FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has pushed back against former President Donald Trump’s false claims about the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, stating that she is disappointed in the misinformation being spread. Trump has made baseless allegations about the hurricane relief efforts, including false claims about the lack of helicopters and rescue efforts in North Carolina. FEMA has addressed misinformation on its webpage and social media. Criswell expressed her disappointment in having to address these rumors and emphasized that FEMA is one part of the team involved in the recovery efforts, which also includes urban search and rescue teams and the Army Corps of Engineers. She clarified that the $750 figure being circulated is going out to individuals in the most impacted areas first and additional assistance will be provided as needed. Criswell emphasized that the disinformation being spread is causing harm to volunteers on the ground and impacted families, creating distrust in the federal and state government. She warned that the misinformation could deter individuals from applying for assistance and receiving the necessary support. Criswell also highlighted the demoralizing effect on first responders who have been working tirelessly to help communities affected by the hurricane. She expressed concerns about bad actors misrepresenting FEMA programs and creating fear among individuals, which could hinder the delivery of essential aid.
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