A Disaster Recovery Center (DCR) is opening Wednesday, Oct. 16 in Bakersville (Mitchell County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Helene.
The Mitchell County DRC is located at Mitchell County Senior Center, 152 Ledger School Road, Bakersville, and will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday.
A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.
FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Homeowners and renters in Mitchell and Yancey counties (as well as any of the 27 N.C. counties affected by Helene) can visit any open center. No appointment is needed.
It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362.
Information you need to apply
• Phone number
• Address (both during the disaster and current location)
• Social Security number
• Notes listing the extent of damage. This can be a general list.
• Banking information for those interested in receiving a direct deposit
• Insurance company name and policy number
• Amount of annual household income