Fetterman Announces $14.62 Million in Tropical Storm Relief Funds for Pennsylvania

U.S. Senator John Fetterman announced a $14.62 million fund allocation for disaster recovery following Tropical Storm Debby in north central Pennsylvania. This funding aims to address unmet recovery needs and includes 15% for future disaster mitigation. Eligible counties for the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program include Potter, Elk, and Cameron. Local officials are grateful for the efforts but acknowledge ongoing challenges in recovery.

U.S. Senator John Fetterman, representing Pennsylvania, has announced a significant allocation of $14.62 million in federal disaster recovery funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This funding will aid the recovery and rebuilding efforts in north central Pennsylvania, which includes Potter, Elk, and Cameron counties, following the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Debby in 2024.

The financial assistance is part of the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program, mandated by the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2025. Senator Fetterman emphasized the desperate situation families are facing due to destroyed homes and disrupted lives, stating that this funding is crucial for these underappreciated areas to recover and prepare for future challenges.

In addition to addressing immediate recovery needs, the funding allocates 15% for mitigation strategies aimed at enhancing community preparedness for future disasters. This includes repairing essential infrastructure, providing assistance to displaced families, and fortifying existing measures to mitigate potential damage from future storms. Eligible counties for this funding extend beyond Potter, Elk, and Cameron to include Tioga, Lycoming, Union, Clearfield, Indiana, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming, and Sullivan.

Local leaders from Potter County have expressed gratitude for the relief efforts but acknowledged ongoing challenges. “We appreciate all the efforts that have been made to bring relief to victims of the devastating flooding,” said the county commissioners, noting the monumental task of repairing infrastructure while assisting families in the flood zones.

The severe impact of Tropical Storm Debby also reached southeastern Allegany County and Steuben County. Local and municipal officials are currently awaiting further assistance through federal disaster declarations in New York as they continue to respond to the storm’s aftermath.

The announcement of federal disaster recovery funding follows significant damage caused by Tropical Storm Debby in 2024. The storm affected numerous counties in Pennsylvania, resulting in widespread infrastructure damage and displacements. This funding aims to support these communities, which often do not receive as much attention but are in dire need of resources and assistance for rebuilding efforts. The allocation is part of a broader strategy to enhance disaster preparedness in the region.

Senator John Fetterman’s announcement of $14.62 million in federal funding represents a crucial step towards rebuilding and recovery for the storm-affected counties in north central Pennsylvania. The funds will not only address current needs following Tropical Storm Debby but also invest in future disaster mitigation efforts. Local officials recognize the continued challenges faced by communities and express appreciation for the support provided, which is vital for long-term recovery and resilience.

Original Source: www.oleantimesherald.com