Forest Acres Struggles to Recover from Hurricane Helene’s Wrath
Forest Acres, S.C. – The town is still picking up the pieces after Hurricane Helene blew through, leaving a trail of damage that’s hard to miss. With more than 200 trees down and numerous homes affected, it’s evident that the storm didn’t hold back in this area. Families are facing the aftermath, and the road to recovery might be longer than expected.
A Slow Response from the Federal Government
While there is a glimmer of hope for storm damage recovery across South Carolina after federal disaster funds were released, residents in Forest Acres are feeling a little left out. The federal aid that has started trickling into some counties is not yet helping those in Forest Acres, a fact that has been weighing heavily on the community’s mind.
Forest Acres’ Communications Director, Lynnsey Baker, shared the grim reality, stating, “Here in Forest Acres, we have more than 200 trees down, we have dozens and dozens of homes with trees on top of them.” It’s a sight that’s becoming all too common as the city grapples with recovery efforts.
The Heartbreaking Stories of Local Residents
Residents like Shannon Fancher exemplify the struggle many are facing. Her home, which was already dealt a blow from flooding during a previous storm in 2015, found itself under nearly 5 feet of water on that fateful Friday when Hurricane Helene struck. “This isn’t my first time dealing with flooding,” Fancher lamented. “I thought we would be able to get federal disaster money again, so I went online, only to realize we aren’t declared a federal disaster area yet.”
The frustration is palpable. Fancher added, “Their lives, their livelihoods have been destroyed,” referring to the major devastation seen in other parts of the region, especially in North Carolina. Many residents feel a growing sense of urgency for aid as recovery begins elsewhere while their situation remains uncertain.
Potential Solutions on the Horizon
Congressman Joe Wilson took the time to visit Forest Acres, engaging with city officials and affected families to understand their needs better. He explained that although the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been slow to respond, there are necessary assessments that must be done before aid can be allocated. “There has been a delay with FEMA, but there was a county issue, and I’m confident the county is going to get that corrected,” Wilson assured residents. His visit brought a bit of hope, although many are looking for faster solutions.
How to Apply for Federal Aid
For those residents who are among the counties being considered for federal support, there are ways to apply for assistance. Applications can be submitted online, over the phone, or through the FEMA app. It’s essential for residents to stay informed about the approval status of their applications, as many are eager for help to rebuild their lives.
As Forest Acres battles through this challenging time, it’s evident that the community needs help. The stories shared by residents like Fancher resonate with the shared struggle of recovering from such a devastating event. The hope is that with ongoing assessments and awareness raised by officials, aid will soon reach Forest Acres and help residents regain their footing.
Community Spirit Shining Through
Despite the setbacks, the spirit of the community remains resilient. Conversations surrounding support, recovery, and rebuilding are ongoing, bringing together friends and neighbors as they face this challenge head-on. The care and concern for one another serve as a testament to the strength of Forest Acres, proving that even in the face of adversity, they are determined to stand tall together.
