FEMA has granted a six-month extension for portions of its housing and rental assistance program for people affected by Helene. With this extension, under the Direct Temporary Housing Program, eligible individuals can continue staying in FEMA-provided housing through September 30, 2026. The extension will be reviewed and continued on a month-to-month basis. However for those still living in agency-provided housing, beginning March 29th, residents will be required to begin paying rent. Rates will be determined using the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Fair Market Rent for the area. According to FEMA, the extension is intended to give people additional time to secure permanent housing while the agency gradually shifts away from fully covering temporary housing costs.