Disaster Recovery – Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission

Virginia Disaster Assistance Fund (VDAF)

Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell Counties

Program Overview

The Virginia Disaster Assistance Fund (VDAF) is a state program providing financial relief to Virginians whose homes, businesses, and farms were destroyed or heavily damaged by Tropical Storm Helene or the February 2025 storms, and funding for mitigation projects to protect against future disasters.

The purpose of VDAF is to provide funding for disaster mitigation and relief for qualified residents to cover needs otherwise unmet by insurance, federal relief, state relief, and other relief (including charities or in-kind services, construction, or reconstruction, etc.). In the Virginia counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell, application intake is administered by the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission. All applications are processed through and approved or denied by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

VDAF Coverage at a Glance: Part 1

Up to $500,000, depending on the type of damage:

Total Loss – up to 100% of value (max $500K)

Major Damage – up to 50% of value (max $500K)

VDAF Coverage at a Glance: Part 2

Bridge repair/slope stabilization – up to $50K (individual)

Large mitigation projects – up to $500K

Application Submission

After an applicant has collected the required documentation, the application is ready to be completed and submitted. The Program offers Eligible Applicants multiple methods in which they may apply.

In Person: Applicants may make an appointment with the MRPDC to review and complete their application for assistance.
By Third Party In Person: Applicants who prefer to have a trusted third party complete their application may appoint a power of attorney for doing so. However, this will not excuse the applicant from the requirement to sign the application under oath or sign such other documentation as may be required by DHCD. Such applicants must include a copy of a valid power of attorney properly executed by the applicant with the application.

Accommodations for those with disabilities will be provided upon request. This may include, but not be limited to, a member of the CPPDC’s staff conducting a home visit or assisting with filling out a written application.

Applications will be processed in the order they are received on a first-come, first-eligable basis. Payments under Part 1 and Part 2 of the Program are subject to the availability of funds.

Appointment Locations (between the hours of 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday):

September 23rd, 2025: Tazewell County – (by appointment only)

Location: Richlands Town Hall

September 25th, 2025: Tazewell County – (by appointment only)

Location: Tazewell Board of Supervisors Office

September 30th, 2025: Town of Bluefield – (by appointment only)

Location: Bluefield Town Hall

October 7th, 2025: Russell County – (by appointment only)

Location: Honaker Town Hall

October 8th, 2025: Russell County – (by appointment only)

Location: Russell County Government Center

October 23rd, 2025: Dickenson County – (by appointment only)