by Hurricane Helene to continue to use bottled, boiled or treated water until private wells can be disinfected and tested for dangerous bacteria. More info and resources.

 

 

NCCHCA’s Helene Recovery Daily Digest Oct. 9, 2024

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

View Open Medical Practices in WNC 

The North Carolina Medical Board is working with NC DHHS and dozens of stakeholder groups (including NCCHCA) to gather information about which Western NC medical practices are open in the wake of Hurricane Helene. View this webpage for open practices. CHCs that wish to update their practices can refer to the email from Mel Goodwin-Hurley on October 8 for an easy to update spreadsheet. 

SBA Resources for Helene Recovery Webinar, October 10, 2024, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

The NC Chamber is hosting a complimentary webinar on Thursday, Oct. 10: “SBA Resources for All Businesses Impacted by Helene.” Register here. 

Every business (any size) within the declared areas, private nonprofit organization, or resident affected by Helene can apply online or at the opened Business Recovery Centers (BRCs) managed by SBA or Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) managed by FEMA. 

EMERGENCY VERIFY CREDENTIAL FOR OUT-OF-STATE PHARMACISTS 

Pharmacy has exercised its authority to waive certain requirements of the North Carolina Pharmacy Practice Act to facilitate the provision of patient care during a declared emergency. The Board’s emergency waiver is now in effect and is found here. That waiver allows pharmacists who hold a license in good standing in another state to practice in North Carolina during the period of the declared emergency. NABP has established an emergency Verify credential that out-of-state pharmacists wishing to practice in North Carolina during the Helene emergency may obtain without cost. Instructions for obtaining an emergency Verify credential are found here.

 An out-of-state pharmacist must obtain an emergency Verify credential to practice during the emergency. Once obtained, no further communication with the Board is needed. The Board will maintain a list of out-of-state pharmacists holding the emergency Verify credential found here.

State Medical Support Shelters

NC Office of Emergency Medical Services has opened State Medical Support Shelters (SMSS) to manage individuals requiring non-acute medical care by physicians, nurses, etc. All patients MUST be triaged prior to acceptance to ensure they meet the criteria for placement.

Contact the OEMSSupportCell@dhhs.nc.gov or the State Emergency Operations Center at 919-825-2427.

Financial Support Available for Providers Impacted by Hurricane Helene

NC Medicaid and the health plans are committed to supporting providers impacted by the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. The following financial supports may be available to providers, even if they are unable to submit claims or perform services:

Providers in need of financial supports should work directly with health plans to learn what supports each plan is offering and their associated process(es). NCCHCA is in the process of engaging the plans in an effort to ensure FQHCs can access these supports and do so with minimal burden. 

For health plan contacts, click here. 

Helene Fact vs. Rumor

There are many false reports and misinformation being shared on social media about the response to Hurricane Helene. Do your part to stop the spread of rumors. For reliable updates, visit the NC Department of Public Safety website to get storm information from trusted sources like the State Emergency Response Team and the National Weather Service. 

Medical Volunteering

For clinical personnel who wish to volunteer their support in Western NC, please complete this survey to indicate your information and availability. A member of the North Carolina State Emergency Response team will reach out as staffing needs are identified. This link is NOT for individuals who are already not affiliated with the North Carolina State Medical Response System (SMATs, MRC, Hospitals, EMS Agencies). 

Seven Things for Immigrants to Know in Time of Disaster

View this informational flier from the NC Justice Center in English and Spanish. 

NC DHHS Mental Health After Disaster Flier 

NC DHHS has published a flier with resources in English and Spanish.  

Federal Emergency Prescription Assistance Program 

The Emergency Prescription Assistance Program, or EPAP, helps people in a federally-identified disaster area who do not have health insurance get the prescription drugs, vaccinations, medical supplies, and equipment that they need. This program helps people and communities better cope with a disaster and reduces stress on the healthcare system. People who are eligible for EPAP can file a claim at more than 72,000 retail pharmacies across the United States and its territories for prescription items that were lost, stolen, or destroyed because of a disaster. EPAP is open for certain Helene-impacted North Carolina counties. Pharmacists and the public should monitor this site for developments.
Additional EPAP resources:
What You Need to Know about: The Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (hhs.gov)
Lo que debe saber sobre: El programa de asistencia para medicamentos en casos de emergencia (hhs.gov)
Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) Fact Sheet (hhs.gov)
Hoja Informativa: Programa de Asistencia para Medicamentos de Emergencia (EPAP) (hhs.gov)

State Health Plan Resources 

The State Health Plan has put together a list of resources available to assist members in the impacted areas.

Kidney Community Emergency Response 

CMS activated the Kidney Community Emergency Response (KCER) program and working with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network 6 (Georgia, North Carolina) and Network 7 (Florida), which is responsible under a contract with CMS for assessing the status of dialysis facilities in potentially impacted areas of the impacted states. Visit the Kidney Community Emergency Response (KCER) program website: kcercoalition.com/ Contact: The ESRD Network 6 (Georgia, North Carolina) toll-free hotline is 1-800- 524-7139 and ESRD Network 7 (Florida) toll-free hotline is 1-800-826-3773.

 

Helene Recovery Daily Digest- October 8, 2024

View the full message and the Helene Recovery Daily Digest Archive on NCCHCA’s WEBSITE.

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

Help for Helpers

In a disaster, it’s essential that first responders and volunteers have the resources they need—when and where they need them.

If you are a first responder or volunteer experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, you can call the Hope4NC Helpline, 1-855-587-3463. Hope4NC is free, confidential, and available 24/7. 

Hope4NC is a Crisis Counseling Program which will provide immediate support and crisis counseling services for responders and volunteers providing Hurricane Helene disaster response. 

Scam Alert

Don’t give information to Scammers! Two health care providers in Western NC recently shared patient reports that unauthorized individuals had called them to request their Medicare information. Stay alert and do not give personal information out to cold callers.

Unemployment Assistance

Employees whose jobs were lost or interrupted by Helene may qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

After the federal government declared a disaster for parts of Western North Carolina due to Helene on Oct. 1, DUA benefits became available in 25 counties as well as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

The counties are as follows:

People in these counties have 60 days from Oct. 1 to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance at des.nc.gov. The deadline to apply is Dec. 2.

