“Hurricane Helene was an unprecedented disaster for Tennessee, and many local communities can’t wait for federal reimbursements to begin the rebuilding process,” said Governor Lee. “These communities need immediate help, and that’s why we’ve moved quickly to develop and implement this unique program.”

The HEAL program allocates $35 million to address water and wastewater system damage in eligible counties. These systems sustained heavy damage in most counties and were destroyed in others. The utilities are critical to the health and well-being of Tennesseans living in affected areas, as well as first responders and volunteers who are temporarily deployed to assist in the rebuilding process. $65 million will be divided equally among eligible economically at-risk and distressed counties to address hazardous waste removal.

The maximum amount that an eligible county can request through the HEAL Program is $15 million. The application deadline is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. County leaders with questions about the HEAL Program should email: [email protected].