Applications are open for a state grant program that aims to help western North Carolina communities impacted by Helene rebuild and strengthen waste reduction and recycling systems. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality鈥檚 Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service (DEACS) announced that local governments within FEMA-declared disaster counties may apply for up to $5 million per project, with no local match required.
“Hurricane Helene created mountains of debris and damaged recycling and waste collection infrastructure,鈥� DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson said in a written statement. “These grants will help local governments rebuild and expand recycling and composting systems, which will prolong the life of landfills and create jobs. We appreciate EPA for making the funds available as quickly as possible.
State officials said the grant is funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the American Relief Act of 2025, and will distribute $25 million in grants over multiple phases.