DUA is a federal program that provides temporary payments for people who, as a direct result of a disaster, no longer have the job, are unable to reach their place of employment, cannot work because of an injury caused by the storm, were unable to begin employment or self-employment due to the storm, or have become the major supplier of household income due to a storm-related death.

Am I eligible for DUA?

People, including self-employed, or business owners may be eligible for DUA if:

What do I need to apply?

How do I apply?

More info: https://www.des.nc.gov/dua 

 

Emergency Relief Information for Immigrants from the NC Justice Center

The NC Justice Center has shared information for immigrants during times of natural disaster and other emergencies:

Spanish: https://www.ncchca.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/7-things-for-immigrants-to-know-flyer-SPANISH-v1-004.pdf

English: https://www.ncchca.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/7-things-for-immigrants-to-know-flyer-v1.pdf 

Free Legal Assistance Available for North Carolina Survivors of Tropical Storm Helene

 A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for survivors of Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina.

Disaster Legal Services, which allows callers to request the assistance of a lawyer, is a partnership between the North Carolina Bar Association and Foundation, Legal Aid of North Carolina, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Low-income survivors with disaster-related legal questions may call the disaster legal assistance hotline at 866-219-5262. Callers should identify that they are seeking storm-related legal assistance, ask for Disaster Legal Services assistance, and identify the county in which they are located. Survivors who qualify for assistance will be matched with North Carolina lawyers who have volunteered to provide free legal help.

Legal assistance is available for the following issue areas:

Individuals who qualify for assistance will be matched with North Carolina lawyers who have volunteered to provide free, limited legal help. Survivors should be aware that there are some limitations on disaster legal services. For example, assistance is not available for cases that will produce a fee (i.e., those cases where fees are paid part of the settlement by the court).

Major Disaster Declaration

A total of 26 North Carolina counties and tribes have been approved to receive federal assistance in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene. The counties are: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (additional counties may be added later).

People who sustained property damage, need immediate emergency assistance for essential items (like food, baby formula, or water), or need immediate housing assistance as a result of Tropical Storm Helene are urged to apply for FEMA assistance, as they may be eligible for federal and state disaster assistance. People can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Applicants may also call the FEMA Helpline (1 800 621 3362). Tropical Storm Helene survivors are also encouraged to review Legal Aid of NC’s resource website at www.legalaidnc.org/disaster.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available for eligible applicants. SBA helps businesses of all sizes (including landlords), private nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or damaged personal property. Disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries.

For more information, individuals may contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s website at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance/hurricane-helene. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

For more information on North Carolina’s recovery, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4827and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website at https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management/hurricane-helene.

Beware of Fraud

Both FEMA and the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office are warning North Carolina residents of the risk of fraud and common scams in the wake of the severe weather. Common post-disaster fraud practices include phony housing inspectors, fraudulent building contractors, bogus pleas for disaster donations, and fake offers of state or federal aid. North Carolinians are urged to ask questions and require identification when someone claims to represent a government agency.

Survivors should also keep in mind that state and federal workers never ask for or accept money, and always carry identification badges with a photograph. There is no fee required to apply for or to receive disaster assistance from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), or the state. Additionally, no state or federal government disaster assistance agency will call to ask for your financial account information. Unless you place a call to the agency yourself, you should not provide personal information over the phone as it can lead to identity theft.

Those who suspect fraud can call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 (toll-free). Complaints may also be made to the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office Consumer Protection Hotline at 877-566-7226.

Partner Organizations

The following organizations have joined forces to establish a toll-free phone line for North Carolina Tropical Storm Helene survivors to request free legal assistance, and to provide volunteer attorneys to handle cases arising from hurricane-related damage.

North Carolina Bar Association and Foundation – The North Carolina Bar Association is a voluntary organization of lawyers, paralegals and law students dedicated to serving the public and the legal profession. The North Carolina Bar Foundation provides support to the Disaster Legal Services pro bono project and North Carolina Bar Association volunteers. The NCBA Young Lawyers Division, often referred to as the service arm of the NCBA, is involved in a multitude of worthwhile projects and public service endeavors, including Disaster Legal Services.

Legal Aid of North Carolina – Legal Aid of North Carolina is a statewide, non-profit law firm that provides free legal services in civil matters to low-income people in order to ensure access to justice and to remove legal barriers to economic opportunity.

American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division – The ABA YLD, the largest national organization of young lawyers, provides leadership in serving the public and the profession, and promotes excellence and fulfillment in the practice of law. Its parent organization, the ABA, is the national voice of the legal profession and one of the largest voluntary professional membership groups in the world.

Federal Emergency Management Agency – FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror. Through an agreement with the American Bar Association, FEMA underwrites the cost of operating toll-free legal assistance lines for survivors in areas designated as federal disaster sites.

Contact:  
Legal Aid of North Carolina
 Alicia Edwards
 Disaster Relief Project
aliciae@legalaidnc.org

NC Bar Association
 Kim Bart Mullikin
 NC Bar Foundation
foundation@ncbar.org

American Bar Association
 Elizabeth “Brooks” Savage
 ABA YLD District 9 Rep.
elizabeth.savage@osbm.nc.gov

FEMA Hurricane Assistance for Nonprofits

Individual assistance is directly eligible to individuals and families affected by disasters, who have uninsured or under-insured necessary expenses and serious needs. There may need to be a damage assessment before funds are granted. Temporary housing can also be provided during home repairs. Individual assistance can include repairing uninsured/underinsured homes, renting temporary housing during repairs, repair/replacement of personal property and vehicles, moving and storage, medical, dental, child care, funeral and other miscellaneous items. 

Public Assistance provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, and local governments, non-profits and specific types of private non-profits so communities can respond to disaster recovery.

Grants Portal: https://grantee.fema.gov/ 

SBA Disaster Loans

Info on Small Business Administration Disaster Loans that CHCs should qualify for.  Only #2 and #3 would apply to CHCs.

