Some tenants who could barely afford rent in western North Carolina before Hurricane Helene have fallen behind and are now facing the possibility of eviction.

Asheville officials said they support an evictions pause - a measure that was instituted in Maui after last summer’s fires and in most states during the coronavirus pandemic. But in North Carolina, only the governor, the general assembly or the state Supreme Court can enact a moratorium.

Shawn Hendrix, a Mr. Beast employee, spoke to Top Story about ongoing relief efforts in North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. He noted significant cleanup and rebuilding progress but emphasized that those struggling before the storm are now facing even greater challenges.

Whether dealing with deep snows in winter or severe thunderstorms in summer, the people of Asheville consider themselves weather-resilient.

According to FEMA, 33 families have temporary homes to call their own in Western North Carolina as of Thanksgiving and nearly 500 families have been approved for housing. FEMA is paying hotel costs for almost 12,000 survivors in the state. The federal agency has already paid more than $ 940,000 to help survivors with their rent.

Toys for Tots anticipates a greater need this year for donations in western North Carolina after the Helene disaster.

Hurricane Helene took out critical infrastructure in western North Carolina, specifically water systems that were already under much strain.