Georgia allocates $100M disaster relief fund after Hurricane Helene

Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission (GSFIC) has approved a proposal to redirect $100 million to the Georgia Development Authority (GDA). This funding aims to provide disaster relief financial support for farmers and debris cleanup for timber producers affected by Hurricane Helene.

Governor Kemp expressed gratitude towards partners at all levels, including the GSFIC board, for their cooperation in providing relief. "As Georgia's No. 1 industry continues on the road to recovery from Hurricane Helene, I'm thankful our partners on all levels, including the GSFIC board, are working with us to provide relief to those who put food on our tables and provide the materials that build our communities," he said.

Lt. Governor Burt Jones acknowledged the generational loss experienced by farming and timber-producing communities due to Hurricane Helene. He stated, "This $100 million investment builds on the efforts already underway by many to help their neighbors recover and rebuild, one step at a time."

The funds will be divided into $75 million for disaster relief loans in agriculture and $25 million for timber industry cleanup efforts. Speaker Jon Burns emphasized the importance of this measure: "Georgia’s No. 1 industry continues to face unprecedented challenges and historic losses in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and other severe weather events."

Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper assured that assistance is forthcoming for thousands of farmers and timber operators needing immediate help. "Help is on the way for thousands of Georgia farmers, producers, and timber operators who need immediate assistance to recover from Hurricane Helene," he said.

A preliminary report from the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences estimates agricultural damages from Hurricane Helene could cost Georgia's economy at least $6.46 billion.

In addition to state measures, Governor Kemp has called for federal relief funds through block grants to aid affected farmers swiftly without bureaucratic delays.

The GDA board will meet soon in Macon, Georgia, to plan fund disbursement following approval by the GSFIC board.

Moreover, over 40 agriculture organizations have created the Weathered But Strong: Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund led by entities such as the Georgia Department of Agriculture and Georgia Farm Bureau. Donations will directly assist impacted farmers.