North Carolina officials announced aid for small businesses and homeowners on Thursday.
The U.S. Small Business Administration granted Gov. Roy Cooper’s request for a disaster declaration for those facing damage from a tornado that struck as Hurricane Isaias passed through the on Aug. 4.
The declaration authorizes low-interest disaster loans to residents and businesses who suffered losses in Bertie County and the contiguous counties of Chowan, Halifax, Hertford, Martin, Northampton, and Washington. SBA Disaster Loans provide up to $200,000 to homeowners and up to $2 million to businesses to repair and/or replace damaged property. Homeowners and renters would also be eligible for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged personal property.
A disaster recovery center will open in Windsor in Bertie County on Monday, for survivors to apply for SBA Disaster Loans and other assistance. Residents needing assistance should call 252-794-6144, to make an appointment, so that social distancing can be maintained in the recovery center, officials said.
Residents may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website by clicking here or via telephone at 202-803-3307 or 470-363-5936.
“With a tornado on top of a pandemic, this SBA approval will provide much-needed help to our small businesses and homeowners,” said Governor Cooper. “This is the first step to getting assistance for North Carolinians, and we will continue to push for more.”
Related: Dozens of volunteers helping Bertie County residents after tornado
