ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — North Carolina’s long-term disaster recovery effort has reached a milestone, with the Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program receiving its 2,000th application and completing repairs on its first home damaged by Tropical Storm Helene.

State officials said the program, which is federally funded, provides rehabilitation, reconstruction or replacement assistance for homes across 29 Western North Carolina counties. Priority is given to low- and moderate-income families with seniors, children or disabled household members.

Matalene Waters, 74, of Henderson County, became the first applicant to have her home repaired through the program. Crews replaced water-damaged ceilings, doors, baseboards, siding and a fireplace mantle.

“It feels real good to be back home and not have to worry about being somewhere else,” Waters said in a statement released by the program.

Gov. Josh Stein called the completion of the first home an important milestone. “Rebuilding safe and sustainable housing is crucial to helping Western North Carolina get back on its feet,” he said.

So far, more than 600 Buncombe County residents have applied for assistance. The program is open to homeowners in counties including Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Swain, Yancey and others across the region.

Residents can apply online at RenewNC.org, by phone at 888-791-0207 or in person at local intake centers.