Leicester Resident Receives New Home Thanks to Renew NC Initiative
In a momentous occasion for the Leicester community, Governor Josh Stein presented Dennis Fultz with the keys to his newly constructed home. This significant milestone was achieved through the Renew NC’s Single-Family Housing Program, following the loss of Fultz’s previous residence to Hurricane Helene.
Governor Stein highlighted the importance of affordable and safe housing for recovery, stating, “Getting families back into safe housing that they can afford is essential to long-term recovery.” Under Renew NC, over 1,250 homes like Fultz’s have been repaired or rebuilt, but Stein emphasized the need for additional federal support to aid ongoing recovery efforts for those affected by Hurricane Helene.
Two years post-Hurricane Helene, Governor Stein is advocating for a $10 billion congressional appropriation to further recovery initiatives, including $3 billion from HUD aimed at rebuilding housing infrastructure. Learn more about the governor’s advocacy here.
Deputy Secretary Stephanie McGarrah of the Division of Community Revitalization noted, “At Renew NC, we’re seeing month-to-month growth as we’re moving more homeowners through review and into pre-construction.” The program aims to expedite the transition of families into resilient homes.
Governor Stein’s recent activities included a visit to Mars Hill University for the Governor’s Advisory Committee on WNC Recovery meeting and volunteering with the Western North Carolina Conference of United Methodist Churches to assist in home rebuilding efforts. The collaborative work between state agencies and volunteer partners has been instrumental in the repair and reconstruction of over 1,250 homes.
Renew NC’s progress is evident, with 150 homes completed, 167 under construction, and over 600 in pre-construction. The state’s rapid deployment of its HUD-supported housing program has set a precedent. In August, the governor announced ten new projects to develop 828 rental units, marking a historic expansion of affordable housing in the region.
Key Steps in Recovery Efforts
Governor Stein’s commitment to restoration efforts in Western North Carolina involves several strategic initiatives:
- State Budget Commitment: The newly signed state budget allocates over $700 million for Hurricane Helene recovery, marking the third recovery package under Stein’s administration. The total state appropriation for these efforts exceeds $3 billion.
- Infrastructure Strengthening: Renew NC announced a $55 million federal funding initiative to fortify infrastructure against natural disasters, with applications closing on September 8, 2026.
- Family Support: The Multi-Family Construction and Repair Program was launched with $70 million in federal backing to enhance affordable housing, with applications accepted until November 2.
- Workforce Housing Development: The Workforce Housing for Ownership Program makes $53 million available for housing in 16 counties, with applications closing on December 13, 2026.
- Economic Revitalization: The Commercial District Revitalization Program was launched to rejuvenate economies and jobs in the hurricane-impacted districts.
Governor Stein’s ongoing commitment includes a $1 billion investment to fortify water infrastructure, with 99% of damaged drinking water systems restored. Over 99% of roads affected by Hurricane Helene are operational, and $105 million in grants have been allocated to small businesses, preserving nearly 15,000 jobs. For more details on these efforts, click here.
Governor Stein continues to urge federal authorities for further assistance, emphasizing the necessity of a $10 billion appropriation to support infrastructure and housing recovery, including a $3 billion request from HUD. Learn more about the federal request here.
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