The Virginia Disaster Assistance Fund is now open for applications from homeowners and businesses in Southwest Virginia, following an announcement by Governor Glenn Youngkin. The $50 million fund, proposed by Youngkin and approved by the General Assembly, aims to provide financial relief and promote long-term resilience for Virginians affected by recent natural disasters.
“When Virginians are impacted by devastating storms, they deserve a recovery process that is fast, effective and focused on rebuilding stronger communities,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “The Virginia Disaster Assistance Fund will make sure we deliver help where it’s needed most and ensure we are even better prepared for the future.”
The fund offers state support to assist with recovery from natural disasters. Currently, localities in Southwest Virginia are eligible for assistance, but funding will be extended to other regions of the state if future events occur.
“This fund reflects Virginia’s commitment to swift and effective disaster response, ensuring that residents and communities are not left behind after devastating storms,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “By investing in both immediate recovery and long-term mitigation, we are building a more resilient Commonwealth.”
Assistance from the fund is available to homeowners and business owners whose real property was either destroyed or suffered major damage during Tropical Storm Helene or the February 2025 winter storms. In addition to recovery efforts, the fund supports mitigation projects designed to strengthen homes, properties, bridges, and community infrastructure against future disasters.
Eligible areas include Bland County, Buchanan County, Dickenson County, Floyd County, Giles County, Grayson County, Lee County, Montgomery County, Pulaski County, Russell County, Scott County, Smyth County, Tazewell County, Washington County, Wise County and Wythe County. The cities of Bristol, Galax, Norton and Radford also qualify. Local governments and Planning District Commissions will distribute funding to ensure timely delivery of assistance.
“Strong, resilient communities are the foundation of Virginia’s economy,” said Maggie Beal, Director of the Department of Housing and Community Development. “This fund helps ensure our families, businesses, and farms can fully recover and be more resilient in the future.”
Residents seeking assistance should contact their local government or regional Planning District Commission. Applications are open for home or property loss or major damage as well as bridge reconstruction and slope mitigation projects. More information about eligibility criteria and application procedures can be found at www.dhcd.virginia.gov/disaster-assistance.
