People and businesses in northwestern Illinois affected by severe storms and flooding in July are now eligible for federal help. Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner made the announcement Tuesday.
The U.S. Small Business Administration’s approval of the state request for assistance means people and businesses in Stephenson and the surrounding Illinois counties of Carroll, Jo Daviess, Ogle and Winnebago who were affected by flooding are now eligible to apply for low-interest, long-term loans to help them recover from the disaster.
Northwest Illinois was hit by multiple severe storms July 19-22 with high winds and heavy rains, resulting in extensive flash flooding. That, and significant flooding that followed, prompted a state disaster declarationfor the area by the governor soon after.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency denied a request for assistance, saying the situation did not meet its standard for the issuance of disaster relief grants or other aid.
The SBA decision means victims of the July storms have at least some recourse beyond the private sector for help as they repair their homes and businesses.
Those wanting more information or to apply for a loan should contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling (800) 659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call (800)877-8339. Applicants may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.