The federal government established a lifeline for distressed South Bay businesses in response to the havoc wrought by January's ferocious floods. However, from March 25 through April 1, the Small Business Administration's (SBA) recovery center in National City will be shuttered, pausing operations during Southwestern College's spring break. The doors at the Southwestern College site will reopen at 8:30 a.m. on April 2, following this brief hiatus.

For those business owners still grappling with loss and looking for assistance, the recovery center had been a critical resource, offering customized aid and a guiding hand through the bureaucracy of disaster recovery. "SBA opened the center to provide personalized assistance to businesses affected by the severe storm and flooding that occurred Jan. 21 - 23," Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience, told SBA.gov. Despite the upcoming closure, business owners can utilize the SBA's resources since the Mountain View Community Center and Spring Valley Library recovery centers will continue operations as usual.

The closure does not mark an end to the help available. Business owners can apply online through the SBA's website and contact the customer service center at 800-659-2955 or email [email protected] for support with their disaster loan applications. These loans extend businesses a lifeline of up to $2 million, allowing them to repair and renew in the face of adversity.

Loans extended by the federal government are not restricted to the business sphere alone—homeowners can also find solace in disaster loans reaching up to $500,000 to refurbish properties. In a release reported by FOX 5 San Diego, the deadline for applying for property damage loans looms on April 19, whereas applications for economic injury loans can be submitted until November 19.