Harris announces new Hurricane Helene relief aid in Georgia

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Vice President Kamala Harris visited Augusta, Georgia, on Wednesday to announce new federal disaster relief measures following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. The storm has claimed over 150 lives, and Harris expressed gratitude to those working to provide support. “I’m here today to thank all of those who are working to get folks the relief they so desperately need,” she said.

During her visit, Harris revealed that President Joe Biden had approved the governor's request for 100% federal reimbursement of local costs related to the storm’s impact. She also stated that federal funds would cover local government expenses for food, water, and shelter.

Harris emphasized the close coordination between the Biden administration and state leaders in providing swift aid. “The president and I have been paying close attention from the beginning,” she noted. Harris highlighted FEMA’s $750 aid per affected individual to cover immediate needs like food and baby formula, as well as additional funds for home repairs and hotel costs.

Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson accompanied Harris during her visit, where she met with local and state officials. The announcement came just days after former President Donald Trump criticized the Biden-Harris administration’s response to the hurricane in Georgia, although both Governor Brian Kemp and President Biden defended the federal response.