This is Manny, a California native who moved to Rich Creek, NC to build a life with his family. His words on “mountain people” after this disaster will make every Appalachian proud. Check it out.
— The Appalachian Podcast (@GetOnTap) October 14, 2024
Link to full interview in comments, and you should listen. pic.twitter.com/wrBOQNcdVD
Hurricane interviews: Part 1/2
Our second interview related to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene was with a man who had significant damage to his home. Meet Manny, of Roaring Creek, North Carolina.
Manny, originally from San Bernardino, CA, moved to North Carolina to build a life with his family. The storm caused his home to flood, destroying much of his surrounding property and a camper trailer.
However, he’s frustrated with the federal government’s response to the disaster. According to Manny, he has been unable to receive assistance from FEMA due to issues verifying his identity. He says FEMA cannot locate him using his Social Security number, which he insists is accurate, has been with him since birth, and is the same one he uses for paying taxes. Because of the headaches, he’s not interested in trying to receive federal assistance anymore.
Manny feels the state and federal governments response has prioritized affluent areas over small communities devastated by the storm. He says there has been no federal response in his area.
Manny also expressed frustration with those distributing donations to those in need. He recalls an instance when he and his wife went to the local fire department to get a portable heater. Upon arrival, an older man in charge of distribution told them they couldn’t have one because they still had power. Manny explained that having power didn’t mean their heating equipment was functional, leaving them feeling humiliated while trying to seek help. After the encounter, a firefighter from the station snuck him the portable heater and said he was sorry that he was denied the heat