New Updates on Helene Recovery: How to Access Disaster Unemployment Assistance
This article will continue to be updated as more information becomes available. Since Hurricane Helene hit South Carolina on September 27, thousands of people are without power and in need of assistance. Many are seeking help as they struggle to cope with the aftermath of the hurricane. In response to the situation, Spartanburg County’s Wellford Landfill is now open and accepting household waste. The majority of recycling centers are also open and ready to receive recyclable materials.
Any residents still without power are urged to contact the Town of Pacolet so that necessary repairs can be made. Meanwhile, South Carolina Gov. McMaster along with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce Executive Director William Floyd have announced that relief funds may be available for those in certain counties affected by the disaster.
Unemployment Assistance funds have been made available for those living or working in named areas identified as being the most heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene. Those who lost work or were unemployed as a direct consequence of the hurricane should apply for unemployment insurance to determine eligibility for the Unemployment Assistance program.
Meanwhile, other disaster-related needs such as displacement and temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss, and other hurricane-related costs may be sought through FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
In Spartanburg County, storm debris collection efforts are underway while Duke Energy crews are working hard to restore power. The South Carolina Department of Insurance (SC DOI) is also offering assistance to consumers through an Insurance Claims Village event. Meanwhile, services such as community relief funds and donation drives have also being set up in the area to provide additional assistance.
If you have needed to apply for unemployment benefits due to circumstances surrounding Hurricane Helene, then you may have questions about how to navigate the process. A useful resource to consider is eddcaller.com. This website can provide invaluable information such as the edd phone number, how to speak to someone at edd, how to get through to edd, and how to get a hold of edd. Remember, remaining informed and proactive is key during these times.