Here is info on the terms of the loans.  The Economic Injury Disaster Loans (2.75% for 30 years, max of $2 million) have much better terms than the Business Physical Disaster Loans (one year deferment, then as high as 8% for no more than 7 years, up to $2 million.):

 This is where the CHCs should start the application process for SBA loans.

4 ways to apply: 

– Online: easiest and fastest way to avoid long waits and apply immediately after a disaster is federally declared. Apply for assistance on disasterassistance.gov 

– FEMA App

– Call 800-621-3362

– In person at a disaster recovery center that can be found on fema.gov/drc

Disaster assistance isn’t limited to one specific type or amount. Serious Needs funding is a new type of standard assistance. $750 to help with immediate needs (not damages) such as food, medications, shelter, baby needs, etc. 

Tips for Public Assistance Program 

FEMA PA Mitigation: Public assistance also provides mitigation funding allowing for mitigation measures (resiliency) to be incorporated during the permanent repair phase of damaged facilities. This funding is also available immediately after a disaster declaration. 

Q&A

What are reasons applications may be denied: Only denied if there is proof that needs have already been met by external efforts and there is no longer a need from FEMA. Can also be denied if the application states they are the home owner but is in fact a renter. Owner of the property would need to submit an application. 

If an individual applies for assistance with Helene response but is later hit by another disaster, i.e. upcoming Hurricane Milton, they are eligible to apply again for damages furthered by second disaster. 

Undocumented individuals are not eligible to apply for assistance. Assistance is available for citizens or qualified immigrants. 

Preparing for Hurricane Milton

Gather supplies for your family including food, water, medications, flashlights, chargers, IDs and Insurance documents.

Vaya Health has published a list of walk in centers that help people experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis. https://www.vayahealth.com/resources/hurricane_helene_walk_in_flyer/

Helene Recovery Daily Digest- October 7, 2024

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

 

For ALL counties in WNC: Assistance with Recovery from Home Damage:

If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. EST.

HIE Access

The NC HealthConnex team is committed to supporting those most in need in western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene. The NC HealthConnex Clinical Portal is a web-based application that allows providers to access critical clinical information such as medical history, medications and treatment plans for displaced patients.

Here are some steps you need to gain access based on your current participation status with the NC HIEA.

If you currently have a Full Participation Agreement:

If you have a Submission Only Participation Agreement:

If you do not have an agreement on file with the NC HIEA:

If you are a user of the NC HealthConnex Clinical Portal and experience any issues over the weekend, you will need to call the Help Desk at 919-531-2700.

Madison County Resources

https://www.madisoncountync.gov/helene-updates.html

Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) Flexibilities

Starting Friday, October 4th, people and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) program can use their benefits to purchase hot food. This temporary flexibility applies to all 100 counties in North Carolina and the nearly 700,000 households enrolled in the FNS program. 

North Carolinians in the FNS program can purchase hot food, including food prepared for immediate consumption, from authorized Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) retailers using their EBT card.. All authorized EBT vendors in the state have been notified about this change, which will remain in effect until Nov. 3, 2024.

North Carolina has been approved for a waiver that provides additional time for FNS participants residing in the affected disaster areas to report a food loss as a result of Hurricane Helene to their local Department of Social Services office due to displacement, transportation issues or other storm-related hardships through October 26, 2024.

For information about the FNS program, visit www.ncdhhs.gov/fns or visit epass.nc.gov.

For information regarding Hurricane Helene and additional resources and flexibilities in place, please go to www.ncdps.gov/helene and www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.

WIC Participants Displaced by Hurricane Helene Can Transfer Benefits

Assistance is available for participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) who were impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Families with WIC who have relocated due to the storm can go to any NC WIC agency to transfer benefits or receive a new eWIC card. WIC participants who purchased breastfeeding supplies, breast pumps, and food with current WIC benefits but lost them in the hurricane can request replacements.

If your WIC card is lost, stolen or damaged and you are unable to visit a local WIC clinic, call eWIC Customer Service at 1-844-230-0813. WIC cards will be replaced by regular mail in five to seven days.

Blue Ridge Health List of Resources 

Blue Ridge Health has compiled a list of resources and information on their website: https://www.brchs.com/resources

Volunteer and Donation Info

UPDATED: NCCHCA is working on launching a donation fund to support recovery for all of our impacted health centers in Western North Carolina. For your reference, I also am sharing donation funds I have found (so far!) posted by our impacted health centers. I apologize for any I missed.

For comprehensive recovery information for CHCs, refer to our complete Helene Recovery Daily Digest archive (hint: use ctrl+f to search the web page by keyword).

Directly Support Impacted Health Centers:

Mountain Community Health Partnership:

A link to the MCHP donation portal is at the top of their website landing page: Healthcare | Mountain Community Health Partnership | Western North Carolina

Blue Ridge Health:

A link to donate and to find local resources are in a pop-up box on the Blue Ridge Health homepage: Home

High Country Community Health:

Donation link: https://www.highcountrycommunityhealth.com/donate/community-relief

Needed items: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1058854896026783&set=pcb.1058854952693444

Western North Carolina Community Health Services:

Post: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1020754379848574&set=a.721973926393289

Direct donation link

From NC.Gov:

If you would like to volunteer, visit nc.gov/volunteernc.

Please direct your physical donations to verified and reputable organizations that are already working in the area like the American Red Cross. A State representative has shared amazon wish lists with needed items, linked to below. Bulk items (e.g., pallets of water) will be sent directly to the affected area while individual items will be collected at a warehouse until we have more information about where they can make the most impact. The lists are sorted into categories:

STATE HEALTH DIRECTOR ISSUES STANDING ORDER FOR PHARMACISTS TO DISPENSE EPINEPHRINE AUTO-INJECTORS

To assist with Helene recovery, State Health Director Betsey Tilson has issued a standing order authorizing pharmacists licensed in North Carolina or practicing in North Carolina pursuant to the Board’s emergency waiver to dispense epinephrine auto-injectors to:

BOARD AND DRUG CONTROL UNIT STAFF PROVIDE REASSURANCE ON PHOTO IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR DISPENSING CERTAIN CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES TO HELENE-AFFECTED PATIENTS

North Carolina law requires production of a photo identification prior to dispensing Schedule II controlled substances, and certain Schedule III controlled substances. More information on that requirement here. Board staff have conferred with staff at NCDHHS Drug Control Unit about this requirement in Helene-affected areas and for Helene-affected patients. If a patient impacted by Helene presents with a prescription that ordinarily requires identification, do the best you can. If the patient is known to you or has any form of identification, that’s acceptable. If the patient is not known to you and has no type of identification (which is likely to be the case for some folks displaced by Helene), use your best professional judgment. If, in the exercise of that judgment (which should include checking the CSRS if possible), the prescription is clinically appropriate and the patient (or person picking up for the patient) is the appropriate recipient, dispense without concern over identification.

