Fetterman Secures $14.62 Million in Relief Funds for Tropical Storm Recovery
U.S. Senator John Fetterman announced a $14.62 million federal funding allocation for disaster recovery in north-central Pennsylvania following Tropical Storm Debby. This funding, mainly from the HUD’s CDBG-DR program, supports repair and mitigation efforts for affected counties, including Potter, Elk, and Cameron. Commissioner statements emphasize gratitude for relief efforts, though many communities continue to face recovery challenges.
U.S. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania recently announced a crucial allocation of $14.62 million in federal disaster recovery funds intended for north-central Pennsylvania, specifically for Potter, Elk, and Cameron counties. This financial support, granted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), aims to facilitate recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Debby in 2024. The funds are sourced from the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program, as authorized by the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2025.
In a statement, Senator Fetterman expressed his empathy for families affected by Hurricane Debby, emphasizing the significant challenges they face. He highlighted the importance of providing support to communities that often do not receive much attention, asserting that the nearly $15 million in funding would enable these areas to rebuild effectively and prepare for future adversities.
The funding allocation includes a 15% portion dedicated to mitigation efforts, designed to enhance the preparedness of these communities against potential storms. The recovery initiatives will encompass repairing infrastructure, assisting displaced families, and addressing long-term recovery needs. Included in the eligible counties for the CDBG-DR funding are Tioga, Lycoming, Union, Clearfield, Indiana, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming, and Sullivan.
Potter County commissioners expressed gratitude for the relief efforts in a joint statement, acknowledging the immediate support provided by FEMA, volunteers, and donors. However, they noted that numerous challenges persist, particularly in repairing critical infrastructure and addressing the ongoing needs of families striving to recover from the disaster.
Additionally, southeastern Allegany County and Steuben County were also affected by the heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Storm Debby. Officials from these regions are still awaiting federal disaster relief declarations to support their recovery efforts, illustrating the extensive impact of the storm across multiple counties.
In 2024, Tropical Storm Debby wreaked havoc in parts of Pennsylvania, causing significant destruction to homes and infrastructure in various counties. In response to this disaster, the federal government, through the HUD, allocated funding aimed at facilitating recovery and rebuilding efforts. The CDBG-DR funding is specifically designed for communities impacted by natural disasters, helping them to address both immediate recovery needs and prepare for future storms. The allocation illustrates a commitment to supporting areas that are often overlooked in terms of disaster relief.
The announcement of $14.62 million in federal disaster recovery funding by Senator John Fetterman marks a significant step toward recovery for north-central Pennsylvania counties affected by Tropical Storm Debby. The funds will aid in not only rebuilding but also in enhancing future preparedness through mitigation efforts. Support from local leaders and ongoing federal assistance highlights the importance of collaboration in addressing the long-term needs of affected communities.
Original Source: www.oleantimesherald.com
