FEMA is running out of funds for disaster relief as Hurricane Helene continues to devastate the southeastern U.S., with more storms expected in the coming months after FEMA spent over a billion on the migrant crisis. 

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas warned that FEMA’s resources are running low and may not be enough to carry the agency through hurricane season. Despite this, over $1 billion was allocated in the past two fiscal years to the Shelter and Services Program (SSP), which provides aid to migrants after their release from Department of Homeland Security custody.

FEMA’s SSP funds go toward essentials like food, shelter, transportation, and medical care for migrants. In 2023 alone, the program received $363.8 million, with an additional $650 million allocated for 2024. However, with major storms looming, critics argue that FEMA’s focus should be on domestic disaster relief. 

Republican Rep. Cory Mills expressed concern in a Daily Caller article, stating, “FEMA had utilized a large majority of the personnel who should be here…repurposed for immigration resettlement when we need to be focusing on Americans whether it be in Maui, Palestine, Ohio, Florida, North Carolina, or Tennessee.”

As the death toll from Hurricane Helene climbs to 191 and damages could reach $35 billion, some question FEMA’s priorities. The agency has also placed a growing emphasis on climate resilience, equity, and diversity training under the Biden-Harris administration. Meanwhile, more than 8 million migrants have crossed the U.S. southern border since President Biden took office, adding financial strain to cities like New York and Chicago.

With projections of a highly active hurricane season, many fear that the agency’s limited funds may leave American communities vulnerable.