GIBSON CO., IN (WFIE) -
Beginning today, residents, businesses and non-profit organizations in southwestern Indiana affected by severe storms, high winds and hail on July 31 can apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
The loans were made available in response to a letter from Gov. Mitch Daniels on August 10, which requested a disaster declaration by the SBA.
The declaration covers Gibson County and the adjacent counties of Knox, Pike, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick.
Damaged homes can be seen on Gibson Street in Gibson County, one of the hardest hit areas. A homeowner on this street doesn't just own one house, but also one across the street.
She has no idea how she's going to pay for the repairs, and now she's hopeful she'll get the help she needs.
South Gibson Street looks a lot different Monday than it did three weeks ago. But, for Dolly Young the damage is still there.
"A lot of damage. A lot of broken windows, a lot of trees down," Young said.
Young isn't alone.
"I had a big tree over the house, and it took them three days to get it taken down," said Vonda McCandless, who had storm damage from the storms.
As clean up continues, officials say FEMA assistance is unlikely.
But, on Monday, the state announced it will be offering disaster loans. They are low interest loans for those who qualify.
All storm victims are encouraged to apply even if they have insurance. Officials say many people are under insured and don't know it.
Young says she plans to apply.
"Any help we can get for disaster relief will be welcome. There's a lot of people hurting in this town and I know it's not just me, a lot of people," Young said.
Young hopes with a little help, a storm beaten town can rebuild again.
The SBA will also open a Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Gibson County on Tuesday, August 21. SBA customer service representatives will be on hand to answer questions about the disaster loan program, explain the process, issue and help individuals complete their applications. It is not necessary to visit a center to apply for, obtain or ask questions about SBA loans.
The center is located in the following community and is open as indicated:
Gibson County
Oakland City Public Library
210 South Main Street
Oakland City, IN 47660
Opens: Tuesday, Aug. 21 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Hours: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. weekdays
Saturday, Aug. 25 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (closed Sunday)
Closes: Thursday, Aug. 30 close of business
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