FEMA Debunks False Claims About Hurricane Helene Response

The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has created a "rumor response" page to address misinformation circulating in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The hurricane caused significant damage in western North Carolina last month.

FEMA's Response to Rumors

On October 3, FEMA addressed various online statements about their disaster response, including rumors about dwindling funds due to payments and efforts to transport undocumented immigrants into certain areas of the U.S. The agency clarified that it currently has sufficient funds for immediate response and recovery needs. It urged those affected by Hurricane Helene to apply for disaster assistance, assuring that a range of help is available. FEMA also debunked claims that funds were being diverted from federal Helene disaster response efforts to support international efforts or border-related issues.

Disagreements on FEMA's Funding

Earlier in the week, Texas Governor Greg Abbott called on Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the Department of Homeland Security, and FEMA to halt spending on undocumented immigrant resettlement and redirect those funds to areas affected by the hurricane. This was in response to Mayorkas's statement to the press that FEMA, which falls under his agency's jurisdiction, did not have the funds to last until the end of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which ends on November 30. The Epoch Times reached out to DHS and FEMA for comment but received no response by the time of publication.

Claims About FEMA's Expenditure

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) accused the Biden-Harris administration of misusing over a billion tax dollars allocated to FEMA for disaster relief to house undocumented immigrants. He claimed that the administration had abandoned American hurricane victims in several states. Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) echoed this claim, calling FEMA's alleged spending of over a billion dollars on undocumented immigrants while leaving Americans stranded as "treasonous."

FEMA's Stance on Donations and Volunteers

Another rumor circulating online suggested that FEMA was soliciting cash donations and turning away volunteers in North Carolina. FEMA's website refutes this claim, stating that the agency does not typically ask for or accept cash donations or volunteers for disaster response. Instead, it encourages people to volunteer with or donate cash to reputable voluntary or charitable organizations.

Response from the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross also addressed allegations that it was discarding or confiscating donated items, stating that it was not true. The organization clarified that while it does not accept physical donations, it works with community partners better equipped to handle and distribute these items.

Helene's Death Toll

Helene has claimed at least 215 lives, making it the deadliest storm to hit the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Bottom Line

In times of disaster, it's essential to rely on verified sources for information. Misinformation can cause unnecessary panic and confusion, hindering relief efforts. What are your thoughts on this issue? Do you think FEMA and other organizations are doing enough to combat misinformation during disasters? Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.