A post on X claims that Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has ceased all relief operations and is confiscating supplies and donations for Hurricane Helene victims.

FEMA has ceased all relief operations and is now seizing supplies and donations from citizens trying to assist Hurricane Helene victims across various states, causing growing alarm and unrest.

📽 @TTAVOfficial pic.twitter.com/ZGJ0jXgeku

— Shadow of Ezra (@ShadowofEzra) October 3, 2024

Verdict: False

There is no evidence to support the claim that FEMA has halted operations or confiscated supplies. FEMA continues to provide extensive disaster relief, including increased assistance in states like Georgia and Tennessee.

Fact Check:

The death toll from Helene has risen to 227 after recovery efforts continued across North Carolina and other impacted states, according to The Associated Press. Half of the death total stems from flooding in North Carolina, while other deaths were scattered around Georgia and other surrounding states, the outlet reported.

The post alleges that FEMA has ceased its relief efforts and is confiscating supplies meant for victims of Hurricane Helene. “FEMA has ceased all relief operations and is now seizing supplies and donations from citizens trying to assist Hurricane Helene victims across various states, causing growing alarm and unrest,” the post’s caption reads.

However, this claim is false. FEMA remains fully operational, coordinating recovery efforts across multiple states affected by Hurricane Helene, including Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced Oct. 3 that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. authorized increased federal disaster assistance for the state of Georgia. The President’s authorization expanded federal funding to 100% of eligible costs for debris removal and emergency protective measures for 90 days, underscoring FEMA’s continued support.

Additionally, FEMA actively encourages people to apply for assistance. In Tennessee, homeowners and renters in eight counties affected by Tropical Storm Helene can apply for FEMA aid. These counties include Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington. FEMA is offering flexible funding for temporary lodging, home repairs, and other serious disaster-related needs, and the application process has been simplified to expand eligibility.

FEMA has set up multiple channels for survivors to apply for assistance, including DisasterAssistance.gov, the FEMA App, and a dedicated helpline (800-621-3362). These measures highlight FEMA’s ongoing and active role in aiding affected communities.

This is not the first time disaster-related or community-related claims have been misrepresented online. Check Your Fact has debunked a misinforming post claiming to show videos of the effects of Hurricane Helene as well as posts about Haitian migrants.