The bipartisan State Board of Elections on Monday unanimously approved a long list of emergency measures to help Helene victims vote in the 2024 election and ensure election officials can provide accessible, safe, and secure voting options for residents of Western North Carolina. The measures have been adopted in these counties: 

  1. Ashe
  2. Avery
  3. Buncombe
  4. Haywood
  5. Henderson
  6. Madison
  7. McDowell
  8. Mitchell
  9. Polk 
  10. Rutherford
  11. Transylvania
  12. Watauga
  13. Yancey

Some of the measures approved:

  1. In-person voting:
  1. Facilitate in-person early voting by allowing county boards of elections to modify their approved early voting sites, days, and hours through a bipartisan, majority vote.
  2. Allow county boards to modify Election Day polling places by bipartisan, majority vote. This provision also allows county boards of elections, with the approval of the State Board executive director, to open a polling place in another county, provided that materials, tabulators and voting processes are kept separate for each precinct’s voters at that location.
  3. Allow county boards — by bipartisan, majority vote — to set up their board of elections office to permit any voter in the county to vote at that site, in the event voters are unable to get to their Election Day precinct voting site or are unsure of their voting location. Some county offices may also serve as an early voting site, which allows any voter of the county to vote during the early voting period.
  1. Absentee voting:
    1. Allow voters to request and receive an absentee ballot in person at their county board of elections office up until Nov. 4 — the day before the election. As always, the voter or voter’s near relative or legal guardian is required to complete an absentee request form with the required personal information for the voter, and that information must be verified by the county board as with any absentee request.
    2. Allow voters to drop off completed absentee ballots at Election Day polling places operated by the voters’ county board by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.
    3. Allow voters or their near relatives or legal guardians to hand-deliver completed absentee ballots to another county board of elections in North Carolina or the State Board of Elections office, as long as the ballot is received by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. The county or State Board then would ensure that those ballots are delivered to each voter’s county board of elections by Nov. 14 — the day before county canvass — to be counted. A log and chain of custody will be maintained to secure these ballots.
  2. View the full resolution here: 10/7/24 NCSBE Election Law Changes Western NC

Helene Recovery Daily Digest- October 4, 2024

With conditions remaining dire in many parts of Western NC, we are thankful to those who are coordinating resources and relief. The NCCHCA Leadership team is coordinating outreach to each of the 13 health centers in the 25 disaster counties. Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

Updated Community Resources:

List of Organizations Providing Hot Meals, Water and other Resources by County.docx

This PDF (updated Oct. 3) includes info on accessing prescription refills, dialysis, food, and water in Western NC, provided by our member Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC).

Local resources compiled by the Asheville Citizen Times (updated Oct. 4)

FOOD & WATER DISTRIBUTION

Food in the form of Meals Ready to Eat (MRE) and bottled water are available at two distribution sites today. Two MRE packages per adult, and one per child will be allowed per day. Cases of bottled water are available, one case per family per day. Distribution will last until 7 p.m. or until supplies run out.

Asheville Middle School, 211 S. French Broad Avenue, Asheville

Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Road, Asheville

Other Water Distribution sites – open until 7pm, or supplies run out

Bulk water at Pack Square Park (70 Court Plaza) – Some containers are available but please bring your own if possible.

New! Bulk water at Lucy Herring Elementary (98 Sulphur Springs Rd) – Some containers are available but please bring your own.

SMALL DONATIONS

Harrah’s Cherokee Center – 87 Haywood St – front door is accepting small donations, including water, nonperishable food, personal care items, infant care, pet food supplies, disposable plates and utensils, clothing, and cleaning supplies, including buckets. However, it cannot accept anything requiring refrigeration or flammable liquids. Hours and Days of Operation: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., seven days a week

CELLULAR SERVICE

Temporary Verizon cellular satellite trailers are located at the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin Street and  Groce United Methodist Church at 954 Tunnel Road. These towers offer limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. Additionally, T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks in Asheville, providing cellular service along with Wi-Fi and charging stations at: Asheville Middle School at 211 S French Broad Ave, and Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center at 285 Livingston St.

SHELTERS

General public shelter at WNC Agricultural Center (pets accepted) – 1301 Fanning Bridge Road, Fletcher

General public shelter at AB Tech – 6 Fernihurst Drive, Asheville, NC 28801 (use Victoria Road entrance)

Medical emergency shelter at AB Tech – 10 Genevieve Circle, Asheville, NC 28801

Old Gold’s Gym – 1815 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC 28803

NC DHHS Updates (Oct. 4, 2024)

Timely Reporting Waiver – Approved  

On October 1, 2024, North Carolina was approved for a waiver that provides additional time for Food and Nutrition Services participants residing in the affected disaster areas to report a food loss as a result of Hurricane Helene to their local Department of Social Services office due to displacement, transportation issues or other storm-related hardships through October 26, 2024. The waiver applies to Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Henderson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey counties, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.  

Hot Foods Waiver –  Approved

Starting, Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, FNS participants can temporarily use their benefits to purchase hot food, including food prepared for immediate consumption, from authorized Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) retailers using their EBT card. This ensures families who are not able to prepare food at home due to displacement or power outages still have access to warm meals. FNS participants statewide will be able to purchase hot food through Nov. 3, 2024, and do not have to apply for the benefit. A map of retailers that accept EBT is available here.

Hurricane Helene CMS Approved Waivers for North Carolina

To support states and providers in states dealing with a PHE, CMS has approved a set of blanket waivers and other flexibilities which are in effect through the end of the Hurricane Helene PHE declaration for North Carolina. For the Hurricane Helene emergency, all North Carolina counties are included as affected counties.

