Unicoi County’s Emergency Management Agency Director, Jimmy Erwin, has been forced to combat misinformation on social media amidst relief efforts following Hurricane Helene. Erwin has clarified that TEMA and FEMA are not confiscating donated goods, despite rumors suggesting otherwise. Both agencies have been assets in assisting the county. Local officials in other hard-hit areas of northeast Tennessee have also had to dismiss false claims circulating on social media platforms.
Despite the debunking efforts, misinformation continues to spread online, with some individuals claiming that relief workers are profiting off disaster victims. Governor Bill Lee has spoken out against this misinformation, while U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn has echoed false claims made by former President Donald Trump.
FEMA is processing aid registrations and has approved millions of dollars in funding for survivors. Multi-agency resource centers have been set up for those in need of assistance. However, rumors that FEMA workers are going door-to-door to collect donations have prompted warnings from officials. The Red Cross has also turned down untrained volunteers for safety reasons.
Local officials stress that the rumors are based on misunderstanding and urge individuals to verify information before sharing it online. Despite the challenges posed by misinformation, relief efforts are ongoing, with resources being allocated to support residents and business owners affected by the disaster. Governor Lee and other officials are working to ensure that accurate information is disseminated to the public to facilitate efficient relief and recovery efforts.
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