Pennsylvania businesses and residents affected by remnants of Tropical Depression Ida, which occurred September 1-3, 2021, may apply for low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Berks County businesses and residents can apply for the disaster loans to repair or replace damaged real estate and property. The loans were made available in response to a letter from Gov. Tom Wolf on October 4 that requested a disaster declaration for our area, and the Berks County Department of Emergency Services who collected and documented the extent of the damage within the county.
“Unfortunately, this storm left a lasting impression on dozens of communities across much of eastern Pennsylvania,” said Governor Wolf Thursday in a statement. “We are grateful that SBA recognized the need for low-interest loans, which will undoubtedly help many people and businesses recover.”
Businesses and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged buildings, inventory, equipment and other losses, while homeowners can request loans up to $200,000 for damaged real estate and up to $40,000 for damaged personal property, including vehicles.
The SBA will open a Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Berks County to assist with questions about the disaster loan program and help individuals complete their applications.
The Center will open Friday, October 8, from noon to 6pm, at the Berks County Fire Training Center, 895 Morgantown Road, Reading. Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday, 9-6pm (except Monday, Oct. 11, in observance of Columbus Day), and Saturdays from 10-2pm.
The Center will permanently close at 4pm on Thursday, October 21.
Assistance is also available through the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 or by emailing DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. Loan applications can be downloaded at https://sba.gov/disaster.
