Georgia farmers urged to apply for Hurricane Helene aid before deadline

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Applications in Georgia for farmers and ranchers recovering from Hurricane Helene are still open.

The Hurricane Helene Block Grant is a federal program providing more than $531 million in recovery assistance to agricultural producers impacted by the storm.

Farmers encouraged to apply

WTOC spoke with a local farmer who’s applying and encouraging others to do the same.

Will Anderson has been farming in Bulloch County for 25 years. When Hurricane Helene hit in September 2024, it caused major damage—ripping the roof off his chicken coop, killing some of his birds, and damaging both his irrigation pond and a barn.

He’s urging other farmers who suffered losses to apply for assistance before it’s too late.

“It was discouraging, but most farmers, I’m not just speaking for myself, we’re used to adversity.”

He was able to make some repairs using insurance, but now additional help is available on a larger scale. Farmers, ranchers, and foresters in eligible counties can apply for assistance covering losses to crops, livestock, timber, and infrastructure.

Anderson is applying for help and says others should, too.

“If you were not insured, or underinsured, I think it would be helpful. Any irrigation damage that wasn’t covered—I would definitely apply for it," said Anderson

As he continues rebuilding, Anderson said the focus is moving forward and staying resilient.

“Nobody’s going to save us, you’ve just got to rebuild and do the best you can. On the chicken side, raise another flock and hope and pray we don’t get another one for a while,” said Anderson.

The application deadline for the Hurricane Helene Block Grant is April 27, 2026.

In addition to Bulloch County, Bryan, Evans, and Toombs counties are also eligible.

You can find more information here, including how to apply and what losses are covered.