Business

In Buncombe County, people are still struggling to understand the depth of their loss from Hurricane Helene and financial assistance is essential for many people as they look to regain normalcy.North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey was at the camp speaking to many survivors. “We’re letting people know if you need help reach out to us so we can direct you to the right place,” Causey said.The damage is not always what you can see. “At least we still have a home. We don’t feel like it’s right for us to ask for help,” said Alicia Owendy, a Buncombe County resident. Owendy and her husband have minor damage, but Helene has prevented them from returning to work. “I’ve had two days of work since this happened, we haven’t been able to pay our bills, I’ve been online trying to ask if there’s help for people to pay their bills being the time,” Owendy said.Buncombe County resident Doris Fogg says a tree fell into her home, splitting the roof. She has been staying at a friend’s place until the damages can be repaired. “What are we in week 4 right now? And I still don’t have any response from insurance. It’s all very time-consuming,” said Fogg. She attended the insurance camp on behalf of her granddaughter who lives with her and just had a baby. Both are using the same address and it’s creating a problem. “Because she uses the physical address, she cannot apply. She was turned down for FEMA.”Meanwhile, another Buncombe County resident, Eric Peter, waits in line to apply for FEMA. He says he can’t escape the pain of what others are enduring.”I have friends who have lost everything,” said Peter. “The trees went through their homes as soon as they got to the basements and then three other trees took out their vehicles.” In the midst of their hurts and worries these residents all seem to have hope.”Don’t let it control you. You’re still in control of your life,” said Fogg.