These waivers include:

Replacement Prescription Fills • Medicare payment may be permitted for replacement prescription fills (for a quantity up to the amount originally dispensed) of covered Part B drugs in circumstances where dispensed medication has been lost or otherwise rendered unusable by damage due to the disaster or emergency. 

Practitioner Locations • CMS is temporarily waiving requirements that out-of-state practitioners be licensed in the state where they are providing services when they are licensed in another state. CMS will waive the physician or non-physician practitioner licensing requirements when the following four conditions are met: 1) must be enrolled as such in the Medicare program; 2) must possess a valid license to practice in the state, which relates to his or her Medicare enrollment; 3) is furnishing services – whether in person or via telehealth – in a state in which the emergency is occurring in order to contribute to relief efforts in his or her professional capacity; and, 4) is not affirmatively excluded from practice in the state or any other state that is part of the 1135 emergency area.

The list of blanket waivers approved by CMS for North Carolina are listed here.

Providers who need to request additional flexibility from CMS can submit a request for additional waivers via the CMS 1135 Waiver Portal.

Contact: NC Department of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) at 919-855-3750

NC Board of Pharmacy: FQHCs Can Utilize NPs and PAs to Dispense Drugs, incl. from Mobile Units, without Pharmacist Physically Present:

NC Board of Pharmacy confirmed on Oct.3 that NPs (Nurse Practitioners) and PAs (Physician Assistants) are permitted to dispense prescription drugs at FQHCs, especially on mobile units. This is because:

  1. Current rules do allow NPs and PAs to dispense drugs from places holding pharmacy permits so long as there is oversight by a pharmacist-manager (they do not need to be physically present), and
  2. During this disaster response period, the NC BOP will consider the FQHC’s mobile unit as an extension of the FQHC’s existing, permitted pharmacy. 

HRSA Guidance for Impacted 340B Providers 

We recognize that circumstances surrounding disaster relief efforts warrant flexibility for entities eligible for participation in the 340B Program. Therefore, eligible entities in Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas may immediately enroll for the 340B Program during the Public Health Emergency Declaration by the Secretary, rather than having to wait for the normal quarterly registration period. We believe this will enable these entities to meet the needs of the residents affected by these disasters.

Contact: If you are in the listed states and would like to enroll, email the 340B Prime Vendor Program or call 1-888-340-2787.

Message from HHS

HHS has taken the following proactive measures to help support the needs of the region:

Starlink Hurricane Helene Relief

Starlink aims to enable anyone impacted by a natural disaster to be able to access internet connectivity.

For those in areas that were impacted by Hurricane Helene, Starlink is available and temporarily offering free service for the first month.

If you are impacted by Hurricane Helene, or are looking to enable rapid assistance for responding to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, and need to access this 30 day free service option, please visit: https://www.starlink.com/support/article/58126733-e4d2-db62-b919-9da261a4e096 

Helene Resources for NC Nurses: https://impexium-ncna.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTcwMjAyMCZwPTEmdT0xMDg4ODM3Njg1JmxpPTExMTU1MTA3NA/index.html

NC Medicaid printable resource flier (English): https://www.ncchca.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NCDHHS-Hurricane-Helene-Newsletter-Printable.pdf

Recursos Para el Huracan Helene (Espanol): https://www.ncchca.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NCDHHS-Hurricane-Helene-Newsletter-SL-Printable.pdf

 

Helene Recovery Daily Digest- October 3, 2024

As Western NC begins the long road to recovery and rebuilding, we’re holding you in our thoughts and coordinating with partners on recovery support for our members. The NCCHCA Leadership team is coordinating outreach to each of the 13 health centers in the 25 disaster counties. We have started a Helene Recovery Daily Digest, abbreviated in the email below and in more detail on our website here.

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

Health Care Specific Information

CMS Resources

Resources & Flexibilities to Assist with the Public Health Emergency in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, & South Carolina

CMS to Provide Hurricane Helene Public Health Emergency Accelerated Payments to Medicare Fee-for-Service Providers and Suppliers

NC Medicaid Flexibilities 

Medicaid announced flexibilities which are active from Sept. 26 through Oct. 15:

Additional detail, including documentation requirements, is available in the NC Medicaid Bulletin issued on Oct. 1, 2024.

Update from Board of Pharmacy- Emergency Refills 

Dentists from Out of State

If a practice needs emergent dental support and able/wanting to use a provider from out of state, the practice can call The State Board of Dental Examiners directly (919-678-8223) with the out of state providers information to expedite and allow for temporary special circumstances to provide care.

Nursing Licensure Flexibilities

The Board of Nursing has implemented waivers to increase the workforce in Western North Carolina specifically addressing:

  1. Emergency Temporary Reinstatement of Inactive and Retired RNs and LPNs
  2. Emergency Temporary Reinstatement of Expired License
  3. Emergency Temporary Licensure by Endorsement

These waivers are in effect as of Oct 3, 2024, and will automatically expire on Dec 31, 2024. All applicants seeking to practice nursing pursuant to this waiver shall be required to submit an application to the Board. Employers can verify licensure here or via the national licensure databank NURSYS.

Nurses Can Volunteer for State Medical Assistance Team/Medical Reserve  Corp

Registered nurses who are interested in deployment with the State Medical Assistance Team (SMAT) / Medical Reserve Corp (MRC) can complete this survey.

Direct Relief Support Update

Direct Relief will visit WNC next week (Oct 7-11). They plan to visit health centers to learn more about their emergency response activities, what medicines and supplies are needed for their patients, and continue to coordinate donations based on their requests. They will also have emergency medical packs, hygiene kits, and other supplies on-hand to distribute.

Resources & Updates 

NC Dept of Public Safety

NC DPS website with information on shelters, cleanup efforts, power outage updates, and more Hurricane Helene | NC DPS with links to county specific information.  Find Open Red Cross Shelters (in addition to shelters listed on DPS website) Disaster Shelters | Find Shelters | American Red Cross

Starlink Satellite Internet 

CHCs looking to procure a Starlink satellite internet system, please contact Amy at Appalachian Network Service: amy@appnetonline.com.

