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Carter County has released its weekly update on disaster assistance resources for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. The update highlights crucial deadlines, housing repair programs, employment assistance, and health resources for the week of Dec. 2.

 

Approaching Deadlines

• Friday, Dec. 6: Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) applications are due. Producers who applied in October do not need further action. Those who have not applied can submit their applications at tn.gov/taep.
• Tuesday, Dec. 31: Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) deadline. For details, visit the EPAP website.
• Tuesday, Jan. 7: FEMA Disaster Assistance applications must be submitted by this date. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362 for more information.

 

SkyBest Internet Services Progress Update

SkyBest Internet installations in Carter County are on track for completion by the first quarter of 2025, despite delays caused by Hurricane Helene. Damage to infrastructure and roadways has required temporary connections in some areas.

The next phase will involve testing connections and equipment to ensure optimal performance. Residents in Little Milligan and Tiger Valley, particularly in service-ready areas, can pre-register at fiber.skybest.com. SkyBest will contact registrants to finalize service installations.

 

Disaster Resource Centers (DRCs)

Disaster Resource Centers are available to assist Carter County residents and those in surrounding areas.

DRC Locations and Hours:

• Carter County: Betsytowne Center, 1749 Highway 19E, Elizabethton
• Cocke County: Cocke County Recreation Department, Newport
• Greene County: Greene County Courthouse Annex, Greeneville
• Hamblen County: Utility Commission Conference Center, Morristown
• Johnson County: National Guard Armory, Mountain City
• Unicoi County: Emergency Operations Center, Erwin
• Washington County: Cherry Grove Baptist Church, Jonesborough

DRCs operate Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Housing Assistance Programs

1. Holston Habitat for Humanity Repairs
   Holston Habitat is accepting applications for hurricane-related home repairs, including insulation, HVAC, flooring, and electrical work. Funding is limited, and applications are processed on a first-qualified, first-served basis. Apply at holstonhabitat.org/home-repair or call 423-239-7689.
2. Building Permits for Homeowners in Flood Zones
   Homeowners must contact the Carter County Planning Office at 423-542-1834 for a damage assessment before starting any construction. Building permits are free, but electrical permits may incur fees.

 

Debris Pickup Guidelines

The Tennessee Forestry Resources team will conduct its final debris pickups from Dec. 2 to Dec. 13. Residents must:

• Place debris within 10 feet of the road’s right-of-way.
• Avoid using trash bags for debris. Bagged items will not be collected.

To request debris pickup, email debris@cartercountytn.gov. Storm-related debris can also be dropped off at the Carter County Landfill free of charge. Proof of residency is required.

 

Employment and Business Recovery Assistance

1. Disaster Unemployment Assistance
   Displaced workers can apply for unemployment benefits through the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development at tn.gov/workforce.
2. Tennessee CAREs Program
   Tennessee CAREs provides financial support for businesses and part-time, temporary jobs for individuals affected by Hurricane Helene. Employers and individuals can call 423-616-3943 to apply.

 

Health and Safety Resources

The Carter County Health Department is offering free Tdap, Hepatitis A, and flu vaccines for residents. Walk-in vaccinations are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 400 E. G St., Elizabethton.

Residents involved in cleanup efforts are encouraged to stay updated on their tetanus vaccinations. Those with open wounds should avoid contact with floodwaters to reduce the risk of infection.

For health-related concerns, contact the Citizen Information Hotline at 423-979-4689.

 

State Representative’s Office Hours

District 4 State Rep. Renea Jones will hold monthly office hours for constituents and local officials on the first Friday of each month. Office hours will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Mayor’s Conference Room at the Carter County Courthouse.

 

Helpful Resources and Links

• Carter County: cartercountytn.gov
• FEMA Disaster Assistance: DisasterAssistance.gov
• Tennessee Emergency Management Agency: tn.gov/tema
• Holston Habitat: holstonhabitat.org/home-repair
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance: tn.gov/workforce

For additional resources or assistance, visit Carter County’s official website or call the Citizen Information Hotline at 423-979-4689.