COLUMBIA, S.C. — In October 2022, Hurricane Ian moved through South Carolina causing heavy flooding and wind damage mainly in the coastal counties in the state. Approximately a quarter-million residents lost electrical power at the height of the storm.
At that time, the cost of overall damage to state and local agencies was estimated at more than $25 million.
Now, the US Department of Agriculture's Rural Development division has announced there is grant money available to help rural communities in South Carolina to repair water infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Ian. In total, the USDA is making over $247 million in grants available through supplemental disaster funding under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. Funds will remain available until expended.
Funds may be used to:
- repair damaged water infrastructure.
- develop resiliency to reduce long-term risks from future disasters.
South Carolina State Director Dr. Saundra Glover said, “The Biden-Harris Administration and USDA stand ready to help people rebuild their lives and their communities. The assistance I'm announcing today will help make sure rural communities across this state who were impacted by natural disasters last year have the the resources they need to repair or rebuild their water infrastructure. This funding is critical because we know that rural America is home to millions of people who make up America’s spirit and character.”
Information on how to apply and online applications will be accepted through grants.gov or rd.usda.gov/sc.
