U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is providing financial assistance to eligible Bell and Whitley County businesses and non-profits which were impacted by severe storms in 2011. Specifically, SBA is accepting loan applications for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private non-profit organizations that suffered substantial economic injury due to excessive rain, high winds, and flooding that occurred from June 21 through December 5, 2011.

“I urge any business that has suffered economic hardship to apply for this assistance,” said Rogers. “This program is designed to help the farm and nonfarm-related businesses recover and rebuild from the financial losses they suffered during storm disasters last year. Our people have proven to be resilient in every storm, but this is a reminder that help is just a phone call away during these difficult times."

Businesses and farm-related entities that meet SBA criteria can apply for low-interest loans of up to $2 million to cover expenses. The SBA determines eligibility based on the size of the applicant, type of activity and its financial resources. Eligible counties are Bell and Whitley. The deadline to apply is September 18, 2012. For more information on the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, to obtain application forms or to apply online, visit www.sba.gov, send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the hearing-impaired) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. 

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information on how Congressman Rogers can assist the people he serves, visit http://halrogers.house.gov/ConstituentServices.

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