Connecting to New Cell and Temporary Towers 

The NC Weather Authority shared that people in WNC are being asked to turn their phones off then turn back on so they can try and reconnect to the new cell towers and temporary towers. Also, go into settings and turn on Data Roaming to attempt connection.

Boil Water Advisories North Carolina boil water advisories issued by Carolina Water Service can be found here.

Rescue Request Form 

Fill out a rescue request here.  

 Disability and Disaster Hotline

The hotline provides information and resources to people with disabilities, families, allies, and organizations assisting disaster impacted individuals with disabilities. Call or text at 800-626-4959 or hotline@disasterstrategies.org

Guides to Finding Essentials and Navigating Asheville

Missing Persons

If you call NC211 (1-888-892-1162) to report a missing person or request a welfare check, press 1 once you are connected to reach an operator. Have all information available (name, location, health conditions, etc.) to complete the request. Call volumes are high, but operators are processing requests as quickly as possible. Also, if you have connected with someone who is listed as missing, please call NC211 to report you found them.

Helene Recovery Daily Digest- October 2, 2024

Oct. 2, 2024

As Western NC begins the long road to recovery and rebuilding, we’re holding you in our thoughts and coordinating with partners on recovery support for our members.

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

The NCCHCA Leadership team is coordinating outreach to each of the 13 health centers in the 25 disaster counties. We have started a Helene Recovery Daily Digest, the second edition of which is below and on our website here.

Pharmacy Updates

Extra Prescription Refills 

The North Carolina Department of Insurance released a bulletin reminding health benefit plans of their obligation to comply with regulations for providing extra prescription refills during a declared state of emergency.

Temporary Housing Resources

This group has been created to help those with available rentals, housing, and rooms connect with those affected by Hurricane Helene in WNC needing temporary housing.

Temporary Housing Facebook Group

AmeriHealth Mobile Wellness Bus to Visit Asheville 

AmeriHealth mobile wellness bus is en route to the wellness center in Asheville (10/02/2024) We have supplies for the community and plan to begin distribution at 2:00 pm on Wed., Oct. 2. Email to mobilewellness@amerihealthcaritasnc.com or 919-980-2461.

LOCATION:
216 Asheland Ave, Asheville
Phone: 828-707-9057
Hours: Open Monday – Friday,
9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
AmeriHealth Region 1 events calendar

Legal Aid of NC Helpline and Resources 

Legal Aid of NC has several resources to help individuals immediately and in long term recovery. Call the Legal Aid NC Helpline at (866) 219-5262 to learn more about how LANC may be able to assist you with disaster recovery. Find additional help online at www.legalaidnc.org/get-help

Helene Recovery and Voting Info

Find information for North Carolina voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election.

TDAP or TD Vaccine for Emergency Response Workers 

The NC Immunization Program will provide Tdap or TD vaccine for emergency response workers and individuals at increased risk for tetanus. Disaster survivors and emergency response workers are eligible to receive state-supplied outreach Tdap vaccine at any LHD in NC, regardless of their insurance status. More information.

Bilingual Tenants Rights after a Disaster and Info on FEMA Benefits for Immigrants

Please find our refreshed information about Tenants Rights After a Natural Disaster and FEMA Benefits for Immigrants and Tenants in English and Spanish at this website: https://www.ncjustice.org/publications/resources-for-natural-disasters/

More: Resources for Natural Disasters – North Carolina Justice Center (ncjustice.org)

Madison County Updates- Specific Updates & Resources for Madison County

Schools have been closed until further notice.

Food Distribution:

Food and water supplies are being routed to area volunteer fire departments to move them closer to each community. Residents can pick up there.

Donations can be taken to Cooperative Extension – 258 Carolina Dr. – they are doing limited distribution at this site.

Resources also available at Beacon of Hope – waived income requirement – open 12-4 – 5111 US Hwy 25/70 and Little Ivy Baptist Church in Mars Hill (1053 Crossroads Parkway – 828-779-1991)

 Groceries:

 Senior Meal Sites:

The following meal sites will be open on Friday, 10/4 – Marshall, Shelton Laurel, Center Community, Upper Laurel

 Gas:

Water:

Bottled water and bulk water (if you bring your own food container) at the Mars Hill Fire Dept. on Main St.

Water is available at all volunteer fire departments and at cooperative extension.

 Shelter:

If you need shelter, the Madison Early College (5734 US 25-70 Hwy., Marshall) is the site for most of the county. They are not a food distribution site.

Clothing and Household Items (Non-food):

Accepting donations at the cafeteria of Madison High School

Residents who have been displaced or have lost their household goods are welcome to select what they need from the Madison High School cafeteria, open at 9am.

 Trash:

Medical:

 Mental Health:

Madison County Mental Health Support Line – 828-206-3290 – available 10am-7pm, 7 days a week, beginning 10/2 – not a crisis line – you will be connected to a trained counselor

Mental Health Emergency – Mobile Crisis – 888-573-1006

Community Gatherings:

Welfare Checks:

  

Helene Recovery Daily Digest – October 1, 2024

As Western NC begins the long road to recovery and rebuilding, we’re holding you in our thoughts and coordinating with partners on recovery support for our members.

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

The NCCHCA Leadership team is coordinating outreach to each of the 13 health centers in the 25 disaster counties. We have started a Helene Recovery Daily Digest, the second edition of which is below and on our website here.

 

Announcements

Hurricane Helene and HOP Impact

Impact Health is actively collaborating with NCDHHS, Prepaid Health Plans, HOP Care Managers, HSOs, and other HOP entities to address the short- and long-term effects of the hurricane on the region. Due to limited access to internet, power, and water, many HSOs will temporarily suspend services for at least this week. Please expect slower response times and a temporary halt in existing HOP services across the WNC region. Impact Health will reconnect with the HSOs early next week and will share any relevant updates regarding HOP services.

 

Food and Resources

MANNA FoodBank is hosting food/water distribution at the WNC Farmers Market from Wednesday 10/2 – Saturday 10/5, 1:00-4:00pm.

