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UNC Health Blue Ridge Honors McDowell EMS Team for Heroic Efforts During Hurricane Helene

UNC Health Blue Ridge leadership recognized McDowell County EMS team members Haley Fortenberry and Blake Young with a special “stork pinning” ceremony. This honor celebrates their incredible efforts during Hurricane Helene, including the successful delivery of a baby while en route to the hospital. Amid the storm's harrowing conditions, Blake and Haley demonstrated extraordinary skill and composure. Their quick thinking and medical expertise ensured a positive outcome for both mother and baby, exemplifying the unwavering commitment of emergency services professionals to our community's health and safety. "We are incredibly proud of Haley and Blake for their dedication and compassion," said Adrienne Rivera Jones, Deputy Director of McDowell EMS. "This recognition highlights their outstanding service during one of the most challenging times our region has faced." This heartfelt moment is part of UNC Health Blue Ridge's #12DaysofGratitude campaign, a celebration of the people and teams who go above and beyond to make a difference. McDowell County EMS extends its gratitude to all the women and men in emergency services who work tirelessly to care for our community, especially in times of crisis.

Direct Temporary Housing Assistance

FEMA offers several types of housing assistance and temporary shelter solutions for eligible households. Direct Temporary Housing Assistance is approved for 25 counties as an interim solution to permanent housing needs. These temporary housing solutions include travel trailers or manufactured home units, and more will be available soon. These options take time, and individuals will be contacted by FEMA if they are eligible. Learn more about housing assistance options and eligibility by watching this video: Direct Housing Assistance available in North Carolina for Helene Survivors.

Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) is Still Available

Through TSA, FEMA pays directly to participating hotels and motels to cover the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees to provide short term accommodations for eligible disaster survivors. If you are eligible for TSA, FEMA will notify you using the contact information you provided on your application.

Appeal a Decision

You can appeal any FEMA decision or award amount by sending additional documents, like estimates for repairs, receipts, bills, etc., that show you qualify and need more help. Each decision letter from FEMA explains why you are ineligible and the types of documents to help you appeal. For more details, please visit: https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/how-appeal-fema-decision-1. Video on How to Appeal.