03/29/2024
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It has been more than a week since Bladen County felt the wrath of Hurricane Matthew. For those that have suffered damage or losses, the following agencies may be able to assist you:

Applying for Individual Disaster Assistance

house-floodAs of October 10, 2016, a major disaster declaration was given for several counties affected by Hurricane Matthew. FEMA said that damage surveys are continuing in other areas, and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed.

You can apply for assistance online here or by calling toll-free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with a speech or hearing impairment should call TTY 1-800-462-7585. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Applying for SBA’s Disaster Loan Program

In addition, several counties are eligible for Small Business Administration (SBA) assistance. Small businesses wishing to apply for assistance will need to fill out an assistance application by clicking here or by calling 1-800-659-2955.  If you have any trouble with your SBA assistance application, please call one of our offices so we can assist with your efforts.

Agriculture Disaster Hotline

Those who have farms and need assistance can call the Agriculture Disaster Hotline at 1-866-645-9403.

For a comprehensive list of assistance programs available to businesses and individuals, please click here.

Shelters

The Red Cross currently has shelters open throughout the state of North Carolina to provide lodging, food and other assistance. For more information, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767)or click here.

NCDOT Updates and Road Closures

For real-time road closure and traffic conditions in your area, drivers are urged to visit ReadyNC.org or call 5-1-1.

Disaster Distress Helpline

The Department of Health and Human Services has set up a 24 hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week Disaster Distress Helpline for people seeking crisis counseling. Residents can call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

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