Financial relief is on the horizon for Georgians struck by severe weather in early April as the U.S. Small Business Administration rolls out low-interest disaster loans. Six counties battered by storms and flooding can now breathe a little easier, with the SBA stepping in to aid residents and business owners in Dekalb, Gwinnett, Henry, Newton, Rockdale, and Walton.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) opened its doors at the Rockdale County Emergency Management Agency today to support those in need. These loans, announced by the SBA, follow a request for the declaration by Gov. Brian Kemp's authorized representative and GEMA/HS Deputy Director of Recovery, Valarie Grooms.
Suffering from the aftermath of the April 2 storms, the call for assistance was unavoidable, as businesses and homes among the rolling hills had been faced with straight-line winds and relentless rains. The DLOC is a haven for the affected, operating Monday to Saturday, except Sundays and will close promptly on May 2 at 4 p.m.
As detailed by Atlanta News First, the Disaster Loan Outreach Center is the focal point for aid, centralized to provide ease of access for those seeking financial assistance. It will remain closed every Sunday, except April 20, for reasons Atlanta News First did not elaborate. Applicants are encouraged to contact the SBA disaster assistance customer service center by email or by phone at 1-800-659-2955.
Important deadlines also loom for those impacted. June 11, 2024, is the cutoff to return Physical Damage disaster loan applications, while January 13, 2025, marks the deadline for Economic Injury disaster loan applications. DIY-minded residents and business owners looking for expedited service can apply directly online using the SBA’s secure website at their Electronic Loan Application portal.
