Bamberg County residents can learn about FEMA aid at drop-in workshop
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BAMBERG, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Bamberg County will host a drop-in workshop on FEMA assistance.
It’s scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 9 at the Bamberg County Courthouse Annex, 1234 North St.
You can drop in, get the information you need and leave when you want.
The workshop will focus on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Disaster Survivor Assistance program.
Teams will help of the public with FEMA and answer their questions regarding individual assistance programs. However, representatives do not have the authority to issue or approve FEMA individual assistance; they may only assist with the application process.
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The hurricane and a small tornado with 90 mph winds hit Bamberg County last week, less than two months after pummeled by a Category EF-2 tornado.
In addition to last week’s EF-1 tornado in Ehrhardt, the county got heavy rain that caused massive flooding, power outages and property damage.
Downed trees and flooding made several major roads imable, including Highway 301.
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County officials, nearby energy companies, local first responders, volunteers, and even workers from as far away as Alabama united to protect citizens during the storm and continue what will surely be a long recovery effort. Progress has been made, however.
More than 70% of reported power outages have been restored, and several roads across Bamberg County have been re-opened.
Many died while helping others during Helene
Among Helene's victims were first responders who perished in wind-ravaged and rain-soaked communities, often while trying to help others.
The Bamberg County Landfill and all area LAD sites are now open during normal business hours. Additionally, the County has opened a dedicated tree debris drop-off location at Slow Pitch Road, outside of Bamberg and off Broxton Bridge Road. On-site staff will facilitate debris disposal.
“Without a doubt, this has been a challenging year for Bamberg County, but we are and will forever remain Bamberg strong and will continue to work until the job is done,” stated Bamberg County Council Chairman Evert Comer Jr.
Helene stirs soul-searching, regret over unheeded warnings
Before Hurricane Helene’s landfall, the National Weather Service began an all-out blitz to alert people of the dangers. Not everyone listened.
County Joey Preston reflected, “Our entire state and most of the Southeastern portion of the United States was hit hard by Helene. Not only must we effectively and efficiently react to storms like these, but we must continue taking proactive measures to mitigate future storms on the horizon.”
You are not required to stay for six hours, officials say. This workshop is designed to provide assistance and answer questions for those who need it.
Whether you have specific concerns, need help navigating disaster recovery, or just want more information, you can stop by at any point during the workshop hours.
Feel free to drop in, get the information or assistance you need, and leave when you’re ready.
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