In western North Carolina, thousands of Americans continue to suffer in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Nearly two weeks after the storm hit, many residents of Asheville and surrounding areas are without water, electricity and other vital resources.

Helene caused more damage, much farther inland, than predicted. Families living in the mountains don't expect the remnants of a hurricane to threaten their lives and destroy their homes.

But in 2024, thousands of Americans should not go without basic necessities day after day.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) exists to help in such emergencies. While there's been much political back-and-forth about the agency's effectiveness in the wake of Helene, and not a small amount of misinformation, it is reasonable for citizens to question how well their government is delivering on its promises − just as they did after Hurricane........

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