FEMA works to provide assistance for thousands in Cumberland County
Mae Jones, of Fayetteville, says she will never forget the day Matthew's floodwaters came pouring into her home on Waterless Street. She was cooking grits and bacon when she got word it was time to evacuate.
Posted — Updated"My son came in the door. He said, 'Momma, turn them pots off because we got to get out of here,'" Jones said.
All of her personal belongings were destroyed, including her furniture and appliances.
Volunteers from Operation Blessing are now helping to make repairs so that Jones can move back in.
Jones is one of 8,000 people seeking help from FEMA following Hurricane Matthew. The agency set up a disaster relief center at the Department of Social Services on Ramsey Street.
"We are working as quickly as possible with anyone that has any information in regards to housing, and of course, we do want to try to keep people not only in the community, but as close as possible," said Rita Egan, a FEMA spokesperson.
Hundreds of people are in need of a place to stay in Cumberland County. Right now, there are only 108 apartments available, which is putting the pressure on FEMA and other agencies to help those who need it.
"If your home is uninhabitable then we are going to be looking at moving you into something safe and secure," Egan said. "But, if there is a case or possibility of restoring it, then we may be able to provide you with some rental assistance to get you into a hotel on a temporary basis."
Jones said she was able to move in with her sister while her house is repaired.
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