BURBANK—State Senator Mike Porfirio is encouraging residents and businesses impacted by July's flooding to apply for federal assistance.

“The severe storms our state faced left a significant impact on our communities in Cook County,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “It is crucial that individuals and families take advantage of these resources while they are available so we can rebuild and regain stability.”  

FEMA’s Individual Assistance program could include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the storms. Currently, around 8,200 individuals have applied for relief, and the max amount of assistance being offered is $41,000—if a home is completely destroyed. To apply, people can either call 800-621-3362, visit disasterassistance.gov, or use the FEMA app.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available to businesses and residents. Businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair disaster-damaged or destroyed property. Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace real estate, and up to $100,000 is available to repair or replace personal property. Applications are available at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/ or by calling SBA at 800-659-2955.

“We are committed to working tirelessly to facilitate a smooth and efficient recovery process,” said Porfirio. “Our residents and local businesses are the backbones of our community, so we want to ensure that every eligible person receives the help they need.” 

The deadline for both FEMA and SBA grants is Oct. 16. Porfirio encourages residents to apply as soon as possible.