Review Local Resource Guide by Asheville-based organization (Google Doc)

 

Funding Opportunities and Supply Donations

Donation Request Form from CVS Health

CVS Health has provided a donation request form for community health centers and other nonprofits to request assistance. NCCHCA will work with partners to track member requests; please notify Brendan Riley upon applying through the form: https://forms.office.com/r/Fd9MZgDatp

 

Locating Missing People

For those trying to connect with family members, call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check. Additionally, people in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS(1-800-733-2767).

 

HRSA Updates

Deadline Extensions for Those Impacted

HRSA will grant a deadline extension to complete your New Access Points (NAP) application in HRSA’s Electronic Handbooks (EHBs), if needed. Contact bphcehbwaivers@hrsa.gov with your organization name, location (explain the impact), and EHBs tracking number or H80 grant number (if you have it). Remember to include your email and phone number so HRSA can reach you.

If you are an H80 with a budget period start date of March 1, 2025, or a look-alike (LAL) with a start date of January 1, 2025, we will grant an extension for your Budget Period Progress Report or LAL Renewal of Designation/Annual Certification. Contact HRSA via the BPHC Contact Form, including an explanation of the impact.

 

Update on Pharmacy Openings

Thanks to Western North Carolina Community Health Services (an impacted Community Health Center in Asheville) for sharing this resource maintained by the NC Board of Pharmacy. The site lists pharmacies by county that have confirmed they are operating and serving patients. The list can be found here and was most recently updated at 9 AM Oct. 1, 2024: https://www.ncbop.org/emergencyoperatingpharmacieshelene.html.

However, we share this without knowing about the patient experience and ability to fill scripts without a script in hand. There are reports that patients are unable to fill scripts without a handwritten, hard copy in hand due to electronic systems being down and/or delayed. 

 

Water Safety and Planning Guides from the CDC

Emergency Water Supply Planning Guide for Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities Toolkit

Make Water Safe (Boil advisories)

 

NC Chamber of Commerce Update with Resources

Moving People, Resources, or Equipment
Until further notice, roads in Western NC (generally anywhere west of Hickory, NC) are closed to all traffic other than emergency services and pre-approved shipments coordinated through the N.C. Emergency Management Business Emergency Operations Center (NCEM-BEOC).

Therefore, if you plan to move people, resources, or equipment into western North Carolina, you MUST coordinate plans and movements through the NCEM-BEOC.

You can email your supply logistics or movement requests to: BEOC@ncdps.gov, make sure to begin your Subject Line with: Logistics Support.

 Please include the following info:

Small Businesses and Local Chambers
 The U.S. Chamber Foundation’s National Disaster Help Desk can help businesses and organizations both in the impact area and looking to support the impact area. It can be reached at 888-MY-BIZ-HELP (or 888-692-4943).

Additionally, they offer this online resource to help businesses take care of their employees’ needs, communicate the impact, address financial matters (e.g., insurance, disaster assistance), restore operations, and organize recovery.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also has this resource on SBA disaster loans available.

 

Farms and Agribusinesses

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has activated its hotline to connect farmers with resources that can assist with damage and other agricultural emergencies related to the storm. The toll-free number is 1-866-645-9403. A live operator will be available on the hotline between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Farmers can also find recovery resources here.

 

Homeowners and Renters

North Carolina homeowners and renters in 25 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance. There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET daily. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages.

 

Public Safety
The N.C. Department of Public Safety has compiled a list of resources here.

 

Donating, Volunteering, and More

Message from NC DHHS:

As of now, please refrain from sending physical donations or volunteers to western NC. If you or someone you know would like to volunteer, connect with an accredited organization.

Monetary Donations Are Needed Most At This Time. Please give to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund to help communities recover from Helene.

Other ways to donate or volunteer

Other ways to help: 

WFAE, Charlotte’s NPR news source, compiled this list of organizations that are currently providing relief and accepting support. Additionally, the McDowell Chamber of Commerce and McDowell Chamber Community & Business Impact, Inc. are taking donations here and the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation is accepting contributions here.

 

News

Helene damage and recovery: Where things stand in North Carolina (NC Newsline)

Thousands of pounds of food, fresh water arrives in western NC as massive clean-up begins (NC Newsline)

 

Mon, Sept. 30 Daily Update

As reports come in from our Community Health Center organizations and NCCHCA staff, we are devastated by the destruction left by Helene throughout Western NC. Many are left without water, power, cell service, passable roads, or the medications or oxygen you may need. We’re holding you in our thoughts and beginning to coordinate with partners on recovery support for our members.

Please report site damage and closures as you are able to ep@ncchca.org for HRSA reporting.

The NCCHCA Leadership team is coordinating outreach to each of the 13 FQHCs in the 25 disaster counties. We are also starting a Helene Recovery Daily Digest, the first of which is below:

 

Updates from NCCHCA partner call on 9.30.24

Taina Lopez, NACHC, tlopez@nachc.org, 301-741-1459

Taina is working with the PCA on gathering information and urgent needs from the affected health centers in the region. The International Medical Corps is on the ground in Buncombe County, with available providers and mental health staff available to assist health centers.

Bryant Goodine, HRSA, bgoodine@hrsa.gov

HRSA is gathering information from the PCA and health centers in the affected region.

Annie Vu, Direct Relief, 805-879-4949, avu@directrelief.org

Direct Relief is available to work with affected health centers in Western NC to provide emergency shipments of medications, vaccines and other needs. Will be able to ship via FedEx with express shipping. 

Message from Buncombe County Officials

Buncombe County will start distributing water starting at 2 p.m. today, Monday, Sept. 30. A one-day supply of bottled water will be available for each individual in a household, with distribution sites operating as drive-through locations, but walk-ups will be accommodated. 

The locations are:

 – William W. Estes Elementary School – 275 Overlook Road, Asheville 

– Sand Hill Elementary – 154 Sand Hill School Road, Asheville (Please enter via Acton Circle)  

– North Windy Ridge Intermediate School – 20 Doan Road, Weaverville 

– Fairview Elementary School – 1355 Charlotte Highway, Fairview 

The County anticipates continuing these distribution efforts in the coming days, with expanded hours and available supplies as they become available. 

