Fetterman Secures $14.62 Million in Relief Funds for Tropical Storm Debby Recovery

Senator John Fetterman announced $14.62 million in federal disaster recovery funding for north central Pennsylvania counties affected by Tropical Storm Debby. The funds will aid in rebuilding efforts, with particular allocations for mitigation. Local officials emphasize continued challenges in recovery.

U.S. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania has announced a significant allocation of $14.62 million in federal disaster recovery funds intended for north central Pennsylvania, particularly targeting Potter, Elk, and Cameron counties. This funding, allocated through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program, supports recovery efforts in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, which inflicted severe damage in 2024.

According to Senator Fetterman, the funding addresses vital recovery needs and assists communities that have faced immense challenges due to storm damage. “Families in north central Pennsylvania have been through hell since Hurricane Debby, with homes destroyed and lives uprooted,” he stated. The funds aim to ensure these neglected areas receive adequate support to rebuild and prepare for future storms.

The allocation designates 15% of the funding for mitigation efforts, enhancing community resilience against future storms while also focusing on repairing the infrastructure, homes, and supporting displaced families affected by Tropical Storm Debby. Those eligible for the CDBG-DR funding include Potter, Elk, Cameron, Lycoming, and several other counties across the region.

Potter County commissioners expressed their gratitude for the relief initiatives undertaken for flooding victims. They acknowledged the immediate support provided by FEMA and other agencies as well as the community’s assistance but also highlighted ongoing challenges regarding infrastructure repairs and recovery for families displaced by the storm. The commissioners noted, “There are still many challenges ahead.”

Furthermore, the effects of Tropical Storm Debby were felt beyond Pennsylvania, impacting parts of southeastern Allegany County and Steuben County in New York. Local officials in these areas are currently awaiting federal disaster relief declarations to address the aftermath of the tropical storm.

In light of the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Debby in 2024, various government agencies, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), are stepping in to provide financial assistance through disaster recovery funds. Such initiatives are crucial in addressing the unmet needs of communities severely affected by natural disasters. The CDBG-DR program is specifically designed to support recovery, infrastructure rebuilding, and mitigation efforts in disaster-hit areas.

Senator John Fetterman has announced $14.62 million in federal disaster recovery funding to assist north central Pennsylvania recover from the impacts of Tropical Storm Debby. This funding aims to support communities in rebuilding and improving their disaster resilience. Local officials and residents continue to face challenges in recovery, emphasizing the importance of these funds in addressing ongoing needs and fostering community resilience.

Original Source: www.oleantimesherald.com