COLUMBIA, S.C. - Gov. Mark Sanford declared a state of emergency in Greenville County on Tuesday, nearly a week after heavy rains deluged homes and businesses.

The declaration triggers help from state agencies and it makes the county a candidate for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. There has to be more than $4.5 million in damage to qualify for federal funds. The county estimate is $5.8 million.

Many residents are struggling to find ways to pay for the damage. They face high rebuilding costs, and some don't have flood insurance.

Several charities are helping pay for groceries, towels and sheets, and providing mops and brooms. The agencies also are delivering beverages to people cleaning up and helping with rent for some who have been displaced.

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Information from: The Greenville News, http://www.greenvillenews.com/