Assistance is also available from the City of Asheville at Pack Square Park. Drinking water will be distributed beginning at 1 p.m. until dark or when the supply runs out. Each person will be provided 1 gallon of water per person, with a maximum of 5 gallons per family. 

Each person who accesses the water distribution at Pack Square must bring their own container. For the safety of everyone involved, traffic will be directed around the park and the distribution site will be walk-up only.

Other resources:

FEMA Assistance

Affected individuals residing in counties affected by the disaster can now apply for assistance with FEMA in the following three ways: 

 According to FEMA’s press release, homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can apply. You can apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and help is available in most languages.

Here’s what you need when you apply: 

If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

UPCOMING: Operations Update – Hurricane Helene Zoom Call

Tuesday, October 1, 2024 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 p.m.

Click here to register

The FEMA Individual Assistance Division’s Voluntary Agency Liaisons, FEMA Response Operations and the DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships will co-host a VOISE Partner Operations Call to provide situational awareness, updates, and resource allocation from national partners, FEMA, and other agencies supporting response efforts for Hurricane Helene. 

The virtual meeting will focus on FEMA Operations’ Community Lifelines – critical information on the most fundamental services in the community: Safety & Security, Food, Hydration & Shelter, Health & Medical, Energy, Communications, Hazardous Materials, and Water Systems.

Medicaid Flexibilities Under State of Emergency

On Sept. 26, NC Medicaid issued the bulletin, NC Medicaid Temporary Flexibilities Due to Hurricane Helene, which lays out details about and provides instructions for flexibilities Medicaid is providing during the emergency, including waiving prior authorization requirements for medically necessary drugs and services. Currently, the flexibilities last through Wednesday, October 2, but DHHS will likely update this soon.

Read the bulletin for details about the following flexibilities:

State resources:

HRSA Emergency Information: Key Resources for Health Centers

Your health center, whether directly impacted or not, is able to add a temporary site to support your response efforts if your center is within or adjacent to the geographic area of a declared emergency or other emergency situations, and plan to add a temporary service site within or adjacent to your health center’s service area.

Contact HRSA as soon as possible but no later than 15 calendar days after initiating emergency response activities at a temporary site. 

Of note, FTCA coverage will only apply to medical, surgical, dental, or related functions provided by covered individuals on behalf of the health center at temporary locations approved within the health center’s scope of project. To initiate the Change in Scope request use the BPHC Contact Form (preferred) or email BPHCOHCPMHCESupport@hrsa.gov to submit a temporary service site request. 

Programmatic and grant flexibilities may be available on a case-by-case basis for health centers affected or impacted by an emergency. Examples can include, but are not limited to re-budgeting existing grant funding and extending deadlines, or postponing an OSV. Submit a request through the BPHC Contact Form, Category: General/Other HRSA, Sub-category: Other Topics. 

If you cannot access the BPHC forms or email, please call Health Center Program Support at 1-877-464-4772 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET, Monday-Friday).

HRSA Will Grant NAP Deadline Extensions Upon Request due to Helene

Upon NCCHCA request, HRSA will grant a New Access Point deadline extension for organizations that are unable to submit their application due to the impact of Hurricane Helene. HRSA asks that these organizations email bphcehbwaivers@hrsa.gov with the following information: organization name, location (explain the impact), EHBs tracking number or H80 grant number (if accessible), and contact person email and phone number .

Farmworker Assistance

Mental Health Support and Emergency Services

Disasters are a time when our mental health requires additional care. Anyone who needs someone to contact for support can reach out to the following resources:

Missing persons reports

To report a person believed to be missing or unaccounted for, voicemails can be left for the Buncombe County Family Assistance Center at 828-820-2761.

The county also created a form — bit.ly/3TLSLNK — to notify Buncombe officials of loved ones who aren’t accounted for.

Resident-Reported Local Resources (as of Sept. 30)

Click for a list of local resources compiled by a community organization in Asheville.

Active Wi-Fi locations include:

Buncombe County Health Department: 40 Cox Ave, Weaverville, NC

Citizen Vinyl: 14 O’Henry Ave, Asheville, NC

DoubleTree Hilton Downtown: 199 Haywood St., Asheville

Asheville Shelter, Ferguson Building: 340 Victoria Road, Asheville

Food Distribution Sites

Monte Vista Hotel (Food and WiFi): 310 W State St, Black Mountain, NC

Bears Smokehouse: 135 Cox Ave, Asheville

Groceries

Food Lion: 179 Paragon Pkwy, Clyde, NC

Trader Joe’s: 120 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Ingles Markets (Cash Only): 575 New Leicester Hwy, Asheville, NC

Walmart: 1636 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC

Publix: 165 Weaver Boulevard

Gasoline

Arden Quality Plus: 2273 Hendersonville Rd, Arden, NC

Sheetz: 5440 Asheville Hwy, Hendersonville, NC

Getting cash at ATMs: Many stores are unable to take credit or debit cards because of communications disruptions. If you need to get cash, note that lines at working ATMs can be long.

Radio stations broadcasting local updates:

Asheville – 88.1

Black Mountain – 107.5

Brevard – 101.5

Bryson City – 94.7

Cullowhee – 89.7

Franklin – 91.3

Hendersonville – 99.3

Highlands – 103.3

Murphy – 88.5

Sylva, Dillsboro – 91.5

Tryon – 101.5

Waynesville-Clyde – 89.7

Waynesville-Hazelwood – 102.9

Mars Hill 90.5

Donations / ways to help

FTCA Limitations for Volunteer Providers in Emergency Situations

(click here for more details from a national partner)

Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) Resources:

Remember that any FTCA protections from your health center WILL NOT carry over to the provider volunteering at another health center. The impacted health center would need to follow the:

Rules on 340B Drug Discount Program in Emergencies

(click here for more details from a national partner)

HRSA Reporting

If any of your clinics are expected to experience any damages, closures, or other issues related to the weather, please provide NCCHCA’s Emergency Preparedness coordinator, Monica Cruz, with the information below. 

Please note: NCCHCA is not a provider of health care services.
If this is a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1. If you are in need of non-emergency medical attention, please contact your primary care provider.

Complaints or concerns? Report them here anonymously: Report a Concern

 

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