COLUMBIA, S.C. – In response to Governor Henry McMaster’s request, President Donald Trump approved Federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in 11 counties affected by Hurricane Dorian.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance Program helps reimburse local governments, state agencies, and eligible private non-profit organizations for certain expenses they have incurred during large-scale emergencies. Federal disaster aid is not available for individual residents.

On September 5, Governor McMaster formally requested a disaster declaration from the White House for Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dillon, Dorchester, Georgetown, Horry, Jasper, Marion, and Williamsburg counties. His request followed an assessment of damages by representatives of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, local governments, and FEMA.

Under the Public Assistance Program, state agencies, affected local governments, and certain private non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for federal funding to pay 75 percent of the approved costs under certain categories such as debris removal and road repair related to the storm.

The FEMA Public Assistance program categories are as follows:

• Category A: Debris Removal
• Category B: Emergency Protective Measures
• Category C: Roads and Bridges
• Category D: Water Control Facilities
• Category E: Buildings and Equipment
• Category F: Utilities
• Category G: Parks, Recreational Facilities, and Other Items

The division of the remaining 25 percent will be determined later. More information about this program can be found here.

The declaration also makes cost-shared funding available to the state for approved projects that reduce - or mitigate - future disaster risks. Funds under this program will be available to state agencies, local governments, and certain non-profit organizations only. A wide variety of potential projects are eligible.

Representatives from the SCEMD Recovery Section will explain procedures for requesting assistance at a series of applicant briefings at locations to be announced soon in the affected areas.

For more information regarding the FEMA Public Assistance Program, contact Derrec Becker with SCEMD at 803-530-2193.