After Successfully Advocating for Federal Emergency Declaration, Kaine Meets Virginians Impacted by Remnants of Hurricane Helene

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) met Virginians, first responders, and local officials in Damascus, Marion, and Galax to hear directly about the damage caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene and discuss the support needed to get impacted Virginians back on their feet. Kaine's visits followed his work to successfully advocate for a federal Emergency Declaration for the Commonwealth of Virginia, which will provide federal resources to support debris removal and restore power to critical infrastructure, including drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities, hospitals, and emergency response centers.

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"My heart breaks for everyone affected by this devastating storm. I'm grateful to the first responders who are taking care of our communities and to the Virginians and local leaders in Damascus, Marion, and Galax who met with me today to discuss their needs during this difficult time," said Kaine. "I'm glad that President Biden heeded the call of my colleagues and me for an emergency declaration, which will bring critical resources to the region. I will keep working in a bipartisan way to ensure that our communities receive the full support they need to recover."

First, Kaine traveled to Damascus, where he met with Mayor Katie Lamb, first responders, and other state and local officials to assess damage to homes and businesses. Then, Kaine went to Marion, where he met with local officials and residents impacted by flooding. Finally, Kaine went to Galax, where he met with city officials including Mayor Willie Greene, first responders, and Virginians affected by the storm and surveyed a shelter and a damaged low water bridge. Without the bridge in operational shape, emergency responders now must travel 20 minutes out of the way to reach and transport Fries residents.

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