With President Donald Trump back in office, there’s a newfound optimism among the 3,500 North Carolina families who were left out in the cold following the termination of FEMA aid under former President Joe Biden. Biden’s decision to send $500 million to Ukraine while these families faced eviction into freezing weather has been a point of contention, highlighting a disconnect in addressing domestic versus international needs.
The end of the FEMA program coincided with a severe winter storm, leaving families to seek refuge in inadequate conditions as temperatures plummeted. Many reported a lack of clear guidance from FEMA on the continuation of aid or the condition of their homes, leading to a chaotic scramble for shelter amidst snow and ice. This scenario has painted a grim picture of the previous administration’s priorities.
Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) has voiced strong criticism against the former administration’s handling of the situation, stating, “American families were neglected in favor of foreign aid.” The hope now is that Trump’s presidency will bring a focus back to American soil, ensuring that those affected by Hurricane Helene receive the support they desperately need.
Trump’s administration is expected to pivot from the previous trend of extensive foreign aid, like the over $175 billion to Ukraine, to bolstering domestic disaster relief efforts. The minimal aid provided by FEMA under Biden, with only 90 temporary homes, is anticipated to be vastly improved upon, with a comprehensive recovery plan for North Carolina in the works.
Local shelters have been overwhelmed, struggling to cope with the influx of displaced families. However, with Trump’s leadership, there’s an expectation of a robust federal response, aiming to provide not only immediate relief but also long-term solutions to help these families recover from their ordeal.
Trump’s team has already initiated contact with local officials to understand the full scope of the crisis, planning to deploy federal resources effectively, which marks a significant shift from the approach taken under Biden’s administration.
