LOWNDES COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - The Federal Emergency Management Agency, better known as FEMA, hosted a housing resource fair on May 16 and 17 in Lowndes County. Their goal was to help those impacted by storms like Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Debby find affordable housing options, FEMA said.

According to the agency, Lowndes County was one of the areas most significantly impacted by these disasters. The county experienced widespread flooding and infrastructure damage, in addition to the emotional toll the devastation caused.

FEMA said that they have approved over 402,710 relief applications, totaling to more than $369.5 million in assistance. They said that includes over 4,839 Georgia families who have received help from FEMA.

With this resource fair, FEMA said they brought federal, state and local partners together to offer comprehensive services to those in need. South Georgians connected with housing counselors, explored potential rental support and got help getting questions about FEMA applications and other paperwork answered.

This event was held nearly eight months after Hurricane Helene hit the Southeast.

“This wasn’t just an event, it was a direct response to the scale of need here,” said James Wood, FEMA Media Relations Specialist. “When we see survivors continuing to struggle months after a storm, it tells us we still have work to do. That’s why we’re here. Not for a day, but for as long as it takes, to let survivors know and assure them that we remain committed to their recovery journey.”

FEMA said that hurricane season is from June to November in our region. The agency said they offer free storm preparedness resources. For more information, FEMA said to visit their Ready Campaign website or social media pages. Find them on Facebook, Instagram and X/Twitter.

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