WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito announced Thursday West Virginia will receive an additional $42.4 million for ongoing flood relief efforts following the June 2016 flood that claimed 23 lives.
The money, which will help in the construction of new homes for flood victims, will come through the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
A news release from Capito’s office said she asked HUD Secretary Ben Carson to work with West Virginia on any unmet needs.
“Even though it has been a year since devastating floods ripped through West Virginia, the state continues to pick up the pieces,” Capito said. “This funding is welcome news, as it will help us continue recovery efforts, and help many West Virginians rebuild. I am thankful that HUD Secretary Carson and FEMA have all listened to my request for these funds that will help so many in need.”
West Virginia has now received a total of $149 million from the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program in connection with the flood, Capito’s office said.
Capito is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
Senator Joe Manchin and Congressman Evan Jenkins also applauded the HUD decision.
“West Virginians are the most resilient people you will ever meet,” Manchin said. “When the devastating floods poured through our towns last year, we knew recovery would not be easy. But we never doubted the incredible efforts our community would make to rebuild. Funding like this support the incredible efforts being led by West Virginia communities and I will keep fighting for resources to ensure our efforts to rebuild do not stall,” Senator Manchin said.
Jenkins released the following statement:
“As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I’ve worked diligently to make sure our state receives the federal funding needed to help rebuild our communities. I’ve seen the damage and the recovery process firsthand, which is why I asked FEMA and HUD for additional funding to help our state rebuild. I appreciate the agencies’ attention to my request and the support they are showing for West Virginia during this difficult time. I will continue to use my role on the Appropriations Committee to fight for West Virginians and to hold federal agencies accountable,” Rep. Jenkins said.