How to Apply for FEMA Disaster Recovery Assistance Funds

October 6, 2024

The Blue Ridge Energy service territory has received a federal major disaster declaration due to the impacts of Helene and members are eligible to apply for federal assistance funds. While we can't speak to the exact assistance or qualifications, we can provide you with the outage documentation you may need to apply. We also encourage you to contact your insurance company to determine if your damage is covered. FEMA assistance is only available if insurance is not covering the loss.  Here is how to get started: 

How do I apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance funds?
You can apply in three ways:

  1. Call 1-800-621-3362
  2. Apply online at disasterassistance.gov
  3. Visit a local Disaster Recovery Center, opened by FEMA to serve as a point of contact for individuals seeking to apply for FEMA disaster recovery aid. In Blue Ridge Energy’s service area, FEMA is available at:
    • Ashe County: FEMA Assistance teams are reportedly at various community locations and out in the community. To find the latest, please visit the Ashe County Government page: ashecountygov.com or the Ashe County Recovery – Hurricane Helene Facebook page: facebook.com/groups/411498995303509/
    • Caldwell County: 3rd Floor of the Health and Human Services building, 2345 Morganton Blvd. SW, Lenoir. Open 8 am to 7 pm, Monday-Sunday.
    • Watauga County: Appalachian Enterprise Center, 130 Poplar Grove Connector Rd, Boone. Open 8 am to 7 pm, Monday-Sunday.

What should I expect when calling FEMA?
The on-hold wait time may be 40 minutes or longer. However, the phone representatives are reported to be very helpful.

Can I get help with my online application?
Yes! You can call FEMA, and a live representative can assist in revising your online application if needed.

What information do I need to apply?
Have the following information ready when applying:

  • Home address
  • Mailing address
  • Email address (if applicable)
  • Phone number
  • Social Security number (SSN)
  • Banking and insurance details
  • Gross income (before taxes)
  • Official Documentation of Outage Provided by Blue RIdge Energy

Click here to request your Official Documentation of Outage.