Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched two disaster recovery centers in West Virginia to aid residents still reeling from the August 14‑18 flooding that turned parts of Kanawha, Fayette and Harrison counties into disaster areas. The centers, located at 601 Morris Street in Charleston and a site in Bridgeport, are staffed to provide face‑to‑face help with the application process for federal assistance.
What services are available
Eligible flood survivors may qualify for temporary housing, home‑repair grants and other disaster‑related expenses that insurance does not cover. FEMA officials say the assistance is intended to get families back on their feet as quickly as possible.
“People should bring pictures, any receipts that they’ve done and any repairs on their own because people can do their own repairs. They don’t have to wait for us,” FEMA coordinator Mark O’Hanlon explained. “Those are the basic documents that will get us started.”
How to get help
Applicants are encouraged to gather documentation such as photographs of damage, receipts for materials or labor, and records of any repairs already completed. The centers will walk residents through the paperwork, answer questions about eligibility, and submit applications on their behalf.
“We had some water come off the hill from behind us and it took out our driveway, a couple of buildings and the contents of the buildings,” said Kanawha County resident Jerry Booth, who traveled to the Charleston office to begin the process.
Hours and location
The Charleston recovery center at 601 Morris Street is open Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Bridgeport location follows the same schedule, providing convenient access for residents of the eastern panhandle.
Since the disaster declaration, FEMA has already paid out more than $1 million to West Virginians and has registered over 200 individuals for assistance. The agency continues to monitor the situation and will adjust resources as needed.
Community impact
Local leaders have praised the rapid deployment of the recovery centers, noting that in‑person assistance can be a lifeline for families still coping with the aftermath of severe weather. By offering direct support, FEMA aims to reduce the burden on state and local agencies, allowing them to focus on infrastructure repairs and long‑term recovery planning.
Residents who need help are urged to visit the centers during operating hours or contact FEMA’s regional office for additional guidance. The agency stresses that timely documentation and prompt applications can speed the delivery of aid.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
