The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced a major disaster declaration for the Commonwealth of Virginia due to damages from Tropical Storm Helene starting on September 25, 2024. This declaration allows for federal assistance, including Individual Assistance, debris removal, and emergency protective measures in specified counties and cities, while all areas of Virginia can access the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Federal funds will cover 75% of eligible costs unless projects meet certain criteria for higher support. Timothy S. Pheil has been appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.
Simple Explanation
The U.S. government said there's a big problem in Virginia because of a storm, so they will help people there by giving money and removing trash, but not all the money they give is for free—people have to pay some of it too.