HENDERSON COUNTY–As of the latest report, FEMA has distributed $6.8 million in direct aid to Henderson County residents following the severe storms in May. This substantial support, provided through the FEMA Individual and Households Program (IHP), has been crucial in helping the community recover. 
The breakdown of aid includes:
• Repair or Replacement Assistance: 580 applications have been approved, totaling $4.4 million. The average assistance per applicant is $7,624, covering necessary home repairs and replacements for those whose properties were severely damaged.
• Rental Assistance: 34 applications approved, totaling $71,760, with an average of $2,111 per applicant. This support is essential for those displaced by the storms and in need of temporary housing.
• Other Needs Assistance: 1,160 applications approved, totaling $2.3 million. This aid covers various urgent needs, including personal property loss and medical expenses, with an average of $1,994 per applicant.
Henderson County Judge Wade McKinney emphasized the significance of this direct aid to residents during a challenging time. “This $6.8 million in direct aid is not money that has gone to county government but to the people who needed it most. It's significant and a testament to the resilience of our community and the effectiveness of our emergency response efforts,” he said.
While FEMA has closed its operations at the Henderson County Senior Center, a few applications are still being processed so the amount of aid could continue to rise.
Judge McKinney thanked all involved in the emergency response and recovery efforts, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in overcoming the challenges posed by the May storms. “The continued support from FEMA and our local agencies has been vital in our recovery, and we remain committed to ensuring that every resident who needs help receives it.”