Hurricane Helene Survivor Calls for FEMA’s Elimination Amid Ongoing Recovery Challenges

Hurricane Helene survivor Mona Roper advocates for the elimination of FEMA, citing inadequate support following the storm’s devastation in North Carolina. Her calls align with Secretary Kristi Noem’s plan to reform disaster relief. Roper emphasizes that assistance has been insufficient, particularly for severe damage to infrastructure, calling into question FEMA’s effectiveness.

Mona Roper, a survivor of Hurricane Helene, is advocating for the dismantling of FEMA six months after the storm devastated Western North Carolina. Her comments followed Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem’s proposed plan to reform disaster relief by eliminating the agency, which has faced criticism from several Republicans.

Roper expressed her support for Noem’s initiative, stating on “Fox & Friends,” “She sounds very promising. It would be great to see changes.” She criticized FEMA, stating, “Samaritan’s Purse has been great here in the community, but FEMA has not.” Roper emphasized that many, herself included, are still without adequate FEMA support, asserting that revamping the agency is not a viable solution.

The powerful Category Four storm wreaked havoc not only in Florida but also impacted several Southeastern states, including Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, Virginia, and North Carolina, where communities continue to face recovery challenges.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, discussing recovery efforts on “Special Report,” stated, “We have been on the ground since before Hurricane Helene hit Florida…” She attempted to clarify the agency’s presence, despite critiques from residents like Roper who argue that the financial aid has not been sufficient. Roper pointed out that financial assistance is “not flowing at the speed and at the volume that it needs to be,” particularly given the scale of damage in North Carolina.

The severity of the storm’s impact on local infrastructure was highlighted by Roper, who has faced challenges in obtaining funds to repair crucial roads and bridges that suffered extensive damage. She lamented, “I’m just sort of in a loophole… that I’m getting no assistance from.”

In conclusion, the calls from Hurricane Helene survivor Mona Roper highlight significant concerns regarding the effectiveness of FEMA in providing timely assistance to disaster-stricken communities. As discussions arise about the potential restructuring or elimination of FEMA, Roper’s experiences reflect the urgent need for more effective disaster relief mechanisms that respond adequately to the demands of natural disasters. The recovery from Hurricane Helene continues to pose significant challenges for numerous affected residents, emphasizing the critical need for reform in disaster management.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com