Press Releases

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded a Hurricane Helene-related grant of $1,203,957 to the Commonwealth of Virginia. This funding will support repairs to a 160-feet long and 14-feet wide bridge in Damascus, Virginia, that was lifted off its foundations and washed downstream as a result of intense flooding from Hurricane Helene.

In response to this grant notice, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“Hurricane Helene’s impact continues to be felt in Virginia’s Ninth District.

“This FEMA grant for more than $1.2 million helps the Virginia Department of Transportation deliver renewed access to a bridge in Damascus, Virginia.”

BACKGROUND

FEMA funds are obligated to the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Commonwealth will be responsible for providing the funds to the sub-recipients.

In January 2025, Rep. Griffith announced $46.67 million in Helene relief to Virginia from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

In April 2025, Congressman Griffith announced nearly $6 million in Helene relief in a separate grant for Washington County water line repairs.

In January 2026, Congressman Griffith announced more than $4.2 million in Helene relief for a Wytheville wastewater treatment system.

In February 2026, Congressman Griffith announced more than $8.6 million in Helene relief for water line repair.

In April 2026, Congressman Griffith announced more than $1.7 million in Helene relief for bridge repair.

In June 2026, Congressman Griffith announced more than $2.8 million in Helene relief for road repair.

In July 2026, Congressman Griffith announced more than $9.3 million in Helene relief for waterline  repair.

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