FEMA: Misinformation

During the peak of election season, when information is often politicized and weaponized for media coverage and political advantage, FEMA released a guide to address misinformation regarding its operations in states affected by Hurricane Helene. Here’s a summary of some fact-checked misinformation:

• Multiple applications speed up the approval process: False. Only one application per household is allowed. Submitting multiple applications can cause delays and complications.

• Application status: You can check the status of your application at disasterassistance.gov or by calling FEMA’s helpline at 800-621-3362.

• FAA restricting airspace for rescue and recovery: Incorrect. The FAA coordinates with state and local officials to ensure airspace safety, but it is not restricting airspace.

• FEMA seizing properties: False. FEMA inspectors assess eligibility for assistance, not to seize properties, even if deemed uninhabitable.

• FEMA is bankrupt: Not true. FEMA currently has sufficient funds to provide assistance to those affected by Hurricane Helene.

• FEMA asking for donations and rejecting volunteers: FEMA does not solicit donations. For those who wish to volunteer, FEMA recommends working with reputable organizations involved in disaster relief.

• FEMA’s disaster relief funds diverted internationally: False. FEMA’s funding comes from the Disaster Relief Fund, which is specifically dedicated to domestic disaster efforts.

• FEMA stopping vehicles with donations: Incorrect. FEMA does not stop vehicles carrying donations. However, since FEMA manages its own teams, those wanting to donate or volunteer should work with organizations active on the ground.