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Carter County officials have released the latest disaster assistance resources update for the week of Dec. 30, 2024, to help residents navigate recovery efforts following recent flooding and severe weather.

Local Efforts

• Emergency Operations Center Activated: The Carter County Emergency Operations Center is partially activated in preparation for forecasted cold weather later this week. This limited activation focuses on specific emergency requests and does not require full department response.
• Warming Stations: Two local churches will operate as warming stations beginning Wednesday, Jan. 1, at 6 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 5, at 8 a.m., or longer if temperatures remain below 25 degrees. Locations:
  • Deliverance Church of God, 406 First Ave., Hampton
  • Doe River Baptist, 113 Avon Ave., Elizabethton
• Final Debris Removal: The last round of debris removal will start Thursday, Jan. 2, and end Monday, Jan. 13. Submit pickup requests to debris@cartercountytn.gov.
• Temporary Bridges in Poga: Installation of temporary bridges will begin next week under a 24-month emergency lease. For questions, email debris@cartercountytn.gov.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

• Disaster Assistance Deadline: Residents impacted by September flooding must apply for FEMA assistance by Tuesday, Jan. 7. Apply at www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
• Childcare, Vehicle, and Property Assistance: FEMA offers help with disaster-related childcare costs, vehicle repair or replacement, and personal property losses. Farmers and ranch hands can also apply for financial aid to replace damaged tools or equipment.
• Housing Assistance: FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing Assistance is available for eligible households.
• FEMA Resource Center: Visit the Disaster Recovery Center at the Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library, 201 N. Sycamore St., Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Closed Jan. 1).

State Government

• Jan. 3 Office Hours Change: District 4 State Rep. Renea Jones will hold office hours Friday, Jan. 3, from 8-9:30 a.m. at the Carter County Courthouse. Meet Legislative Assistant Jaelyn Phillips from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Carter County Farm Bureau Office or from 4-5:30 p.m. at the Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce.

Helpful Links and Resources

For full details and links to disaster recovery resources, including financial aid, legal help, and state services, visit www.cartercountytn.gov or FEMA’s dedicated page at www.fema.gov/helene/tennessee.