Helene Recovery Update 
Final Chance to Apply for Storm Debris Removal Assistance Extended Deadline November 21, 2025
A second and final application period is now open for the NC SMART Personal Property Debris Removal (PPDR) Program, which helps residents affected by Hurricane Helene remove storm debris or demolish unsafe structures at no cost. This opportunity is for new applicants only and will not reopen. Applications are accepted from October 10 through November 7, 2025. Apply online at NCDebrisCleanup.com , by phone at (828) 412-8947, or by email at [email protected] In-person assistance is also available by appointment, call (828) 412-8947 to schedule. The deadline to apply is November 21, 2025.
Reimbursement Form Remains Open for NC State Private Road and Bridge Repair
The North Carolina Private Road and Bridge Program (NC-PRB) was established to assist property owners across western North Carolina with damages from Helene. In accordance with The Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 - Part I, NC-PRB will prioritize repairs to private roads or bridges that: Are the sole access for emergency services to residential properties occupied by the property owner for over six months of the calendar year OR Provide access to multiple residential homes, recreation or commercial facilities. If you have incurred any individual costs to repair or replace your private road, bridge, culvert or pipe, and wish to seek partial reimbursement, or if you need assistance with the form, please contact [email protected] or call at 1-844-746-2326.
Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program Application Deadline December 31, 2025
The state continues accepting applications for their program to repair and rebuild homes, or reimburse for repairs made to homes in western North Carolina that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Helene. This program is the first of a series of recovery initiatives to be offered by the North Carolina Commerce Department’s Division of Community Revitalization under the program name Renew NC. This state initiative helps low-to-moderate income homeowners repair or rebuild their homes, with priority given to families with seniors, children, or individuals with disabilities. McDowell County residents can now apply at www.renewnc.org. The deadline is December 31, 2025. If you were denied FEMA assistance, you may still qualify. For help determining your eligibility, call 1-888-791-0207.
Address/Location
McDowell County Emergency Management
129 Barnes Rd
Marion, NC 28752
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 828-652-3241
TEXT-A-TIP - Text TIP MCDOWELLEM followed by your message, to 888777
